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• 1. [Article] A Model of Suicidal Behavior In Latency Age Children Based on Developmental Object Relations Theory

  This thesis attempts to explicate the manifestation of suicidal behavior in latency age children based on developmental object relations theory. It asserts that the susceptibility to suicidal behavior ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A Model of Suicidal Behavior In Latency Age Children Based on Developmental Object Relations Theory Author: Michaelis, Stephen Henry Year: 1989 This thesis attempts to explicate the manifestation of suicidal behavior in latency age children based on developmental object relations theory. It asserts that the susceptibility to suicidal behavior becomes part of the child's developing ego organization during the first three years of life as the result of deviant or distorted emotional development. These disturbances interfere with the normal internalizing processes of the separation individuation phases, including the development of psychological mechanisms. To accomplish the purpose of the study, the thesis generally classifies object relations theory within the parameters of developmental psychopathology and specifically classifies it as a component of contemporary psychodynamic theory. Then follows an exposition of the separation individuation process and attendant development of psychological mechanisms in normal and disturbed development. This section concludes by identifying the normally developing child around thirty-six months of age as possessing the capacity to unite disparate self and object images into a single, whole person for appropriate self comfort, self-image formation, and self-esteem regulation through having received primarily gratifying interactions with caregivers. The child with disturbed development lacks this capacity because of the internalization of primarily negative object-images through primarily negative interactions with caregivers. The child lacks trust in itself and in others, tends to perceive itself and others as all-good or all-bad, and experiences hostility and depression. A definition of latency and a description of this developmental stage follows. Cognitive development marked by secondary thought processes and reliance upon dynamic psychological mechanisms--ego defenses--to sustain a behavioral and emotional equilibrium, rather than a diminution of drives, permit latency to become established. As part of the structure of latency, fantasy serves a defensive and adaptive function by providing an outlet for drive expression and for mastery of situations intrapsychically. Children with disturbances in ego organization have a less established structure of latency than do normal children, that is, they rely to a greater extent on psychological mechanisms characteristic of the separation-individuation phases. A review of empirical and clinical research of suicidal children encompasses family environment; loss, depression, and hopelessness; cognitive functioning; and defense mechanisms. Suicidal children live in stressful, chaotic families with confused role relationships. Findings regarding the relationships among loss, depression, and hopelessness appear mixed although integrally related. Suicidal children conceive of impersonal death as final while construing personal death as reversible as a defensive maneuver. Suicidal fantasies constitute the precursors to suicidal planning and actions. Suicidal children show impaired ability to devise active coping strategies. They seem to rely excessively on ego defenses considered developmentally appropriate in early stages of development, such as introjection. A synthesis of theoretical formulations and research findings sets forth the developmental sequence culminating in suicidal behavior. The model depicts a child's developing ego organization predisposed to depression, hostility, and low self-esteem caused by the internalization of a predominance of negative self- and object-images. It portrays susceptibility to suicidal behavior through the incapacity to exercise self-protection under stressful situations because of a reliance upon maladaptive ego defenses. Fantasies to relieve psychic pain as part of latency defenses transform into fantasies of suicide; these presage and allow for planning and, given the failure of ego defenses, suicidal behavior results. Title: A Model of Suicidal Behavior In Latency Age Children Based on Developmental Object Relations Theory Author: Michaelis, Stephen Henry Year: 1989 This thesis attempts to explicate the manifestation of suicidal behavior in latency age children based on developmental object relations theory. It asserts that the susceptibility to suicidal behavior becomes part of the child's developing ego organization during the first three years of life as the result of deviant or distorted emotional development. These disturbances interfere with the normal internalizing processes of the separation individuation phases, including the development of psychological mechanisms. To accomplish the purpose of the study, the thesis generally classifies object relations theory within the parameters of developmental psychopathology and specifically classifies it as a component of contemporary psychodynamic theory. Then follows an exposition of the separation individuation process and attendant development of psychological mechanisms in normal and disturbed development. This section concludes by identifying the normally developing child around thirty-six months of age as possessing the capacity to unite disparate self and object images into a single, whole person for appropriate self comfort, self-image formation, and self-esteem regulation through having received primarily gratifying interactions with caregivers. The child with disturbed development lacks this capacity because of the internalization of primarily negative object-images through primarily negative interactions with caregivers. The child lacks trust in itself and in others, tends to perceive itself and others as all-good or all-bad, and experiences hostility and depression. A definition of latency and a description of this developmental stage follows. Cognitive development marked by secondary thought processes and reliance upon dynamic psychological mechanisms--ego defenses--to sustain a behavioral and emotional equilibrium, rather than a diminution of drives, permit latency to become established. As part of the structure of latency, fantasy serves a defensive and adaptive function by providing an outlet for drive expression and for mastery of situations intrapsychically. Children with disturbances in ego organization have a less established structure of latency than do normal children, that is, they rely to a greater extent on psychological mechanisms characteristic of the separation-individuation phases. A review of empirical and clinical research of suicidal children encompasses family environment; loss, depression, and hopelessness; cognitive functioning; and defense mechanisms. Suicidal children live in stressful, chaotic families with confused role relationships. Findings regarding the relationships among loss, depression, and hopelessness appear mixed although integrally related. Suicidal children conceive of impersonal death as final while construing personal death as reversible as a defensive maneuver. Suicidal fantasies constitute the precursors to suicidal planning and actions. Suicidal children show impaired ability to devise active coping strategies. They seem to rely excessively on ego defenses considered developmentally appropriate in early stages of development, such as introjection. A synthesis of theoretical formulations and research findings sets forth the developmental sequence culminating in suicidal behavior. The model depicts a child's developing ego organization predisposed to depression, hostility, and low self-esteem caused by the internalization of a predominance of negative self- and object-images. It portrays susceptibility to suicidal behavior through the incapacity to exercise self-protection under stressful situations because of a reliance upon maladaptive ego defenses. Fantasies to relieve psychic pain as part of latency defenses transform into fantasies of suicide; these presage and allow for planning and, given the failure of ego defenses, suicidal behavior results. Close

