Agency and Communion in the Conceptualization of Empowerment

Findings from both studies yield complementary perspectives that converge upon the individualistic and collectivistic models. These models are discussed in terms of the meta-concepts of agency and communion and the community psychology discourse on empowerment. Respondent experiences of collective strength or power within their communities are conceptualized in terms of a circle or field that both includes and extends beyond the individual. Implications for theory and research highlight the potential utility of recognizing the place of communion in the context of the discourse on empowerment. Implications for policy and practice suggest that interdependence can be a viable option for those who do find strength in settings that value communion.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2015

Author dc:creator

• Van Uchelen, Collin Paul

Contributors dc:contributor

• Rappaport, Julian

• Psychology, Social

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

(MiAaPQ)AAI3182406

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/87865