Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Writings Of Lions: Narrative Inquiry Of A Kenyan Couple Living In The U.S, Miranda Gilmore, Marianne Mcinnes Miller

The Qualitative Report

In this study, we told the story of a Kenyan couple, B. and F., who has left Kenya and moved to Southern California. We followed a narrative inquiry framework, using Clandinin and Connelly’s (2000) guidelines. We delineated core components of narrative inquiry research, as well as related the journey of B. and F., who have created dual lives in both Kenya and the United States. As part of the interpretive analysis process, we integrated the first author’s experiences, both in interviewing the couple and in volunteering in Kenya in previous years. The final product is an intersection of Kenyan and …

Influences Of Training And Personal Experiences On Counselor Trainees' Glbt Ally Development: A Case Stud, Shannon L. Lynch, Rick A. Bruhn, Richard C. Henrikson

The Qualitative Report

The goal of this multiple case study was to investigate straight counseling students’ perceptions of their preparation to work with GLBT clients. For this study, semi - structured interviews were conducted with six straight counselor education students from two universities. Pattern matching analysis revealed that students with significant exposure to GLBT individuals, as well as those who believed their training provided adequate preparation for GLBT counseling, were more likely to adopt a GLBT - affirmative identity and to experience greater self - efficacy about counseling with GLBT individuals. In addition, thematic analysis revealed seven themes of participants’ experiences that fell …

Mixed Methodology Approaches To Exploring Spiritual Transformation, Lewis Mehl-Madrona, Barbara Mainguy, Michael Pickren Valenti

The Qualitative Report

Research suggests that spiritual transformation, a change in the way a person considers the sacred, can change medical outcome (Pargament, 2006) Psychometric studies have failed to identify specific factors, but qualitative reports detail an experience that can be reliably shown to have an impact. We report on the development of a rubric for quantifying levels of spiritual transformation. Narrative analysis techniques were used to quantify levels of spiritual transformation from participants’ life stories, experience with traditional healers, and subsequent medical status. A quantification rubric was developed and 111 assistants rated the stories after a three - hour training session. Inter …

Women’S Experiences With Postpartum Anxiety: Expectations, Relationships, And Sociocultural Influences, Andrea A. Wardrop, Natalee E. Popadiuk

The Qualitative Report

Evidence about anxiety in the postpartum is sparse and contradictory. Our research expands this knowledge by using a qualitative methodology, the Feminist Biographical Method, to explore first time mothers’ experiences of postpartum anxiety. Data collection included 1.5 to 2.0 hour interviews with six women about their experiences of anxiety in their transition to motherhood. We transcribed the interviews and used an iterative hermeneutic coding process to develop themes and subthemes over the course of four coding cycles. The findings include five major themes: (a) experiences of anxiety, (b) expectations of a new mother, (c) issues of support, (d) societal scripts …

Recursive Frame Analysis: A Method For Organizing Therapeutic Discourse, Bradford Keeney

The Qualitative Report

A practical method of organizing and understanding discourse in therapy is presented based on four catagories of distinctions: (1) orders of framing; (2) markers; (3) content to frame relations; and (4) frame to frame relations. Following a general discussion of recursive frame analysis, two case studies demonstrate its applicability to managing family therapy.

Mobile Qualitative Research: Exploring Clouds And Apps Workshop, Ronald J. Chenail

The Qualitative Report Conference

Ron Chenail is Vice President for Institutional Effectiveness, Professor of Family Therapy, and Director of the Graduate Certificate in Qualitative Research Program at Nova Southeastern University (NSU). Since 1990, Dr. Chenail has served as the editor of The Qualitative Report and from 2005-2011, he also served as editor-in-chief of the Journal of Marital and Family Therapy. In addition he is an editorial board member of Qualitative Research in Psychology and Qualitative Social Work; and Counselling, Psychotherapy, and Health. Dr. Chenail is a Member Scholar with the University of Alberta's International Institute for Qualitative Methodology and an Associate …

Recursive Frame Analysis Workshop, Ronald J. Chenail

The Qualitative Report Conference

Since its creation by Brad Keeney in the 1980's as a conversational tracking system, Recursive Frame Analysis (RFA) has evolved into a qualitative research method for mapping changeoriented discourse. The basic RFA steps and latest visualization techniques will be shared so workshop attendees can begin their first RFA's.