• 2. [Article] The effect of parent-child interaction on the language development of the hearing-impaired child

  In recent years much interest has been focused on the manner in which the young child acquires language. Some researchers (Chomsky, 1965; McNeil) have postulated an inherent capacity to comprehend and ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: The effect of parent-child interaction on the language development of the hearing-impaired child Author: Melum, Arla J. Year: 1982 In recent years much interest has been focused on the manner in which the young child acquires language. Some researchers (Chomsky, 1965; McNeil) have postulated an inherent capacity to comprehend and utilize linguistic structures, while others such as Irwin, (1960), Hess and Shipman (1965), and Greenstein, et al, (1974) have focused on experiential determinants of language competence in early childhood. As with all children, the social and emotional behavior of deaf children is greatly influenced by their ability to communicate with significant others. Interactions between the normally developing child and his parents are characterized by mutual responsiveness, where each initiates and reciprocates communication. When a Child's language development is delayed or impaired(as with a hearing loss), this communication process may also become impaired, with parents being unable to respond appropriately to confused or reduced messages from the child. This paper reviews some of the pertinent research regarding the behavioral interaction between the parent and child and its effect on communication and psychosocial development. The implications of this data for the hearing-impaired child and his family are considered. It will address the question," What is it that parents with young hearing impaired children do that facilitates or impedes speech and language development?" A methodology is also presented for developing effective communication between such children and their parents. Title: The effect of parent-child interaction on the language development of the hearing-impaired child Author: Melum, Arla J. Year: 1982 In recent years much interest has been focused on the manner in which the young child acquires language. Some researchers (Chomsky, 1965; McNeil) have postulated an inherent capacity to comprehend and utilize linguistic structures, while others such as Irwin, (1960), Hess and Shipman (1965), and Greenstein, et al, (1974) have focused on experiential determinants of language competence in early childhood. As with all children, the social and emotional behavior of deaf children is greatly influenced by their ability to communicate with significant others. Interactions between the normally developing child and his parents are characterized by mutual responsiveness, where each initiates and reciprocates communication. When a Child's language development is delayed or impaired(as with a hearing loss), this communication process may also become impaired, with parents being unable to respond appropriately to confused or reduced messages from the child. This paper reviews some of the pertinent research regarding the behavioral interaction between the parent and child and its effect on communication and psychosocial development. The implications of this data for the hearing-impaired child and his family are considered. It will address the question," What is it that parents with young hearing impaired children do that facilitates or impedes speech and language development?" A methodology is also presented for developing effective communication between such children and their parents. Close

