Monday, December 23, 2019

Data Collection Procedures Should Be Used For Measure One...

Data Collection Procedures In the proposed study, two tools will be utilized to measure one independent variable and one dependent variable outlined below. Independent Variable Adolescents’ with Borderline Personality Disorder exposure to the therapeutic group offering CBT is the independent variable of the study, and will be measured by assessing the client’s demographic and diagnoses in order to determine which clients are diagnosed with BPD. The independent variable will also be measured by the client’s history of treatments, goals, onset of diagnosis, and overall character while in the program. We will test our independent variable by simply reviewing their files and their ability to be a participant within the study. Dependent Variable The dependent variable in this study is the coping that adolescent group home members have been exposed to during treatment. The variable of coping is described as adolescent’s utilizing CBT in order to change their thoughts before following through with negative behaviors. Our hypothesis aims to measure the effectiveness of learning positive coping skills. For example, when an adolescent becomes stressed or begin to feel emotions such as anger or rage, they can reflect back on interventions covered within the group. Interventions discussed in the group can include meditation, keeping a record of how they are feeling emotionally and what they feel like doing at that moment, using a breathing method, or engaging in music therapy.Show MoreRelatedMethods Of Collecting Data For Nursing Research837 Words   |  4 Pagesseveral methods of collecting data for nursing research. The best techniques for collecting data should be well-defined, reliable, valid and don e so without interjecting person bias. Data collection for qualitative studies may be in the form of interviews or surveys, participants may take part in a focus group, or be observed in their natural environment. Techniques for quantitative studies could also include surveys, observation, historical data, physiological data, or tests (Tappen, 2016). AnyRead MoreIncreasing A Desired Social Skill For A Typically Developing Male1623 Words   |  7 Pageshis brother. Percentage of opportunities was used as the behavior measure for every opportunity presented in which Sean displayed the correct behavior. After baseline data was collected, the intervention was implemented in the child s home in which the most to least prompting procedure was used. As a result, Sean s behavior of displaying appropriate sharing with his brother had increased. However, since this intervention was targeted in only one setting it would be beneficial to target it inRead MoreWhat Is Partial Least Square ( PLS ) Technique?1598 Words   |  7 PagesPartial least square (PLS) technique is used to analyse systems of predictor and response variables. Also called as component based SEM or variance based SEM, it relates a set of independent variables to multiple dependent variables. PLS does not involve any assumptions about the population and can handle multicollinearity among the predictor variables. It is a suitable tool when there are more number of latent variable compared to the number of observations with less number of indicators. MajorityRead MoreResearch And Design Of A Experimental Design1666 Words   |  7 Pagesthe researcher to exercise better control over research variables. This design ultimately strengthens the inference of causality. To prove with confidence that changes in the dependent variable were caused by the independent variable rather than sampling error, the research design must meet three criteria (Nieswiadomy, 2012). The three criteria are: 1) the researcher manipulates the experimental variable; 2) at least one experimental and one comparison group are included; and 3) the subjects areRead MoreAn Explanatory Quantitative Methodology Utilizing A Multisite, Cluster Randomized Control Trial ( Rct )1539 Words   |  7 Pagesobjective approach to investigate, measure, and analyze the relationship between the variables (Langford Young, 2013). A RCT follows a true experiment design using a large sample and multiple sites permitting manipulation of an independent variable, the use of a cont rol group, and randomization of subjects (Langford Young, 2013). RCTs allow for the generating of groups that are relatively comparable thereby reducing the potential for confounding by extraneous variables (Pourhoseingholi, BaghestaniRead MoreHow to Measure Quality of Service747 Words   |  3 Pagesthis field study, data on the independent variables and dependent variables were collected from consumers above 21 years old in several shopping malls through short questionnaires drafted specifically for this analysis. Population and sample The population for this study comprised of consumers who had experience any form of service in the shopping mall. A systematic sampling procedure was first used to scale down the size of the study to 100 and thereafter remove erroneous data. Then, through aRead More Construct, Internal, and External Validity Essay762 Words   |  4 Pageswith establishing correct operational measures for the concepts being studied (Yin 2009, p. 40). Yin (2009), writes that researchers can improve construct validity construct validity can be if multiple sources of data is employed (triangulation of data), establishing chain of evidence, and reviewing the report with their informants (p. 41). In making sure that one can draw a meaning and useful inferences from scores on particular instruments of data collection and to demonstrate the accuracy of theirRead MoreNursing Workgroup Diversity and Performance Analysis1716 Words   |  7 Pageshave been appropriate to include nursing (or healthcare) studie s which explored the relationships between diversity and group cohesion; specifically patient satisfaction, falls and medication errors (the dependent variables and ultimate variables of interest). Finally, the authors should have noted the gap in literature if relevant studies were not located. The theoretical framework driving the study is Pelled’s Intervening Process Theory. This theory is based on the concept of organizationalRead MoreWhat Is The Examination Of Variables Of Interest And Conducting Trend Analysis1307 Words   |  6 Pages 1. The research designed used in this article is the descriptive research design. The study involves the examination of variables of interest and conducting trend analysis. 2. The data type used to conduct the analysis is qualitative. This article consisted of both dependent and independent variables. The dependent variables consisted of the data frequency of individual migrant deaths that were gathered from multiple sources. The independent variables helped to account for the changes in the volumeRead MoreThe P Value As A Measure Of The Evidence Against The Null Hypothesis1279 Words   |  6 PagesThe p-value is a measure of the strength of the evidence against the null hypothesis. The p-value is the probability of getting the observed value of the test statistic, or a value with the even greater evidence against Ho, if the null hypothesis is actually true. The smaller the p-value, the greater the evidence against the null hypothesis. If we have a given significance level, then we reject. If we do not have a given significance level, then it is not as cut-and-dried. If the P-value is less

