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1
Lee, Cheuk-kiu Johnson. "An exploratory study of leadership in self-help organizations in Hong Kong /." Hong Kong : University of Hong Kong, 1995. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record.jsp?B19470186.
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Wong, Chak-lun Lawrence. "Perceived outcomes for the leukemia patient group members who join self-help activities /." Hong Kong : University of Hong Kong, 1998. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record.jsp?B20131367.
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Schrock, C. Randall. "Self-help groups and the church an instructive model regarding the power of cohesive groups to produce change in members /." Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN), 1996. http://www.tren.com.
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Shaw, George A. "A Study Concerning Self-Help Groups and College Mathematics." Thesis, North Texas State University, 1985. https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc330953/.
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The problem with which this investigation is concerned is that of determining whether utilizing self-help groups for remedial mathematics students would improve their course completion rates, achievement, and attitudes toward learning mathematics. The methods of determining the success/failure of self-help groups in this study were the Z-test from inferences concerning two proportions, the t-test from inferences concerning the difference between two independent means, and the t-test from inferences concerning the difference between two dependent means. The participants of the study were chosen from the students enrolled in "daytime" mathematics classes at Tarrant County Junior College - Northeast Campus, Hurst, Texas. The experiment was conducted over two semesters and the data combined for statistical analysis. There were one hundred four students involved in the study. Fifty-two students comprised each of the experimental and control classes. The term self-help group was utilized to describe a small group of two-to-fifteen people who engaged in discussion of responsibility, standards, confession, lay leadership, and action. The students did not study mathematics in self-help group sessions. The group meetings dealt with anxieties, attitudes, and commitment that may be associated with mathematics in general. To investigate the hypotheses of this study, data was collected to calculate the percentage completion rates, the means of the final exams taken by students, and the differences of the Semantic Differential scores given to students in the experimental class at the beginning and the end of the semester. This data was utilized for statistical analysis to determine if the experiment was successful. The report concludes that self-help groups did not significantly improve course completion rates, achievement, or attitudes of students toward learning mathematics. Forty-four per cent of the students that completed the experimental class participated in self-help groups.
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Blauner, Michael Lee. "Self-help groups for the chronically ill: Different structures, varying processes." Case Western Reserve University School of Graduate Studies / OhioLINK, 1991. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=case1055450373.
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Archibald, Matthew. "The population dynamics of modern self-help/mutual-aid : organizational and institutional change in the civil sector, 1955-2000 /." Thesis, Connect to this title online; UW restricted, 2002. http://hdl.handle.net/1773/8892.
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Walker, Sandra. "Prostate cancer support groups an evaluation /." Australasian Digital Thesis Program, 2005. http://adt.lib.swin.edu.au/public/adt-VSWT20060905.085536.
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Thesis (DPysch) - Dept. of Psychology, Swinburne University of Technology, 2005.Submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Professional Doctorate Health Psychology, Department of Psychology, Swinburne University of Technology - 2005. Typescript. Includes bibliographical references (p. 151-159).
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Oliver, Nicholas. "ME/CFS, medicine and self help groups : a qualitative exploration." Thesis, University of East London, 1998. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.532426.
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Platz, Shirley. "Nattering women? : the psychosocial functions of cancer self help groups." Thesis, University of Edinburgh, 1993. http://hdl.handle.net/1842/20113.
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This work arose from a concern about the psychosocial aspects of health care. Although self help groups are one means by which information and support can be offered and received, there are few studies of health self help groups in Britain. The available literature suggests that self help groups are complex organisations which are difficult to define and categorise. This study adds further confirmation to that. This research follows an ethnomethodological approach and provides an in-depth study of six cancer self help groups. Data were gathered from interviews with group members and associated professionals, and from participant observation of group meetings. Women's experience of the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer suggests that they are poorly informed and receive little or no support within the formal services. They go to self help groups with little information about them and hold unrealistic expectations of what the group might offer. Participation in groups occurs at a variety of levels and frequently over a long period of time. The groups provide women with practical and social support and act as a means of empowerment to enable them to accommodate their illness into their lives and help to realise their health potential. The interviews with professionals suggest that they were aware of the benefits and possible drawbacks of self help. However, few had fully considered the nature of self help, and professional involvement. Groups were keen to develop good relations with professionals as one means of legitimation yet wished to maintain their own integrity and control. This enabled a shift in the normal, individual social relationship between patient and professional. Several policy issues in relation to both the delivery of health care for people with diagnosed cancer and about the organisation and function of self help groups and their interactions with professionals are discussed. In particular the availability and nature of information and communication during diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer requires review. Self help groups are one way this might be facilitated. They are, on the whole, complementary rather than a direct challenge to mainstream medical services. They maintain a dynamic relationship with formal services, but generally attempt to work alongside local professionals. They provide a cost-effective psychosocial support which is unique. They provide considerable potential to advance a 'whole person' approach as envisaged by the World Health Organisation and it is in the interest of the Health Service to promote their development. Any support from medical and social services will require workers in the field to reassess their own practice and involvement with groups.
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Simm, Jonathan. "Direct action self-help groups in UK flood risk management." Thesis, University of Nottingham, 2015. http://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/29541/.