• 3. [Article] Women in menopause: a study of gynecologist's perceptions

  The purpose of this study was to explore the needs of women experiencing menopause. Since women at this time experience physical, social and emotional changes, they may have a special need for services. ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Women in menopause: a study of gynecologist's perceptions Author: Cogan, Zadell, Kennedy, Sharon Year: 1977 The purpose of this study was to explore the needs of women experiencing menopause. Since women at this time experience physical, social and emotional changes, they may have a special need for services. Doctors were selected as the population for study because they treat so many women at this age and because they are powerful transmitters of our culture. This exploratory study was designed to provide descriptive information about the doctors' perceptions. Results are reported from interviews with seventeen gynecologists from the Portland metropolitan area in Oregon. Attempts were made to interview all female gynecologists in the area. Male gynecologists were randomly sampled and the sample was stratified to ensure representation of doctors from a pre-paid medical plan. Doctors were questioned about definitions of menopause, treatment, and use of community resources. Overall, it was found that doctors hesitated to make generalizations about patients. This seemed especially true in regard to questions about the effects of menopause or the problems women experience. When speaking about both their definition of menopause and the types of problems associated with it, female physicians tended to limit responses to the biological aspects of menopause. Generally, it was the male doctors who stressed the social or emotional aspects. The major forms of primary treatment used by doctors were: hormone replacement therapy; talking to the patient (i.e. providing education or reassurance about menopause); or some combination of the two depending upon the individual patient's problem. Degree of hormone use varied among doctors. Yet, at some time, with some patients - all doctors used some form of hormone treatment. Generally, Kaiser doctors appeared to use a lower rate of hormone therapy than doctors in private practice. Most doctors were aware of the existence of community resources. Kaiser doctors tend to most frequently use their own social service department or mental health clinic to handle the other-than-medical problems patients might experience. The community resources which received the highest mention overall were mental health clinics and members of the clergy. The next most frequent category was other mental health professionals. Six of the seventeen doctors interviewed named services, not now in existence, which they would use if available. Those most frequently mentioned were groups and information & referral services. Most doctors believed that the needs of women at the time of menopause were different from the needs of other women. Most frequently mentioned were changes in the women's family structure, changes in her activities, and feelings of being no longer needed. Several doctors who were interviewed echoed researchers such as Bernice Neugarten and Pauline Bart in stressing the negative attitudes which our society has towards women at the age of menopause. In addition, many of the gynecologists expressed awareness of social needs. The results of the study indicate that doctors' services are primarily involved with treatment of medical or biological concerns, and referrals are generally to mental health resources. Several doctors mentioned social needs of the women; and as has been noted, the need for attitudinal change. Social workers can play important roles to bring about these changes. Two possible approaches are suggested: education to increase awareness of medical and social work professionals and the establishment of new resources to advocate for women at the time of menopause. Suggestions for further research are also given. Title: Women in menopause: a study of gynecologist's perceptions Author: Cogan, Zadell, Kennedy, Sharon Year: 1977 The purpose of this study was to explore the needs of women experiencing menopause. Since women at this time experience physical, social and emotional changes, they may have a special need for services. Doctors were selected as the population for study because they treat so many women at this age and because they are powerful transmitters of our culture. This exploratory study was designed to provide descriptive information about the doctors' perceptions. Results are reported from interviews with seventeen gynecologists from the Portland metropolitan area in Oregon. Attempts were made to interview all female gynecologists in the area. Male gynecologists were randomly sampled and the sample was stratified to ensure representation of doctors from a pre-paid medical plan. Doctors were questioned about definitions of menopause, treatment, and use of community resources. Overall, it was found that doctors hesitated to make generalizations about patients. This seemed especially true in regard to questions about the effects of menopause or the problems women experience. When speaking about both their definition of menopause and the types of problems associated with it, female physicians tended to limit responses to the biological aspects of menopause. Generally, it was the male doctors who stressed the social or emotional aspects. The major forms of primary treatment used by doctors were: hormone replacement therapy; talking to the patient (i.e. providing education or reassurance about menopause); or some combination of the two depending upon the individual patient's problem. Degree of hormone use varied among doctors. Yet, at some time, with some patients - all doctors used some form of hormone treatment. Generally, Kaiser doctors appeared to use a lower rate of hormone therapy than doctors in private practice. Most doctors were aware of the existence of community resources. Kaiser doctors tend to most frequently use their own social service department or mental health clinic to handle the other-than-medical problems patients might experience. The community resources which received the highest mention overall were mental health clinics and members of the clergy. The next most frequent category was other mental health professionals. Six of the seventeen doctors interviewed named services, not now in existence, which they would use if available. Those most frequently mentioned were groups and information & referral services. Most doctors believed that the needs of women at the time of menopause were different from the needs of other women. Most frequently mentioned were changes in the women's family structure, changes in her activities, and feelings of being no longer needed. Several doctors who were interviewed echoed researchers such as Bernice Neugarten and Pauline Bart in stressing the negative attitudes which our society has towards women at the age of menopause. In addition, many of the gynecologists expressed awareness of social needs. The results of the study indicate that doctors' services are primarily involved with treatment of medical or biological concerns, and referrals are generally to mental health resources. Several doctors mentioned social needs of the women; and as has been noted, the need for attitudinal change. Social workers can play important roles to bring about these changes. Two possible approaches are suggested: education to increase awareness of medical and social work professionals and the establishment of new resources to advocate for women at the time of menopause. Suggestions for further research are also given. Close

