Thesis (M.A.)--International Christian Graduate University, School of Theology, 1987. / Abstract. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 112-117).

Thesis (Ph.D.)--George Mason University, 2008. / Vita: p. 105. Thesis director: Carol J. Erdwins. Submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology. Title from PDF t.p. (viewed Aug. 28, 2008). Includes bibliographical references (p. 96-104). Also issued in print.

Homeless women and families are among the most disenfranchised groups in society. Further, because of their homelessness and associated problems, many homeless women become separated from their children. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects on predictors of entering a shelter with or without children (shelter status) and whether or not one is separated from one or more children (child separation status) on various special need predictors. A second objective was to determine the relationship between shelter status and child separation and to understand the unique experiences of homeless women who are separated from their children. These objectives were achieved via thematic analysis, quantitative methods and qualitative methods. Results suggest that shelter status significantly related to mental illness, drug abuse and domestic violence, but child separation status only significantly relates to drug abuse. The qualitative findings examined the origins of homelessness, child separation and the women's desires to be reunited with their children. Suggestions for further research and program changes are included.

The diploma thesis deals with eating disorders, especially anorexia nervosa. The theoretical background gives a complex picture of this issue and puts mental anorexia in a broader psychological context. The aim is to clarify myths and preconceptions related to anorexia nervosa, to stress the importance of family environment for disorder's origin, course and prevention, and to show current state of treatment in the Czech Republic. These aspects are verified by the survey, based on how women with mental anorexia perceive this disorder.