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This thesis critically evaluates the reasons and extent to which Direct Action Self-Help (DASH) groups are, or can be, viable and an efficacious, efficient and effective means of managing and monitoring Flood and Coastal erosion Risk Management (FCRM) assets. FCRM DASH groups are found to be motivated by challenges of increasing flood risk and reduced public funding, alongside a sense of stewardship and community solidarity, catalysed by a few motivated individuals. The thesis develops a conceptual framework of the different dimensions, contextual aspects and motivations for DASH activity. Case studies show that channel maintenance work by DASH groups can be effective and efficient at reducing some aspects of local fluvial flood risk for lower order flood events. By contrast, maintenance of existing sea walls by DASH groups is less efficient because of the need for significant expenditure on materials and is only efficacious if the engineering is quality controlled; its longer term effectiveness is limited by sea level rise. Professional FCRM coordination and support of DASH activity is examined using a case study of an Environment Agency (EA) area coordinator and comparisons with alternative approaches. Support of DASH groups by FCRM professionals is essential to avoid unwise activity and to provide practical support, seed-corn funding and advice on the nature and extent to which DASH activity might be appropriate. The most effective form of DASH facilitation requires a quality and quantity of involvement that cannot readily be supplied by dispersed arrangements from a number of individuals. The thesis also proposes an approach for assessing and scoring the human dimensions of engineering assets. The dimensions of Sense of Security, Accessibility/Availability and Delight/Inspiration reflect insights from key thinkers from a wide range of disciplines. The framework is verified for the FCRM context and its practicality evaluated by trials in which DASH and other community groups assess human dimensions.
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Wong, Siu-yi Elsa. "A study of the self-help movement in Hong Kong : implications for the role and involvement of social workers /." [Hong Kong : University of Hong Kong], 1993. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record.jsp?B13744677.
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Bedway, Andrea Jean. "Self help : an examination of Parents Anonymous of Central Ohio /." The Ohio State University, 1985. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1487259125218651.
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Boyce, Melanie J. ""It's a safe space" : the role of self-harm self-help/mutual aid groups." Thesis, Anglia Ruskin University, 2016. http://arro.anglia.ac.uk/700655/.
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There has been very little research that has explored self-help groups (SHGs) in relation to self-harm. Yet, from the limited research undertaken self-harm SHGs appear to provide a valuable and much needed source of support. This study explores the perspectives of those who attend and support such groups with the aim of building a more comprehensive understanding of the role of these groups. The research is framed within an interpretative paradigm of inquiry and guided by a qualitative case study approach. The first phase involved working with two self-harm SHGs to gain an in-depth understanding of the strengths and challenges specific to these groups. In the second phase, semi-structured interviews were undertaken with four individuals who had experience of supporting self-harm SHGs directly and/or at an organisational level to gain broader insights into the running and development of such groups. A thematic approach to the analysis of the findings illustrated that these groups provide a safe, non-judgmental space where those who self-harm can meet, listen and talk to others who share similar experiences for mutual and reciprocal peer support. Participation in the groups was found to offer direct individual benefits and wider gains, along with external and internal challenges. Despite a current interest in the value of peer support in mental health services, the thesis illustrates that this is largely missing for those who self-harm. Concerns about the risk of peer support for those who self-harm remains a barrier affecting the development of self-harm SHGs, which is further constrained by a privileging of an individualistic approach in mainstream services. The thesis contributes new evidence about the value of collective peer support for those who self-harm. In addition it provides a more nuanced theoretical understanding of the paradoxical meaning of ‘safe space’ in a SHG for those who self-harm.
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Boyce, Melanie J. ""It's a safe space": The role of self-harm self-help/mutual aid groups." Thesis, Anglia Ruskin University, 2016. https://arro.anglia.ac.uk/id/eprint/700655/1/Boyce2016.pdf.
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There has been very little research that has explored self-help groups (SHGs) in relation to self-harm. Yet, from the limited research undertaken self-harm SHGs appear to provide a valuable and much needed source of support. This study explores the perspectives of those who attend and support such groups with the aim of building a more comprehensive understanding of the role of these groups.
The research is framed within an interpretative paradigm of inquiry and guided by a qualitative case study approach. The first phase involved working with two self-harm SHGs to gain an in-depth understanding of the strengths and challenges specific to these groups. In the second phase, semi-structured interviews were undertaken with four individuals who had experience of supporting self-harm SHGs directly and/or at an organisational level to gain broader insights into the running and development of such groups.
A thematic approach to the analysis of the findings illustrated that these groups provide a safe, non-judgmental space where those who self-harm can meet, listen and talk to others who share similar experiences for mutual and reciprocal peer support. Participation in the groups was found to offer direct individual benefits and wider gains, along with external and internal challenges.
Despite a current interest in the value of peer support in mental health services, the thesis illustrates that this is largely missing for those who self-harm. Concerns about the risk of peer support for those who self-harm remains a barrier affecting the development of self-harm SHGs, which is further constrained by a privileging of an individualistic approach in mainstream services. The thesis contributes new evidence about the value of collective peer support for those who self-harm. In addition it provides a more nuanced theoretical understanding of the paradoxical meaning of ‘safe space’ in a SHG for those who self-harm.
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Kosteletos, Anna. "A self-help methodology to analyse groups and map their dynamics." Thesis, University of Surrey, 2012. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.576084.