• 4. [Article] Factor structure and reliability of the revised Family adaptability and cohesion scales

  The present study assessed scores from 627 mothers, fathers and children throughout the metropolitan Portland area on the revised Family Adaptability and Cohesion Scales (FACES). Of interest was the revised ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Factor structure and reliability of the revised Family adaptability and cohesion scales Author: Sadler, Carol A. Year: 1981 The present study assessed scores from 627 mothers, fathers and children throughout the metropolitan Portland area on the revised Family Adaptability and Cohesion Scales (FACES). Of interest was the revised FACES factor structure, internal consistency and interrater reliabilities. Title: Factor structure and reliability of the revised Family adaptability and cohesion scales Author: Sadler, Carol A. Year: 1981 The present study assessed scores from 627 mothers, fathers and children throughout the metropolitan Portland area on the revised Family Adaptability and Cohesion Scales (FACES). Of interest was the revised FACES factor structure, internal consistency and interrater reliabilities. Close

• 5. [Article] Coping with stress following a natural disaster: the volcanic eruption of Mt. St. Helens

  This study focuses on the coping responses of the bereaved immediate family and close friends of persons who died as a result of the volcanic eruption of Mt. St. Helens in southwestern Washington on May ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Coping with stress following a natural disaster: the volcanic eruption of Mt. St. Helens Author: Murphy, Shirley Ann Year: 1981 This study focuses on the coping responses of the bereaved immediate family and close friends of persons who died as a result of the volcanic eruption of Mt. St. Helens in southwestern Washington on May 18, 1980. Three major research questions were addressed: Is there a relationship between illness and three life events: presumed death of a close relative or friend, confirmed death of a close relative or friend, and loss of one's permanent of recreational residence? Do self-efficacy and social supports act as intervening variables to buffer the negative effects of stress on one's health when coping with loss? What are the perceived effects of the media on coping with loss following a disaster? Subjects for this study included 155 respondents. Mailed questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data approximately 11 months post-disaster from bereaved, property loss and control subjects. Data were gathered primarily by standardized measures and were analyzed by univariate, multi-variate, correlational, and content-analysis techniques. The first study question results indicate that when compared to controls, the bereaved of confirmed dead were adversely affected by their loss in areas of negative life events, hassles, depression, and somatization; the bereaved of presumed dead reported being adversely affected by negative life events and depression; the permanent-property loss subjects adversely affected by negative life events. The second study question compared the combined bereaved group (n = 69) and the control group (n = 50) to examine the buffering roles of self-efficacy and social support. For the bereaved, stress accounted for 35% of the variance (p < .001) in depression. After statistically controlling for stress, both self-efficacy and social support were significant predictors of depression (p < .05). In contrast, stress accounted for 44% of the variance in depression for the controls, but neither self-efficacy nor social support made additional contributions in the prediction of any of the health outcome variables. Findings from the third study question indicate that the confirmed bereaved reported significantly more (p < .05) negative effects resulting from the media than any of the other study groups. Factors that might account for the findings and clinical interventions were suggested. Title: Coping with stress following a natural disaster: the volcanic eruption of Mt. St. Helens Author: Murphy, Shirley Ann Year: 1981 This study focuses on the coping responses of the bereaved immediate family and close friends of persons who died as a result of the volcanic eruption of Mt. St. Helens in southwestern Washington on May 18, 1980. Three major research questions were addressed: Is there a relationship between illness and three life events: presumed death of a close relative or friend, confirmed death of a close relative or friend, and loss of one's permanent of recreational residence? Do self-efficacy and social supports act as intervening variables to buffer the negative effects of stress on one's health when coping with loss? What are the perceived effects of the media on coping with loss following a disaster? Subjects for this study included 155 respondents. Mailed questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data approximately 11 months post-disaster from bereaved, property loss and control subjects. Data were gathered primarily by standardized measures and were analyzed by univariate, multi-variate, correlational, and content-analysis techniques. The first study question results indicate that when compared to controls, the bereaved of confirmed dead were adversely affected by their loss in areas of negative life events, hassles, depression, and somatization; the bereaved of presumed dead reported being adversely affected by negative life events and depression; the permanent-property loss subjects adversely affected by negative life events. The second study question compared the combined bereaved group (n = 69) and the control group (n = 50) to examine the buffering roles of self-efficacy and social support. For the bereaved, stress accounted for 35% of the variance (p < .001) in depression. After statistically controlling for stress, both self-efficacy and social support were significant predictors of depression (p < .05). In contrast, stress accounted for 44% of the variance in depression for the controls, but neither self-efficacy nor social support made additional contributions in the prediction of any of the health outcome variables. Findings from the third study question indicate that the confirmed bereaved reported significantly more (p < .05) negative effects resulting from the media than any of the other study groups. Factors that might account for the findings and clinical interventions were suggested. Close