Ethnography Supports Changes To Student-Centered Instruction, Mary Ann Sprague, Maryann Fuhrmann

The Qualitative Report Conference

Researchers developing automated education aids requested a work practice study of traditional and enhanced ways to track student achievement. The pilot included several elementary schools, where pre- and post-pilot processes were analyzed. Despite privacy challenges, audio recordings, interactions during user interviews, co-design sessions, and discussions of graphical representations provided rich data.

How Has Caqdas Technology Affected Qualitative Research?, Megan Woods

The Qualitative Report Conference

By analysing 30 years of academic literature this research identifies and conceptually models how the evolution of computer-assisted qualitative data analysis (CAQDAS) technology has affected research practices for collecting, analysing and reporting qualitative data. The paper models various approaches to CAQDAS-supported research to illustrate the implications of this evolutionary process for contemporary qualitative research practice and methodological debates.

Emerging Technology Tools For Qualitative Data Collection, Julie Kimbler, Manon Maitland Schladen, Diana Moore, Bruce Sowers, Martha Snyder

The Qualitative Report Conference

Emerging technology tools enable qualitative researchers to collect text, audio, and visual data any time and any place. However, given many of these tools are cloud-based, they also present questions regarding security and confidential data collection. The uses, advantages, and drawbacks of emerging technology tools used for note-taking, collecting, managing, and sharing various forms of data will be presented within the context of qualitative data collection in instructional technology.

Qualitative Research Ladder For Fledging Researchers A Review Of Essentials Of Qualitative Inquiry, Sepideh Mirzaei Fard

The Qualitative Report

In order to qualify our research, I think quantitative studies are not enough. A s a matter of fact, we need more qualitative studies especially if we are dealing with human traits and the social sciences’ studies as the numbers would not suffice. In doing so, there is a need for resear4chers to acquire a full understanding of qualitative research methodology, data collection procedures and the risks and issues related to them. For the beginners to enter in to the ocean of qualitative research areas, it seems necessary to have good sourcebooks to get a general view of this type …

Stories Of Aboriginal Transracial Adoption, Simon Nuttgens

The Qualitative Report

Despite the significant number of transracial Aboriginal adoptions that have taken place in Canada, little research is available that addresses the psychological and psychosocial ramifications for the children involved. The scant literature that does exist raises concerns about the psychological impact of this type of adoption. The present research used narrative inquiry to bring greater understanding to the experiences of Aboriginal children raised in non Aboriginal families. The life stories of four Aboriginal adults who were adopted as children were gathered through audio - taped interviews. Seven “narrative threads” salient across the four participants’ life stories include: disconnection, passing, diversion, …

Doulas’ Perceptions On Single Mothers’ Risk And Protective Factors, And Aspirations Relative To Child - Birth, Gizem Arat

The Qualitative Report

This study the author aims to explore the perceptions of doulas on single mothers’ risk and protective factors, and aspirations relative to child - birth in the postpartum care. The current study was conducted by semi - structured questions, case file reviews, field notes, and twelve home visits via utilizing Grounded Theory. These mothers receive social services through a family services agency in Pittsburg h, PA. There were three doulas and three single mothers in the sample group. Findings displayed four themes: (a ) doula program is helpful for single mothers relative to child - birth, ( b ) social …

The Constant Comparative Analysis Method Outside Of Grounded Theory, Sheila M. Fram

The Qualitative Report

This commentary addresses the gap in the literature regarding discussion of the legitimate use of Constant Comparative Analysis Method (CCA) outside of Grounded Theory. The purpose is to show the strength of using CCA to maintain the emic perspective and how theoretical frameworks can maintain the etic perspective throughout the analysis. My naturalistic inquiry model shows how conceptual frameworks and theoretical frameworks can be integrated when using the CCA method.

An Appreciative Inquiry Into An Urban Drug Court: Cultural Transformation, Raymond Calabrese, Erik Cohen

The Qualitative Report

The purpose of this study was to use an appreciative inquiry (AI) theoretical research perspective and change methodology to transform the working relationships and cultural expectations of members through the discovery of their positive core leading to an optimistic and confidence - based future for an urban drug court. This study describes how participants through their participation in the first two stages of an AI 4 - D cycle (Discovery and Dream) transformed their working relationships and organizational culture. Participants included an urban drug court magistrate, manager, and purposively selected staff [15 participants]. The urban drug court is designed as …

A Novel Method Of Enhancing Grounded Theory Memos With Voice Recording, Rachel Stocker, Helen Close

