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I would like to thank everyone who made this thesis both possible and rewarding. I would first like to thank my committee for their outstanding guidance. Dr. Boyer, thank you for your helpful insights and unwavering patience during this process. I feel lucky to have found a professor with similar interests and a vast knowledge in the subject I chose to research. Dr. DeFleur, it has been my honor to work with you. Dr. Lundy, it was a pleasure working with you, both as my committee member and as your graduate assistant. Dr. Meehan, I believe your careful scrutiny during this process has made my thesis more valuable and has helped me become a more thorough researcher. Most importantly, I could not have completed my thesis without the love and support of my family. Mama, you are my inspiration. You have taught me the true definition of strength and courage through your own perseverance and personal triumphs. Daddy, I am grateful for your unwavering belief in my abilities. Your optimism has allowed me to believe in myself and realize that anything is possible. You both have been there to guide me in the right direction. Jared and Kenan, thank you for helping me to smile when life made that an almost impossible task. You are more than my brothers. You have become two of my best friends