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Title: Women escaping abuse in northern British Columbia: Attributes and resources that make the most difference.
Contributors: Cherylynne Greenard-Smith (author), Si Transken (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: 2003

Title: Community network building to impact policy and improve the lives of northern British Columbian women
Contributors: M. Christina Rodrigues (author), Si Transken (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: 2004

Title: HIV+ Aboriginal women speak of experience and strength in a Northern context.
Contributors: Randene Wejr (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Aboriginal women living with HIV in the North have a unique perspective regarding helpful and useful services as well as painful experience concerning gaps in services. This research examines the responses of eight Aboriginal women in this regard and, additionally, invites them to identify life factors, which have been particular sources of strength. Using an open interview method via snowball sampling, the women were asked about services they found most helpful, resources that they thought were missing and to identify personal strengths contributing to their optimism and survival. A systematic thematic analysis of the interviews resulted in five major themes: support, resources, identity, northern obstacles and strengths. The analysis also illuminated the reality that the women feel very supported and cared for by existing services that have proven to be incredibly valuable to their everyday lives. Follow up recommendations include: maintaining and increasing crucial services, continuing to lobby for increased funding, adding courses specific to HIV and AIDS to schools of social work curriculum and highlighting the realities of living with HIV and AIDS in a northern context. --P. 2.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2011

Title: Routes to transcendence: Disordered eating, substance abuse, and self-injury in young women.
Contributors: Maria L. McKay (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: The purpose of this research was to explore the intersections between disordered eating, substance abuse, and self-injury among young women. In this thesis, I attempted to illuminate convergences and divergences between the experiences of young women who have struggled with these three problems, in the interest of shedding light on contributing factors, as well as possible barriers, to recovery and wellness. Throughout the research process, the focus was on the women's thoughts, feelings, and meaning-making. Inquiry into past trauma and abuse was deliberately omitted in order to focus on the behaviours as adaptations rather than symptoms of pathology. Nine women ages 21 to 27 were interviewed all were university students. Experience of the three behaviours varied, as did experience of therapeutic intervention. Interviews were digitally recorded, transcribed, and analyzed to yield eight themes and seven sub-themes. The most pervasive of these was the theme of ambivalence, which functions on multiple levels and appears to constitute a significant barrier to help-seeking and recovery. Other themes included identity body image stigma learning the behaviours function and strategy of behaviours choice and recovery.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2009

Title: ARTivism: Gender and artistic expression at AWAC.
Contributors: Reeanna Bradley (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This thesis explores the power dynamics inherent in discussions about legitimate knowledge and gender expectations. Through eight sessions of art and eleven interviews, it exposes oppressive systems and compares the intersections of race, class, sex, and sexuality. My interdisciplinary approach expands from the work of local contemporary artist and researcher Zandra Dahne Harding. Building upon her thesis, and including influences from feminist theorists such as Rich, hooks, and Butler, and minority activists like Tuhiwai Smith and Feinberg, I situate voices emerging from marginalized populations as equally relevant and poignant, using the case study of seventeen residents of AWAC Homeless Shelter. Art is a means of expression for those whose experiences are muted by socioeconomic disadvantage, differential access to education, and non-normative gender identities. This thesis shares an example of how oppressed people can use and personalize participation in the visual arts to subvert elements of prevailing power structures, like those related to education, criminal corrections, and gender hierarchies. Art sessions and interviews conducted with feminist and indigenous frameworks, called artivism' helped participants involved with a street-level shelter in Northern British Columbia communicate some aspects of their diverse truths of subordination. --Leaf 2.
Discipline: Gender Studies
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2013

Title: Exploring Casma Valley geographical kinship: Mapping the landscape of identity.
Contributors: Maria Orcherton (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Social work as a profession historically advocates that communities deserve self-determination, cultural sustainability, and social justice. In light of these considerations, this research examines the social, cultural, and spiritual planting practices of the Casma people of North Peru regarding their native Apichu/Kumara/Camote (A/K/C) or sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.). For Indigenous/Mestizo families A/K/C represent the symbolic reflection in the preservation of communal knowledge, rituals, languages, traditions and teaching and learning practices mainly as a way of protecting community-base customs regarding autonomy, empowerment, self-determination, modernity, and cultural sustainability. Sadly, traditional planting practices, rituals, and ceremonies are becoming extinct. In this regard, Lundy (2008) critically states that many developing countries must adhere to imposed structural adjustment programs. This external pressure requires Indigenous/Mestizo farmers to turn their best agricultural lands over to export crops to pay off their national debt, causing unsustainable practices, land degradation and erosion, as well as setbacks in social-welfare delivery to vulnerable groups. An important consideration is also the preservation of their communal (traditional) knowledge. Prado (2007) emphasizes the importance of social work within community adaptation strategies to Climate Change (CC). Viewed thus, the sustainability embedded in the revitalization of A/K/C, traditional ways of knowing' can also be considered as one of the adaptation strategies to help Indigenous/Mestizo communities to become resilient to the impacts of CC. Undoubtedly, urgent solutions are needed that are both effective and respectful of the cultural context and local knowledge in which they will be applied. As a result, this research was framed within the following qualitative methodologies: using community case study, with a purposive sampling with six (families) participants. Data was gathered through informal conversat
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2012

