DEDICATIONThis dissertation is dedicated to my parents, Ronald and Deborah Dishon, for their relentless support, encouragement, prayer, and guidance. Without your leadership, Iwould not have completed this process and I am eternally grateful for your sacrifice to make me a better person. I forever love you mom and dad. I also dedicate this dissertation to my husband, Nicholas Brown, who walked beside me through my moments of doubt and discouragement. Your love, encouragement, prayer, sacrifice, and dedication to our family carried me through times when I thought I did not have the strength to continue writing this dissertation. I love you more and more each day! Finally, I dedicate this dissertation to my grandmother, Myrl Simmons. You are missed and loved more than words can say; forever you are in my heart.