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Title: Abandonment or autonomy: How do social workers know the difference?
Contributors: Louise Holland (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: The Adult Guardianship Act proclaimed in British Columbia in 2000 was a legal response that provides a mandate for designated agencies to look into reports of vulnerable adults who are abused, neglected, or self neglected. Important guiding principles are embedded in the legislation intended to safeguard the principal of autonomy. This legislation requires designated agency staff to be simultaneously responsible for the mandate to care for vulnerable adults who are experiencing abuse, neglect, or self neglect and to uphold the principle of the right to autonomy. This qualitative research study describes the experiences and decisions social workers encounter in adult guardianship practice with older adults, particularly as it relates to the ethical dimensions of the practice. Results suggest that social workers look for and find ways to balance support for both autonomy and care by improvising ethical jazz. Questions were raised about the viability of integrating adult protection and health care. --P. ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2011

Title: Exploring gambling among seniors in rural British Columbia: sociodemographic and mental health correlates
Contributors: Desne Hall (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Despite the potentially serious consequences related to gambling behaviour, few studies have focused on gambling among seniors. The present study collected sociodemographic and problem gambling data from a sample of seniors in a northern community. Participants were categorized according to sub-groups of problem gambling severity and were screened for mental disorders using two validated measures. Comparisons were conducted across groups based on sociodemographic and gambling-related variables. Additional statistical tests were then performed to evaluate differences across groups on mental disorders. This exploratory study provides insight into the nature of gambling among seniors through an examination of sociodemographic characteristics, motivations for gambling, and the prevalence of concurrent mental health disorders. Given the aging population in Canada, and the widespread availability of gambling activities, this study has important clinical implications for the screening and treatment of seniors who gamble, and provides valuable information that expands the field of gambling research.'
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2008

Title: A search for community-based responses to partner abuse in Whitehorse, Yukon.
Contributors: Richard K. Clements (author), Kwon-Leung Tang (Thesis advisor), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This project used a bricolage of theoretical and methodological approaches to specifically explore the space between the status-quo feminist explanations and stereotypes (i.e. male abuser-female victim) of partner abuse that presently predominate the social-work profession. --P.ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2007

Title: Representations of social justice in social work blogs and the paradoxes of bridging theory in practice.
Contributors: C. Lee Anne Deegan (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: In this thesis I use feminist content analyses methods to explore thirty-two English speaking social work practitioner blogs for their affinity with social justice aims in social work. Using a poststructural feminist lens, I looked at the potentials and limitations for social work blogs to act as a means to bridge theory and practice in social work for the sake of social justice. I also looked for common understandings in the literature about critical practice to evaluate these commitments within these texts. The findings revealed that many of these bloggers demonstrated their commitment to the principle of social justice throughout their blogs. Further, much of the talk in blogs mirrors concerns found in the literature about the current contexts of social work practice. --Leaf ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2013

Title: Gifts, talents and challenges: Untapped potential of adults with FASD.
Contributors: Katherine Harriman (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Adults with Fetal Alcohol Spetrum Disorder may be viewed through a deficit lens that does not include strengths and abilities. Yet, adults with FASD do have strengths and untapped potential, just as every other person does. This qualitative descriptive research study includes challenges, barriers and needs, along with the gifts and talents of adults with FASD as perceived by their mothers, care providers, service providers and by themselves. Strengths unique to each individual included a willingness to please, connection to others, being non-judgemental and supportive towards others, along with their ability to survive and adapt. Challenges included the invisibility of FASD and the lack of awareness that although this condition lasts a lifetime, much can be done to improve the lives of these individuals through providing proper identification, education and supports. Identified needs are specialized environments in schools, financial assistance based on adaptive functioning instead of an IQ score, supportive housing and specialized vocational training, resulting in supportive employment. This research is important because a strengths based perspective provides a more accurate and balanced picture of adults with FASD and may facilitate a person-centered, comprehensive approach to service provision.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2008