Sunday, December 15, 2019

Pregnancy, Birth and the Newborn Focus on Fasd Free Essays

Running Head: FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDER Pregnancy, Birth and the Newborn: Focus on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder SWHB 405: Human Behavior in the Social Environment 1 ABSTRACT From conception to birth, the mother’s role in bringing to life and nurturing a healthy baby is paramount. Factors such as the mother’s biological, psychological and social environment play important roles in determining the wellbeing of a child. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, an irreversible condition in children caused by maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy will be discussed. We will write a custom essay sample on Pregnancy, Birth and the Newborn: Focus on Fasd or any similar topic only for you Order Now Its biological, psychological and societal implications will be deliberated and recommendations of interventions by Social Workers in alleviating the problem will be suggested. Key words: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Child Development Introduction All human life begins with a fertilized egg known as a zygote. By the eighth week, the zygote is transformed into a fetus which has most of its organs formed. After about 9 months (or 38 weeks) of going through transformation within the mother’s womb, the mother delivers a bouncing baby boy or girl into the world. During this time it is imperative that special care and attention is given to the mother and the child that she is carrying. Prenatal care ensures that the mother receives the much needed medical attention, nutritional advice and a positive life style tips. Particular attention is given unusual physiological and medical manifestations which could signal an array of life threatening situations for the mother and unborn child. The culmination of a successful pregnancy is the birth of a baby. Newborns weigh an average between 5. 5 and 9. pounds and they are awake and alert in first hours of life. Newborns begin learning their environment immediately and one of the things they internalize is developing a connection with the mother’s voice. The six states that a baby maintains are: quiet alert, active alert, crying state, drowsiness, quiet sleep, and active sleep (Ashford Lecroy, 2012). Babies oscillate from an awakening curious baby, peak at crying when uncomfortable, and dip thr ough to active sleep. These changes may occur slowly or rapidly throughout the course of any given day. Consequently, knowledge about this this critical life stage, helps parents to be better equipped to cope with and nurture the newborn. Risk factors during pregnancy and at birth Various physiological changes in a pregnant mother may cause or indicate a risk for both mother and child. A case in point is bleeding in the first trimester or late in the pregnancy which could mean possible loss of the child or neurological issues. In some instances, natural toxins could build in the mother’s bodies leading to high blood pressure and weight gain which may be fatal to the mother (Ashford Lecroy, 2012). Further, an increased weight of the mother could bring on diabetes in the child, while low weight of the child could be a precursor to mental retardation. Biological factors that may affect the fetus’ development during pregnancy include the mother’s age, the number of children prior and how far apart she has had each child (Boyce, 2010). Environmental factors, such as living conditions, diet deficiencies, and the emotional well-being of the mother can all affect the baby during its 38 week development. Pregnant women should be mindful of substances ingested during pregnancy as these are subsequently ingested by the fetus and affect its development. This is exemplified by studies demonstrating that women who drink caffeine tend to have a lower birth rate than women who avoid caffeine (Ashford Lecroy, 2012). Other substances that could affect fetal development by causing birth deformities, premature births and possible hyperactivity include tobacco, over the counter medications, hormones and alcohol. Prenatal care there has been shown to dramatically improve the chances of having a healthy baby. Nevertheless, there is a possibility of certain complications during birth can have lasting repercussions on a child’s life. An example is anoxia, a deficiency of oxygen during birth that could lead to the newborn developing cerebral palsy. Alcohol’s relevance in pregnancy, birth and the newborn Alcohol is a teratogen; an agent or factor that induces or increases the incidence of abnormal prenatal development (Shiel, 2010). Consumption of alcohol during pregnancy is manifested in a continuum of disabilities known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) (Warren Murray, in press). The most severe form of this spectrum referred to as fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS). An alarming statistic from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) studies shows that 0. 2 to 2 cases per 1000 babies are born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS). Since FASD presents a broad spectrum of symptoms some of which are â€Å"less severe†, it remains challenging to diagnose (Fleisher, 2010). As a result, FASD among children is either misdiagnosed or remains undetected. On the other hand, it is relatively easier to identify the key diagnostic features of FAS are they are better established. FASD is prevalent worldwide because alcohol is so widely accepted and used in so many cultures. The teratogenic effects of alcohol were not established until the second half of the 20th century when pediatrician, Paul Lemoine, in France in 1967 and two American pediatric dysmorphologists, Kenneth Lyons Jones and David Smith in 1973, independently documented the pattern of deficits resulting from heavy prenatal alcohol exposure (Warren Murray, in press). Alcohol was attributed because the children in both settings had common patterns of deficits and it was observed that all of the birth mothers had been diagnosed with alcohol use disorders Biological manifestations The teratogenic effects of alcohol adversely affect the physical development of the fetus and the child. Newborns and children with FAS generally exhibit stunted growth (CDC. Gov, 1983). A distinguishing feature of children with severe FASD and FAS is facial and limb dysmorphology. These children are generally shorter in stature and weigh less than their peers (Warren Murray, in press). The cardinal or discriminating features include short palpebral fissures (eye opening), an elongated and hypoplastic philtrum (groove between nose and upper lip), and a thin upper vermillion lip border or hypoplastic â€Å"cupid’s bow†. Other features include a low nasal bridge, epicanthal folds (skin folds covering inner corner of the eye), minor ear anomalies, and micrognathia (abnormal smallness of the jaws). Psychological consequences Facial and limb dysmorphology in children affected by FASD and FAS may cause the child is usually aware that something is â€Å"different† about him or her and thus affect their psychological wellbeing. Additionally, children with FASD have cognitive challenges leading to a myriad of problems such as the following: memory loss, impaired motor skills, neurosensory hearing loss, impaired visual and spatial skills, intellectual impairment, attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity, problems with reasoning and judgment and an inability to appreciate consequences of actions (Wacha Obrzut, 2007). Treatment and schooling can be very difficult for a child facing these challenges since their greatest challenge is learning and retaining information. Subsequently, the child may experience depression which can result in self-destructive behavior such as substance abuse, inappropriate sexual behavior, and suicide Societal implications Families are affected immensely when a child is born with FASD/FAS since he/she may exhibit anti-social behavior including an exaggerated startle response, poor wake and sleep patterns, impulsiveness, temper tantrums, lying and stealing (Fleisher, 2010). Moreover, schools, local health care systems, childcare and social services, and the justice system are usually ill-equipped to address the problems presented by FASD. As a result; a person with FASD may experience mental health problems, disrupted schooling, and involvement with crime, substance abuse, and dependent living and employment difficulties throughout their lifetime. As previously stated, the broad spectrum of manifestations of FASD makes it difficult to diagnose. Consequently, individuals suffering from FASD may not be properly diagnosed and are likely to be labeled social misfits and may spend a troubled life on the margins of society thus creating a monumental emotional burden on society (Wacha Obrzut, 2007). Interventions to aid those affected by FASD These physical, mental, social, learning and behavioral limitations experienced by individuals with FASD have possible lifelong implications. Fortunately, there is help for both the individuals and their families provided by Social Service agencies in form of resources and assistance needed to have a good quality of life. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (1975), school aged children with disabilities (including those diagnosed with FAS) are provided with reasonable accommodations including untimed tests, sitting in front of the class, modified homework and the provision of necessary services and often the implementation of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). An IEP details services that will be provided to assist the child in learning and may include services like Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, and/or the provision of a classroom aide. These individuals often have social workers or case managers working with them to ensure that the services documented in the IEP’s are being provided and working effectively. Implications of FASD on Social Work FASD provides opportunities for Social Workers to play an important role in impacting positive change. Social Workers could take the lead in screening for alcohol use among women of child-bearing age and educate them about the FASD (Boyce, 2010). Women who choose to continue drinking should be encouraged to use contraceptives to reduce the likelihood of giving birth to a child with FASD. Social Workers should also be actively involved in nutrition education to ensure that pregnant mothers are following balanced diet for optimum fetal development. Nutrition education should especially target participants of the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) and Women, Infants and Children (WIC) as these populations’ income may limit their food choices. FASD often have significant lifelong deficits in functional life skills that can lead to problems with day to day functioning. In adulthood, these deficits can be manifested in mental health difficulties, disrupted job experiences, trouble with the law, substance abuse and difficulties with independent living. Hence Social Workers play the important role of advocating for individuals affected by FASD, helping them to navigate their immediate environment and linking them with support services (Warren Murray, in press). Prevention of FASD is of great importance and this implies that Social Workers have the responsibility of mobilizing campaigns against drinking during pregnancy. This can be done through community education, incorporating medical personnel in research and preventive practice as well as holding alcohol producers accountable for posting health warning labels on publicity items. Conclusion Maternal alcohol use is a worldwide phenomenon that indiscriminately affects families and children of all ethnicities in all societies. Fortunately, it is possible to classify and tackle the treatment problems raised by individuals with FASD. The hope is that with continued research, education, and support from Social Service agencies, this problem can be prevented. While resources are available to help individuals and their families, it is important to know that the best treatment of FASD is prevention. It is not yet known the specific timing, frequency and quantity of alcohol use throughout the gestational period that are responsible FASD and FAS. Drinking early in the gestational period, before the woman even knows she is pregnant may present special risks for the developing embryo. Thus strategies to prevent alcohol use in pregnancy need to take into consideration that the prevalence of drinking by women of child-bearing age is on the rise in many parts of the world and most pregnancies are not planned. Bibliography CDC. Gov. (1983, January 13). Retrieved from Perspectives in Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: Public Awareness Week: http://www. dc. gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/00000257. htm Ashford, J. B. , Lecroy, C. W. (2012). Human Behavior in the Social Environment: A Multidimensional Approach. Belmont, CA: Cole Cengage. Boyce, M. (2010, June). A Better Future for Baby: Stemming the tide of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Journal of Family Practice, 59(6). Fleisher, S. (2010, May). Foetal Alcohol Syndrome: Raising Awareness about Alcohol in Pregnancy. British Journal of Midwifery, 18(5). Shiel, W. C. ( 2010, December 21). Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Retrieved from Medicinenet. com: http://www. medicinenet. com/fetal_alcohol_syndrome/article. htm Wacha, V. , Obrzut, J. (2007, June). Effects of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome on Neuropsychological Function. Journal of Development and Physical Disabilities, 19(3). Warren, K. , Murray, M. (in press). Alcohol and Pregnancy: Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders and the Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Alcohol: Science, Policy and Public Health. ——————————————– [ 1 ]. The purpose of prenatal care is to monitor the development, health and nutritional status of both the mother and the baby during the pregnancy to ensure an uncomplicated pregnancy and the delivery of a live and healthy infant. [ 2 ]. Some pregnant women may develop gestational diabetes (or gestational diabetes mellitus, GDM), a condition in which women without previously diagnosed diabetes exhibit high blood glucose levels during pregnancy (especially during third trimester). [ 3 ]. Cerebral palsy is a term encompassing a group of non-progressive, non-contagious motor conditions that cause physical disability in human development. How to cite Pregnancy, Birth and the Newborn: Focus on Fasd, Essay examples

Saturday, December 7, 2019

Bess Myerson once wrote that to fall in love is awfully simple, but to fall out of love is simply awful Essay Example For Students

Bess Myerson once wrote that to fall in love is awfully simple, but to fall out of love is simply awful Essay Mending a broken heart is never easy. There is no quick way to stop your heart from hurting so much. To stop loving isnt an option. Author Henri Nouwen writes, When those you love deeply reject you, leave you, or die, your heart will be broken. But that should not hold you back from loving deeply. The pain that comes from deep love makes your love ever more fruitful. But how do we get beyond the pain Here are 10 tips Ive gathered from experts and from conversations with friends on how they patched up their heart and tried, ever so gradually, to move on. 1. Go through it, not around it. I realize the most difficult task for a person with a broken heart is to stand still and feel the crack. But that is exactly what she must do. Because no shortcut is without its share of obstructions. Heres a simple fact You have to grieve in order to move on. During the 18 months of my severe depression, my therapist repeated almost every visit Go through it. Not around it. Because if I went around some of the issues that were tearing me apart inside, then I would bump into them somewhere down the line, just like being caught in the center of a traffic circle. By going through the intense pain, I eventually surfaced as a stronger person ready to tackle problems head on. Soon the pain lost its stronghold over me. 2. Detach and revel in your independence again. Attempting to fill the void yourself without rushing to a new relationship or trying desperately to win your lover back is essentially what detaching is all about. The Buddha taught that attachment that leads to suffering. So the most direct path to happiness and peace is detachment. In his book, Eastern Wisdom for Western Minds, Victor M. Parachin tells a wonderful story about an old gardener who sought advice from a monk. Writes Parachin Great Monk, let me ask you How can I attain liberation The Great Monk replied Who tied you up This old gardener answered Nobody tied me up. The Great Monk said Then why do you seek liberation One of the most liberating thoughts I repeat to myself when Im immersed in grief and sadness is this I dont need anyone or anything to make me happy. When Im experiencing the intense pangs of grief, it is so difficult to trust that I can be whole without that person in my life. But I have learned over and over again that I can. I really can. It is my job to fill the emptiness, and I can do it creatively, and with the help of my higher power. 3. List your strengths. As I wrote in my 12 Ways to Keep Going post, a technique  that helps me when I feel raw and defeated to try anymore is to list my strengths. I say to myself, Self, you have been sober for 20 years Weaklings cant pull off that And here you are, alive, after those 18 months of intense suicidal thoughts. Plus you havent smoked a cigarette since that funeral back in December of last year I say all of that while listening to the Rocky soundtrack, and by the last line, Im ready to tackle my next challenge move on from this sadness and try to be a productive individual in this world. If you cant list your strengths, start a self-esteem file. Click here to learn how you build one. 4. Allow some fantasizing. .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411 , .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411 .postImageUrl , .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411 , .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411:hover , .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411:visited , .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411:active { border:0!important; } .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411:active , .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411 .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u70ffede1f6f580698eb42f72eda08411:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: In what ways could the hound of the baskervilles be described as a gothic novel? EssayGrief wouldnt be the natural process that it should be without some yearning for the person you just lost. Dr. Christine Whelan, who writes the Pure Sex, Pure Column on BustedHalo.com, explains the logic of allowing a bit of fantasy. She writes If you are trying to banish a sexual fantasy from your head, telling yourself Im not going to fantasize about her or I wont think about what it would be like to be intimate with him might make it worse In a famous psychological study from the 1980s, a group of subjects were told to think about anything but whatever they did, they were not supposed to think about a white bear. Guess what they all thought about A white bear. 5. Help someone else. When Im in pain, the only guaranteed antidote to my suffering is to box up all of my feelings, sort them, and then try to find a use for them. Thats why writing Beyond Blue contributes a big chunk to my recovery, why moderating Group Beyond Blue has me excited to wake up every day. When you turn your attention to another person especially someone who is struggling with the same kind of pain you forget about yourself for a split moment. And lets face it, that, on some days, feels like a miracle. 6. Laugh. And cry. Laughter heals on many levels as I explain in my 9 Ways Humor Heals post, and so does crying. You think its just a coincidence that you always feel better after a good cry Nope, there are many physiological reasons that contribute to the healing power of tears. Some of them have been documented by biochemist William Frey who has spent 15 years as head of a research team studying tears. Among their findings is that emotional tears (as compared to tears of irritation, like when you cut an onion) contain toxic biochemical byproducts, so that weeping removes these toxic substances and relieves emotional stress. So go grab a box of Kleenex and cry your afternoon away. 7. Make a good and bad list. You need to know which activities will make you feel good, and which ones will make you want to toilet paper your ex-lovers home (or apartment). You wont really know which activity  belongs on which list until you start trying things, but I suspect that things like checking out his wall on Facebook and seeing that he has just posted a photo of his gorgeous new girlfriend is not going to make you feel good, so put that on the dont attempt list, along with e-mails and phone calls to his buddies fishing for information about him. On the feels peachy list might be found such ventures as deleting all of his e-mails and voicemails, pawning off the jewelry he gave you (using the cash for a much-needed massage), laughing over coffee with a new friend who doesnt know him from Adam (to ensure his name wont come up). 8. Work it out. Working out your grief quite literally by running, swimming, exercising, walking, or kick-boxing is going to give you immediate relief. On a physiological level because exercise increases the activity of serotonin and/or norepinehrine and stimulates brain chemicals that foster growth of nerve cells but also on an emotional level, because you are taking charge and becoming the master of your mind and body. Plus you can visualize the fellow who is responsible for your pain and you can kick him in the face. Now doesnt that feel good 9. Create a new world. This is especially important if your world has collided with his, meaning that mutual friends who have seen him in the last week feel the need to tell you about it. Create your own safe world full of new friends who wouldnt recognize him in a crowd and dont know how to spell his name where he is not allowed to drop by for a figurative or literal surprise visit. Take this opportunity to try something new scuba diving lessons, an art class, a book club, a blog so to program your mind and body to expect a fresh beginning without him (or her). .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3 , .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3 .postImageUrl , .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3 , .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3:hover , .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3:visited , .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3:active { border:0!important; } .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3:active , .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3 .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u265f283f921dbe8184131a0bcf8ebcb3:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: 'The Great Gatsby' by F Scott Fitzgerald Essay10. Find hope. Theres a powerful quote in the movie The Tale of Despereaux that Ive been thinking about ever since I heard it There is one emotion that is stronger than fear, and that is forgiveness. I suppose thats why, at my fathers deathbed, the moment of reconciliation between us made me less scared to lose him. But forgiveness requires hope believing that a better place exists, that the aching emptiness experienced in your every activity wont be with you forever, that one day youll be excited to make coffee in the morning or go to a movie with friends. Hope is believing that the sadness can evaporate, that if you try like hell to move on with your life, your smile wont always be forced. Therefore in order to forgive and to move past fear, you need to find hope. And remember to love again Once our hearts are bruised and burned from a relationship that ended, we have two options we can close off pieces of our heart so that one day no one will be able to get  inside. Or we can love again. Deeply, just as intensely as we did before. Henri Nouwen urges to love again because the heart only expands with the love we are able to pour forth. He writes The more you have loved and have allowed yourself to suffer because of your love, the more you will be able to let your heart grow wider and deeper. When your love is truly giving and receiving, those whom you love will not leave your heart even when they depart from you. The pain of rejection, absence, and death can become fruitful. Yes, as you love deeply the ground of your heart will be broken more and more, but you will rejoice in the abundance of the fruit it will bear.