• 6. [Article] A gold dream in the Blue Mountains : a study of the Chinese immigrants in the John Day area, Oregon, 1870-1910

  More than one hundred years have passed since the Chinese laborers first landed in this country in the mid-nineteenth century. Yet their history remains cloudy. This phenomenon is quite understandable ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A gold dream in the Blue Mountains : a study of the Chinese immigrants in the John Day area, Oregon, 1870-1910 Author: Chen, Chia-lin Year: 1972 More than one hundred years have passed since the Chinese laborers first landed in this country in the mid-nineteenth century. Yet their history remains cloudy. This phenomenon is quite understandable if one considers the facts that most of the laborers were illiterate, did not have the ability, and never intended, to speak for themselves. It is true that many scholarly works have been published, but few were written by Chinese historians. As a matter of fact, Chinese scholars are unaware that a small number of their countrymen played a strange, pitiful role in American history. The published works reflect the viewpoint of only American observers. The labor of the Chinese workers was indispensable to the development of the frontier West at a time when resources were abundant and labor hands were few. So much work had to be done building railroads and dams, digging mines, clearing farm lands, canning salmon, etc. And the Chinese were welcomed to every line of manual work. There was a time when nearly every family at Astoria of Oregon and Olympia of Washington hired a Chinese as servant, as some writers claim. When the great number of whites moved in from the east, along with them came the floating laborers and the European immigrants, as well as the labor union. Conditions changed rapidly, the Chinese found themselves not only excluded from all employment, but persecuted everywhere. California was the state which first utilized Chinese labor and first expelled it. This unfavorable circumstance forced the Chinese to flee from California to other states. The purpose of this paper is not to give an account of how the Chinese were maltreated in a country known as a free, equal land opened widely to the whole world, but rather tries to find out how they survived, what were their daily problems, sorrows, and happiness, if any, and what were their inner feelings, their attitudes toward the white hosts. In short, the paper is written in an attempt to reconstruct their life in an alien land. In addition, the paper tries to answer the question why this oriental group appeared so peculiar in their behavior, as some whites commented, that they were both condemned and contemned. One of the crucial problems facing the researcher in the field of early Chinese immigration history is the lack of original materials. This is the common defects in all the published works on this subject. Fortunately for the author, by an unique chance, he was able to study numerous objects left in a Chinese grocery store, the Kam Wah Chung Co. at John Day--a small town once a busy mining area in Eastern Oregon. The pioneer artifacts in this town are disappearing, though the gravels of the old gold placers are still visible along the hillsides and canyons. But the queer old building of the Chinese store is still standing stubbornly as it did one hundred years ago, on a road called Canton Street So many objects were left in the building that the city of John Day is endeavoring to open it as a museum. From a historical point of view, many of these objects are very valuable. Among them are a great number of letters. Some were sent to the laborers from their families, in care of that building. Others were from the laborers to their homes, and for some unknown reason had not been sent to China. They are unique and of special importance to this paper. Perhaps nowhere else in the United States, or in War-torn China, can one find such a number of first hand records about the early Chinese in this country. Although few significant events, romantic affairs, or anything exciting can be expected of them, still, one can reconstruct a plain sketch of their life from these materials. The paper, though it only presents a small picture of the Chinese group in Eastern Oregon, is aimed to serve, hopefully, as a footnote leading to an understanding of how the early Chinese immigrants once lived in the Pacific Northwest. Title: A gold dream in the Blue Mountains : a study of the Chinese immigrants in the John Day area, Oregon, 1870-1910 Author: Chen, Chia-lin Year: 1972 More than one hundred years have passed since the Chinese laborers first landed in this country in the mid-nineteenth century. Yet their history remains cloudy. This phenomenon is quite understandable if one considers the facts that most of the laborers were illiterate, did not have the ability, and never intended, to speak for themselves. It is true that many scholarly works have been published, but few were written by Chinese historians. As a matter of fact, Chinese scholars are unaware that a small number of their countrymen played a strange, pitiful role in American history. The published works reflect the viewpoint of only American observers. The labor of the Chinese workers was indispensable to the development of the frontier West at a time when resources were abundant and labor hands were few. So much work had to be done building railroads and dams, digging mines, clearing farm lands, canning salmon, etc. And the Chinese were welcomed to every line of manual work. There was a time when nearly every family at Astoria of Oregon and Olympia of Washington hired a Chinese as servant, as some writers claim. When the great number of whites moved in from the east, along with them came the floating laborers and the European immigrants, as well as the labor union. Conditions changed rapidly, the Chinese found themselves not only excluded from all employment, but persecuted everywhere. California was the state which first utilized Chinese labor and first expelled it. This unfavorable circumstance forced the Chinese to flee from California to other states. The purpose of this paper is not to give an account of how the Chinese were maltreated in a country known as a free, equal land opened widely to the whole world, but rather tries to find out how they survived, what were their daily problems, sorrows, and happiness, if any, and what were their inner feelings, their attitudes toward the white hosts. In short, the paper is written in an attempt to reconstruct their life in an alien land. In addition, the paper tries to answer the question why this oriental group appeared so peculiar in their behavior, as some whites commented, that they were both condemned and contemned. One of the crucial problems facing the researcher in the field of early Chinese immigration history is the lack of original materials. This is the common defects in all the published works on this subject. Fortunately for the author, by an unique chance, he was able to study numerous objects left in a Chinese grocery store, the Kam Wah Chung Co. at John Day--a small town once a busy mining area in Eastern Oregon. The pioneer artifacts in this town are disappearing, though the gravels of the old gold placers are still visible along the hillsides and canyons. But the queer old building of the Chinese store is still standing stubbornly as it did one hundred years ago, on a road called Canton Street So many objects were left in the building that the city of John Day is endeavoring to open it as a museum. From a historical point of view, many of these objects are very valuable. Among them are a great number of letters. Some were sent to the laborers from their families, in care of that building. Others were from the laborers to their homes, and for some unknown reason had not been sent to China. They are unique and of special importance to this paper. Perhaps nowhere else in the United States, or in War-torn China, can one find such a number of first hand records about the early Chinese in this country. Although few significant events, romantic affairs, or anything exciting can be expected of them, still, one can reconstruct a plain sketch of their life from these materials. The paper, though it only presents a small picture of the Chinese group in Eastern Oregon, is aimed to serve, hopefully, as a footnote leading to an understanding of how the early Chinese immigrants once lived in the Pacific Northwest. Close

