Abnormal psychology free essay sample

Running Header: Bipolar Life Bipolar Abstract This project will look at the character, Dr. Kay Jamison, from the autobiography, An Mind. It summarizes the whole book which is based on her life experiences while dealing with bipolar. It describes how she was diagnosed with the disorder. This project discuss symptoms, causes, and treatments. It will talk about the defense mechanisms that Dr. Kay Jamison most commonly used, rationalization and sublimation. The theoretical perspectives that were used to describe her disorder were the humanistic and the psychodynamic approach. Kay earned to deal with her disorder and took medication to help ease the symptoms and wrote the autobiography. Part l: Summary The book written by Dr. Kay Jamison, tells her life story describing her illness of being a manic depressant, which is now referred to as bi-polar. She describes her childhood as growing up in a loving but military regimented and structured household where she was encouraged to explore her curiosity and vast scientific interests. We will write a custom essay sample on Abnormal psychology or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Having grown up and living on military bases, Kay kept constantly moving where she attended four different schools by the time she reached he 5th grade. But even so, she had what she described as a normal life with having close friends and even a boyfriend. Her life took a different twist by the time she reached fifteen years old. She was attending a regular high school in a wealthy community in California. When she left behind her conservative life to attend this high school, she felt completely out of place. She lost her ability to cope and adjust. Kay found that this regular school was highly competitive in both academics and athletics. The competitiveness of this school left Kay feeling humiliated and inadequate. At round this time, she also started seeing changes in her fathers behavior. This one time, a very loose and engaging man was now a very depressed, pessimistic, drinking individual fly into rages. She was scared to even go home at this point. Her own mother would stay away from the house becoming more involved with her work to avoid the home life. It was during her senior year in high school when Kay experienced what she described as her first attack with her depressive illness. She stated she would start rambling and becoming out of control with her talking. Suddenly nothing made sense in her world and she ouldnt concentrate or comprehend things in class. She would have to read things over and over. Her once imaginative mind had turned on her and she could no longer focus. She found nothing interesting or worthwhile. It was also when she had her first thoughts of death and that life was not worth living. Kay withdrew from people and would literally avoided contact. She didnt even want to get out of bed. Her college years were filled with more confusion with continual feelings of suicide. There was also an excessive spending on elaborate items. One of her purchases was a horse that he couldnt even afford to keep and other non essential items. She continued to miss more classes and was unable to concentrate. Her initial major was medicine, but she knew she could not provide the concentration that was required in this field so she switched her major to psychology. Kay knew she needed help and that she had a mental illness. It was at this point she was prescribed and took the drug called Lithium to control her Once she started taking the Lithium she could now process things. She was no longer hallucinating. This medication enabled her to slow down. She ended up seeing a sychiatrist to help address her problems. Kay knew that the drug along with psychotherapy would keep her from relapsing, but she was embarrassed having to take it. The drug seemed to almost make her feel like she was in a drunken state. At times, Kay wrongly felt like she could stop taking the Lithium and she was the exception that could have a normal life without it. But when she stopped, her manic- depressive condition came back even stronger. It was at this time she attempted suicide. Kay felt as if she was a burden for her friends and family staying alive in her condition. She recovered rom this attempt and came to terms with the realization she would have to continue this medication for the rest of her life. At this time, she discovered that her condition was hereditary and that three generations of family members had it. It was very difficult being in the psychiatry field and to confide with others about her condition. As for professional reasons, she was concerned about the perception that colleagues would view her as weak and she wanted the respect of her peers. She was also concerned that exposing her illness would Jeopardize her ability to obtain a medical icense and perspective employers and whether they would hire her. Dr. Jamison reflects in her book that despite struggling with her illness, this was a success story. She recognized the need to take medications to control this illness. She also recognized the importance of continual medication compliance with not only herself, but for all patients. Kay confided in those she could trust and was fortunate to have the love and support from so many friends, family, husband and colleagues. As she pointed out there are so many people in many professions suffering from this condition. Many manic