Saturday, November 30, 2019

Melon Queen free essay sample

I mention this being out of character for her because, although she is a pretty girl, she has never been the pageant type. Going into her senior year of high school, she was the only girl in her class still participating in three sports: volleyball, track, and basketball. She has never been afraid of dirt or sweat, just not the pageant type. In the months leading up to the contest she and her fellow contestants attended weekly classes with the past years queen in order to learn the ways of royalty. This includes smiling, walking, waving, talking, and dressing. She would show her mother and I what she had learned almost daily and she was getting quite good. As I mentioned before she is not the pageant type and hoped that she would be heartbroken after the contest. The summer went quickly and the festival was upon us. The time had come to put on a suit and tie and escort my beautiful daughter to the stage, where in front of a thousand people she would walk the runway and answer a difficult question concerning what she would do with 0,000,000. We will write a custom essay sample on Melon Queen or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The contestants would be judged by four representatives from different festivals across Ohio. Ten girls were involved in the competition. I thought again how I hoped my daughter would receive a place and avert a broken heart. My wife and I sat in the front row. We watched and waited while the judges deliberated somewhere out of sight. This process seemed to take forever. When actually, after fifteen minutes, the judges came back with their decision. We held our breath as the MC took the envelopes and all ten girls held hands. The first announcement was that of Miss Congeniality. Everyone got quiet and my daughters name was called. A feeling of relief and joy came over me. She would not go home empty handed, she had not just won an award, she won the award chosen by her peers. That was something to be proud of. The MC then announced the runners up. Fourth, third, second, first then the moment of truth, who would be queen? Then I heard one of the most memorable things of my life, â€Å"The 2007-2008 Milan Melon Festival Queen is Amanda Richards! † My daughter had won. I actually thought I was going to faint. Everyone was jumping, cheering, and yelling. The whole extended family surrounded us laughing, crying, and hugging. As I looked up at my daughter and she looked back at me holding her roses and her two trophies in her arms, the smile on her face will be locked in my memory forever. The next year was filled to the brim with our travels around the state of Ohio with a giant slice of melon in tow. Attending festivals from Circleville to Geneva on the lake, and 26 others in between. The whole experience took us to places in Ohio I’ve never heard of and probably would never had visited had it not been for my daughters â€Å"seemingly out of character† decision to run for Melon festival Queen.

Monday, November 25, 2019

Tommorow When the War Began essays

Tommorow When the War Began essays In the novel Tomorrow When The War Began, by John Marsden, Australia has been invaded by another country. Due to this invasion Ellie and her friends become isolated from their families in Wirrawee. The group are forced to discover their hidden strengths and learn important values and lessons about life. These values and lessons begin with learning to fend for themselves, discovering the importance of their friendships and their ability to draw on courage when faced with difficult and dangerous situations. After Ellie and her friends discover that they have been invaded they return to a remote wilderness area known as Hell. Unexpectedly the group are now without their families to support them and are faced with the fact that they will have to make decisions for themselves. The group successfully make plans to hide from the enemy, gather food supplies and make decisions about their own survival and also that of their families. Homer often takes on the role of leader in guiding the group through decision making processes. An example of this leadership is when he says The way I see it, these are our choices, now that we know a bit more about the deal. One, we can sit tight and do nothing. And theres nothing chicken about that. Its got a lot to recommend it. Were not trained for this stuff and its important for ourselves, and our families that we stay alive. Two we can have a go at getting our families and maybe other people out of the Showground... Three we can do something else to help the good guys. Thats us ... . With Homer leading them the group learn to work together in order to survive. Friendship, loyalty and looking after each other are values that are important to the group. The group recognise the importance of trusting each other and working together as a team in order to survive. An incident where these values are clearly demonstrated is when Robyn and Lee do not retu ...

Friday, November 22, 2019

A Comparative Study on Main Characters Mean of Self-Expression in Novels This Boys Life and Into the Forest

A Comparative Study on Main Characters' Mean of Self-Expression in Novels This Boy's Life and Into the Forest Recreation In the novels This Boy’s Life and Into the Forest, both protagonists similarly utilize self expression as method to recreate themselves and escape a worse alternative. Throughout the novel, Tobias and the two sisters are plunged into harsh conditions where they must care for themselves. To keep themselves sane, they force a hobby or mentality in order to keep a goal in front of them, rather than accepting their current situation, almost to say that they are unaccepting of their current substandard condition. Tobias indulges within the Jack London novels to the extent that he idolizes their heroic figures and changes his name to Jack, so to set standards of himself in order to become something greater. â€Å"I was subject to fits of feeling myself unworthy†¦ It didn’t take much to bring this sensation to life, along with the certainty that everybody but my mother saw through me and did not like what they saw.† Eva, in contrast, expresses herself through ballet, seemingly to distract herself from the decrepit and deprived life she loosely maintains in the isolated shack with her family. As the power goes out and she does not have the resources to play music or attend the dance school, she subjects to dancing to the tick of the metronome, even if her opportunity to perform on stage has long since expired. â€Å"I need to dance, Nell. I have to dance to music. Just for a few minutes. To give me courage.† Her everyday practice provides a sense of cathartic release to relinquish her pains and keep her mind isolated from the chaos around her. Both characters engage in an activity which in turn provide mental stability, for they set a goal to work for, no matter how unrealistic, to serve as a more meaningful reason to live in their spiteful situation. Nell, unlike Tobias, had much direction in life, yet was unable to carry out her future because of the chaotic way society is maintaining itself, for Tobias aspired to transition from the weak boy into the men living in the stories he reads, in other words, and pseudo-inspiration. â€Å"When we are green, still half-created, we believe that our dreams are rightsand that falling and dying are for quitters. We live on the innocent and monstrous assurance that wehave a special arrangement whereby we will be allowed to stay green forever†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Hegland 286). Here, Tobias shows his maturity in reflecting upon his life, explaining that our ambitions are very much a concrete part of our personality, that every dream we have will come to reality. However, it soon becomes apparent that life does not go as he planned it. He over glamorizes his life to his pen pal Alice, who he tries to describe the life he’d like to live, dreaming of transforming himself into the charmed young man he so desires to be. This contrasts heavily with Nell’s hopes, for she was had the skill, strive, and connections to perfect herself as a dancer, making her goal much more realistic. Yet, her days of dancing were put to an end due sudden poverty stricken condition of the the town. Nell, in comparison, had the opportunity to live out her dream as a dancer, whereas Tobias’s dreams are short lived, using the heroic figure to compensate for the lowly person he was at the time, making no attempt at realizing his fantasies. In both stories, the characters both struggle for their own sense of survival through independence. â€Å"It’s a physical urge, stronger than thirst or sex. Halfway back on the left side of my head there is a spot that longs for the jolt of a bullet, that years for that fire, that final empty rip. I want to be let out of this cavern, to open up myself up to the ease of not-living. I am tired of sorrow and struggle and worry. I am tired of my sad sister. I want to turn out the last light.† (Hegland 248) Nell explains that the laborious extent it takes just to choose to live on is much more struggle than it is to choose to die. The simple life she was familiar with as a child in a family was easy; no need to plan for the food or shelter the day or the next. Tobias concedes with this, stating, â€Å"But our failure was ordained, because the real family we set out to imitate does not exist in nature.† As he grows up, he starts to see that his family aren’t the people to take care of him; he has to do that himself. Though his mother searches for a significant other for most of the story, he realizes that no matter how many times she may remarry, there will never exist a perfect family. In the end of it all, he will never be able to depend on someone else, his survival would be solely his responsibility. As the plots of both stories develop, it becomes evident that they are both bothered by their past, and struggle to alleviate the pain inflicted as they grow up. â€Å"So my sister dances and the dead house burns, and i scrawl these last few words by the light of its burning. I know I should toss this story, too, on those flames. But I am still too much a storyteller -or at least a storykeeper still too much of my father’s daughter to burn these pages.†. Nell and her sister dance on the ground her memories and childhood were built around in this moment of catharsis, so to rid themselves of the grief and pains the past has brought them. As Tobias grows up, he attempts to find new opportunities to recreate himself, to find reason to look forward instead of looking back. He marvels at the freedom of starting anew, yet is unable to find the sanctuary he longs for. As both Tobias and his mother eventually move away, he chooses to join the army to rid of his past, to finally become the hero he has imagined from the novels. Though both characters attempt at forgetting their grievances, they both deal with it in different ways, nell does it through catharsis while tobias tries to completely reorganize his life and persona, thus mitigating their growing pains.

