DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/5YSK-R406
Defense Date
2009
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Psychology
First Advisor
Stephen M. Auerbach
Second Advisor
Bruce D. Rybarczyk
Third Advisor
Laura A. Siminoff
Fourth Advisor
Christopher C. Wagner
Abstract
Using an analogue format, the present study evaluated the viability of relationship and interactional concepts that have been applied to the physician-patient interaction to the field of organ donation by examining the donation request process between procurement coordinators and simulated families. Interpersonal processes were assessed using behavioral ratings by independent observers. Procurement coordinators were viewed as being more submissive than dominant and more friendly than hostile. Family members were viewed as being more hostile than friendly, more dominant and hostile than submissive or friendly, disclosing slightly more personal information than medical information, and engaging in slightly more shared decision making than providing medical information. Procurement coordinator gender and ethnicity and family ethnicity influenced interpersonal behavior. Several interpersonal variables were associated with measures of the “decision to donate” obtained from raters and simulated families. Implications for the field of organ donation and the training of procurement coordinators are discussed.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
May 2009