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Groups play a significant role in our lives from a diverse number of perspectives; at work, psychologically, socially and personally. Therefore, it could reasonably be argued that it is.lmperatlve for us to seek to gain a deeper understanding of what a group is, how they operate (their dynamics) and which of these elements are important to enable them to function. Simultaneously, it could be argued that it is essential that groups understand each of these factors, which may affect them. If it was possible to identify factors that could enhance their understanding of group life, this may enable them to identify the aspects that need to be in place to strengthen their dynamics. Therefore, this thesis focuses on the construction of a methodology, which brings together some elements of group dynamics to provide a framework that groups can use to reflect on their dynamics and aid their effectiveness. This methodology builds from a number of theories and it is argued that it may allow groups to explore their dynamics and effectiveness (with the guidance of a facilitator in the first instance). This includes an exploration of their behaviours/attitudes to enable them to build an understanding of the cause-effect underpinning these so that they can better understand their dynamics whilst they were at work. The research findings from this study are interesting but the conclusions drawn currently are only tentative, as the methodology needs to be tested further. However a number of correlations were identified in the research between some elements of group dynamics and their effectiveness. In particular, as shared goals, goal direction, verbal, and non-verbal communication, energy, tension, effectiveness and balance converged the groups attained their goals. This may indicate that balanced dynamics enhance group effectiveness and goal attainment. Additionally, the implementation of this new methodology enabled new patterns to be observed that led to some interesting findings where groups with an informal structure, agenda, roles, and leadership were able to achieve their objectives over a short time period whilst achieving a stronger group dynamic. These findings to some extent contradict those in the management literature (Robbins, 2004; Weick, 1979), which stipulates that groups that have formal structures, roles, tasks and leadership operate more effectively. These patterns of behaviour may not be common to all groups; however, they do challenge the consensus opinion that has been presented by scholars in recent years.
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Whiting, Susan E. "A qualitative study investigating the potential for collaborative relationships between clinical psychologists and self-help groups in the field of mental health, and comparing clinical psychologists' views about self-help groups with self-help group members' views about the professional care system." Thesis, Open University, 1996. http://oro.open.ac.uk/57653/.
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This study explores the potential for collaborative relationships between clinical psychologists and self-help group members in the field of mental health, comparing the views of each group in relation to the other and their preferred relationships. The participant group comprised: (a) 16 clinical psychologists working in adult mental health services, twelve with previous contact with self-help groups and four without any previous contact and (b) fourteen self-help group members from various self-help groups for adults experiencing personal or emotional difficulties. Face to face interviews were conducted using semi-structured interview schedules. These were designed for each group to understand in-depth their views in relation to the other and about entering into collaborative relationships. Grounded theory and thematic analysis were used to analyse the interviews. Both groups perceived benefits from a collaboration but envisaged problematic relationships. Tension emerged as a major issue and was expressed in various ways. Three major dimensions of tension were similarity versus difference, power versus equality and resources versus deprivation. Managing the resulting tensions poses threats for both groups in collaborative relationships, particularly to their identity. Findings suggest that both groups need to find ways of managing their genuine differences without introducing threats into the relationship or preventing the full potential of collaborative relationships from being realised. The study's findings are critically evaluated and directions for future research in the field are discussed. Implications for clinical practice are addressed.
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Bell, Brenda Jean, and University of Lethbridge Faculty of Arts and Science. "Lifelines : an ethnographic study of identification processes and discursive practices in mutual aid groups." Thesis, Lethbridge, Alta. : University of Lethbridge, Faculty of Arts and Science, 1999, 1999. http://hdl.handle.net/10133/105.
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This thesis research is an ethnographic account of how identity and a sense of community are discursively constructed and managed among participants in mutual aid groups. Research findings are based upon interview and observational data collected from two support groups located in a Canadian city. While members' accounts provide a basis for interpreting the meaning of support as experienced, researcher observations focus on discursive identification practices. My interpretation sheds light on the dynamic interplay between notions of community, symbolic boundary and identity. Participant stories grounded in experiential knowledge, serve as critical connecting nodes in the construction and reproduction of community and as legitimate leverage to resist denied agency. These case study findings suggest how support, community and identity are collectively accomplished, in part, by managing symbolic boundaries through positioning practices. An understanding of these micro-processes has practical implications for the development of mutual aid groups to meet health and social needs.xiv, 310 leaves ; 29 cm.
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Aurelio, Shauna Lively. "Surrogate mothers use of online messaging a study of social support /." Morgantown, W. Va. : [West Virginia University Libraries], 2004. https://etd.wvu.edu/etd/controller.jsp?moduleName=documentdata&jsp%5FetdId=3425.
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Thesis (Ed. D.)--West Virginia University, 2004.Title from document title page. Document formatted into pages; contains vi, 166 p. : ill. (some col.). Vita. Includes abstract. Includes bibliographical references (p. 102-116).
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Bähre, Erik. "Money and violence financial self-help groups in a South African township /." Leiden ; Boston : Brill, 2007. http://public.eblib.com/EBLPublic/PublicView.do?ptiID=467904.
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Chaudhary, Sarah. "Self-help groups as sites of active citizenship : a qualitative study of the democratising role of self-help in the public sphere." Thesis, University of Nottingham, 2014. http://eprints.nottingham.ac.uk/14525/.
