Identifier

97

Date

2017

Document Type

Honors Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Professional Studies

Major

Professional Studies

Concentration

Child Develop & Family Studies

Committee Chair

Loretta Rudd

Abstract

Child life specialists are found in children's hospitals across the nation as members of the healthcare team providing services to support the psychosocial development of the child. This professional field has become oversaturated with students qualified for certification, creating limited job availability. This study's research questions sought to outline methods in training students at the academic level to be best prepared for such a competitive career option. As a secondary focus, the research questions addressed additional areas outside the traditional hospital setting in which child life specialists could work. Findings were indicated through (1) qualitative surveys completed by university programs with existing degrees or concentrations in child life and (2) mixed method surveys done by student internship site coordinators in hospitals spanning the south east. Each of these surveys addressed the ideal characteristics of students and what methods universities can employ to prepare students who are seeking job placement in this field. Using a content analysis to code text, surveys indicated five major characteristics of a quality academic program: (1) strong child developmental coursework, (2) a faculty member and university staff who are dedicated to the program, (3) opportunities for learning outside the classroom setting, (4) a system to provide training to dedicated and competitive students, and (5) teaching that enhances specific competencies and skills. The secondary research approach focused on areas child life specialists can practice outside of the traditional healthcare setting. Six child life specialists in community settings participated in a qualitative survey to support why child life is also needed in their particular area. Data from each of these surveys was analyzed as a case series, based on individual case reports that are similar in content.

Comments

Undergraduate Honor's Thesis

Library Comment

Honors thesis originally submitted to the Local University of Memphis Honor’s Thesis Repository.

Notes

Data is provided by the student.

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