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Relationships Among Organizational Culture, Human, Resource Practices Essay

Relationships Among Organizational Culture, Human, Resource Practices and its CEOs Leadership Style - Essay Example However, it should be a representative of the views of the employee’s beliefs to encourage innovativeness and free will. The organizational culture is likely to be shaped by the Human Resources practices, the CEO and the leadership styles applied. For example if stern action is taken by the management due to specific behavior ,then everyone in the organization will follow a certain pattern either to adopt or avoid the occurrence depending on the outcome. The most influential person in the organization to set the organizational culture is the company’s CEO. Although a CEO may come into a company long before its culture has been established, he/she has an upper hand in changing the way things are done in the organization. When mergers and acquisitions are formed, the organizational culture of the organizations involved in the merger is likely to be affected .In turn, this change will affect he effectiveness of the organization (Heller, 2007). Normalcy can be resumed after successful merger of not only the business side but the human resources which is directly related to the organizational culture of the new acquired business. ... nducted during the transition, Joe Moeller stated that he had worked in the Petroleum and Koch industries for the last 39 years .Although GP presented him with a total new playing ground, he was ready to take on the new roles to greater success encompassed on Koch’s culture â€Å"we will develop and leverage what we believe are the core capabilities of Koch companies and build a culture of principled entrepreneurship† (DeGross, 2006). During his leadership position in Koch, Moeller promoted an entrepreneurial culture that awards and develops superior performers in the organization. He believed in people rather than in systems. In Koch, every single employee right from the top to the bottom enjoyed the right to share their opinion under his leadership. From this one can tell that Moeller was a people oriented and democratic leader. He believes in the capacity of every employee in helping the company achieve its goals. He practiced democracy because all employees were at liberty of questioning the status quo. Furthermore, he would easily interact with employees in the lower cadre a characteristic that a servant leader would exhibit. Most of these leadership characteristic that he had were absent in the old G.P. To successfully change the old G.P’s culture to suit the Koch’s one, Moeller introduced entrepreneurial spirit that promoted a people oriented leadership. He did away with the bureaucratic ways of making decision and brought in a democratic and participative culture. He also promoted the free interaction among all levels of employees to exhibit a servant leadership style where junior employees would not fell intimidated by their seniors (DeGross, 2006). GP’s HR policies worked along bureaucratic systems. The employees were accustomed to going through

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Accreditation of Educational Institutions Essay

Accreditation of Educational Institutions - Essay Example The agencies are expected to monitor the affairs of the educational institute and allow them membership by accreditation and evaluate the process of educational plans being executed by the member institute over a given period of its membership validity (Mora, 2004, p.437,). Accreditation agencies are of the view that human abilities are to be enhanced with independent learning strategy along with theoretical knowledge invested into their brains. They set standards of recognition and identity criteria for each member college with a view to cater the needs of students, who are mostly of creditable brilliance and partly employed. Banks and educational authorities at higher levels take feedback from the accreditation agencies for promoting the initiatives of each member college and forward proceedings for fund allotment and scholarship support to students as needed. Once the evaluation is on the onset, the educational institutions are accountable for their operative activities to the agency as it is the negotiator between the institution and the ultimate higher authorities. A search for the best-known accreditation agency in the world ends at Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) of America. Accreditation of colleges and other educational organizations can be easier with the application of some basic principles as set approved by CHEA. The CHEA principles are aimed at regulating the standards of all member colleges with the norms of CHEA. Principle.1 deals with considerations and actions for accreditation of non-US institutions and programs in other countries. Principle.2 considers the expectation for the conduct of US accreditation reviews of non-US institutions and their programs in another country.  

Saturday, November 16, 2019

Book Review of Drinking Essay Example for Free

Book Review of Drinking Essay Caroline Knapp writes eloquently and honestly, yet often starkly, about her life as a â€Å"functioning alcoholic. † Ms. Knapp graduated Magna cum laude from Brown University, was a contributing editor at New Woman magazine as well as the Boston Phoenix. She wrote for many other magazines as well and was the author of Alice K’s Guide to Life. She was born into an upper-class family, one of two twin girls, daughter of a psychoanalyst father and an artist mother. Yet despite all the gifts seemingly bestowed upon her, from her earliest memories Ms. Knapp felt that she was different in some way; that she needed something to sustain her and help her travel through life; her particular crutch became alcohol. Carolyn’s family, though a model of respectability and stability on the outside, had their own particular demons to deal with. Carolyn’s father was described as â€Å"cold, remote, and inaccessible, an alcoholic involved in extramarital affairs. † (Handrup, 1998, p. 1). Her mother seemed to be â€Å"preoccupied with breast cancer throughout much of Knapp’s childhood,† and â€Å"was seemingly unaware of the inner life of her children. † (p. 1). Carolyn relates stories of her father’s previous marriage which produced three children, and the confusion that came along with the ex-wife and the younger son who was born with fetal alcohol syndrome and whose erratic behavior frightened Carolyn. The theory of nature causing alcoholism pretty much goes out the window on this particular case as Carolyn’s twin sister Becca never turned to alcohol or any other addictive behavior to cope with a life that virtually mirrored Carolyn’s own. The disability of any alcoholic seems to be an intense need for protection; an inability to weather the storms of life alone, the absolute craving for a friend, a lover that will carry them through the rough times. In fact, Ms. Knapp felt about alcohol the exact same way she imagined others felt about their lovers. It was something she craved, obsessed over, and thought about constantly. Ms. Knapp’s â€Å"rough times† in life soon translated into absolutely anything at all, good or bad. The sun was shining, or it wasn’t, the cashier at the grocery store was unfriendly, or perhaps too friendly, somebody died, a baby was born. Every nuance of life became too difficult to deal with, the emotions that accompanied normal day-to-day living were too much to process without a drink—or two, or three, or four. Ms. Knapp wryly notes that living without alcohol is like being â€Å"forced to live alone without the armor. The armor, of course, is protection from all the things we might actually feel, if we allowed ourselves to feel at all;† (Knapp, 1996, p. 113) Comfort became an absolute necessity, and Caroline remembers that from the time she was able to sit in her mother’s lap she would rock herself back and forth, and that this bizarre behavior continued for more years than she cared to remember. â€Å"Later I developed a more elaborate system: I’d get on my knees and elbow and curl up in a ball on the bed facedown like a turtle in its shell, and rock away, for hours sometimes†¦I was deeply embarrassed that I did this, ashamed of it, really, but I needed it. I needed it and it worked. The truth? I did this until I was sixteen. The rocking was just like drinking. † (Knapp, 1996, p. 62). So, from the comfort she derived from rockingfor hours sometimes Caroline â€Å"graduated† to a more sophisticated form of self-comfort—alcohol. She never came to a satisfactory conclusion as to why that comfort was so essential to her. â€Å"I still don’t know, today, if that hunger originated within the family or if it was something I was simply born with. In the end I don’t suppose it matters. You get your comfort where you can. † (p. 61). While Knapp faced few serious medical issues as a result of her alcoholism, she nonetheless suffered through the physical challenges her addiction brought such as the soon-daily hangovers, headaches and nausea. She suffered blackouts on occasion, and another woman one day remarked about all the tiny broken blood vessels on her nose—a classic sign of the habitual drinker. Knapp combined two addictions for a period of time; anorexia and alcoholism. She felt like the anorexia gave her control over her life, and the alcoholism made it possible for her to continue the anorexia. She notes during her anorexic phase that â€Å"I simply couldn’t stand the starving anymore, couldn’t go on without some kind of release from the absolute rigor and vigilance and self-control, and I’d go out and eat like crazy and drink like crazy. These episodes were usually preceded by some glimmer of insight into my own loneliness, some gnawing sense that my hunger was more than merely physical. † (Knapp, 1996, p. 141). The psychological consequences of this intense need for protection in the form of alcohol were many; Knapp notes several times how impossible it was to maintain any type of intimacy in relationships when she had a whole secret life that nobody else knew of. She felt she was one person at work the responsible, hard-working, intelligent and dedicated writer another with each of her boyfriends, another with her parents and siblings, and perhaps could only let her true self come through when she was alone with her lover, her glass of bourbon. Caroline felt an emptiness deep inside, that nothing could counteract except alcohol. She also felt an enormous sense of powerlessness in her own life, and described it in this way: â€Å"As a rule, active alcoholics are powerless people, or at least a lot of us tend to feel that way in our hearts. † (Knapp, 1996. p. 178). Perhaps because she was a classic example of the functioning alcoholic, few people in Caroline’s life ever mentioned her drinking to her as being a problem. When her mother told her that perhaps she was drinking a bit too much, Caroline promised she would only drink two drinks a day, no matter what. When she was unable to keep that promise, she found one excuse after another. Her own sister, while realizing the problem, skirted the issue with Caroline. While Becca didn’t come right out and say that she thought her sister was an alcoholic, Caroline felt shame because she knew on some level her sister knew. Friends and boyfriends alike, seemed to accept the fact that Caroline drank, never seeing much below that superficial level of awareness. Although there were moments of clarity when Knapp realized she must stop drinking, (such as the time she was drunkenly swinging her best friend’s two daughters around and fell down, narrowly missing injuring the children), in the end it was no one thing that prompted her to enter rehab. She felt that it would take â€Å"great courage to face life without anesthesia,† (Iaciofano, 2004, p. 13) yet, in the end, she was able to pull that very courage from somewhere deep inside herself. Ms. Knapp’s story, full of bad relationships, years of self doubt and pain, strong addictions and family issues, psychologically goes far beyond the disease of alcoholism itself, and offers tremendous insight into the gut-wrenching need for something to ease the pain that life inflicts. Ms. Knapp notes that â€Å"You take away the drink and you take away the single most important method of coping you have. How to talk to people without a drink†¦.. How to experience a real emotion—pain or anxiety or sadness—without an escape route, a quick way to anesthetize it. How to sleep at night. † (Knapp, 1996, p. 254). References Handrup, Cynthia Taylor. (July-September 1998). Drinking: A Love Story. Perspectives in Psychiatric Care. Retrieved April 20, 2006, from http://www. findarticles. com/p/articles/mi_qa3804/is_199807/ai_n8791537/print Iaciofano, Carol. (June 16, 2004). Lyrical Essays Trace a Woman’s Short Yet Rich Life. Globe. Retrieved April 21, 2006 from http://www. arlindo-correia. com/061203. html Knapp, Caroline. (1996). Drinking: A Love Story. New York, Bantam Dell, A Division of Random House.