The Qualitative Report

In this article the authors present the recent discovery of a novel method of supplementing written grounded theory memos with voice recording, the combination of which may provide significant analytical advantages over solely the traditional written method. Memo writing is an essential component of a grounded theory study, however it is often difficult to capture thoughts, feelings, and emerging theorising using written methods after a research interview. I found that many of these potentially valuable ide as were lost or misunderstood upon reading my subsequent written memo, and the feelings and context which influenced the emerging theory were not always …

Relationship Between Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction And Immune Function In Cancer And Hiv/Aids, Rachel L. Zeichner, Jeffery L. Kibler, Simon B. Zeichner

Faculty Articles

Objective: Chronic stress is widespread, and is detrimental to immune functioning and to overall physical and emotional health. These effects may be potentiated in patients with chronic illness, as high levels of chronic stress are common in this population. Numerous studies support the efficacy of mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) in improving psychological functioning. If a strong relationship is found between MBSR and immune function, then MBSR may be implemented as a strategy to improve immune functioning and overall well-being.

Methods: In the present review paper, the relationship between MBSR and immune function is evaluated. Empirical studies measuring immune markers as …

An Examination Of Disgust, Its Measures, And Gender Differences In The Experience Of Disgust Sensitivity, Diane M. Kedzierski

Theses and Dissertations

The emotion of disgust is understudied. It has been implicated in various forms of psychopathology, but its overall influence remains unclear. New and improved methods and constructs are required if we are to better understand the relationship of disgust in attitude formation and psychological functioning. This study was an investigation of a measure referred to herein as the Disgust Propensity and Sensitivity Evolutionary Scale (DPSES). A total of 655 participants were recruited from a private university in the southeastern United States to complete a pencil -and-paper version of the measure in exchange for course credit. Exploratory factor analysis revealed an …

Physiological And Psychological Responses To 911 Emergency Tapes, Jackie Hammelman

Theses and Dissertations

The news has become a central part of daily culture in the United States and provides up to date information regarding a vast array of topics from weather to war. A specific aspect of the news, emergency 911 tapes, and their influence on viewers' physiological and psychological health was investigated. Research regarding the relationship between physiological arousal and exposure to brief traumatic stimuli, as well as research addressing the development of pathological psychiatric symptoms are discussed in the literature review. This study examined the relationship between exposure to 911 emergency tapes, physiological arousal, and symptoms of psychopathology while considering the …

Nova Southeastern University 2013 Annual Report, Nova Southeastern University

NSU Annual Reports

No abstract provided.

Partnering With Public Library Services: A Town And Gown Affair, Sarah Cisse

Staff Publications

This article describes the collaborative effort between academic reference and Public Library Services (PLS) in developing and sustaining a resume resources program at a joint-use library. The resume resources workshops are a part of the summer workshop series, Adult Computer Camp, organized by the PLS department at the Alvin Sherman Library (ASL) of Nova Southeastern University (NSU). The summer workshop series offers an innovative variety of workshops to the public featuring online and computer resources. These workshops have been a successful collaboration between these two departments at the ASL, a joint-use or “town and gown” library

Against All Odds: A Study Of Success Attainment Among African American Males From Single-Parent Households, Judith Roberts

Department of Conflict Resolution Studies Theses and Dissertations

For years the vast body of literature on single-parenting has focused on the weaknesses experienced by the family and the adverse consequences for the children who reside in such a household. The literature reviewed for this study postulate African American males raised in single-parent households perform poorly academically, are more likely to drop out of school, experience emotional difficulties, and are unable to attain self-sufficiency. Researchers have also argued that African American males from single-parent households are more vulnerable to delinquent acts than those of two-parent households. These acts can lead to incarceration or death. One arena that has not …

Ethno-Religious Conflict In Northern Nigeria: The Latency Of Episodic Genocide, Grace O. Okoye

Department of Conflict Resolution Studies Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation explores the ethnic and religious dimensions of the northern Nigeria conflict in which gruesome killings have intermittently occurred, to determine whether there are genocidal inclinations to the episodic killings. The literature review provides the contextual framework for examining the conflict parties and causation factors to address the research questions: Are there genocidal inclinations to the ethno-religious conflict in northern Nigeria? To what extent does the interplay between ethnicity and religion help to foment and escalate the conflict in northern Nigeria? The study employs a mixed content analysis and grounded theory methodology based on the Strauss and Corbin (1990) …

The Impact Of Colorism On Historically Black Fraternities And Sororities, Patience Denece Bryant