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Self-help groups in the United Kingdom continue to grow in number and address virtually every conceivable health condition, but they remain the subject of very little theoretical analysis. The literature to date has predominantly focused on their therapeutic effects on individual members. And yet they are widely presumed to fulfil a broader civic role and to encourage democratic citizenship. The thesis uses qualitative data derived from individual and group interviews with 33 groups in order to provide an outline of the ethos, aims, activities and structural arrangements of a broad range of self-help groups in Nottinghamshire, UK. It then uses these findings as the foundation on which to construct a model of self-help groups’ democratising effects in the public sphere and as a means of differentiating them from other types of ‘health citizenship’ organisation such as new social movements. In order to do this it broadly follows the work of Jurgen Habermas, making use of his concepts of communicative action; system-lifeworld integration; lifeworld autonomy and collective identity as an appropriate framework against which to account for these groups in civic terms. It was found that in their pursuit of personal and collective identities the groups were augmenting individual autonomy through increasing mutual recognition and understanding in the lifeworld. Although at first sight the groups appeared to be structured hierarchically, leaders tended to use their influence to foster a type of communicative equality that sustained the democratic negotiation of these identities. In addition, through their two-way communicative links with the system the groups were adding to the complexity and quality of discourse in the public sphere and increasing the possibility of attaining social consensus. Unlike new social movements who are believed to operate at the protest end of civil society, the self-help groups were oriented to its enabling sector.
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Costello, Joanne Fawcett. "Roles and strategies of nurses facilitating diabetes support groups : an exploratory study /." View online ; access limited to URI, 2007. http://0-digitalcommons.uri.edu.helin.uri.edu/dissertations/AAI3276978.
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Lee, Cheuk-kiu Johnson, and 李焯翹. "An exploratory study of leadership in self-help organizations in Hong Kong." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 1995. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B31250063.
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Gioia, Milena. "Grassroots Women's Organizations in Rural India: Promoting Social Change Through Self-Help Groups." Thesis, Université d'Ottawa / University of Ottawa, 2012. http://hdl.handle.net/10393/20683.
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Development work focused on gender equality usually concentrates on easily measurable practical needs, but rarely on structural change and social justice. The purpose of the present research is to analyze a women’s grassroots organization’s (MBUP) role in promoting social change through Self-help groups, a medium commonly used to give women access to credit. The analysis explores how collective action can bring about structural change to oppressive gender norms. Drawing on a power-conscious feminist approach, the study involves 32 in depth qualitative interviews. The findings show that MBUP is promoting social change and women’s rights in certain ways, namely in creating social awareness in women, access to information for women, and active citizenship in women. However, the organization is limited in encouraging systemic change through the promotion of collective struggle. Moreover, while the organization is inclusive and displays diversity in the entirety of its structure, its critical introspection remains limited.
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Hatzidimitriadou, Eleni. "Self-help/mutual aid groups in mental health : ideology, helping mechanisms and empowerment." Thesis, University of Kent, 1999. http://ethos.bl.uk/OrderDetails.do?uin=uk.bl.ethos.344103.
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Eaglesham, Susan L. "Online Support Groups: Extending Communities of Concern." Diss., Virginia Tech, 1996. http://hdl.handle.net/10919/30376.
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Using survey data from 75 participants in computer self-help groups, variables were identified which theoretically indicate that computer self- help groups function similarly to face-to-face self-help groups. This exploratory research provided demographic information which allows users of computer self-help groups to be more clearly described. The findings of this study indicated that computer group users perceived similar benefits of use to people in traditional self-help groups. Study participants also perceived certain benefits from computer group use not found in traditional face-to-face groups. Among these were the convenience of use, anonymity, and the benefits of writing as a way to connect to others. The findings indicated that computer groups provided a unique context in which new beliefs and ideas about problems can be constructed. The findings were interpreted to indicate that there are certain risks involved in computer group use of which mental health professionals and potential users need to be cognizant. Finally, several areas for possible future study are discussed.Ph. D.
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Radin, Patricia M. ""Hello, my friends" : social capital and transformations of trust in a grassroots breast cancer Website /." Thesis, Connect to this title online; UW restricted, 2001. http://hdl.handle.net/1773/6194.
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Pfeifer, Maria A. "Self-help Support Groups: Choices in Participation Among Women Facing Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)." PDXScholar, 2005. https://pdxscholar.library.pdx.edu/open_access_etds/4793.
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This research study explored the experiences of 19 women who had been diagnosed with, or were still seeking the diagnosis of SLE (lupus) and their decisions regarding support group participation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the variety of factors influencing their choices in types and sources of support, their coping strategies and the reasons behind their decisions to either choose or not choose lupus support groups as a viable support resource. Those women identified as support groups attendees recalled a more emotion-focused response to their diagnosis and showed stronger reliance on seeking emotional forms of support. Conversely, those women who chose not to participate in groups (non-attendees) utilized more problem-focused strategies when they received their news of the illness and indicated more reliance on instrumental forms of support. Additionally, the women who do not attend support groups did not seem to have more social support from outside sources, but did show a tendency to utilize relationship-focused coping more than other forms of coping strategies overall. Both groups showed a heavy reliance on their medical providers for both emotional and instrumental forms of support suggesting this source as an important factor in individual choices in coping strategies and support sources. The decisions to attend or not attend differed only in the strategies they relied on and specific group structure, timing and locations. The results of this study supports earlier research in the types and sources of social support used in adapting to a chronic illness. This study also encourages incorporating individual support services through medical providers and the development of programs that acknowledge individual coping and support needs.
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Lee, Chi-chuen Antonio, and 利志全. ""Let's do it ourselves!": a self-help group of stoma patients." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 1988. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B31248172.
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Löfström, Åsa, and Jeanette Åberg. "Kvinnors upplevelser av bildskapandets betydelse i en självhjälpsgrupp med fritt bildskapande och samtal - En kvalitativ studie." Thesis, Stockholms universitet, Psykologiska institutionen, 2016. http://urn.kb.se/resolve?urn=urn:nbn:se:su:diva-131419.