depressant individuals end up self-medicating, making them alcoholics or drug abusers and eventually committing suicide. She went on with her life with no regrets and lives it without guilt or embarrassment. This is not a condition that is brought upon by up bringing or lifestyle. Manic depression is a disease that requires treatment. The author is able to see from a different perspective as to how the condition effects patients and has a unique understanding of the illness. She can describe from a firsthand point of view on the importance of taking medication for this condition. Part II: Diagnosis Axis I: Bipolar Disorder (Manic-Depressive Illness). Axis Ill: No medical conditions. Axis lv. She had multiple stressors that could have influenced her disorder. She moved to California, off the military base where she felt most comfortable. She had a bad relationship with her sister, her father had a drinking problem, high school was to difficult, divorced her husband, and had many relationships with other men. Axis V: Lowest Score: 19. Even though Kay knew she had something wrong with her and received therapy, she was still severely suffering from her bipolar disorder. No matter what she tried doing, nothing seemed to help in the long term. She took lithium to help ease the symptoms, but it would make her unable to concentrate. Every time she would stop taking it, her episodes would come back even stronger than before. This lead her to attempt suicide by overdosing on the medication. Highest Score: 81 . After her attempted suicide, she received much more medical care and she was able to recover. She continued taking the medication and went on with her life. She was able to work and have relationships. She was showing little to no symptoms of er disorder and was satisfied with her life. Average Score: 50. ad been suffering from bipolar disorder or also called manic-depressive illness which was how it was referred to back in the seventies. At first, it was thought that Kay was suffering from a major depressive disorder. Her first attack of depression came when she was in high school in which she described it as being very confused all the time, feeling of worthlessness, and she wanted to avoid any contact with people. The n, when she was enrolled in college, she started to have sudden changes in her mood. At one moment, she would be excessively happy and euphoric, then she would become irritable and angry for no reason. She would always be restless and suffered from insomnia. She would also have abnormal shopping frenzies. Some of her purchase were a horse that she couldnt even afford, undesirable styles of furniture, an abundant amount of watches with an overall price of $30,000, and twelve snakebite kits. All of these symptoms are clear signs of a manic episode. Kay had multiple periods of depression and manic episodes which led to thoughts of hopelessness and a suicide attempt. She had multiple relationships with men in which she had excessive involvement in pleasurable activities. Another disorder that Kay could have arguably had was cyclotymic disorder. It is similar to bipolar, but the symptoms are less intense. Kay had prescribed to her which is why she is diagnosed with bipolar. Part Ill: Research Bipolar is a mood disorder which is categorized under axis I of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fourth Edition, Text Revision. Bipolar can be defined as people who have excessive amounts of mood swings that alternate from states of depression or mania. It is also possible for a person to experience both mania and depression symptoms at the same time. For most people, it is embarrassing to be labeled with this disorder because they feel as though theres a stigma that comes along with it. Without the right support system or care, people with bipolar can find life very unbearable. When studying bipolar disorder, many researchers look at the symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatments. Bipolar is rare disorder to develop. It is equally obtainable in both males and females. Until recently, researchers have found that no more than one percent of the general opulation has the disorder (Akiskal, 2010). Now, there is new evidence that for a higher prevalence of up to at least five percent (Akiskal, 2010). This new rise in the percentage can be due to the fact that people are becoming more acceptable of their condition. In todays society, people are more caring for others with disorders and encourage those who are less fortunate to seek help. can be observed can fall under the category of mania. Mania can be defined as a state in which a person has an excessive amount of euphoria and delusions. A person that is in a state of mania ay experience risky behaviors, decrease in sleep, racing thoughts, and an increase in sex drive (Malhi, 2003). A person may feel as though they are invincible and that they are on top of the world. This leads to them participating in dangerous activities like car surfing, mixing different types of drugs, or even participating in sexual activity with many people. A person in a state of mania may experience many sleepless nights. When people sleep, there brain releases a chemical known as serotonin, which is responsible for regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and dreams (Basics, 2007). Its a known fact that the average person needs anywhere between seven to eight hours of sleep. When people dont get enough sleep, they have a build up