Title: Teachers in British Columbia: examining the experience of reporting suspected parental child abuse
Contributors: Candace Miners (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This qualitative study describes the experience of detecting and reporting suspected parental child abuse to child protection by six females who teach public school in northern British Columbia within School District 57. The research generated insight into what enables teachers to detect child abuse, why and when they report, as well as the emotional barriers and concerns they encounter during and after making a report. The research was informed by structural social work and the analysis of the interviews was undertaken using applied thematic analysis. The main implications for social work practice include: embracing strategies for effective relationship building with teachers and within schools communication with teachers, to the greatest extent possible, the outcome of reports made and working with the universities and school districts to conduct formal training on indicators of child abuse as well as when and how to report. --Leaf ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2015

Title: Pity or pedestal?: perceptions and practices of chronic disease and disability in hospital social work
Contributors: Heather Lamb (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This practicum report details my experiences in hospital social work on two medical wards at a regional hospital in British Columbia, located outside the Lower Mainland. The practicum learning goals are framed around professional understanding of disability and chronic disease within the hospital environment. While the focus of the practicum was on developing my own social work experience, I have included my perceptions of the larger hospital system as it relates to people with disabilities with implications for social work practice noted. The medical and social models of disability will be used to provide a basis for understanding the practical experiences encountered in this work. This report and practicum do not include any research data, but rather focus on personal growth as a practitioner and awareness of the ways the medical system works.. --Leaf ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2012

Title: Expanding the social safety net through experiential learning: short term crisis intervention, looking beyond numbers
Contributors: Melanie Lansall (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: The following practicum report details my educational experiences related to the development of the Family Support Program, in collaboration with the University of Northern British Columbia, School of Social Work and the School of Business. The practicum learning goals are framed around the professional initiation of a program from the grassroots foundational work to a cohesive program. The purpose of the program was to facilitate a collaborative partnership between the School of Social Work and the School of Business and students in each discipline, while serving the needs of community members experiencing situational crisis. I have included insights gained from my practicum to highlight areas of learning and clinical development. This report and practicum include a literature review and evidence that programs like this are needed in the community however its primary focus is on my experiential learning process. --Leaf ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2014

Title: A right to housing for people experiencing mental health issues
Contributors: Deborah Turner (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Housing makes a difference to our health. Decent, safe, and affordable housing contributes to our mental and physical well-being, while inadequate housing or even homelessness can do the opposite. Having a pre-existing mental illness or substance use issue often restricts a person's options to access, afford, and maintain the kind of home that would enhance and promote recovery. On the foundation of reviewed literature, as part of a practicum placement with Northern Health and Mental Health and Addictions, I undertook this quantitative, descriptive study in Prince George, and set forth to develop an understanding of the need and type of housing required for individuals with a serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI). As well, I took a look at the current housing available in Prince George, BC Canada, including speaking with landlords and in some cases, doing some education around mental illness as there was clearly some stigma present. A survey questionnaire to learn from people with SPMI was prepared and conducted at three separate locations in Prince George. Participation was completely voluntary. The second part of my practicum project involved developing an Iportal system in which information on current housing availability became assessable to the case managers on the Community Outreach and Assertiveness Team (Coast Team). The Coast team works with individuals who have a serious and persistent mental illness that is chronic in nature. This is an important part of my practicum as case managers are continuously looking for adequate housing for their clients and by having a system in place such as the Iportal, it will substantially reduce the number of hours spent on trying to find housing. I hope to share the final results and recommendation stemming from my study with those individuals at the decision making levels. In Prince George, that would include upper Managers in Northern Health's Mental Health and Addiction services. --P. [i]-ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2010

Title: Perceived impact of physical activity on health and wellness of older adults in Northern British Columbia.
Contributors: Amita Gabriel (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This research rests on earlier research suggesting that there is a definitive connection between physical activity and the health and wellness of older adults. Aspects of this connection were examined through a qualitative research project with a sample of older adults in Prince George, the largest city in northern British Columbia, Canada. The research explored the experiences and perspectives of older adults about the impact of physical activity on their health and wellbeing. Using a purposeful sampling method, data was generated through focus group and in-depth interviews. The data generated was analyzed using thematic analysis. The following eight themes emerged from the data analyzed: (1) Enthusiasm to learn more about and be involved in physical activity, (2) Effects of northern climate on involvement in physical activity, (3) Prominent physical activity, (4) Impact of physical illness, (5) Reason for being involved in physical activity, (6) Reasons for not being involved in physical activity, (7) Physical activity contributes to good health, and (8) Other views on physical activity in the community. The findings of this research are expected to benefit older adults, their families, and Northern Health and its agencies / programs involved in delivering services to older adults in Prince George and neighboring towns. --Leaf ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2014

