my son and friend who encouraged and supported me during my coursework, and Norman Devoye Upton, my husband, friend, and companion who gave me invaluable support and encouragement during the writing process. III ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The completion of a dissertation is not an easy task and is in no way accomplished without the patience, support, understanding, and encouragement of many people. Without these elements in place, it is hard to reach the end successfully. I am forever indebted to those who were there for me along this journey. First of all, I would like to thank God who blessed me with determination, drive and persistence to complete any task and achieve my goals no matter what odds or obstacles may appear in my path. Secondly, I would like to thank Dr. Stephen Miller, my dissertation chair, for his dedication, guidance, knowledge and leadership. His patience and support was the anchor that kept me on course and moving towards completion. He patiently guided me along the path of discovering the writer hidden within. I would also like to thank my methodologist, Dr. Kyong Hee Chon for her statistical support and knowledge that added strength to my study. I also owe a debt of gratitude to my other committee members Drs. Bud Schlinker, Elizabeth B. Patton, and Jennifer Bay-Williams for their valuable time and input throughout the writing process. Thirdly, lowe much gratitude to family and friends who supported and encouraged me throughout the various stages of the doctoral process. Thanks for your patience and understanding as I retreated from activities and spent time working. Last but not least, I would like to thank all of my English language learners who entered my classroom. They inspired me to always soar higher and begin this journey.