Thursday, November 14, 2019

The Narrative Voice in Araby, Livvie and The Yellow Wallpaper

The Narrative Voice in Araby, Livvie and The Yellow Wallpaper I hadn't really considered the importance of the narrative voice on the way the story is told until now. In "Araby", "Livvie" and "The Yellow Wallpaper" the distinctive narrative voices and their influences shed light on hidden meanings and the narrator's credibility. In "Araby" the story is told from the point of view of a man remembering a childhood experience. The story is told in the first person. The reader has access to the thoughts of the narrator as he relives his experience of what we assume is his first crush. We do not know how the girl feels about him. The narrator's youth and inexperience influence his perspective. His love for her is deep and innocent. As an adult, the narrator recollects his emotions for the girl with fondness, but the reader also detects a hint of regret as well. The narrator tells us that their first communication takes place when he goes to the back drawing room where the priest had died. There, in that sacred place, he spoke with the girl and made a promise that he would get her a gift if he was able to go to Araby. Soon after, "as a creature driven by vanity", he fails to retrieve a gift for her and is humiliated. I wonder if the narrator is implying that his true devotion to her was somehow blessed in the room where the priest died and when he allowed his sinful vanity to penetrate that love, he lost her. In "Livvie" the story is relayed by an omniscient third person narration. The narrator in this case provides insight into each of the characters, yielding to no one inparticular. The narrator uses subtle patterns in association wit... ...ten seen as representing an imaginative or "poetic" view of things that conflicts with (or sometimes compliments) the American male's "common sense" approach to reality". When society "values the useful and the practical and rejects anything else as nonsense", (feminine) imagination and creativity are threatened. Much like our narrator, women of that time were directed to suppress their creativity as it threatened the dominating male's sense of logic and control. "Perhaps the story was unpopular (at first) because it was, at least on some level, understood all too clearly, because it struck too deeply and effectively at traditional ways of seeing the world and woman's place in it". Works Dited Shumaker, Conrad. "'Too Terribly Good to Be Printed': Charlotte Gilman's 'The Yellow Wallpaper'." Journal of American Literature 57.4 (1985): 588-599.

Monday, November 11, 2019

Marketing Audits and Its Importance to an Organisation

Marketing Audits and its importance to an organisation As of I am starting to write this essay, an historic and astonishing incident happened in US—Standard & Poors first time downgraded American Federal Bonds form AAA to AA+. Look at the messed up world economic picture–US is suffering from recession without any better signs, Europe is struggling with debt crisis, only growth engine China is also slowing down. We are facing the greatest uncertainty ever experienced before, as for economic society, walking away from this desperate situation needs to review history and find appropriate tools, from an organisation’s point of view, one of the effective tools is to seek for effective and regular marketing audits to cope with rapidly changing economic environment. Definition and Purposes of Marketing Audit The concept of marketing audit dated back to 1950s and evolved through application phase of 1960s, turbulent 1970s, growing period of 1980s and 1990s until now. The followings are several definitions of marketing audits: A comprehensive examination of an organisation’s marketing structure, programs and performance†Ã¢â‚¬â€-Peter Rix, Marketing-a practical approach â€Å"Systematic, critical, rigorous and unbiased study of efficiency of all marketing activities within an organisation extending to evaluation of each and every functional objective and their effective coordina tion†Ã¢â‚¬â€-Brian Monger, Marketing in black white â€Å"A periodic, comprehensive, systematic, and independent examination of the organisation’s marketing environment, internal marketing system and specific marketing activities†Ã¢â‚¬â€-Philip Kotler The purposes of marketing audit are to find marketing opportunities, locate marketing issues, seek right short term and long term solution, which ensure the implementation of marketing plans or the revision of unreasonable plans to improve an organisation’s overall marketing performance. Components of the Marketing Audit An effective and rounded marketing audit covers six components: 1/ Marketing Environment Audit Through auditing marketing environment in which it operates, an organisation could find if its marketing strategy is adapt to the marketing environment, and if any changes needed. The marketing environment consists of two subclasses, one is the macro environment which includes political/legal, economic, social/cultural and technological, and another one is industry and competitive environment. In short, PEST+C. 2/ Marketing Strategy Audit It mainly examine whether or not an organisation’s goals and objectives reflect market orientation, if the organisation takes right competition position, seizes market opportunities and allocates appropriate resources. 3/ Marketing Organisation Audit The marketing auditor needs to consider the decision-making ability of marketing organisation, as well as its ability of analysis, planning and execution. Other factors include its strain capacity to market, and its interaction with other function departments. 4/ Marketing Systems Audit It focuses on whether or not an organisation has well-established and effective systems for information gathering, planning and control. All these systems can be classified as internal systems, external systems, vertical and horizontal marketing systems. A vertical marketing system (VMS) is one in which the main members of a distribution channel—producer, wholesaler, and retailer—work together as a unified group in order to meet consumer needs. A horizontal marketing systems(HMS) means in which members at the same level in a channel of distribution band together in strategic alliances or joint ventures to exploit a new marketing opportunity. 5/ Marketing Productivity Audit A marketing organisation needs analyses on profits, cost-benefit, the audit covers performance examinations on sale-profit rates, costs of marketing, collection and inventory, etc. It also examines if there exists excessive cost expenditure and corresponding solutions on cost reduction. 6/ Marketing Function Audit Marketing function audit targets on marketing elements such as products, prices, places and promotions, as well as performance evaluation on marketing organisation, it consists of overall audit, sales audit, market investigation audit, and advertising audit. The auditors, through marketing function audit, may spot issues within marketing management and make relevant recommendations. Main Characteristics of the Marketing Audit Marketing Audit is a process of comprehensive, systematic and independent analysis and assessment of company's marketing environment, objectives, strategies and activities to identify problem areas and operational strengths and weaknesses and recommends the courses of action to be taken to improve company's overall marketing performance and make marketing strategies and plan more effective and result oriented. The main characteristics can be summarised as the followings, 1/ It should be comprehensive and broad in focus covering the entire marketing environment of the company. / It should be an objective exercise and independent of the managers directly involved in making the marketing decisions. 3/ It should be a systematic and orderly sequence of diagnostic steps as compared to an unstructured and random investigation. 4/ It should be carried out periodically. The marketing audit should be undertaken on a regular basis and not only when major problems arise. Main elements to be incl uded in a marketing audit The key elements of a marketing audit are: 1/ Marketing Mix For products it includes Product, Price, Place-distribution and Promotion For services it includes Product, Price, Place-distribution, Promotion, People, Processes and Physical Environment 2/ Product Life Cycle [pic] 3/ Competitive Advantage A competitive advantage is an advantage over competitors gained by offering consumers greater value, either by means of lower prices or by providing greater benefits and service that justifies higher prices. 4/ Internal and external assessment – SWOT – PEST The Marketing Audit Process and Participants likely to be involved The marketing audit process proceeds with the following steps, Firstly, setting up the audit objectives and scope, preparing relevant documentation, deciding time period for the audit. Secondly, gathering the data, conducting interviews and inquiries. Finally, preparing the audit report, presenting conclusions and providing relevant solutions. Bearing in mind, ‘the most valuable part if the marketing audit often lies not so much in the auditor’s specific recommendations but in the process that managers begin to go through to assimilate, debate, and develop their own concept of the needed marketing action. —The Marketing Audit Comes of Age by Philip Kotler, William T. Gregor and William H. Rodgers III The participants likely to be involved cover all stakeholders including management levels, ordinary staff, suppliers, dealers, customers even shareholders and communities the organisation located in. Who of these stakeholders and to what extent get involved in the aud it depend on the organisation’s specific requirements. Times when a marketing audit should be undertaken The marketing audits could be undertaken on conventional and unconventional bases, which means on one hand an organisation needs to conduct regular and periodic audit and examine whether or not it and its each function unit achieve setting goals and objectives, if any changes needed to its strategy, on the other hand, if an organisation’s internal departments or independent units are performing poorly, it should carry a thorough marketing audit to help them find reasons and improvement methods. Various forms of a marketing audit The marketing audit must be carried independently by an inside audit, onducted by a person or group inside the company but outside the operation being evaluated, or an outside audit conducted by a management consulting firm or practitioner. Why they are considered to be one of the most practical and profitable tools available to a marketer. The marketing audits cover all major marketing areas of a business, not just a few trouble spots. It assesses the marketing environment, marketing strategy, the marketing organisation, marketing systems, the marketing mix and marketing productivity and profitability. The audit is normally conducted by an objective and experienced outside party who is independent of the marketing department. The finding can come as a surprise, and sometimes as a shock, to management. Management then decides which actions make sense and how and when to implement them. The marketing audits prompt to make marketing strategy and plan properly, are beneficial for matching a business’ internal resources with external resources, realise better and profitable operating results.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