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Bildterapeutiskt arbete kan vara ett sätt att stärka psykisk hälsa. Lite är dock skrivet om upplevelsen att använda sig av bildskapande i självhjälpsgrupper. Föreliggande studie avsåg att undersöka detta. Respondenter var fem deltagare samt projektansvarig bildterapeut med erfarenheter från självhjälpsgrupper innehållande fritt bildskapande och samtal. Intervjuer genomfördes och analyserades genom tematisk analys. Tre teman framkom (Personlig utveckling, Bildskapandet samt Sammanhang) innehållande tolv kategorier (Agentskap/empowerment, Att utmana sig själv, Ökad livskvalité, Lust, Kravlöshet/prestigelöshet, Bildens symboliska värde, Nya verktyg, Bearbetning/insikter, Flow, Gemenskap med andra, Kulturen i vården och samhället samt Lokalens betydelse). Resultatet indikerar att deltagarna upplevt ökad hälsa, större agentskap och gemenskap där bildskapandet varit en viktig del. Ytterligare forskning behövs dock för att styrka sambandet mellan bildskapande och ökat välmående.Working with art therapy can be a way to enhance psychic health. However little is written about the experience of using art therapy in self-help groups. The present study intended to explore that. Respondents were five participants and the project leading art therapist with experiences from self-help groups containing free imaging and talk. Interviews were made and analysed through thematic analyses. Three themes emerged (Personal development, Imaging and Context), containing twelve categories (Agency/empowerment, Challenging yourself, Increased quality of life, Desire, Permissiveness/ unpretentiousness, Symbolic value of image, New tooles, Processing/ insights, Flow, Community with others, Culture in care and society and Importance of premises). The result indicates that the participants experienced an increase in health, self-efficacy and fellowship. Additional research is however needed to confirm possible connections between art therapy and increased health.
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Tong, Chi-keung Christopher. "An exploratory study of self-help groups in helping Chinese new arrival wives to adapt life in Hong Kong /." Hong Kong : University of Hong Kong, 1998. http://sunzi.lib.hku.hk/hkuto/record.jsp?B22331384.
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Cherry, Scott. "The promise of the hyphen : an ethnography of self-help practices." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2009. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/12692.
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This thesis is an ethnography of the phenomenon of self-help. It begins by noting a problematic at the centre of the topic: the term self-help connotes, on the one hand, an autonomous agent ("self'), and on the other, a reliance on other agents ("help"). More substantively, the term attaches itself to two opposing ideological positions, individualism and collectivism. This strange splitting of the term is reproduced in a contemporary context, where we see the genre of self-help books, which is built around the highly individualistic activity of reading as a quest for self-help, and self-help groups, which are built around the collective, co-presence of members as they mutually help one another. But the phenomenon is engaged by separate, non-overlapping literatures that treat self-help books as having a status independent of self-help groups; one attends to self-help books, but disregards self-help groups, while the other attends to self-help groups, but disregards self-help books. Thus self-help books and self-help groups get polarized. This effectively makes the original problematic around the term itself disappear, because it' simply ignores it. This research turns this character of self-help into a topic for study. It looks at what holds the term together, that is to say, self-help books and self-help groups, when they appear to be entirely independent phenomena, and yet still share the term self-help. It is interested in the significance of the term, why it gets invoked as a description of particular activities and what that entails as a practical matter. It wants to see how self-help is performed. It identifies a hybrid of self-help books and self-help groups - a self-help workshop. This third site of self-help brings individual readers of self-help books into a context of collective, social activity. It uses this as a strategy with which to examine the relationships between self-help books and self-help groups, self and help. It undertakes a detailed empirical analysis of a corpus of self-help books, a selfhelp workshop and a range of self-help groups, drawing on textual, discursive and ethnographic modes of inquiry. It then uses this empirical work to map self-help and engage it as a wider, cultural phenomenon in the modem period.
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Walker, Sandra, and n/a. "Prostate cancer support groups an evaluation." Swinburne University of Technology, 2005. http://adt.lib.swin.edu.au./public/adt-VSWT20060905.085536.
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The population of Australia is increasing in age, consequently the incidence of
cancer diagnoses is rising. This rise will have a dramatic impact on hospitals with
much of the disease burden extending to psychological support for cancer care. At
present few men diagnosed with cancer seek support. This study sought to explore
men's perceptions of support and prostate cancer support groups.
The benefits of support groups for men with prostate cancer have been well
documented in international studies. In Australia however, relatively few men
diagnosed with prostate cancer join such groups and few studies have examined the
factors that influence membership and attendance. This study investigated the
experiences of a sample of 181 Australian men diagnosed with prostate cancer, 80 of
whom were members of support groups and 107 who were not. The participants were
recruited from prostate cancer support groups and an outpatient department of a major
cancer hospital, in Melbourne, Australia. The two groups were compared on a range
of factors, including disease characteristics, illness perceptions and views of prostate
cancer support groups. Further, members of support groups rated a number of
objectives to determine the effectiveness of the groups.