Department of Conflict Resolution Studies Theses and Dissertations

This dissertation study was conducted in order to examine and gain an insight on two topics that are considered to be highly under researched: American historically black fraternities and sororities and colorism within the back American community. The purpose of the study was to examine the impact that colorism has had on black American collegiate Greek letter organizations. Using the qualitative phenomenological approach, 18 graduate or alumni members, two from each of the nine historically black Greek letter organizations that make up the National Pan-Hellanic Council were interviewed using open ended questions to see what impact (if any) colorism has …

Using Hermeneutics To Understand Burnout And Coping Strategies Utilized By Occupational Therapists, Sangeeta Gupta, Margo Paterson, Claudia Von Zweck, Rosemary Lysaght

The Qualitative Report

This research article explores the use of the hermeneutic approach in understanding practice challenges for occupational therapists in the contemporary health care arena. It provides insights into factors that lead to therapist burnout and the strategies they utilize to maintain competent practice. In this mixed methods study, hermeneutics was chosen as the qualitative approach to help understand the meanings occupational therapists ascribe to stressful situations at work and how they cope with those situations. Data was collected by conducting focus groups and semi-structured interviews with seven participants. Demands on time, conflict, lack of respect and autonomy emerged as the main …

Expectations In The Foreign Language Classrooms: A Case Study, Olha Ketsman

The Qualitative Report

Research shows the strong correlation between expectations and student achievement across different disciplines. However, little research has been conducted regarding the role of discipline specific classroom expectations in student academic achievement. This multiple instrumental case study discusses expectations in two rural Spanish high school classrooms in which teachers produce d the highest achieving students. The data was collected through classroom observations, one-on-one audiotaped interviews with teachers and exploration of instructional materials. The study provides insights about the role of expectations in foreign language classrooms and offers examples of foreign language pedagogical practices that reflect high expectations. The study concludes that …

A Grounded Theory Of Inductive Qualitative Research Education: Results Of A Meta-Data-Analysis, Robin Cooper, Ronald J. Chenail, Stephanie Fleming

The Qualitative Report

This paper reports on the first stage of a meta-study conducted by the authors on primary research published during the last thirty years that focused on discovering the experiences of students learning qualitative research. The authors carried out a meta-analysis of the findings of students’ experiences learning qualitative research included in twenty-five published articles. Using constructivist grounded theory to analyze the experience of those seeking to learn qualitative research, including factors that appear to support or interfere with their learning experiences, the authors identified three key dimensions of qualitative research students’ learning experiences—affective, cognitive, and experiential. Based on this analysis, …

Two Teachers In Dialogue:Understanding The Commitment To Teach, Philip Evan Bernhardt

The Qualitative Report

In this study the author explores two educators’ understandings about their commitment to the teaching profession. The following question sits at the heart of this investigation: How do two teachers understand the manifestation of commitment within their teaching practices. Hermeneutic inquiry, which quietly situates this work, provides a unique lens to explore the significance of personal and professional experiences, interpret how to make sense of these experiences, and reflect on the meaning of these revelations within the context of one’s life narrative. Findings reveal that while both the participant and researcher both have a deep commitment to positively influence the …

Synthesizing Multicultural, Global, And Civic Perspectivesin Theelementary School Curriculum And Educational Research, Steven P. Camicia, Juanjuan Zhu

The Qualitative Report

Social networks and communities are rapidly expanding and changing due to the accelerating pace of globalization. In this article, we examine new possibilities for the reform of curriculum and educational research in a way that is responsive to increasingly multicultural and global communities. Drawing on literatures in the areas of multicultural, global, and civic education, we conducted a critical qualitative case study of four elementary school teachers. The teachers, two in the United States and two in the United Kingdom, are known to be exemplary at synthesizing multicultural, global, and civic education. We, the two authors, one a female from …

Factors Causing Demotivation In Efl Teaching Process: A Case Study, Selami Aydin

The Qualitative Report

Studies have mainly focused on strategies to motivate teachers or the student-teacher motivation relationships rather than teacher demotivation in the English as a foreign language (EFL) teaching process, whereas no data have been found on the factors that cause teacher demotivation in the Turkish EFL teaching contexts at the elementary education level. Thus, this study aims to investigate the demotivating factors in EFL teaching at the elementary level. The study was designed as a qualitative case study, and involved face-to-face conversations, MSN talks and a diary maintained by the subject for data collection. The results showed that the problems were …