Audit homework

Your firm has been engaged to audit the financial statements of Haven Ltd. In obtaining an understanding of Internal control relating to credit sales, the following questionnaire Is used: 1 Does the company evaluate the customers credit history, and is amount of available credit checked before a sale is authorized? Select a sample of credit order and inspect credit history and other supporting documents. Review the policy/procedure for customer approval and setting of credit limits. 2 Is there adequate segregation of duties between authoring sales, shipping goods, ND recording sales?Observe and make inquiries about the performance of various functions and duties. 3. Does management compare all shipments with recorded sales to ensure that all sales are recorded? Submit test data for a transaction that has shipping information, both with and without a supporting sales invoice. Select a sample of sales Invoices and examine for evidence that the company compared details to sloping docume nts, purchase orders, and sales orders. 4. Is every recorded sale checked against shipping records for appropriateness of revenue recognition? Submit test data where invoice data does not match with underlying shipping information. Are there adequate controls over the accuracy of the sales invoice? Select a sample of sales Invoices and examine them. 6 Are there adequate controls to ensure that the sales Invoices are recorded In the correct time period? Ledger. Perform sales cut-off tests to obtain assurance that sales transactions and corresponding entries for inventories and cost of goods sold are recorded in the same and proper period. The sales cutoff test involves: Examining shipping documents for several days before and after the cutoff date to determine the date and terms of shipment.Tracing shipping documents to sales and inventory records to establish that the entries were made in the correct accounting period. Inspecting invoices for a period of time before and after the cu toff date to ascertain the validity and propriety of the shipments and corresponding entries. Inquiring of management about any direct shipments by outside suppliers to customers and determining the appropriateness of related entries. 7 Are there adequate controls to ensure that the proper customer is invoiced for shipments?Submit test data the customer who received the shipment but does not match the underlying customer information on the sales order. 8 Does management review all sales that are recorded on a weekly basis? Observe and make inquiries about the managements' comments made on weekly sales report 9 Do adequate controls exist to review company accounting policies regarding revenue recognition? Observe and inquire about the policies regarding revenue recognition. 10 Do adequate controls exist to review the consistency of the estimation of the allowance for doubtful debts?Review subsequent cash receipts from the customer, discusses unpaid accounts with the credit manager an d examines the credit files. These should contain customer's financial statements, credit reports and auditor estimates the likely amount of non-payment for the customer, which is included in the estimate of the allowance for doubtful accounts. In addition, an allowance should be estimated for all other customers, perhaps as a percentage of the current accounts and a higher percentage of past due accounts. The auditor compares his/her estimate to the balance in the allowance account and proposes an adjusting entry for the difference.Required Identify a possible test of controls for the control procedure, assuming a Yes answer to each question? ANSWER: Tests of controls are auditing procedures performed to determine the effectiveness of the design and operation of internal controls. The auditor should obtain audit evidence through tests of controls to support any assessment of control risk that is less than high. The lower the assessment of control risk, the more support the auditor should obtain that internal systems are suitably designed and operating effectively. 11. 30 Greener Pasture Pity Ltd (Green Pasture) is a private nursing home.

Thursday, November 7, 2019

5 Tips for LGBTQ Students How to be Gay at College

5 Tips for LGBTQ Students How to be Gay at College 5 Tips for LGBTQ Students: How to be Gay at College The focus of the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (May 17) this year is â€Å"mental health and wellbeing.† This is particularly relevant to students, as college is a place of self-discovery, and somewhere many LGBTQ people choose to come out or experiment with their identity. Photo: William Murphy As such, we’ve got a few tips for making your college experience a happy one, as there’s no reason you shouldn’t enjoy your education just because you’ve rejected the norms of heteronormativity. 1. Research Different Colleges If you’re thinking of applying to college but want to study somewhere that welcomes LGBTQ students, it pays to do a little research beforehand. One way to do this is to ask current students about their experiences, but there are plenty of online resources if you’re not sure who to ask. 2. Look for Funding College can be expensive, so any financial help is usually welcome. What you might not know is that there are scholarships available specifically for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students. 3. Meeting New People Making new friends is part of the college experience for any student. But when you’re LGBQT, or simply want to explore that side of your personality, you might be particularly keen to meet like-minded people. A good option is to join an LGBTQ advocacy group. Most colleges these days will have at least one LGBTQ group on campus, often affiliated with national organizations like the Gay-Straight Alliance. Likewise, look out for LGBTQ events at your college. Photo: Wikimedia Alternatively, you could venture off campus to find any LGBTQ community centers in your local area. It also helps to research gay-friendly businesses, such as bars, cafes and shops. 4. Get Online Of course, if you don’t have any luck meeting people in meatspace, you always have the World Wide Web as a backup source of awkward first dates (a characteristic feature of any college romance, straight or gay). More seriously, the internet is also a great resource for advice on LGBTQ issues, as well as message boards and forums where you can ask for guidance on just about any topic imaginable. 5. Try Not to Worry†¦ It’s natural to feel a little freaked out when you first go away to college, especially if you’re not sure how other people in your dorm will react when they find out you’re LGBTQ. The first thing to remember here is that you’re under no pressure to reveal anything about your sexuality to other people if you don’t want to. It is entirely your decision when and with whom to discuss your personal life, so move at a pace with which you’re comfortable. The second thing is to realize that most people will support you when they do find out – or simply won’t care! Your friends should always accept you for who you are.

Monday, November 4, 2019

Business Forecasting Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Business Forecasting - Essay Example The third step includes testing the predictability of a model while using the ‘out-of-sample data’, that establishes whether the model can fulfill its duty of predictability. Historical data is essential to predict the future demand. Even though the future data may fit the future data, it is not an assurance that the forecast in the future is accurate. Like in the carbonated soft drink study, the estimate went on for over 153 weeks, with the 13 weeks used as out of sample data. The increased lead times for some specific packaging components is due to the complicated process. Also, the surfacing of more than normal supply and demand issues force a change in the supply chain after only thirteen weeks of the entire plan. The scenarios The scenarios as analyzed in the case study include sensing demand, shaping demand and ways of maximizing Return on Investment. The sensing demand handles the measures the organization undertakes to increase volume in the retail business assoc iated with grocery. The scenario is imperative in demand forecasting because it ensures the production of enough products for existing customers. The firm concentrates on major business indicators, to push sales up thus increasing profitability. The third scenario associated with maximization of ROI, the organization researches on other scenarios that can help boost sales and promote productivity. Another fourth scene not mentioned in the case study, but remains important is to understand the consumer in terms of quality and quantity standards.

Saturday, November 2, 2019

Hispanic American Diversity Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Hispanic American Diversity - Research Paper Example edly larger percentage of people of color and visible minorities within key social institutions such as government office – President-elect Barack Obama is perhaps the most obvious example today but there is also increased representation of visible minorities across the country in all aspects of public office – the police services and the education sector, just to name a few. Changing worldwide immigration patterns have led to an increased flow of people from around the world to the United States, facilitating interracial and intercultural communication. American society has quickly become far less homogenous and cultural institutions are beginning to reflect this. Today, 1 in 3 Americans identify themselves as Hispanic, African-American, Native American, Asian America or Pacific Islander. It is predicted that by the year 2050, more than half of the American population will be identified as minorities. The growth of Hispanic communities in the United States has been profound over the last century and this paper proposes to undertake a thorough analysis of the various Hispanic communities in the United States today. Contrary to popular opinion, the Hispanic community in the United States is not a monolith and is composed of various Spanish-speaking groups which may share various commonalities but also differ in a variety of respects. Accordingly, this research paper aims to explore the linguistic, political, social, economic, religious, and familial conventions and/or statuses of the four major Hispanic groups living in the United States. In short form, these groups include Mexican-Americans, Puerto Ricans, Cuban-Americans, and Spanish-American s. Following a brief yet comprehensive overview this essay will conclude by summarizing major differences and commonalties apparent among the groups. We now turn to an introduction to the Mexican-American community (Gans 1995). Mexican-Americans speak Spanish as their mother tongue and include both an older

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Hinduism interview Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Hinduism interview - Essay Example In this case, the Hindus are able to remain bound to their religious believes, and respect others regions due to their selfless services. Realization of truth occurs through devotion to certain aspects of supreme reality, and this is attributed to worshiping Gods such as Krishna and Goddesses such as Durga (Verma, Inamdar & Kumar, 2009). Hinduism has shaped people’s lives by encouraging practices of self-analysis, meditation and selfless service. Moreover, this religion facilitates a significant belief that leads to dependence to God. Hindus worship Krishne as their main God since there are millions of Gods in Hinduism. There are religious and cultural foods requirements in Hinduism, whereby people make provision of various sources of foods that are culturally appropriate. However, there is open mindedness of Indian people concerning the influence by various cultures and religions; for instance, a man may eat meat by his wife may not eat this kind of food. Hinduism does not prohibit eating meat, though there is a notion that no living thing has equal live to live; thus, people should not kill animals (Verma, Inamdar & Kumar, 2009). Therefore, most of the Hindus are vegetarians, while others have found a necessity of eating eggs and fish occasionally in the contemporary urban Western life. Nevertheless, Hindus are fond of serving rise and tea at their every meal, while numerous Indian have adopted Western style meals, which they take for breakfast, lunch and conventional meals for dinner. Nonetheless, some of the meals they take include unleavened wheat bread, vegetables, curries, yogurt-based food and fruits. According to Verma, Inamdar & Kumar (2009), karma is discussed by Hindu scriptures as a law of cause and effects, thereby facilitating creation of destiny through their thoughts, dealings and expressions. There is a conviction that illness and other health

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Leadership styes used in modern Russia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Leadership styes used in modern Russia - Essay Example Under the modern Russia, there are various leadership styles which have become very apparent. This report shall consider and critically assess these leadership styles applied by companies/individuals in modern Russia. This paper seeks to assess what type and how these leadership styles are being applied in modern Russia, and how effective they are in helping achieve the economic and political goals of the country. Body During the transition period from the totalitarian governance to the free market, Russia has managed to overcome the major changes within the microeconomic and macroeconomic framework, including the political processes and cultural practices and behaviours (Fey and Dennison, 2001). It is therefore important to evaluate and understand the present progression of Russia under a global setting, and to evaluate the elements which indicate effective leadership and the impact of culture within the transition economy. Throughout the years, Russia was able to gain the values of both the West and the East, mostly in relation to reason as well as inspiration. It also provided a bridge between the East and Western values and traditions (Gratchev, 2001). These qualities helped push Russia to success, often encouraging it to concentrate its efforts towards gaining control over its large geographic space. Diversity In modern Russia, the role of the state and corporations in economic activities is very much significant. Their economy is controlled by a few financial and industrial conglomerates and considered significantly power than the government (Bollinger, 1994). Russia’s future will have to depend on the relations between the different major players in the economy and the government. Within the competitive framework of the modern economic Russia, the country’s management core is diverse in its economic and political interests (Gratchev, 2001). Some groups are known as the Old Guard who are highly adept at large-scale activities, including the management of technological innovations (Gratchev, et.al., 2005). These leaders also manage to access the primary decision-making points and utilize connections in order to control resources. These leaders manage large industrial corporations in highly competitive sectors including oil, gas, space travel, and shipbuilding (Gratchev, et.al., 2005). The other set of modern Russian leaders are known as the New Wave leaders. These leaders work based on the initiation of economic reform. These are also the younger leaders who seek success and business education. Another group of leaders are known as the Unwilling Entrepreneurs (Gratchev, et.al., 2005). These are leaders who are prompted to take the initiative due to their fears of unemployment; and most of their transactions are in the small-scale trade. Based on these diverse elements and motivations, modern Russian leadership contains elements of the diverse, and their distinct and diverse quality is their motivation for engaging in bu siness (Gratchev, et.al., 2005). Authoritative not authoritarian leadership Russia is traditionally based on authoritative leadership, and the new era of capitalism supports this tradition. Even with strong entrepreneurship competencies among its businessmen, these businessmen have significant power within organizations (Kets de Vries, et.al., 2004). Followers see their leaders as superior individuals who have unique

