The College of Education, Health and

Human Sciences

Announces the Final Examination of

Heather Jane Dannison

for the degree of

Doctor of Philosophy

April 30^th, 2014 at 10AM

215B Ball Hall, University of Memphis

Memphis, TN

Biographical Sketch

            Bachelor of Science, Family Community Services, Michigan State University

            Masters of Arts, Community Counseling, Western Michigan University

Advisory Committee

Sara Bridges, PhD; Associate Professor; Counseling, Educational Psychology and Research, Committee chair

Douglas Strohmer, PhD; Professor Chair; Counseling, Educational Psychology and Research

Ronnie Priest, PhD; Associate Professor; Counseling, Educational Psychology and Research

Elin Ovrebo, PhD; Assistant Professor; Counseling, Educational Psychology and Research

Major Field of Study

Counseling Psychology

Period of Preparation:  2010-2014

Comprehensive Examination Passed: August 2012 with Honors

DICHOTOMOUS IDENTITY NEGOTIATION: STRAIGHT-ALLY CONSERVATIVE CHRISTIANS IN THE MID-SOUTH

Although recently literature related to the emergence and development of individuals who identify as straight-allies, or heterosexual individuals who advocate for the GLBT community in some way, has been completed, little is known about straight-allies who also affirm a conservative Christian identity. Using narrative inquiry and queer theory, this study sought to better understand the experiences and stories of individuals who affirm these two seemingly dichotomous identities in order to broaden the scope of research on this population. Unstructured narrative interviews were utilized along with both constant comparison and contextualization for the analysis of this work. Findings indicated that individuals who identified as both a straight-ally and conservative Christian used several different methods to live out these roles concurrently in their lives. This includes the utilization of both critical thinking and individualized interpretation of biblical texts in order to negotiate these identities. In addition, critical thinking, the impact of personal relationships with GLBT individuals, and patriotism helped participants negotiate their seemingly dichotomous identities. Findings were displayed using monologues and creative analytic practice in order to bring participants’ stories to life.

The College of Education, Health and

Human Sciences

Announces the Final Examination of

Sharlese Louise James

for the degree of

Doctor of Education

Thursday, April 24, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

320 Ball Hall, University of Memphis

Memphis, TN

Biographical Sketch

Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education, Delta State University, Cleveland, MS

Master of Education, Elementary Education, Delta State University, Cleveland, MS

Education Specialist, Elementary Education, Delta State University, Cleveland, MS

Advisory Committee

Lee Allen, Ed.D, Associate Professor, Instruction and Curriculum Leadership, Committee Chair

Louis Franceschini III, Ph.D., Senior Research Consultant, Center for Research in Educational Policy

Clif Mims, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Instruction and Curriculum Leadership

Allen Hugh Seed, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Instruction and Curriculum Leadership

Major Field of Study

Instruction and Curriculum Leadership

Period of Preparation:  2004- 2014

Comprehensive Examination Passed: October 2010

“How a Computer- Assisted Instructional Program Affects the Reading Fluency of a Selected Group of Second Grade Students”

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of Headsprout Early Reading to augment fluency abilities for second grade students in an urban public school system. Headsprout, a Computer- Assisted Instruction program (CAI), provided internet-based reading instruction based on the National Reading Panel’s recommendations. All second grade students were assessed to determine who would use the program. Second grade students who participated in Headsprout sessions were compared with second grade students who did not use Headsprout. All participants were assessed again at the end of the study.

Analysis of the students’ gains was conducted using a Repeated Measures Analysis of Variance (R-ANOVA). It revealed that the participants showed more growth from their entry benchmark and exit benchmark scores than from their entry benchmark and mid entry benchmark scores. Results of a Regression- Discontinuity Data design approach analysis showed an observable “discontinuity” between the mean averages for the treatment group and control group.  Overall, results were more significant for those students who had participated in the program.

The College of Education, Health and

Human Sciences

Announces the Final Examination of

Richelle Long

for the degree of

Doctor of Philosophy

April 18, 2014 at 9:00 am

207 Ball Hall, University of Memphis

Memphis, TN

Biographical Sketch

B.A., Psychology, University of California, San Diego

M.S., Psychology, Drexel University

Advisory Committee

Dr. Suzanne Lease, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology and Research, Committee chair

Dr. Elin Ovrebo, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology and Research

Dr. Ronnie Priest, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Department of Counseling, Educational Psychology and Research

Dr. Mary Burke, Ph.D., Associate Professor, Carlow University Department of Psychology & Counseling

Dr. Becca Johnson, Ph.D., Agape International Mission

Major Field of Study

Counseling Psychology

Period of Preparation: 2010-2014

Comprehensive Examination Passed: August 2012

The State of Aftercare: A Critical Look at the Response to Victims of Human Sex Trafficking in the United States

Abstract

This study explores the services available to survivors of sex trafficking in the United States. Thirty organizations completed an online survey addressing the needs of the survivors who accessed their services, and how they addressed survivors’ psychological, sexual, substance abuse, legal, educational and vocational, spiritual, and physical needs. The findings provide descriptions of the complex needs of trafficking survivors when they seek help, and the types and forms of services available to address those needs. Results showed how few programs are providing direct services and highlighted the challenge for survivors to get their needs met if they are in an area without any services that are sensitive to their unique needs. The study describes service provision for each need category and makes recommendations for outcome research and development of trafficking sensitive interventions for each area of need. While the participating programs reported many successes and strengths, programs commented on the necessity for more funding and well-trained professionals in various disciplines to provide services to their clients. The field of aftercare services for victims of human sex trafficking in the United States is relatively new, but growing, making this an ideal time to research and strengthen intervention. Findings from the current study can inform future research to move toward more effective models of care and encourage professionals across disciplines to become educated in survivors’ complex needs.