The majority of members recommended prostate cancer support groups to
other men with prostate cancer (92%), however of the non-members of prostate
cancer support groups, almost half (48%) had never heard of them. Factors that
discriminated between support group members and non-members were emotional
perceptions of the illness, symptom reports and illness coherence, with support group
members reporting higher scores on these variables. Length of diagnosis and age
were also factors that discriminated between the groups with support group members younger and diagnosed longer than non-members. There were no differences between
the groups on personal control, both groups reported high perceptions of control over
the disease. Members reported more benefits and less costs associated with prostate
cancer support groups than non-members. Benefits included information, support,
sharing experiences, and supporting other men with the disease. Costs included
negative discussions, other men dying, and the distance required to travel to the
groups. Both members and non-members reported distance to travel to the groups as
a major barrier to attendance. The majority of members had heard of the groups
through friends and, for non-members who had heard of the groups, through hospital
staff. General practitioners were one of the least likely sources of information about
prostate cancer support groups reported by members.
Prostate cancer support group members reported high levels of satisfaction
with the groups on a range of objectives outlined by the Cancer Council of Victoria.
Making friends and accessing community assistance exceeded men's expectations of
attendance, however men reported a desire for more information and communication.
A need for more funding, advertising, and recognition of prostate cancer support
groups by medical staff was also reported.
Many men with prostate cancer are unaware of support groups, however a
number of benefits were noted by both members and non-members. Greater
recognition of prostate cancer support groups by medical staff may provide men with
prostate cancer an opportunity to access those benefits. Health service providers
should consider the important role prostate cancer support groups play in the recovery
of men from prostate cancer and consider ways of dispelling myths men may hold
regarding the notion of support.
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Wong, Chak-lun Lawrence, and 黃澤麟. "Perceived outcomes for the leukemia patient group members who join self-help activities." Thesis, The University of Hong Kong (Pokfulam, Hong Kong), 1998. http://hub.hku.hk/bib/B31250634.
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Subramanian, Shobana. "Reconfiguring home, world and cosmos health initiatives in women's self-help groups in Kanyakumari, India /." Columbus, Ohio : Ohio State University, 2006. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc%5Fnum=osu1150483913.
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Subramanian, Shobana. "Reconfiguring home, world and cosmos: health initiatives in women’s self-help groups in Kanyakumari, India." The Ohio State University, 2006. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=osu1150483913.
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Flanagan, George A. "A project to design and implement a group model for the professional self-enhancement of ministers." Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN), 1994. http://www.tren.com.
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Burrell, Penni. "Do self-help groups work with women who have been abused?, an exploration of this question by women who have made discoveries about self-help and other alternatives." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 1997. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk2/ftp04/mq22818.pdf.
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Graham, Laura Fowler. "An evaluation of leadership roles and social capital in Northern Ireland's victim support groups : theory, policy and practice." Thesis, University of Aberdeen, 2012. http://digitool.abdn.ac.uk:80/webclient/DeliveryManager?pid=196014.
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This thesis investigates the functions and roles of victim support groups and their leaders in Northern Ireland. In doing so, this thesis employs social capital theory as a conceptual apparatus for understanding leadership roles and the functions of victim support groups. This thesis is the product of a qualitative case study of victim leaders in Northern Ireland. The data was collected through qualitative semi-structured interviews with victim support group leaders and policymakers. In the findings chapters of this thesis, a typology of leadership emerges from the data, revealing three distinct types of leaders – Shepherds, In Loco Parentis and Social Innovators – that help explain the roles of victim leaders and the reasons why they engage in certain types of group activities over others, specifically, activities which contribute to bonding, constriction or bridging social capital. The findings reveal that one of the main roles of victim leaders centers around the bonding and bridging of social capital in their groups. Consequently, around 80 percent of victim support groups were found to be bonding, whereas only 20 percent of groups were bridging. Moreover, around 20 percent of victim support groups were engaged in dysfunctional bonding, possibly leading to constriction. These findings have negative implications for the social inclusion of victims, as well as the social cohesion of wider society. This thesis argues that the reasons why victim groups bond, bridge or constrict is directly related to two factors: the type of leadership employed in each group and government policies and funding strategies that reinforce exclusivity and fail to encourage bridging. This thesis also makes significant contributions to the scholarly literature on Northern Ireland’s victims, government policy and social capital theory. The conclusion of this thesis argues that social capital theory and constrict theory both fail to fully explain the roles of victim groups and their leaders because the conceptualizations of these theories do not take into account the effects of leadership in groups and social trust that has been traumatized by protracted political violence. Thus, this thesis re-conceptualizes social capital theory and constrict theory by adding traumatized trust and leadership as important variables which help explain the roles of victim support groups and their leaders in divided and transitional settings. Finally, this thesis offers suggestions for policymakers and victim leaders on a social capital strategy that aims to increase positive forms of social capital and discourage constriction.
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Yip, Wai Chi. "Communicating social support in online self-help groups for anxiety and depression : a mixed methods discourse analysis." HKBU Institutional Repository, 2020. https://repository.hkbu.edu.hk/etd_oa/732.