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Shortage Of Employees And Staff Retention Management Essay

Shortage Of Employees And Staff Retention Management Essay Retention of nurses at healthcare organizations has been a problem for several years. With the aging population in the United States the nursing shortage will become more critical. The case at Grayson County Regional Health Center indicates a problem with employee retention. The group that is most affected are the nurses where retention rates have ranged from 15%-50 %( Fried and Fottler, 2010) over the last several years. The best ways to retain employees is to first screen and select the best qualified employees. This can be done through automated screening tools, peer interviews, and retention focused management. Three organizations will be compared in this article. The 30 nursing homes in New York and Connecticut, the Jupiter Medical Center in Jupiter Florida will be referred to as examples of how retention problems can be solved. The Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls, Idaho is another organization that has successful solved recruitment issues and has created a culture where people stay due to good working conditions and benefits. Solutions to retain employees once they are hired will be discussed by creating a culture where people feel appreciated. Recommendations will be given to solve Grayson County Health Centers employee retention problems. Good job! Shortage of Employees and Grayson County Regional Health Center Grayson County Regional Health Center is a private non-for-profit 225 bed acute care hospital located in a rural community in a southeastern state. The hospital provides a range of inpatient and outpatient services. There is 24 hour emergency care offered. The hospital serves Grayson County and three other neighboring counties. The population of the county is 60,879 with 53% African Americans, 42% Caucasians and 5% Hispanics. (Fried, et al. 2010) The area suffers from economic hardships where many of the manufacturing jobs have relocated. The Employee turnover at the hospital is a 40%, and for nurses the turnover rate has ranged from 15-50% the last few years. (Fried, et al .2010) Medicare and Medicaid are heavily relied on for the income at the hospital. The hospital is not able to pay competitive market wages for the nurses and other professionals. The result is the hospital is under staffed and the quality of care is a concern. There are many things to consider to how this situation can improve. Can better communication between the staff and the management be implemented, to create an environment where employees feel valued? A retention specialist position or committee should be considered for retaining employees. Not retaining employees can cost an organization a lot of money. Do you have an estimate of how much it can cost? If more employees stayed with the organization money could be reallocated to pay staff a competitive wage. Another question to be answered is if anyone in the community can be retrained for th e jobs at the hospital, where unemployment is so high in this county. Retrained for jobs such as†¦? The costs of employee turnover can be radically changed by retaining more employees. One example given by Quint Studer (2006) if an organization with 3000 employees which have an average salary of $45,000 a year , a 1% reduction in turnover equals more than 1.3 million in a years time. One of the problems at Grayson County was the inability to pay employees competitive wages. Wages being one of the crucial ways to help retain employees it would be beneficial if the costs saved from employee turnover could create a way to pay the employees better. In the text by Fried et al. (2010 p.198) states that recruitment and selection are the key to retention, one important part in the selection process is to screen the job applicants to see if they fit with the organizational values and have the skills necessary for the work. Another consideration is it can be easier to teach skills than to change attitudes of employees. Determining which applicant fits the organization can be done by asking behavioral questions in the interview to gain insight to the skill sets the applicant possesses and their values. How do behavioral questions differ from personality tests? Having peers involved in the interview process can help with the selection process to find an applicant that fits best with the organization. The first 30-60 days are the most crucial to retaining an employee. The employee turnover can be 25% in the first 30-60 days ( Studer, 2006). Making sure to follow up with new hires to clarify expectations, recognize efforts and encouragin g the employee to give helpful examples of past work experience that would be beneficial for the organization can help with retention in the crucial first 30-60 days. These tactics have been proven to work at a 340 bed hospital in Downers Grove, Ill where a reduction of employee turnover improved by 36.5 % in a years time. ( Studer, 2006) The Healthcare Advisory Board (HCAB) conducted an extensive review of recruitment and retention strategy and identified each strategy relative effectiveness. The HCAB review yields five effective retention strategies: Firstly, selecting the right employees. Secondly, management improving the orientation and on-boarding processes by creating a buddy program and other opportunities that help new employees establish professional and personal relationships with colleges. Thirdly, monitoring turn over to identify specific root causes, including identifying managers whose departments have high turnover. Fourthly, efforts in developing and implementing ways to retain valued employees in the organization will reduce turnover percentages. Fifthly, although marginal in its effectiveness the HCBA recommended systemically attempting to reverse turnover decisions. (Fried et al. 2010). Other retention strategies given by Fried et al (2010) Where to create a culture where people want to stay because they enjoy their work. The manager does this thru empathy and truly caring for the welfare of the employees creating authentic connections with each staff member. This can allow for better focus on problem solving in the organization. A generic strategy for retention is through competitive compensation, differential and premium pay through signing bonuses, forgivable loans, and extensive benefits. In Jupiter Medical Center (JMC) in Jupiter, Florida Paul Dell Uomo (2009) reported that they suffered from recruiting and retention problems which were a problem in opening up more beds to serve the community. After weighting the options it was decided to outsource the recruitment function which helped in organizing hiring practices. This cut costs including a 1 million dollar decrease in contract labor (Uomo, 2009).

Friday, October 25, 2019

Child Victimization Essay -- Social Issues, Child Abuse

According to Finkelhor et al (2005), the increasing rates of child victimization over the last few decades have created a global attention on child abuse. With these increasing rates, most countries all over the world have begun to address this situation. Most countries have enacted laws that classify child victimization cases as criminal offenses punishable according to the provisions of the law (Finkelhor et al, 2005). As noted by Giardino (2010), the increasing prevalence and consequences of child abuse calls for detailed researches and investigations across the world. This research paper explores the controversial topic on child victims. The paper describes the major types of child abuse, the extent of the problem, intergenerational transmission of violence, theories regarding child abuse, and the special types of child abuse. Types of Child Abuse Child abuse as described by Giardino (2010) refers to the aspect of causing or allowing the causation of any offensive contact that can be termed as harmful to the body of a child. Further, Giardino (2010) defines it as the use of offensive communication that may harm the child, shame him, or offend him. In a psychological perspective, child abuse can be termed as an act that omits several procedures in the development of the child (Giardino, 2010). The Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act that has been enacted in the U.S. describes child abuse as, â€Å"at a minimum, any recent act or failure to act on the part of a parent or caretaker, which results in death, serious physical or emotional harm, sexual abuse or exploitation, or an act or failure to act which presents an imminent risk of serious harm† (Giardino, 2010). Physical Child Abuse Physical child abuse is the most com... ...vent every case of child abuse, but we can be alert and informed about child abuse and learn the signs of it. As a society, people need to be aware that child abuse occurs across all economical borders. Children as we know are very active injure themselves while playing. These injures are explainable verses injuries that cannot be explained by the parent. The main goal is that teachers, doctors, ect. should be able to distinguish between normal injury and non-accidental injury. Identifying early signs of child abuse can save the child’s life. Each cases of child abuse should be investigated thoroughly by a professional who can determine if they child is being abused or not. Child abuse is a traumatic experience for the child and can have lasting effects. That’s why it is very important that the child has immediate access to counseling and other forms of therapy.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Adult Behavior during Sports Events: An Overview