• 7. [Article] Forecasting interest rates using pattern recognition techniques

  Much depends on the future course of interest rates. The decisions of families to make major purchases, the willingness of businesses to expand and invest, the rise and fall of the economy and stock market, ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Forecasting interest rates using pattern recognition techniques Author: Pearson, John S. Year: 1984 Much depends on the future course of interest rates. The decisions of families to make major purchases, the willingness of businesses to expand and invest, the rise and fall of the economy and stock market, the ability of lesser developed countries to repay their debts, the tenure of presidents and prime ministers--all of these may turn on whether interest rates increase or decrease in the months ahead. Several decision functions developed in the dissertation permit the direction of change of interest rates on long-term U. S. government bonds to be forecast correctly about 60% of the time. When the different models are combined, effectiveness is increased, and when the forecasts are dollar-weighted, performance in excess of 70% is possible. The results are evaluated in comparison with a Bayesian forecasting model and a 10,000-event Monte Carlo simulation of a random decision rule. The forecasting ability of the models is statistically significant at the 99% level of confidence. The dissertation reports on one of the first application of powerful techniques recently developed in cybernetics and engineering to forecasting the direction of change in interest rates. Two forecasting algorithms, called linear decision functions or linear classifiers, are derived using the principles of pattern recognition. Because they are recursively updated, both algorithms operate dynamically and adapt their performance to changes in the economic environment. One classifier, a modification of the widely used least-mean-squared-error algorithm, is adapted to permit monthly revision and to allow larger movements of interest rates to have greater weight in future decisions. The second algorithm permits refinement of the parameter estimates generated by the first. These formal, mathematical constructs are then supplied with financial variables--leading indicators of inflation and investment activity--to permit unconditional, ex-ante forecasts of the direction of change of interest rates on long-term government bonds over a one-month time horizon throughout the period 1969-82. The results should be of interest to investment managers, speculators, corporate treasurers, policymakers, economists and forecasters. Title: Forecasting interest rates using pattern recognition techniques Author: Pearson, John S. Year: 1984 Much depends on the future course of interest rates. The decisions of families to make major purchases, the willingness of businesses to expand and invest, the rise and fall of the economy and stock market, the ability of lesser developed countries to repay their debts, the tenure of presidents and prime ministers--all of these may turn on whether interest rates increase or decrease in the months ahead. Several decision functions developed in the dissertation permit the direction of change of interest rates on long-term U. S. government bonds to be forecast correctly about 60% of the time. When the different models are combined, effectiveness is increased, and when the forecasts are dollar-weighted, performance in excess of 70% is possible. The results are evaluated in comparison with a Bayesian forecasting model and a 10,000-event Monte Carlo simulation of a random decision rule. The forecasting ability of the models is statistically significant at the 99% level of confidence. The dissertation reports on one of the first application of powerful techniques recently developed in cybernetics and engineering to forecasting the direction of change in interest rates. Two forecasting algorithms, called linear decision functions or linear classifiers, are derived using the principles of pattern recognition. Because they are recursively updated, both algorithms operate dynamically and adapt their performance to changes in the economic environment. One classifier, a modification of the widely used least-mean-squared-error algorithm, is adapted to permit monthly revision and to allow larger movements of interest rates to have greater weight in future decisions. The second algorithm permits refinement of the parameter estimates generated by the first. These formal, mathematical constructs are then supplied with financial variables--leading indicators of inflation and investment activity--to permit unconditional, ex-ante forecasts of the direction of change of interest rates on long-term government bonds over a one-month time horizon throughout the period 1969-82. The results should be of interest to investment managers, speculators, corporate treasurers, policymakers, economists and forecasters. Close

