Doctor of Education , University of Dayton, 2023, Educational Administration

This study utilizes an intersectional ecological systems theory to explore social support network formation amongst Black women cancer patients and survivors though the use of critical ethnography. Critical ethnography is employed to discover the lived experiences of this demographic as it impacts the unique needs they require in a culturally responsive support program. Black emancipatory action research is utilized as a framework to propose an intervention aimed at improving the mental well-being and increasing the social support experienced by this demographic. Results indicate that shared community reflective of their cultural experience, an open conduit of information, and kinship with individuals who have shared a similar burden of critical illness, are key elements necessary in providing a culturally responsive intervention.

Committee: Davin Carr-Chellman (Committee Chair); Geleana Alston (Committee Co-Chair); Matthew Witenstein (Committee Co-Chair) Subjects: African Americans; Black Studies; Health