Playing sports is crucial and essential to a child's development. A child develops a sense of social awareness and self-confidence whenever he engages in a sport. Of course, this would not be possible if a child's parents will not encourage them in engage in a particular sport.Parents play a significant role in a child's involvement in whatever sport he chooses. A child's sense of sportsmanship is augmented by his parents as well. Parents are always considered to be perfect examples to their children. However, the positive effects of parents on their children are hampered by some instances, which parents themselves exude a plethora of negative behavior during sports events.With this in mind, we are compelled to place the behavior of parents in keen scrutiny. It is alarming that the proliferation of juvenile delinquency can be associated on parents' behavior as well. This is due to the fact that children are developing their cognitive skills at this stage of their lives.There is a gre at possibility that whenever a child develops and imitates the behavior of his parents; there is a possibility that the child's behavior could be worse than his parents by the time he enters adulthood. Another factor that calls for attention is that the improper behavior of some parents is seen not only by the child, but some spectators as well. A child might assume that such behavior is tolerable in public (Ocampo. 2008).Parents are not only the ones to be accounted for misbehavior in sports events. A child's coach, referee, and other people who are involved in a game can affect a child's behavior during these sports events. Whenever a child engages in a particular sport, his sense of competitiveness is heightened as well.However, children sometimes confuse competitiveness with aggressiveness. This is due to the fact that the inappropriate behavior of parents during sports events has an impact on a child's competitiveness. This, of course, gives child a negative sense of competitiv eness. Parents are always at the forefront of each game their child engages in. They are always present during games in order to give their children moral support and boost their self-confidence.Yet sometimes some parents exhibit crass and extreme behavior, which make it seem that they are the ones playing the sport. For instance, spectators claimed that a parent tripped a player from the opposing team during a game, because that player was about to tackle and spear his son. Whenever this happens, parents are deduced into sports fanatics as well.This is a simple example of what sports events can do to behaviors of parents. Parents act in such way due to the speculation that they want their children to excel in that sport where they have failed to do so. Parents may ignore the fact that even though they support their children in such manner, the behavior they exhibit have a consequent effect on the cognitive and social development of their children (Ocampo. 2008).Parental Violence in Sports: Promoting Juvenile Delinquency?The near fatal Junta-Costin youth hockey scrimmage in July of 2000 is considered the linchpin of sports violence in youth sports events (Heinzmann.2002). It ignited the issue of sports rage, which saw a myriad of newspapers all over the world documenting the story; and proliferating numerous editorials that placed parental involvement in a child's sports career under keen scrutiny.At first, it seemed that it was a mere isolated case. Eventually, experts have started debates regarding sports rage in sports events. It has been declared that there is an impending yet subliminal crisis in youth sports. Subliminal because most people don't perceive such as a crucial matter in children's behavior.Subliminal because people might not see its correlation to the increasing rate of juvenile delinquency.In a youth hockey game in Illinois, a father pummeled another player's dad during a heated argument at their son's youth hockey game. What's worse is, tha t father's son pleaded guilty for a misdemeanor charge for beating up an opposing player, which resulted in a paralyzing injury. Obviously, the repercussion of crass and violent behavior of parents are reaping its sour fruits.Children are deliberately affected by the obscene behavior of their parents. Yet parents seem not to be alarmed by such matter. Youth sports officials claimed that the mere yelling of parents at referees and coaches are enough to increase a child's improper sense of aggressiveness. Obviously, parents are sacrificing the virtue of sportsmanship for a twisted sense of competitiveness that they instill in their children (Ocampo.2008).Even though there are no feasible statistics on parental violence and assault, adamant coaches and overaggressive parents are the ones promoting and instilling a twisted sense of aggressiveness and competitiveness among their children (Ocampo.2008). Fred Engh, president of the National Alliance for Youth Sports exclaimed that:There ha s been a tremendous upsurge in violence in the last five years, I've been hearing of more and more violent incidents. We’re beginning to see the trickle-down effect from adults’ misbehavior †¦ where children that are involved are becoming part of the bad behavior. Far too often, we tell kids it’s ok to cheat in order to win, to taunt the players on the other team, to criticize officials. (Engh. 2000).The Illinois misdemeanor battery case has generated a maximum penalty of one year imprisonment. State prosecutors have dropped two counts of felony aggravated battery (James.2000). The boy has yet to be convicted in juvenile facility until he is 21 (James.2000).The juvenile acknowledged that he used the hockey stick to drag opposition player Neal Goss, causing Goss to hit the boards seconds after the buzzer sounded during a junior varsity game. The unidentified youth declared this in his plea agreement. After slamming into the fiber glass boards, Goss was delib erately paralyzed below his waist and injured his arms as well (James.2000).A bevy of head-butting and elbow-throwing melees have been rampant across the country. The Illinois incident is simply an example of the increasing rate of sports rage. Youth sports officials have claimed that coaches and parents are responsible for the ramifications in youth sports. Unfortunately, children are deliberately affected in this massive sports violence proliferation.Bob Still, public relations manager for the National Association of Sports Officials emphasized that: â€Å"Not only has the language gone more in the gutter, but we’ve also seen a rise in the number of incidences reported where physical violence has occurred.† (Still.2000).In 1975, one of the first cases of sports rage, it was reported by Sports Illustrated in the article â€Å"Taking the Fun Out of the Game† that a fight ignited between a mob of adult spectators and a group of coaches that coached championship t eam of sixth graders during a game in Kissimmee, Florida.The sports rage incident resulted with one coach being rushed to the hospital. Someone was yelling that one coach was dead already; causing the mob to depart the scene just before police authorities arrived. The coach was actually unconscious for a couple of hours before being taken to a nearby hospital. In Miami, a player's father pummeled his son's coach for arguing over his son's playing time.These incidents were obscure due to the fact that such incidents weren't able to be published or televised. The public was not aware of news like â€Å"Youth Sports Coaches pummeled by Furious Mob†. A series of rage events not associated with youth sports events were simply dismissed as a weak form of sociological trend (Heinzmann.2002).In order to place the growing cases of youth sports rage in further scrutiny, the Rutgers Youth Sports Research Council launched a computer search engine, which enables people to learn about yout h sports violence incidents through the database of more than 5,000 related articles concerning sports rage in youth sports events (Heinzmann.2002)†¦However, several articles suggest faux pas facts, which limited the public's knowledge concerning youth sports violence. The most crucial fact is that keen investigation has not succeeded in generating substantial data that sports rage in youth sports has increased in alarming rates. In order to comprehend and augment the understanding of the public of youth sports violence without any scientific data at hand, people can be made aware through the myriad of various sociology researches.This would augment our knowledge on how the media could have a discreet influence on general opinion regarding youth sports rage. Youth homicide has experienced a decline from 1993 to 1999. The Justice Policy Institute reported that there was a 68% decline in youth homicide in the United States, which was the lowest rate since 1966 (Heinzmann.2002).Ca mpus-related violent death decreased as well by 72%. However, network homicide coverage increased into a surprising 473% even though there was 33% decline in murders from 1990 to 1998. Evening news was reporting more than 25% of crimes were homicide cases (Heinzmann.2002).Justice Policy Institute pundits have declared that 62% believe that youth-related crimes are increasing upon conducting a survey. Americans saw it grew into epic proportions during random school shootings in 2000 (Heinzmann.2002)Eliminating Sports Violence: Beyond Feasible Statistics?Each sports event whether on the youth or professional level is experiencing a bevy of harassments on a daily basis. That is why security is assured in such events. Police and medical assistance are present in these events due to the fact that there is a possibility of heightened violence. Parents and adults are always at the forefront during these sports rage incidents (NASO, 2008).Annually, NASO has been receiving hundreds of report s, in which sports rage occurs among fans, officials, coaches, and players (NASO, 2008). Before NASO proposed a clamor for a bill proposal on youth sports violence, they defined sports rage as any physical attack upon a person during a sports events such as hitting, wounding, and other forms of harmful contact in an offensive manner, verbal abuse, and obscene harassments, which threatens an individual's safety during a sports event.After a pact has made to settle on the standard definition of â€Å"sports rage†, Investigators have began to observe and analyze the probable evidence that in order to link parents to such youth violence, investigators have to substantiate the faux pas norm that 15% of parents during these youth sporting events go below the belt and resort to deliberate violence.However, it was only 5% in the previous five years, yet conclusive feasible scientific evidence has yet to surface (Heinzmann.2002). However, according to NASO, published studies regarding sports rage incidents have yet to be seen; and that instances made by the media are anecdotal in nature and does not have feasible evidence. With this in mind, substantial facts contradict what is reported to the public (Heinzmann.2002).In a recent study by the NASO, it was stated that the prevalence and proliferation of crass behavior and assaults on youth sports officials occurs not only at youth sports games, but in the professional level as well (Heinzmann.2002).The study was aimed at urging state legislatures to provide apt laws that will penalize individuals who exhibit any form of obscene behavior during sports events (Heinzmann.2002). It primary purpose though was to educate and promote public awareness regarding manic behavior during these sports events (Heinzmann.2002).This generated the notion that scientific findings have yet to augment that sports rage is the primary deterrent during youth sports games. Even youth violence experts have acknowledged the fact that there is heightened rate of violence during youth sports events. Ironically, adults and parents are always the ones who instigate such obscene behavior.However, impartial statistics have yet to surface in order to prove that youth sports violence has increased; and that there is a great possibility that this trend has become more violent as cases begin to increase. Dan Macallair, Vice President of the Center on Juvenile and Criminal Justice, have urged a movement that will make alternative ways aside from imprisonment.Contrary to the media hype that has heightened the awareness of sports rage, Macallair's agency has shown that statistics of school violence in the United States are lower than anticipated. Furthermore, juvenile delinquency rates have experienced a huge letdown in previous years.Macallair even suggested that the increasing youth violence should be associated with modern day technology such as video games, which promote violence as well. Macallair exclaimed that:We really don ’t know because we don’t have the evidence. My guess is that it’s probably less than we think. †¦ My gut is that it’s being reported more frequently and more widely just because of modern-day media practices and media technology.Too often, the evidence does not support the perception. You see that all the time — that kids today are worse than they were 10 or 20 years ago. And then you go back and see that people were saying that about kids then. People have very short memories. However, we really don't know because we don't have the evidence. My guess is that it's probably less than we think. . .My gut is that it's being reported more frequently and more widely just because of modern-day media practices and media technology. (Macallair. 2001).Some experts have acknowledged the notion that the media has made a deliberate impact on the increasing rate of youth sports rage. Frank Smoll, author of Sports and Your Child, notes that the family is th e primary culprit in irrational aggressive behavior of child during sports games; yet coaches, professional athletes, and the media is also to blame for youth sports violence. Smoll exclaims that:I’m surprised there isn’t more violence in youth sports given the current underlying phenomena that feeds this violence system, particularly in hockey.During the hockey season, the sportscasts †¦ are going to show the fight of the night. That’s sick, flat out, he adds. Is it any wonder kids are going to see that and say, Hey, I’m going to be a better fighter, I’ve got instruction? (Smoll. 2000)National Alliance for Youth Sports president Fred Engh says that a child imitates what he perceives to be â€Å"good†. Good examples imply to their favorite professional athletes like wrestlers or MMA fighters. He complements Smoll's statement by implying that: â€Å"They’re seeing that kind of behavior on television.Look at the World Wrestling Fe deration. Look at the Jerry Springer Show. This is the mentality of a growing number of dysfunctional people that is creeping into youth sports.† (Engh.2000).Obviously, the sports entertainment industry must take initiative in taking the obligation for contributing to societal norms, which affect children and adults like. Talk shows have proliferated public display of violence as well. Ironically, such programs have a strong following by creating manic debates, which eventually turns into melee when things get out of hand.Studio audience is involved as well by castigating guests. Things get out of hand when altercations emerge during the show. Shows which are televised when children can watch such deliberate show of public violence; Take for instance the Jerry Springer Show, which gives people the opportunity to castigate people who did them wrong. It gives people the notion that what cannot be settled in a verbal manner can be settled with deliberate violence.But it is proper to do such in public? This suggests that the media is a purveyor of violence and irrational sense of competitiveness as well. Children can adhere to such when they go out to public affairs such as youth sports events. And by the time they are adults, they would do the same and even exhibit more obscene behavior during youth sports events (Ocampo.2008).ConclusionOrganized youth sports have been receiving media hype over the years. The issue of youth sports rage has been a crucial matter for the media to give it unprecedented attention. Incidents involving parents, coaches, and game officials have contributed to such by instigating fights and crass behavior during youth sports events.Although it is purely anecdotal that such matter is getting out of hand and is on the brink of enormous escalation, sports rage incidents are proliferating, and has been one of the primary purveyors of juvenile delinquency and youth violence. Such matter is beyond statistics, and the obvious is larger th an the scientific studies conducted regarding youth sports rage incidents.With this in mind, youth sports organizers should be at the forefront of every altercation during a youth sports event. They must implement proper measures of security in order to imply peace and order during games. On the other hand, parents should exhibit proper etiquette during youth sports events.Parents should be the ones who must moderate the various societal factors, which contribute to their child's sense of competitiveness. They must be reminded that during these games, they are not fans but parents who should guide their children. Parents should always bear in mind the youth sports games have a deliberate cognitive and social effect on their children's mentalities.They should be perfect examples during these events, and must instill positive and favorable values that a sport will complement their children's well-being (Ocampo.2008).