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Most studies on online self-help groups for healthcare contexts have explored the content of social support. However, very little research has shed light on the communicative behaviors and language use of participants in online self-help groups for mental illness. This thesis studies the communication of social support in online self-help groups for anxiety and depression (OSGADs) to reveal their characteristics as communities of practice (CofPs) and how the predominant communicative acts of the participants contribute to social support communication. The data of the present study is a self-compiled corpus of 120 threads collected from six selected OSGADs. Mixed methods discourse analysis (MMDA) is used as a research method to conduct three empirical studies (i.e., Chapters 4, 5, and 6), in which both qualitative and quantitative approaches of discourse analysis are utilized, including content analysis, textual analysis, and interaction analysis. Different analytical frameworks are employed in the analyses. The data analysis begins by investigating the main communicative patterns of the interactions (Chapter 5) and then examines two predominant communicative acts (Chapters 5 and 6). Issues closely related to the analysis are also discussed in each of the analytical chapters. Using conversation analysis (Jefferson & Lee, 1992) and Social Support Behavior Code (Coulson, 2005), Chapter 4 reveals the sequential structures and main content of the interactions. The results show that self-disclosure and advice-giving are the most predominant communicative acts in the interactions. This chapter argues that the optimal matching theory (Cutrona & Russell, 1990) is probably inadequate to elucidate that the support proffered by respondents aids the support seekers. Chapter 5 investigates the multiple functions of self-disclosure in personal, textual, and interactional layers. The functions are examined through textual analysis and interaction analysis in tandem with frameworks including cognitive discourse analysis (Tenbrink, 2015) and rhetorical structure theory (Mann & Thompson, 2009). The findings show that self-disclosure enables support providers to distance themselves from problems, release their emotions, and increase reliability/persuasiveness. Self-disclosure facilitates the disclosure of other participants and support recipients may perceive it as advice, mitigation, and normalization. Chapter 6 conceptualizes the politeness of advice messages. Viewing advice as a speech event, textual analysis is conducted to explore the discursive moves and relational strategies (Locher, 2006) in advice messages, and shows that the advice messages contain many emphatic moves and relational strategies, including sharing own experience, empathizing, and assessment. The notions of contextualization (Gumperz, 1987) and relational work (Watts, 2003) are used to argue that empathy is a contextualization cue to make the advice messages appropriate and politic. Based on the three empirical studies, this thesis suggests three main characteristics of OSGADs as CofPs, including an emphasis on supportiveness, participants' performance of multiple identities, and frequent self-disclosure and advice. This thesis argues that self-disclosure is particularly crucial in the social support communication due to its multi-functionality. Self-disclosure is also an act that contextualizes an empathetic interactional context wherein advice is often politic and appropriate. This thesis concludes by discussing implications for interpersonal communication and online support groups in Hong Kong
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Campbell, Deborah Lee. "Participatory evaluation as a tool for enhancing the role of self-help groups in health planning." Thesis, National Library of Canada = Bibliothèque nationale du Canada, 2000. http://www.collectionscanada.ca/obj/s4/f2/dsk2/ftp02/NQ48613.pdf.
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Karjee, Nitai. "Self Help Groups and Empowerment of Rural women in West Bengal:Study in the district of Malda." Thesis, University of North Bengal, 2018. http://hdl.handle.net/123456789/2820.
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Jarvis, Renee Lauren. "Factors participants value in breast cancer support groups." CSUSB ScholarWorks, 2007. https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd-project/3112.
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Halter, Sarah Kathryn. "Self-help groups as a strategy for rural development in western Kenya an exploratory study in Butere-Mumias District /." Diss., Connect to online resource - MSU authorized users, 2008.
Find full textAbstract:
Thesis (M.S.)--Michigan State University. Dept. of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies, 2008.Title from PDF t.p. (viewed on Aug. 7, 2009) Includes bibliographical references (p. 94-96). Also issued in print.
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Munn-Giddings, Carol. "Mutuality and movement : an exploration of self-help/mutual aid groups and their relationship to social policy." Thesis, Loughborough University, 2002. https://dspace.lboro.ac.uk/2134/6958.
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Since the 1970s all of the available literature suggested that the UK, in common with Europe, North America and Scandinavia, had seen significant growth of single issue self-help/mutual aid groups related to health and social care issues. Yet in the UK there appeared to be no real body of academic interest nor any sustained national policy initiatives. The aim of the study was therefore to enhance an understanding of the relationship of these self-help/mutual aid groups to UK social policy. The study was constructed in two parts. Part One, a historical study critically appraised the way in which the state appeared to have viewed and responded to various manifestations of self help/mutual aid, both pre- and post- the welfare state. Part Two, a case-study of two UK grassroots self-help/mutual aid groups explored members' viewpoints, their reasons for joining, benefits derived and the impact they felt it has had on their lives and their relations with professionals and wider `political' forums. The result of the study suggests a fundamental reframing of the relationship between self-help/mutual aid and the state is required at both a conceptual and practical level by UK policy makers and academics. This would acknowledge: that contemporary self-help/mutual aid groups are part of the broader tradition of voluntary action in the third sector, self-help/mutual aid's unique contribution in terms of social relations, process and knowledge; its difference from philanthropy/formal voluntary sector and therefore distinct characteristics and relations with the-state; and contemporary health and social care groups' potential dual identity with communities of interest and geographic communities and their relationship to and distinction from the contemporary service user and carer movements. 116, findings have implications for policy related to participation (citizen and health), social capital and citizenship.
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Leon, Natalie H. "Perceptions of self-help groups for child sexual abuse survivors : an exploratory study amongst mental health workers." Master's thesis, University of Cape Town, 1993. http://hdl.handle.net/11427/13483.
