Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports 2016 Jurors' Perceptions of Testimony in Cases Involving Child-on- Child Sexual Abuse and Anatomical Forensic Interviewing Aids Benjamin Thomas Follow this and additional works at: https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd Recommended Citation Thomas, Benjamin, "Jurors' Perceptions of Testimony in Cases Involving Child-on-Child Sexual Abuse and Anatomical Forensic Interviewing Aids" (2016). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 6794. https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/6794 This Thesis is protected by copyright and/or related rights. It has been brought to you by the The Research Repository @ WVU with permission from the rights-holder(s). You are free to use this Thesis in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you must obtain permission from the rights-holder(s) directly, unless additional rights are indicated by a Creative Commons license in the record and/ or on the work itself. This Thesis has been accepted for inclusion in WVU Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports collection by an authorized administrator of The Research Repository @ WVU. For more information, please contact [email protected]. Market-based aid and economic reform Neron R. Thomas Dissertation submitted to the John D. Rockefeller IV School of Policy and Politics within the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences at West Virginia University in partial fulfillment of requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science. Christina Fattore, Ph.D., Chair David Hauser, Ph.D. Philip Michelbach, Ph.D. Karen Culcasi, Ph.D. Robert Maxon, Ph.D. Department of Political Science Morgantown, West Virginia 2018 Key words: Market-based aid, Non-market aid, Economic reform, Economic growth and development. Copyright 2018 Neron Thomas Abstract: Market-based aid and economic reform Neron R. Thomas This study examines the empirical links between market-based aid and economic reform in sub-Sahara Africa. My research question: Is market-based aid necessary for economic reform across sub-Sahara Africa? To answer that question, I applied both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Specifically, regression analyses were conducted to determine whether or not causality could be established between my dependent and independent variables. 22 sub- Saharan states were used. In addition, two case studies (Ghana and Senegal) were conducted to help explain some of the cultural nuances that may be missing from the statistical analysis. As a result of the Washington Consensus, International Financial Institutions (IFIs) and advanced economies have advocated for economic reforms – namely macro-level neoliberal structural adjustments - to help facilitate sustainable economic growth and development across emerging economies. This approach has been critiqued in the past since it uses a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach and assumes that since similar reform efforts were successful in the west, then they should work in the sub-Sahara region absent of accounting for internal nuances such as cultural and traditional values, customs, structures and conditions. I argue that more market-based aid could be the best way forward, especially if economic reform efforts are tailored toward four key conduits that are essential for driving subsequent economic growth and development: government capacity, economic freedom, private sector investments, and domestic savings. I hypothesized the aforementioned are positively linked with market-based aid. Neron Thomas Dedication & acknowledgements: I would like to dedicate this dissertation to my father, Rupert A. Thomas, for seeing some potential in me from an early age when I did not see it in myself; for making countless sacrifices working in some of the harshest places in the Middle East and Africa to invest in my potential when he could have invested in bettering himself, and for the patience he has consistently exercised in spite of me sabotaging his efforts on numerous occasions – whether it was failing to attend school, poor academic performance, and getting suspended and later expelled from high school for demonstrating frequent disciplinary issues. Though disappointed by many of my actions, and rightful so, he remained committed to saving me from myself. There are not enough fathers like him around. Many would have given up after few mistakes, but despite my endless mistakes he has always been there to give meaningful advice and guidance to get me back on track. If I am to ever become half the man and father he is, I would be beyond proud. Thank you for anchoring me over the years and opening my eyes to the notion that I can make it to and succeed in college. You are truly my inspiration! Acknowledgements: First and foremost, I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to my Dissertation Chair, Dr. Christina Fattore, for the continuous and meaningful support she has provided throughout my research endeavor. As expected, there were numerous obstacles, but her guidance and words of motivation never wavered even in light of my growing frustrations. It is my firm belief that without her guidance and support I would not have been able to navigate this process. Dr. Fattore, thank you! iii Neron Thomas In addition, I believe my dissertation committee: Dr. Culcasi, Dr. Hauser, Dr. Michelbach, and Dr. Maxon are also deserving of being acknowledged for the pivotal roles they have played in my research. Their commitment and contributions through insightful and critical feedback and encouragement have been invaluable in helping me to prepare and complete my research. This dissertation would not have been possible without the roles of other individuals who have contributed to my growth in various ways. Therefore, their contributions are worthy of being highlighted as well. I would like to thank my mother, Claudette Johnson, for her continued support throughout my life. Being a single mother tasked with raising two rambunctious boys to their teens is never easy. I have witnessed her cry many times for the difficulties we contributed to. We were not cognizant of how our actions affected her due our tender ages and oftentimes perceived natural rebellious ways. Yet, she showed strength and commitment in raising us the best she could. That is why I was not surprised at her reaction when our father proposed sending us to boarding school in an unfamiliar continent and country. But, in retrospect, that was one of the best decisions she has made since it saved our lives from the harsh realities of living in Guyana. So, I just want to take this moment to truly say thank you! I know my brother and I generally have problems expressing our appreciation for all you have done for us, especially in light of all the challenges, but I hope you know you are sincerely appreciated. Next, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my step-mother, Jayne Thomas, for always showing interest in my wellbeing, academics, and growth. When we first met in 1996, I did not expect much, but she has surprised me in many ways over the years. She has always been iv Neron Thomas there to provide remedies during times of difficulties; encouraged my father to continue supporting my brother and I when we indulged in juvenile foolishness or not taking life seriously enough; and provided motherly support when necessary. You have certainly been a ‘value added’ to my life. Thank you! In addition, I would like to thank my grandparents, Rupert Aubrey Thomas, Sr. and Irene Thomas, who were taken too soon for me to get sufficient time to know them well. Additionally, thanks to Ismay Cleaver Johnson and Llewellyn Prince Johnson for consistently providing wise counsel throughout my earlier years. I truly wish you could have all been here to witness me develop into the person I have become. Your contributions to my life have been invaluable, and I hope that you are resting peacefully knowing that your guidance and teachings will forever be cherished. This list will not be complete without also extending my gratitude to Dr. Karen Kunz. I cannot count the number of times I felt defeated and unprepared for graduate school. However, whenever I went to her office to discuss my intentions to withdraw from school and return home, she always had a way of motivating me by sharing similar life experiences and helping me to put things into perspective. Even after I graduated from the MPA program, she continued to provide much needed mentorship and guidance as I tried to navigate not only school but life as well. Therefore, it is only fitting that I write this brief note of thanks! Dr. Kunz, thank you – not only for what you have done for me but also the tremendous things you do for other graduate students as well in making them feel appreciated. Your mentorship has been comforting and valued. Thank you very much, everyone! You will not be forgotten. Neron R. Thomas, 2018! v Neron Thomas Table of contents: Cover page: I Abstract: II Dedication and acknowledgments: III - V Chapter 1: Development in the post-colonial era in sub-Sahara Africa. o 1.1 Background, 1 - 5 o 1-2 Trying to get SSA back on track, 5 - 8 o 1.3 Identification of problem, 8-9 o 1.4 Research question, 9 - 11 o 1.5 Objectives of study,11 - 14 o 1.6 Relevance of study, 14 - 17 o 1.7 Limitations of study, 17 - 18 o 1.8 Organizations of research, 18 -19 Chapter 2: A theoretical review of the development strategies used in sub-Sahara Africa. o 2.1 Introduction, 20 - 23 o 2.2