of serotonin which can cause irrational thinking and delusions (Basics, 2007). This can cause people to break away from reality. Manic people also may obtain many thoughts that can lead to impulsive behavior. An example of an impulsive behavior that a person may have is going on a spending spree. When people are in the mania state go on spending sprees, theyll make irrational purchases. They will buy things that they dont even need or any desire of the Abnormal Psychology free essay sample The Court has now considered whether or not juveniles should be sentenced to life without parole (LWOP). They have ruled that life without parole may not be given to a juvenile unless their crime involves murder. With restrictions already placed on the  death  sentence, retaining the possibility of life without parole is important. Society needs an ultimate punishment for those who commit heinous crimes and also as a deterrent. The Courts decision should encourage those who run prisons to focus on rehabilitation, as more people will eventually be up for parole. † (Richards, 2011) An interesting bit of information I read states, â€Å"Connecticut is one of just three states where the age of jurisdiction for a juvenile ends at 16. In Connecticut, a juvenile is any person under the age of 16, or over the age of 16 but who violated the law before turning 16. Cases involving arrests of juveniles who are 16 and older are heard in adult court. We will write a custom essay sample on Abnormal Psychology or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Legislation has recently been passed to review this juvenile age policy. (Haller, 2006) I feel that the community these teens lives in should not be entirely responsible to pay for the cleanup and or rebuild of the destruction a certain group of teens did. Nor should the parent which is why I propose that the community service jobs’ pay could go towards the amount it would take to fix their mistakes. This would teach them a little something about responsibility as well as take care of the issue at hand. I am not entirely sure I agree with the death penalty in general but I agree with this statement from Richards as I fully believe everyone deserves a second chance. In the paragraphs to come I intend to cover my opinion in further detail as to why I think the juvenile justice system should adopt the focus I believe in as well as how it will affect the law enforcement, the court processes probation, corrections, community services as well as the intervention programs. Towards the end of my paper I also intend to discuss the opposing view and why I feel they are not a valid choice. I feel that the juvenile justice system should look further into primarily using rehabilitation for their troubled youths because everyone deserves a second chance. They may have committed the crimes that are being held against them but they also may have learned their lesson because of the reality of the situation. I would hate for a life to go to waste from sitting behind bars when they could have been through the rehabilitation process and possibly some counseling and truly learned from their mistakes, if they would be fully capable of leading an otherwise successful life. I definitely feel that they need to be punished for what they did regardless if they were under the influence or claim they didn’t know what they were doing at the time, the victim and their families deserve at least that but I think that sentencing them to extensive jail time or prison time is counterproductive. You want those who have been through the justice system once or twice to go and talk about their experience in hopes that it would deter other teens and young adults from committing crimes. While focusing on the rehabilitation aspect of things, I feel these at risk teens should be participating in community services. They could be picking up trash along the roads, wash graffiti off the train cars or even be cheap labor for the county in the form of mowing county lawns or helping road construction or garbage disposal companies. I think my idea behind this would be to prove that life isn’t easy and even though you made a serious mistake, you can be successful in the end. Neither job is a glorious job but it has to be done not to mention the pay isn’t all bad (once they are in the actual position not just being cheap labor that is). Obviously if things go the way I am hoping, there will be a reduction in court cases as well as hopefully arrests therefore it would directly affect law enforcement as well as the court system but I think the affect could be both positive and negative. While it would definitely reduce the number of cases a probation officer would see, the judges and the lawyers would deal with, it could also give these particular people more time to deal with other types of more severe crimes or extra time with their own families. I feel that even one teen touched and moved by the horror story of another having gone through jail and probation would be worth the change. It would be nice if our generations could grow up knowing that yes the justice system is there to serve and protect but it also wants those who go through the system to learn and become rehabilitated to be a successful member of their community. â€Å"The current controversy over juvenile justice results in part from the fact that many states have shifted the focus of the juvenile justice system from rehabilitation to punishment and deterrence.

