Marlene M. von Friederichs-Fitzwater
UC Davis Cancer Center
Asst Adj. Professor, UCD, Med, Int Med, Hematology Oncology
marlene.vonfriederichs-fitzwater@ucdmc.ucdavis.edu
Univ of Utah, Communication Studies, PhD, 1986
UC Davis, Hem/Onc, Adjunct Assistant Professor, 2003
International Health Professional of the Year-2003
Distinguished Faculty Award by CSUS Alumni Association-2003
Communication Research
Dr. von Friederichs-Fitzwater's current areas of research interest include family communication and health communication. She teaches history-taking, interviewing and communication skills to first medical students. She is currently developing a cancer communication research program.
Education Philosophy
Dr. von Friederichs-Fitzwater's philosophy of education is based on empowering students through the use of a learner-centered model (and a patient-centered model in healthcare) to achieve their learning and development goals. Using a problem-based learning format, her style of teaching incorporates facilitating and coaching while allowing students to discover their own capabilities to solve problems, gain knowledge, and enhance skills. Goals for her classes include: dialogue, critical thinking, discovery and integration (linking coursework, life experiences, visions for the future and lifestyle).
Research Areas
Health Care Quality & Effectiveness
Selected Publications
Jerant AF, von Friederichs-Fitzwater MM, Moore M. Patients' perceived barriers to active self-management of chronic conditions.
Patient Educ Couns.
57: (3) 300-7. (2005)
von Friederichs-Fitzwater M, Gilgun J. Relational Control in Physician-Patient Encounters.
Health Communication Journal.
13: (1) 75-87. (2001)
Marlene M. von Friederichs-Fitzwater