Title: Wild epiphany: Turning youth care inside out.
Contributors: Christopher M. Gee (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Using phenomenology as a framework for analysis, and drawing on Abraham Maslow's concept of peak experience, this thesis reveals the unique power of a moment in the wilderness. Within this paper are emotionally charged recollections of epiphany as experienced by individuals who, as youth, were mandated to attend a wilderness based residential attendance program. These recollected experiences are compared and contrasted to observations, of similar moments, made by counselors who have facilitated extended excursions into the wilderness. This qualitative study has been conducted in collaboration with graduates of Caribou Action Training Society's Camp Trapping and past and present wilderness counselors. The commentaries of the participants resonate with implications for therapeutic intervention. Characterizations of wilderness, conceptualizations of dependency and masculinity, and suggestions of improved mental well-being figure prominently in the recollections of the participants. --P.2.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2009

Title: The Compatibility of Administrative and Educative Supervison
Contributors: Adam Calvert (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), Dave Sangha (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia College of Arts, Social, and Health Sciences (Degree granting institution), Verna McDonald (Committee member)
Abstract: Supervision is not a simple construct. Administrative focused supervision is necessary for the development of the organization and to keep an organization running smoothly; the supervisor ensures policies and mandates of the organization are being met. Educational focused supervision is about the development of the supervisee. Many supervisors are tasked with dual role supervision in human service organizations. However, my question is: How compatible are these two functions of supervision and under what provisions should they be practiced. Some writers have argued that these two roles are not mutually beneficial when carried out by the same supervisor. While others have maintained that administrative and educative supervision should be utilized together for the best outcomes. This thesis explores compatibility of practicing administrative and educative supervision together, and will intimately look at the logistics for the practical application of these two functions as a dual role supervisor, through an autoethnographical lens.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2016

Title: Adults Living with Type 1 Diabetes, Reflections of their Youth: A Phenomenological Study.
Contributors: Laura Nordin (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Type 1 diabetes is a chronic medical condition. Effective illness management requires numerous, continuous self-care procedures to ensure a healthy life free of complications. This study asks, what do adults with type 1 diabetes recall about living with a chronic health condition during their youth? By interviewing adults about the different types of relationships and the experiences they had in their youth, the research examines if relationships influence diabetes self-care. Using a phenomenological approached called the Vancouver School of Phenomenology, the researcher drew themes from nine participant interviews. These include: diabetes knowledge, the impacts of diabetes, constructive and deconstructive factors in relationships, and self-awareness and identity in youth and adults with type 1 diabetes. In the sample, this particular composition of participants displayed characteristics that were not consistent with the majority of literature findings regarding persons living with type 1 diabetes. As a result, the data in this study revealed that relationships, and being highly motivated, organized, capable, cognitively intact and functional within the realities of daily life plays a critical role in diabetes self-care and this role changes and evolves over time.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2010

Title: How siblings, raised in abusive or neglectful homes, are treated similarly or differently: An exploration by Northern social workers.
Contributors: Cathy Lipke (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: In situations of child abuse or neglect, it is beneficial to know how and why siblings may be treated differently. The thesis question was investigated using transcendental phenomenology. The participants were social workers in northern British Columbia, who worked for a minimum of two years in a position assessing risk to families. In this study, siblings who were treated differently by their abusive parents were male children who were physical and emotionally abused by a step-father. Two reasons given were because of the parent's upbringing, and the child's behavioural diagnoses. Further, siblings who are treated similarly in abusive homes were neglected by their mother. Neglect occurs because of mental health diagnoses and alcohol and substance misuse by the parent. The childhood experiences of the parent, including sibling relationships, and keeping Aboriginal children connected to their communities are also themes from this research. Solution-focused therapy was suggested as one treatment to be used by clinicians working with siblings who have been abused. Social workers working with families assessing risk may examine these results when working with abusive or neglectful families where children appear to be treated similarly or differently. --P. ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2010