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Includes bibliographical references.This explorative, qualitative study examines the perceptions of mental health workers about self-help groups with adult survivors of child sexual abuse. Given limited formal mental health services in South Africa, self-help represents one informal alternative which could supplement mental health service provision. The study thus arises from a perspective which values self-help groups and is informed by the urgency of community needs in this area, and takes seriously the idea that it is possible and desirable for mental health care workers to facilitate and foster community support systems. Twenty-two indepth interviews were conducted with a sample of convenience which included eleven clinical psychologists, five psychiatrists, three social workers and three non-professionals and included interviewees from organizations currently engaged in issues relating to child sexual abuse. A semi-structured interview schedule was used and interviews were audio-taped. Interview responses were systematically analysed and common themes extracted around awareness of self-help, perceived benefits and problems of survivor self-help groups and the role of professionals. Main themes have been illustrated by verbatim transcriptions from audiotaped material. Most participants have had limited exposure to self-help groups. Whilst there was openness towards self-help with survivors, caution was expressed about dangers to clients in survivor groups which are not monitored by formally trained and accredited professionals. Selfhelp was considered useful mainly as an adjunct to formal services. Limited knowledge of self-help groups is a major determining factor informing professional perceptions. Recommendations for education of professionals are made in order to promote self-help groups and collaborative professional attitudes.
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Coppa, Kay. "Self-help groups in the Hunter region : a qualitative study of their role in chronic illness management /." [St. Lucia, Qld. : s.n.], 2002. http://www.library.uq.edu.au/pdfserve.php?image=thesisabs/absthe16644.pdf.
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Jacobs, Jane B. "The perceptions of self-help groups and health professionals on genetic screening: Implications for public health policy." Thesis, Queensland University of Technology, 2001. https://eprints.qut.edu.au/36760/1/36760_Digitised%20Thesis.pdf.
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On the 26th June 2000, the US President, Bill Clinton and the United Kingdom (UK) Prime Minister Tony Blair, announced in a joint satellite broadcast that the first working draft map of the human genome had been completed ahead of the 2003 schedule of the Human Genome Project (HGP). Less than a year later on the 12th February 2001, the full sequence of the human genome was made public on the Internet by the Human Genome Project team. The primary goal of the HGP is to acquire the fundamental information needed to further our basic scientific understanding of human genetics and the role various genes play in health and disease. The potential use of genetic diagnostic technology for population screening could potentially improve the predictability of common and rare diseases that affect the community, and could signal the beginning of a new era in public health. However public health practitioners and policy makers must be cognisant of the complex social, ethical and legal implications of genetic medicine and consider the role of genetics in public health beyond the tradition of surveillance and medical intervention. Public health policy is yet to clearly articulate the benefits and disadvantages of gene technology in population health.
In this context, the aim of the study was to gain a critical insight into perceptions of self-help group members and to describe the attitudes and beliefs of genetic health service providers about genetic screening and testing and make recommendation for public health policy. The findings of this study are from eighty-three (83) people from thirteen genetic self-help groups in South-east Queensland who were interviewed or participated in focus groups, and a survey of eighty-six (86) genetic health service providers.
The study methodology was based on the principles of constructivism whereby the findings of the inquiry are presented as multiple, holistic and sometimes competing realities. A hermeneutic dialectic process was used to explore the perceptions and understanding from genetic self-help groups about genetic testing and screening in combination with a survey of health professionals from clinical genetic services from around Australia.
Genetic self-help group members are in a unique position to share their perceptions about genetic screening and testing. Much of their experiences and understandings closely relate to the disease or disorder that impact on their lives. They share the experience of genetic disease, but each experience is different. Being a parent, partner, sibling, carer or sufferer shapes these perceptions. Drawing from the sociological literature, two themes were revealed. These were 'Risk' and 'Civil Society'. The theme of 'Risk' revealed a number of sub-themes that included:
• Having a Choice
• Burden of Decision Making for Women
• Preparing Parents
The theme of 'Civil Society' revealed a number of sub-themes that included:
• The New Eugenics
• Valuing Diversity
• Seeking Perfection
The narratives demonstrated a high degree of awareness and understanding of the complexity of issues that surround gene technology and how there is no singular means of interpreting them. Risk and Civil Society were useful sociological lens through which to consider the implications of genetic screening and testing.
Findings from the national survey of genetic health professionals revealed a greater number of women working in the area of genetic counselling and administration. Consumers were poorly represented in the development of policy and services however health professionals indicated strongly that there was a need for close collaboration and coordination of services between self-help groups and clinical services. The majority of respondents indicated that their organisation had either formal or informal networks with self-help groups. The stated attitude of the patient toward self-help, the severity of the disease and the patients' geographical accessibility of the group influenced the main reasons for referral to self-help groups.
On issues of privacy, 40 percent of the respondents felt that current legislation did not provide adequate protection of personal genetic information and that genetic information should only be provided to interested third parties with the consent of the individual. The need for community education at various levels was considered essential, particularly to address the issues of discrimination and stigmatisation.
Health professionals also had differing levels of acceptance of mild and severe mental and physical disability. Individuals with severe mental and physical disabilities were considered to contribute less to the richness and diversity in society.
A number of recommendations have been made as a result of this study and these relate to consumer participation in public health policy and clinical service development and shaping the future direction of genetic technology in public and population health.
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Burris, Elizabeth D. "Emotions in the classroom /." View online, 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/10090/5871.
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Pontius, Kathleen S. ""We've done drugs Keith Richards never heard of" : a qualitative study of young adult cancer narratives online /." Connect to title online (Scholars' Bank), 2008. http://hdl.handle.net/1794/7888.
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Flick, David L. "A personal-issue support group ministry for persons experiencing forced termination from employment in Dewey and Bartlesville, Oklahoma." Theological Research Exchange Network (TREN), 1995. http://www.tren.com.
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