Browsing by Author "Ashirifi, Gifty Dede"

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    Bullying Prevention in Schools: The Need for a Multiple Stakeholder Approach
    (IUPUI, 2020-07-30) Karikari, Isaac; Brown, James R.; Ashirifi, Gifty Dede; Storms, James; School of Social Work
    Since bullying is an ecological and systemic phenomenon that occurs in multiple contexts with multiple actors, it makes sense to consider the perceptions of multiple stakeholders and their relationships with one another and in relation to bullying prevention in schools. Using a non-probability, purposive sample, this study examined the perspectives of 45 school stakeholders, namely, principals, school social workers, bus drivers, and parents from an urban school district in the Midwest. The study unveils some of the implicit and explicit challenges associated with bullying prevention efforts. For example, bullying can be quite nebulous because people tend to look at the issue through the prism of their own experiences and positions, limiting their understanding of other stakeholders. Some stakeholders’ perspectives may be muted when bullying behaviors are discussed or reported. Overall, the findings support the use of multi-stakeholder approaches in developing a more holistic view of bullying. Recommendations include avoiding the reification of the views and voices of a select few and having a more open system of dialogue among stakeholders to create inclusion when addressing bullying.
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    Integration into Mainstream Society and the use of Public Assistance: A Study First Generation Somali Refugees in a Midwestern City
    (ICPK, 2023) Akakpo, Tohoro F.; Brown, James R.; Karikari, Isaac; Ashirifi, Gifty Dede; School of Social Work
    First generation Somali refugees in the United Stated States could experience both language and cultural barriers along with conflicting identity could hinder economic independence. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore the correlation between cultural orientation of first-generation Somali refugees and the utilization of public assistance. Using purposive sampling method, data were collected from individuals who self-identified as first-generation Somali refugees (N=166). A quantitative data analysis method using SmartPLS3.0 to predict the need of public assistance on level on integration into host culture. The Somali identity (63.0 %) and American identity (57.0%) were explained by the full model. The study summary revealed that the percentage first generation Somali refugees who integrated into mainstream society was lower than those who did not in seeking public assistance. We suggested facilitation of full integration of the first-generation Somali refugees could reduce dependence on public assistance.