for his inspiring belief in me and my ability to complete this dissertation; he was a student's delight, a wise and calming presence in the midst of turmoil. John Schuh for his labor of love, spending countless hours checking my work and for his methodological thoroughness and painstaking concern that I should give nothing short of my very best in doing this study. Mack Shelley for mentoring me in humility and guiding me through the complexities of statistics, my language of research; despite his busy schedule, he made time for me, always courteous and a true gentleman. Deb Kilgore, for broadening my horizon and providing me with encouragement and opportunities to teach and present the results of my qualitative research. Flo Hamrick, a superb teacher who taught me by example to examine my assumptions and to take nothing at face value. Alex Tuckness, for his sharp mind and wit, kindness and friendship. He provided continuity from my Master's study and stretched me to explore reality from many different angles. Clark Miller, my first major professor at Iowa State, who helped me to "think outside the box," and who first saw potential in what I could accomplish. Members of the Bible study that met in our home at Ames, Iowa: Rody and Elvie; Reese and Sabrina; Carolyn, Amanda, Craig and Elisha; for praying faithfully for me and with me to our gracious Father in Heaven. They were my friends in adversity and fair weather, rejoicing with me in my successes and weeping with me in my failures.