• 8. [Article] Foster family care for the aged

  The following was a research practicum instituted as an actual project for the State of Montana Welfare Department between June, 1970, and May, 1971. The project had a two-fold purpose in being conceived: ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Foster family care for the aged Author: Sekora, Donald V. Year: 1971 The following was a research practicum instituted as an actual project for the State of Montana Welfare Department between June, 1970, and May, 1971. The project had a two-fold purpose in being conceived: one purpose was to fulfill a graduate school academic requirement; and the second purpose was to fulfill a responsibility to the people of Montana who would eventually gain some benefits from this project. The series of written documents that follow are the description of that project's conception and actualization in six Montana counties. The first part is the project idea and theory; the next two parts consist of the means by which the project was implemented; and the final two parts constitute the interim and final reports and evaluations of the project. Title: Foster family care for the aged Author: Sekora, Donald V. Year: 1971 The following was a research practicum instituted as an actual project for the State of Montana Welfare Department between June, 1970, and May, 1971. The project had a two-fold purpose in being conceived: one purpose was to fulfill a graduate school academic requirement; and the second purpose was to fulfill a responsibility to the people of Montana who would eventually gain some benefits from this project. The series of written documents that follow are the description of that project's conception and actualization in six Montana counties. The first part is the project idea and theory; the next two parts consist of the means by which the project was implemented; and the final two parts constitute the interim and final reports and evaluations of the project. Close

• 9. [Article] An Analysis of Professional Roles & Career Patterns of Portland State University School of Social Work graduates, 1964-1975