Title: Spinning a northern web: Women using information and communication technology to network for health and wellness.
Contributors: Christina McLennan (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This case study explores women's experiences using information and communication technology (ICT) to address women's health in northern, rural and remote communities in British Columbia. Incorporating features of collaborative, action research methodology, an online focus group was utilized to explore the Women North Network (WNN) and its primarily Internet-based component. Utilizing ICT to overcome geographic isolation, the WNN builds community by strengthening connections between women and supports information sharing, action and the development of research and policy initiatives. Study participants offer an understanding of what is practical and meaningful for women using ICT; suggesting that by encountering supportive relationships that build community leading to action, women will become engaged in using ICT. Increased access to computers, Internet and women-centred training are essential. Furthermore, social work and other health promotion professions utilizing ICT will have greater ability to includediverse communities in influencing social and health policy in northern, rural and remote communities.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2005

Title: Dementia and Northern caregiving.
Contributors: Julie Dawn Wade (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This research explores formal and informal caregivers' experiences providing care to individuals living with Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia in the Northern Rockies District, a rural remote district in northern British Columbia. Textual information provided by caregivers participating in one focus group and four semi-structured interviews reveals a northern perspective of the caregiving experience. A thematic analysis identifies multiple themes. Two major themes associated with the experience of formal caregivers are: the facets of formal caregiving and community, whereas the four major themes associated with the experience of informal caregivers are: community and networks, communication, dementia and caregiving resources, and personal experiences of informal caregiving. Similarities and dissonances in the findings emerged in three main areas: with community understanding of dementia and emotions associated with caregiving. Formal and informal caregivers provide recommendations to help support caregivers living in northern British Columbia. These findings and recommendations have the potential to influence health related services, contribute to dementia care strategies, and complement existing planning for formal and informal caregiver supports in northern British Columbia. --P. ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2012

Title: What's the link: An exploration of recovery and social support for individuals living with a mental illness.
Contributors: Erica R. Moore (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Recovery from mental illness is a personal journey of transformation and has been found to be a deeply social process ...The intent of this research was to explore the relationship between an individual's recovery journey and social support for people living with a serious and persistent mental illness. Through the use of the Recovery Assessment Scale ...and Medical Outcomes Study: Social Support Survey Instrument ..., 35 participants provided quantitative data (phase one). From the quantitative data, a qualitative interview guide was fine-tuned, which was used for 10 one-on-one interviews (phase two). Demographic information was also gathered on participants from both phases. The qualitative data was analyzed using a thematic analysis, and the following five themes emerged: Work/volunteer opportunities Mental Health Services Peers Connectedness and Stigma. Through conducting this research, it is believed that a better understanding of the connection and relationship between the recovery process and social support was achieved which could begin to inform policy, practice, and future research in community mental health. As well, the beginnings of a definition of social support, from the perspectives of individuals living with a serious and persistent mental illness, was developed and may be helpful to address the present gap in the literature. --P. ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2010

Title: Parenting services for parents with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder: services in the Northern Health Region of British Columbia
Contributors: Katrina Ludwig (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: No abstract avaialble.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2006

Title: The experience of assessing risk by child protection workers in the north region of British Columbia
Contributors: Anita Agnes Taylor (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the experience of child protection social workers in the assessment of risk within a structured risk assessment model that employs a comprehensive risk assessment instrument to guide decision-making. The study explored the experiences of six female child protection workers employed by the Ministry of Children and Family Development in the North Region of British Columbia in completing a risk assessment case scenario of an at-risk child. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis to reveal the experience of assessing risk. The analyses revealed two broad themes: the meaning of the experience and reflection on practice with four sub themes (the experience of assessing risk, professional versus the personal, information gathering, and practice differences) that attempt to capture the interrelationship between the self and the job. --P.ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2009