Title: Honouring strength: Overcoming addiction identities.
Contributors: Thomas Jeffrey Talbot (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This thesis explores how some people manage their relationship with/without alcohol in ways that do not seem to harmonize with status quo discussions of alcohol abuse and recovery. My question was: How do the experiences and needs of those overcoming addiction independently of 12-step/disease-model culture impact social work practice? This qualitative study explores experiences of seven "outsider" participants. Two quit drinking completely without the help of addiction therapy or self-help groups; the remaining five participants reclaimed a manageable relationship with alcohol after years of dedication to 12-step programs. The participants' experiences are explored using a social constructionist cultural model. Issues regarding the political context of addiction counselling are explored reflecting my 20 years of experience in this field, and implications including assessment and resource development for social work practitioners are discussed.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2004

Title: Women with developmental disabilities and sexual abuse : an analysis of the (draft) practice guidelines for Part 3 of the Adult Guardianship Act
Contributors: Heather Gwen Aase (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: This modified case study critically explores the issue of women with developmental disabilities and sexual abuse and analyzes the (Draft) Ministry of Children and Family Development Practice Guidelines (policy) developed in response to the Adult Guardianship Act (Part 3) Support and Assistance to Abused and Neglected Adults (the Act). This project is grounded in a comprehensive review of the literature relating to women with disabilities and abuse. The development of the Act and policy are explored in both historical and contemporary contexts. It has been estimated that women with disabilities risk of abuse ranges from one and a half to five times greater than women without disabilities of similar age. This project will posit that negative assumptions and beliefs play a major role in socially constructed myths and stereotypes that act to negate women with disabilities. The root causes of society's negative attitude towards people with disabilities are a subscription to the medical model of disability and, more generally, capitalist society which inherently devalues people with developmental disabilities. This project seeks to analyze the Act through the framework of a social model of disability. A social model of disability contends that disability is the outcome of social arrangements which work to limit the activities of people with impairments by erecting social barriers. The policy does not address major structural barriers individuals with disabilities face. For instance, poverty, lack of educational opportunities, and unemployment. The policy does however, help to create awareness of the issue of abuse among women with disabilities and additionally, their right to self-determination. Finally, the Act acknowledges that abuse is a community problem through the creation of Community Response Networks which may help to alleviate abuse through education and ultimately societal change.--Page ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2003

Title: Expressions of mother-daughter disconnections and homelessness in Prince George.
Contributors: Somina Aleleba Eka (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine expressions of mother-daughter disconnection and homelessness in Prince George, Northern British Columbia. The primary groups for this case study are mothers or daughters living in an emergency shelter in downtown Prince George, BC, i.e., the Association Advocating for Women and Children (AWAC). A descriptive multi-method collaborative authoethnographic design was used for the study. In-depth face-to-face interviews which were conducted during the research were combined with field notes to write this thesis. This thesis gives insight into the reasons for homelessness and disconnection in the mother-daughter relationship using a creative art process. This present thesis follows the pattern, and builds on the scholarship of my predecessors, two research activists (Harding, 2010 Bradley, 2013). --Leaf ii.
Discipline: Gender Studies
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2014

Title: Northern social work: How are northern social workers creative?
Contributors: Jillien M. Humphrey (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: My research focus is twofold. First, I summarize concepts and discussions regarding creativity and its relevance to social work. Second, I explore how these creative concepts are lived out in the practice of six female social workers in northern British Columbia. The findings of the study show that social workers in the north engage in creative social work practice and that a scarcity of resources can create creative opportunities for social work as well as inhibit creativity. The findings also show that northern social workers engage in very creative, metaphoric, transdiscipline, and innovative social work practices. In addition the participants had aha moments of being aware of their own creative practice and the ripple effect that can occur with individual acts of social work. Lastly the findings show that self-disclosure is an important part of social work when working with Aboriginal populations.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2009