Validity, Reliability and Generalization in Research

Validity, Reliability and Generalization in Research Introduction Validity, reliability and generalization are important concepts in business and management research. In different contexts, research is a clearly defined process where different elements and are studied, analysed and presented to show new approaches that increase knowledge regarding a particular phenomenon. Validity, reliability and generalization are crucial concepts in management research because they determine the manner in which management theory is applied.Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Validity, Reliability and Generalization in Research specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Modern management theories have demystified many assumptions that are related to business practices which are observed in various environments (Riege 2003, p. 75). Therefore, it is important for researchers to understand the link between theory and practice and how these two concepts impact on management discourses. Thi s paper will analyse the importance of validity, reliability and generalization in business research. The Role of Validity, Reliability and Generalization Validity can be described as an element of research which ensures that a study is conducted in a professional, accurate and systematic manner. This increases the credibility of a research study in the eyes of different people who are directly affected by its findings. In modern management research, validity ensures that a researcher vets the quality of his work before he shares his findings with other people (Riege 2003, p. 77). This approach enables a researcher to use accurate empirical tests to find out more about the sources of his information and how they impact on the quality of information he obtains. This ensures all conclusions reached by his study are backed up by relevant data and statistics. It is important for the data gathered and conclusions reached to correlate to bring about the desired conclusions in a particular study to make its findings more relevant to its users. Therefore, research studies should be conducted in a manner that allows findings to be interpreted in different management and business contexts. Different forms of research design use tests and other procedures to determine the level of validity in a researcher’s work. There has been a divergence of views about how various aspects of cause and effect relationships influence the application of the gathered data and statistics in research. For instance, in some aspects of case study research, researchers may be forced to review their personal feelings towards different subjects they are studying to ensure they maintain an objective approach in their work (Riege 2003, p. 81). A researcher needs to rely on other external tools to remove any bias that may negatively impact on the validity of conclusions and findings adopted by his study. In academic and real world perspectives, there is a difference in the manner in which kn owledge gathered is understood and applied.Advertising Looking for critical writing on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Even though there are strong synergies between academic research and real world management approaches, a researcher needs to find out specific objectives he intends to achieve. However, a researcher needs to understand differences between academic environments and real world business environments and how they impact on his work. Reliability is an important concept in management research. It allows a researcher to attain goals that have been set in the beginning to ensure he understands how his study is likely to impact on different groups of people. Therefore, concepts of openness, debate and objectivity help to measure the reliability of a particular research study and its findings. In management and business research, researchers must be ready to defend the methodologies they u se to come up with different conclusions and findings (Cornelissen Thorpe 2004, p. 3). They need to use evidence based, real life situations to ensure that the knowledge they gather can be used to make a positive impact in different fields. It must be noted that modern business research is applied in an environment characterised by constantly changing management practices which threaten the relevance of previous bodies of knowledge gathered through research. Therefore, all processes a researcher uses to come up with new bodies of knowledge should measure up to high intellectual standards. Researchers need to use analysis processes which are correctly linked to the central idea of their studies. They need to use techniques which accurately capture the viewpoints of different sources of information they use in their studies. More importantly, both academic and real world applications of knowledge obtained should be able to verify the accuracy and suitability of various research proce sses used. For instance, tests are used in research to find out if specific processes used by a researcher are logical and accurate. It is also important for a research study to show how results obtained can be transferred to other settings to reveal how they correlate with other forms of knowledge (Cornelissen Thorpe 2004, p. 6). A researcher needs to understand that every study undertaken seeks to find out new knowledge and how it can be applied in different academic and business contexts. Therefore, a study conducted should be analysed and critiqued by different scholars to find out the credibility of arguments it advances. The concept of generalisation has a significant role in business and management research. In some instances, researchers may need to use existing bodies of knowledge to come up with hypothesis regarding different phenomena they are studying. This allows them to understand the main arguments that justify their studies and specific qualities of phenomena they a re studying.Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Validity, Reliability and Generalization in Research specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Many researchers move from the known to the unknown concepts in their quest to uncover new information regarding a particular phenomenon (Cornelissen Thorpe 2004, p. 9). This allows them to use a study process that connects data collection, methodologies and theoretical applications of the knowledge they obtain. Therefore, generalizations equip researchers with important skills which they use to find out more about different paradigms of existing research knowledge. In effect, they are able to understand specific problems they seek to solve through their studies. Consequently, they are able to identify gaps between theory and practice and how they impact on the way business research knowledge is applied. Generalizations guide researchers to make both correct and incorrect inf erences regarding cause and effect relationships that affect various phenomena they intend to study. As a result, this allows researchers to use different approaches to predict and measure different variables. It is important for researchers to have safeguards to ensure that methodologies and research designs they use conform to high intellectual standards. In addition, researchers need to gradually shift from a perception influenced by multiple perspectives to one influenced by methodologically proven concepts to strengthen their arguments (Cornelissen Thorpe 2004, p. 13). They need to interpret different theories within existing business and management frameworks to find out their true impacts. They also need to use both analytical and empirical studies to come up with comprehensive knowledge in their studies. Therefore, this makes their studies more comprehensive because they are able to highlight issues that have not been well addressed by other existing bodies of knowledge. Ap plication of Validity, Reliability and Generalization in Designing a Questionnaire The role of validity, reliability and generalizations in questionnaire design needs to highlight important factors that underpin Human Resource Management research in an academic setting. The research design needs to focus on the contemporary application of existing HRM research theories in both academic and professional contexts. This approach will make it possible for a researcher to determine the relevance of current HRM bodies of knowledge in equipping students with vital skills they need to succeed (Tsang Williams 2012, p. 5). Therefore, this approach allows a researcher to avoid personal biases that may influence the nature of findings obtained from his study. It is important for a researcher to formulate important objectives he seeks to achieve to ensure he comes up with a strong hypothesis. Since HRM consists of many concepts, questionnaires should be brief and clear to ensure they elicit val id responses from participants.Advertising Looking for critical writing on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Objectivity in research questionnaires allows respondents to contribute their answers accurately. As a result, a researcher is able to use more appropriate methodologies which measure different variables that impact on a study. In effect, a researcher will be in a position to understand limitations that make respondents not to share accurate information regarding a particular phenomenon. Therefore, these principles are beneficial during sampling because a researcher takes time to vet all participants to determine their suitability. This will enable him to compile a list of participants who are aware about their specific responsibilities in making the study a success. In effect, a researcher is able to use suitable methodological tools and sampling techniques which have worked well in previous research studies to conduct his own study (Tsang Williams 2012, p. 7). Additionally, a researcher may opt to develop his own research methodology which is suitable for his study. All these fac tors determine the nature of results obtained out of a particular research process. An effective research process needs to focus on situational factors that impact on the information gathered from respondents. Previous HRM models have focused on understanding events that occur in various organisational settings and how various factors they outline can be measured or controlled. More importantly, validity, reliability and generalisation allow deductive reasoning by a researcher to ensure all steps of his study state specific implications that are likely to be realised. Consequently, this allows a researcher to design a questionnaire that serves multiple purposes as a data gathering tool. As a result, the questionnaire is able to capture behavioural as well as personality issues that are likely to influence respondents’ bias and attitudes (Tsang Williams 2012, p. 11). Furthermore, this helps him to understand beforehand the quality of responses that he expects to obtain throug h his study. Thus, a researcher is able to understand the limitations of processes he is using and how they can be addressed to improve the quality of his findings. The three concepts allow researchers to share relevant knowledge with their participants on how different management perspectives shape their thinking. The patterns of questioning used may either describe or gradually predict the manner in which different participants involved in the study are likely to respond. Therefore, using literature already gathered, a researcher is able to make inferences on the type of results he is likely to obtain to understand if they confirm or contradict his earlier assumptions. This makes it possible for a researcher to investigate different aspects of reality thoroughly, to come up with new theoretical findings that add value to the study (Vincent, Bharadwaj Challagalla 2005, p. 11). Since most of the participants in such a study are likely to be students, a researcher gets an opportunit y to investigate their understanding about real world application of HRM principles. Through their participation, the researcher may get to learn how to interpret the data gathered constructively. These processes are also important in the formulation of a hypothesis. The hypothesis serves as a comprehensive assumption that allows a researcher to think analytically about what he intends to achieve from the research process he embarks on. As a result, a researcher takes time to look at different theoretical interpretations of the topic he seeks to study and their relevance. More importantly, validity, reliability and generalisation allow a researcher to move from broad theoretical concepts to narrow theoretical concepts as he investigates different factors that impact on his study. In effect, this allows him to make a positive impression on HRM post graduate students because of the high levels of professionalism he exhibits in his work (Vincent, Bharadwaj Challagalla 2005, p. 16). Th erefore, he will be able to come up with appropriate findings and conclusions that stimulate intellectual discourse in different settings they are applied. When using generalizations to design questionnaires and other methodological tools, researchers need to take note of standards used to measure the quality of management research. In their research designs, they should maintain