Adaptation versus fusion theory in the experience of returned LDS missionaries.

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dc.contributor.advisorKramer, Eric,en_US
dc.contributor.authorCallahan, Loy Clark.en_US
dc.date.accessioned2013-08-16T12:18:49Z
dc.date.available2013-08-16T12:18:49Z
dc.date.issued2002en_US
dc.description.abstractThis dissertation investigates the outcomes of theory-making, as well as many underlying assumptions surrounding intercultural contact. It does this by examining two competing intercultural theories, Kim's Adaptation Theory and Kramer's Fusion Theory, based on a specific intercultural encounter. This study concentrates on the theoretical descriptions surrounding what happens when individuals return "home" from living in a culture foreign to their own. In this way, determinations of acculturation, deculturation, psychological health, and cultural connection were made and then compared against the theoretical descriptions. Subjects consisted of 55 returned LDS missionaries, individuals spending 18 months to two years immersed in a foreign culture. Each was asked to complete a survey instrument measuring theoretical variables. Responses were then coded with concurrent descriptions of either Adaptation or Fusion Theory, followed by tests of significant difference. Results demonstrated that Fusion Theory was more descriptive of the experience of returned LDS missionaries. Other variables, such as time and co-cultural affiliation, were also identified as important in the intercultural exchange.en_US
dc.format.extentvi, 151 leaves ;en_US
dc.identifier.urihttp://hdl.handle.net/11244/539
dc.noteAdviser: Eric Kramer.en_US
dc.noteSource: Dissertation Abstracts International, Volume: 63-11, Section: A, page: 3788.en_US
dc.subjectSocialization Case studies.en_US
dc.subjectReligion, General.en_US
dc.subjectIntercultural communication.en_US
dc.subjectMormon missionaries United States Social conditions.en_US
dc.subjectSpeech Communication.en_US
dc.subjectAdjustment (Psychology) Case studies.en_US
dc.subjectReverse culture shock Case studies.en_US
dc.subjectCulture shock Case studies.en_US
dc.subjectIntergroup relations.en_US
dc.thesis.degreePh.D.en_US
dc.thesis.degreeDisciplineDepartment of Communicationen_US
dc.titleAdaptation versus fusion theory in the experience of returned LDS missionaries.en_US
dc.typeThesisen_US
ou.groupCollege of Arts and Sciences::Department of Communication
ou.identifier(UMI)AAI3070644en_US

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