Date of Award
Fall 2022
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
College
College of Education
Department
Department of Education
Primary Advisor
Dr. Patty LeBlanc
Second Advisor
Dr. Janet Deck
Third Advisor
Dr. Lisa Ciganek
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the influence of bibliotherapy on senior adults’ perceptions of social connectedness. The research question was “What are senior adults’ perceptions of connectedness after bibliotherapy?” To explore the research question, a virtual book study was conducted via Zoom. Seven retired adults took part in the virtual book study and were interviewed at the end of the study. A qualitative phenomenological approach was used to examine the lived experiences of connectedness among participants of the virtual book study; interview responses were distilled to core meanings. Analysis of the interview data resulted in three major themes: connection to self, connection to others, and connection to the book/author. Key points gleaned from the study resulted in the formation of a model designed to guide future virtual book studies to encourage social connectedness. Based on participants’ feedback, participants desired time for recreational conversation before and after each meeting, less reading each week, more book study sessions to cover the material, and Zoom training before and during the study. Choosing an engaging book was key for fostering connections to self, others, and the book. The virtual book study was important for older adults as it was a form of accountability and allowed senior participants to socially engage safely from their homes.
Recommended Citation
Fisher, Rebecca E., "A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF SENIOR ADULTS’ PERCEPTIONS OF CONNECTEDNESS AFTER BIBLIOTHERAPY" (2022). Doctor of Education (Ed.D). 131.
https://firescholars.seu.edu/coe/131