Title: Autonomy, vulnerability, and dementia: operationalizion of adult guardianship legislation in British Columbia
Contributors: Keya Russell (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia College of Arts, Social, and Health Sciences (Degree granting institution), Nancy Jokinen (Committee member), Melinda Allison (Committee member)
Abstract: This Master of Social Work practicum report addresses the area of British Columbia adult guardianship and planning statutes and the interpretation and operationalization of these statutes at various practicum locations (Northern Health Authority, British Columbia Centre for Elder Advocacy and Support, and Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry) with respect to persons with dementia. The purpose of this practicum was to develop insight into the effectiveness of the adult guardianship and planning statutes in empowering persons with dementia by protecting their rights, promoting their self-determination, and preventing abuse, neglect, and/or self-neglect. The student integrates theory and practice throughout this practicum to explore this topic and, finally, proposes recommendations for social work policy and practice.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2017

Title: Strengths perspective in social work practice with older adults
Contributors: Aleksandra Maksimov Nikolin (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: No abstract available.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2005

Title: Canadian social work at the intersection of feminism, ecology and cultural anti-oppression: Making hope into giant rivers flowing.
Contributors: Maria Walther (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This thesis is a textual research collage of two methodological approaches: a blend of discourse/documentary analysis and autoethnography (i.e., poetry, personal experience narratives) in combination with intersectional analysis. My objective was to explore (post)modern Canadian social work at the juncture of feminism, ecology and socio-cultural anti-oppression within notions of strategic meaning-building as a conceptualizing ethical journey whereby we as social work practitioners (researchers, theorists, analysts, ethicists and others) as well as clients may find ourselves critically re/framing our ways of knowing and experiencing. My discussion discursively explores the potential of Canadian social work as ethically and spiritually-oriented praxis. The thesis is an exploratory, open-ended inquiry intended to further discussions regarding issues of ecological, gender and cross-cultural justice within the context of globalization. My hope is to participate in Canadian social work's inquiry into decolonizing, transformative social change toward the anti-oppressive, respectful, life-affirming global interdependence of all relations. --P.3.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2010

Title: Individuality in approaches to emotionally demanding work and coping among experienced British Columbia social workers
Contributors: Ley D. Fraser (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia College of Arts, Social, and Health Sciences (Degree granting institution), Joanna Pierce (Committee member), Theresa Healy (Committee member), Paul Madak (Committee member)
Abstract: Many social workers experience high levels of emotional exhaustion (Kim, Ji, & Kao, 2011), directly contributing to poor professional retention, with numbers of social workers leaving the field between 20 and 40% annually in some sectors (Font, 2012). Additionally, social work is a highly gendered field (Sloan, 2012), and expectations of social workers’ emotional labour as well as their prospects for influence and advancement reflect this (Lane & Flowers, 2015). Rather than examining the struggles social workers face (the subject of numerous studies already), this qualitative study examines the experiences of six female social workers, who self-identified as being emotionally healthy, thriving in their job, and who intended to continue as social workers... .
Discipline: Gender Studies
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2016

Title: Burden as the bridge to resiliency in mental illness: Effectiveness of the Strengthening Families Together family education intervention.
Contributors: Kim Dixon (author), Dawn Hemingway (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Strengthening Families Together 2005 (SFT) is a Canadian education program for family members affected by mental illness and addiction. This study explores and describes the effectiveness of SFT for burden and resilience among family participants. This research used a single case study with multiple unit method to assess the effectiveness of SFT based on the trauma theory of stress, coping and adaptation. I have combined quantitative and qualitative methodology to explore the effects of SFT and to describe the predicted decrease in burden and increase in resiliency ...Following the criteria for the pattern-matching analysis used in the SFT study, the results must be supported by both the quantitative and qualitative findings to be tenable. Both quantitative and qualitative results suggest SFT was effective at reducing burden. Although, the qualitative data suggests a possible increase in resilience, this result was not supported by the quantitative results suggesting SFT may be less effective at increasing resiliency among family participants in this study. In conclusion, the researcher recommended changes to SFT are based on a sound theoretical foundation to include the broader goal of increased resiliency among family participants and SFT leaders receive standardized teacher training. At the time of writing the researcher had made changes to the SFT curriculum based on a review of the current literature and the research findings and had developed a SFT teacher training model that was scheduled to roll out throughout BC and the Yukon in the winter of 2010. --P.ii-iii.
Discipline: Community Health
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2010

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