links between empirical models and other processes used gather and document the information they gather. The empirical formats used and the results obtained out of these processes should match characteristics of phenomena being studied (Vincent, Bharadwaj Challagalla 2005, p. 18). Moreover, it is important for a researcher to find out specific theoretical concepts that are important to his study and how they affect the credibility of results obtained. For instances, a researcher may need to understand how various branches of HRM studied by students influence their academic and career choices. As a result, this makes him take note of research gaps that are likely to occur in his questionnaires to understand how they are likely to affect his study. Recommendations for a Questionnaire Before the questionnaire is done, it is important for effective sampling techniques to be used to determine the nature of the respondents. The researcher needs to find out the number of people he intends to gather responses from and how they represent the whole population the survey will be based on. Since the questionnaire will mainly target HRM post graduate students, the first criterion for a respondent that seeks to be included in the sample is that he or she must belong to this population (Mohrman, Gibson Mohrman 2001, p. 358). Subsequently, he must look at other factors that are likely to define the exact sample for his study such as; age, lifestyle, cultural background, previous professional training and career ambitions. Therefore, he needs to use randomisation techniques to ensure he chooses resp ondents with diverse behaviour, lifestyles and career aspirations, to make his study more credible. The final number of respondents chosen should represent all the other students in the institution. The stratification technique will make it possible for the researcher to find out if the sample he has chosen is a true representation of all postgraduate HRM students in the institution. The researcher needs to decide on the segments of all student population that are crucial to the survey and their respective statistical relevance to the study. In addition, the researcher will have to use different criteria to stratify all segments of the student population by focusing on their interests, learning patterns, intellectual accomplishments and their attitudes towards the course. The researcher can use computer applications to select student respondents who represent different categories (Mohrman, Gibson Mohrman 2001, p. 360). Subsequently, a researcher needs to include representative perc entages of all sub-groups that are to be used in the sample before proceeding with the study. This approach will help a researcher to come up with a more accurate sample that comprises of students drawn from all statistically relevant sub-groups. Before designing the questionnaire, the researcher needs to understand the manner in which survey estimates are going to be tabulated. Both sampling and non-sampling errors are likely to affect the design of the questionnaire survey used by the researcher. The design of the sample needs to look at differences in estimates which are likely to affect the quality of the sample used. In addition, the researcher needs to note other non- sampling errors in questionnaire design which may affect the quality of responses he obtains. For instance, errors that occur due to bias may distort the views of the surveyed population thereby casting aspersions on the objectivity of the findings. He also needs to find out if his sampling techniques stratify th e targeted population effectively (Mohrman, Gibson Mohrman 2001, p. 362). As a result, the researcher needs to be aware about this issue because it may make it difficult for him to compile accurate data from all segments of the post graduate HRM student population in the institution. Before using the questionnaire survey, the researcher needs to look at other problems which are likely to occur as he carries out his work. He needs to use effective data gathering, editing and evaluation processes to ensure the quality of his work remains high. In addition, the questionnaire design should check on responses that are either unclear or misleading. This problem can be eliminated through using appropriate and easy to understand language in the questionnaire (Mohrman, Gibson Mohrman 2001, p. 365). Therefore, it is important for the researcher to engage with HRM students he has chosen to participate in the study to find out their language skills and levels of exposure. This will help him t o compile suitable questions for them to respond to. As a result, sampled respondents will be in a better position to answer different questions they are asked properly. This will ensure research findings and conclusions reached are valid and reliable. The time in which the survey is going to be conducted has a direct consequence on the results attained from the study. It is important for the researcher to come up an effective work schedule that outlines when specific tasks are going to be performed during the study. The most appropriate survey will be a cross sectional survey which will relate why the students chose to study HRM and how this influences their future career ambitions (Mohrman, Gibson Mohrman 2001, p. 367). As a result, the research study will be able to address different factors being studied within a short period of time. More importantly, the researcher should also consider other factors such as failure by respondents to give out any information and how this impac ts on the quality of his study. As a result, he will be in a position to evaluate the goals of his research to find out if they conform to his initial expectations. References Cornelissen, JP Thorpe, R 2004, ‘The validity and usefulness of management theories: a review’, Leeds University Business School Working Paper Series, vol. 1, no. 1, pp. 1-23. Mohrman, SA, Gibson, CB, Mohrman, AM 2001, ‘Doing research that is useful to practice: a model and empirical exploration’, Academy of Management Journal, vol. 44, pp. 357-376. Riege, AM 2003, ‘Validity and reliability tests in case study: a literature review with hand on applications for each research phase’, Qualitative Market Research: An International Journal, vol. 6, no. 2, pp. 75-86. Tsang, EW Williams, JN 2012, ‘Generalization and induction: misconceptions, clarifications, and a classification of induction’, MIS Quarterly, vol. 36 no. 10, pp. 1- 30. Vincent, LH, Bharadwaj, SG Challagalla, GN 2005, Antecedents, consequences, and the mediating role of organizational innovation: empirical generalizations, Singapore Management University, Singapore.

