I would like to acknowledge the following individuals for their contributions:

• Dr. Mary S. Mander, whose unfailing warmth, support, encouragement, and expertise were central to the creation of this thesis;
• Dr. Schement and Dr. Hall, who helped to further refine my understanding of several of the key issues under investigation in this research project;
• The members of the Cinema-L LISTSERV, whose generous commitment of time and honest feedback have provided rich food for thought, as well as much enjoyment;
• My family, who encouraged me in my academic endeavors and inspired in me a passion for media studies, as well as for everyday social science behavior observation and analysis;
• My loyal friends and co-workers at Penn State's Department of Distance Education, especially the staff of the Instructional Design and Development unit, who supported me in my efforts and were always ready to help celebrate my triumphs and achievements; and
• Special thanks to Steve Graham--boyfriend, expert psychologist, and fellow movie lover--whose input has broadened my perspective and whose insights have complemented my own unfailing curiosity about aspects of everyday psychology, including interactional dynamics and gender identity; and who has provided much emotional support during the course of my degree. A word of thanks, as well, to my loyal companion Gremlin, a feline of feisty disposition and eclectic cinematic tastes.