Title: 'Wwoofing' BC: An autoethnography.
Contributors: Agata Skorecka (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Wwoofing' BC: An Autoethnography is an exploratory study centering around the experiences of 8 women Wwoofers' (Willing Workers On Organic Farms) and 11 WWOOF hosts in British Columbia, Canada. The project uses semi-structured in-depth interviews as well as autoethnographic, ethnographic, visual and photo elicitation methods to relate issues of sustainability, health-wellness, gender, feminism-femininity, organic farming, caring, activism, protest, tourism and community. I suggest that Wwoofing provides a respite-sanctuary space for women and WWOOF hosts. Within this space, women Wwoofers and WWOOF hosts are able to witness, analyze and resist social structures as well as create unique friendships and presentations of gender-identity-self. --P. ii.
Discipline: Gender Studies
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2012

Title: A feminist approach to deconstructing the media's image of female social workers.
Contributors: Kristine Henning (author), Si Transken (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: 2007

Title: An autoethnographic overview: trapped, breaking glass houses, violence, chaos, addiction, oh my!
Contributors: April Hendrickson (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Through the methodology of auto-ethnography I intend to weave together lived experience and research, with the purpose of examining the normative behaviours and socialization experienced by youth considered to be raised in high-risk social environments. What behaviors and patterns of socialization do children learn and emulate when violence and addiction is a continuing presence? Where parents, particularly mothers, are experiencing massive amounts of stress, are often unable to meet their own needs let alone the needs of their children. I will demonstrate what is learned as normative social behavior within the context of the family that leads to a lifelong struggle of navigating one's emotions, and further acts as a barrier to navigating the larger social system. My experience will demonstrate that what is learned in the the home environment as normal is deemed deviant by the dominant social structure. To enhance the overall body of knowledge, I will insert the narratives of professionals who have worked with high risk youth directly into the body of work. I further intend to demonstrate that the social reality of individuals raised in high risk social environments constructed since birth cannot be easily deconstructed, without a solid commitment to recognizing the impact of the family and community environment of the social and emotional development of the child. My own poetry and art work are integrated into this thesis as a way of explicating and sharing my process for knowing and healing. --Leaf iii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2015

Title: Canadian-born Sikh daughters: Experiencing life through a mixture of cultural influences.
Contributors: Inderpal Kaur Sandhu (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Canadian ideas about individualism and equality between genders can be stressful for immigrants and their children. This study took a conceptual view of eight Canadian-born Sikh daughters of Punjabi immigrant parents living in Prince George with particular emphasis on how the mixture of cultural influences affected their behavioural patterns and well-being. The purpose of this study was to reveal the lived experiences of these first-generation women, shedding light related to topics of familial, social, and cultural expectations. In 2008, a qualitative approach was utilized to explore the attitudes of these eight Sikh women. Using a phenomenological paradigm, this study aimed to discover, understand and describe these women's lived experiences. Semi-structured interviews were conducted. Although there is no one story, there were similarities amongst the women. Themes of external influences, psychological factors, emotional effects, and positive attitudes and beliefs emerged. --P. ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2011

Title: Journey through the wilds: An autoethnography of the Camp Trapping experience.
Contributors: Alain Huggett (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: Using an autoethnographic method the author explores key issues in his experience working at Camp Trapping, a wilderness based group care programme for male young offenders situated in central British Columbia. Personal experiences, as well as interview quotes from staff members and adult graduates of the programme, are used to highlight social, political and practice aspects of working in such a setting. Key concepts reflected upon are the presence or absence of continual compassionate care, factors associated with youth crime, masculinity, wilderness programming, group care settings, and the punitive turn in social welfare and corrections approaches in Canada. These concepts are looked at in a broad social context as well as how programme delivery is affected on a personal level. The author asserts that Camp Trapping provides marginalized youth a unique experience that encourages pro-social personal development. The Camp Trapping experience also contributes to the author's personal and professional development. --P. ii.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2012

Title: Transition houses: Safety, security, and compassion.
Contributors: Amanda Alexander (author), Si Transken (Thesis advisor), University of Northern British Columbia (Degree granting institution)
Abstract: The purpose of this research is to examine service efficacy in northern British Columbian transition houses. My research will attempt to examine what services women have found valuable to making their lives safe, what services could be offered to improve the quality of service provision in transition houses, and any recommendations for change that women have for service providers. Eight women were interviewed in a northern community in order to identify which services were most helpful to themselves and their children. A thematic analysis was applied to the data which yielded five main themes of importance: safety, support, creative service delivery, internal challenges, and external influences. From the analysis, it is evident that women find the transition house a valuable service, one that has assisted them in their healing journey.
Discipline: Social Work
Content Model: info:fedora/ir:thesisCModel
Date added: 2009

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