Your memory will always be with me

Without your love and support this would not have been possible iii Acknowledgements The completion of this dissertation was only possible with the support and contributions of many people. I would like to begin by thanking my husband, Blaine, for standing behind me and for believing that I would finish this dissertation. Without his love, support and understanding, this dissertation would not be. I would like to thank my daughter Joei, for not feeling neglected when I did not have time to do those “girly ” things with her. I would also like to thank my mother, Jessie H. Judson, for instilling in me the importance of a good education and making me believe that the world was mine to conquer. Behind the scenes were my friends and family who were always there for me during my doctoral studies. I am beholden to you all for your fellowship, reassurance, and support. I would like to thank the family who gave the gift of life on February 7, 1998. Without their sacrifice and thoughtfulness, I would not have been able to enjoy the things that life has to bring nor complete this research. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Special thanks to Dr. Doris L. Carver, my advisor, for her generous support, guidance, and patience an