  This was a follow-up study of graduates of Portland State University's School of Social Work from 1964 to 1973. The study gathered information in four areas: (1) graduates' career patterns, (2) tasks graduates ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: An Analysis of Professional Roles & Career Patterns of Portland State University School of Social Work graduates, 1964-1975 Author: Des Camp, B. Michael, Marshack, Howard H. Year: 1975 This was a follow-up study of graduates of Portland State University's School of Social Work from 1964 to 1973. The study gathered information in four areas: (1) graduates' career patterns, (2) tasks graduates presently perform in their jobs, (3) tasks graduates felt are necessary for students to learn in a school of Social Work, and (4) graduates' continuing education needs and experiences. It was hoped that this information would prove valuable in curriculum design, both in the School of Social Work and in the Division of Continuing Education. I A stratified random sample of sixty-one graduates, totaling 15.4% of the ten-year population of 396 graduates, was surveyed by mailed questionnaire. Fifty-two of these responded for a return rate of 85.3%. Results from the questionnaire were transferred to punch cards and frequencies, means, standard deviations, and a factor analysis of data were performed by computer. Forty-five of the fifty-two respondents considered themselves to be presently practicing social work. Twenty-four of these respondents worked primarily in direct treatment, and all but one of these reported having collateral duties in administration or facilitative services. Respondents showed almost no interest in pursuing further graduate study in social services or any other'field, and indicated only moderate interest· in continuing education seminars or classes. Of all continuing education offerings, family therapy received the highest interest score and research received the lowest. Respondents felt that the most important tasks to be taught in graduate school were direct service tasks. A factor analysis was performed to reduce these tasks to more easily reportable shared factors, and the tasks seen as most crucial for learning were those concerned with direct treatment, resource assistance, and client contact. Although respondents believed that direct service tasks -should be stressed in the School curriculum, most of the respondents also were performing non-direct service tasks such as leadership and consultation in group process. Title: An Analysis of Professional Roles & Career Patterns of Portland State University School of Social Work graduates, 1964-1975 Author: Des Camp, B. Michael, Marshack, Howard H. Year: 1975 This was a follow-up study of graduates of Portland State University's School of Social Work from 1964 to 1973. The study gathered information in four areas: (1) graduates' career patterns, (2) tasks graduates presently perform in their jobs, (3) tasks graduates felt are necessary for students to learn in a school of Social Work, and (4) graduates' continuing education needs and experiences. It was hoped that this information would prove valuable in curriculum design, both in the School of Social Work and in the Division of Continuing Education. I A stratified random sample of sixty-one graduates, totaling 15.4% of the ten-year population of 396 graduates, was surveyed by mailed questionnaire. Fifty-two of these responded for a return rate of 85.3%. Results from the questionnaire were transferred to punch cards and frequencies, means, standard deviations, and a factor analysis of data were performed by computer. Forty-five of the fifty-two respondents considered themselves to be presently practicing social work. Twenty-four of these respondents worked primarily in direct treatment, and all but one of these reported having collateral duties in administration or facilitative services. Respondents showed almost no interest in pursuing further graduate study in social services or any other'field, and indicated only moderate interest· in continuing education seminars or classes. Of all continuing education offerings, family therapy received the highest interest score and research received the lowest. Respondents felt that the most important tasks to be taught in graduate school were direct service tasks. A factor analysis was performed to reduce these tasks to more easily reportable shared factors, and the tasks seen as most crucial for learning were those concerned with direct treatment, resource assistance, and client contact. Although respondents believed that direct service tasks -should be stressed in the School curriculum, most of the respondents also were performing non-direct service tasks such as leadership and consultation in group process. Close

• 10. [Article] Mediating Academic Success: Race, Class, Gender and Community College Persistence

  Over the last forty years, the U.S. community college system has expanded, allowing disadvantaged groups greater access to higher education. With that expansion, a body of research has emerged examining ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Mediating Academic Success: Race, Class, Gender and Community College Persistence Author: Esparza, Schaylee Marie Year: 2014 Over the last forty years, the U.S. community college system has expanded, allowing disadvantaged groups greater access to higher education. With that expansion, a body of research has emerged examining community college students' educational outcomes. However, the research is limited in understanding the academic persistence of low-income students and community college student in particular. The purpose of this comparative, qualitative study is to explore some of the unanswered questions about how low income white and Latino students' experience academic persistence similarly and differently and understand how gender influences the challenges students may face during college. This study draws from interviews of 22 (11 White/11 Latino/a) low-income community college students at a rural, Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) in the West. All students share similar challenges because of their class constraints, but Latino/a students in particular face challenges of racism and discrimination that carried over into their college careers. Faculty and family are the key sources of support for all students, which mediate some of the challenges. Variation is seen between the experiences of males and females, as traditional gender roles are reinforced and maintained in the family. This study offers insights into how structural inequality creates barriers for students from their perspective and gives recommendations for practitioners on how to mediate some of these challenges and increase student persistence. Title: Mediating Academic Success: Race, Class, Gender and Community College Persistence Author: Esparza, Schaylee Marie Year: 2014 Over the last forty years, the U.S. community college system has expanded, allowing disadvantaged groups greater access to higher education. With that expansion, a body of research has emerged examining community college students' educational outcomes. However, the research is limited in understanding the academic persistence of low-income students and community college student in particular. The purpose of this comparative, qualitative study is to explore some of the unanswered questions about how low income white and Latino students' experience academic persistence similarly and differently and understand how gender influences the challenges students may face during college. This study draws from interviews of 22 (11 White/11 Latino/a) low-income community college students at a rural, Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) in the West. All students share similar challenges because of their class constraints, but Latino/a students in particular face challenges of racism and discrimination that carried over into their college careers. Faculty and family are the key sources of support for all students, which mediate some of the challenges. Variation is seen between the experiences of males and females, as traditional gender roles are reinforced and maintained in the family. This study offers insights into how structural inequality creates barriers for students from their perspective and gives recommendations for practitioners on how to mediate some of these challenges and increase student persistence. Close