How and Why Does Du Bois Allude to Swift's A Modest Proposal Essay

How and Why Does Du Bois Allude to Swift's A Modest Proposal - Essay Example In his story, A Mild Suggestion, Du Bois alludes Swift’s A Modest Proposal. Having looked at the problems that were caused by the high population characterized by poor people in Ireland, Swift does his calculations and comes up with a proposal for the Ireland society. He says that, â€Å"I propose to provide for them in such a Manner, as, instead of being a Charge upon their Parents, or the Parish, or wanting Food and Raiment for the rest of their Lives; they shall, on the contrary, contribute to the Feeding, and partly to the Clothing, of many Thousands† (Swift 3). Swift states that the problem that affects the society most is overpopulation. In fact, he states that most abortions occur in society because of financial constraints as opposed to moral decadence. He states that poor people give birth to many children whereas they cannot afford to cater for their needs. Through satire, he proposes that poor catholic families of Irish origin should feed and fatten their chi ldren then sell them to wealthy people, the Protestants, who are the land owners. This way they will be able to resolve the predicament of poverty and starving their children. The wealthy Protestants would use those children for their food purposes. This is a satirical story that mocks the poor in the society(Swift 4). W.E.B Du Bois alludes Swift’s A Modest Proposal by writing A Mild Suggestion. ... He emphasizes on his proposal by stating that, "The next morning there would be ten million funerals, and therefore no Negro problem. Think how quietly the thing would be settled!" (Du Bois 19).Therefore, he offers a solution for the white population that would enable them end the problem that has long been existent. The two stories are about class struggles in the society. Both Swift and Du Bois have problems that they think require a solution that will end those problems once and for all. The problem that Swift wants to solve is poverty and starvation caused by irresponsible births brought about by the poor. Dubois wants to solve the problem of racism that exists between the white population and the black population, in the United States of America. Both Swift and Du Bois offer controversial solutions that favor one group and discriminate on another group, in the same society. Du Bois alludes Swift by offering a similar proposal but on a different case. Despite the fact that Du Boi se does not carry out a mathematical analysis, he analyzes the issues surrounding racism between the whites and blacks, in America. After his analysis, he proposes to the white that the best option is to slaughter blacks. Du Bois similarly proposes that slaughtering the people who are the problem, in the society is the best solution. Swift proposes the children to be slaughtered while Du Bois proposes the blacks to be slaughtered (Du Bois 50). Du Bois also alludes Swift by offering a solution to the problem that affects the people who are powerful or the high class in the society. In swift’s case, the powerful are the wealthy Protestants. They will not be affected because their children will not be slaughtered. In Du Bois case, the powerful are the whites who claim

Student Interview Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Student Interview - Essay Example The class was interestng even if it involves math heavily. Perhaps it is because the examples that were used by the professor was about everyday life like how much your $1,000 will be worth after 5 years. The approach and method of teaching was also clear because I was able to understand it even if I did not belong in that class. With the professor’s approach in teaching, I think anyone will be able to get it for as long as they have taken their algebra. The way I see it, the class requires minimal reading but instead requires a lot of analysis and critical thinking. In my opinion, a student can even pass the class without reading for as long as he or she pays attention to the lecture of the teacher. It involves understanding of the problem and problem solving exercises for the student to get a hang of it. I asked my friend what he think of the class and his other class at Taylor as well. He replied that class was pretty easy because the lecture was clear for as long as a student don’t miss classes. He says that difficulty only arise when a students absents from the class because the next lesson will become greek to him or her. And that is time he or she has to read and I doubt if one can really get the lesson from the book because its not clear there and you cannot ask question. When I asked what he meant by that, he explained that almost all of the lessons were linked together, like the previous lesson a requisite to understand the next lesson. He furhter explained that unlike this class that does not require reading, other classes requires paper works in addition to classroom exercises. I asked him if he was able to manage, he replied in the affirmative. He gave me a â€Å"survival tip† on how to handle the rigor of academic requirement at Taylor so taht I will not have hard time. He told me just to get back at my lesson regularly that way I’m updated.

Role of family in health and disease Essay Example for Free

Role of family in health and disease Essay The good health of an individual primarily increases the longevity of an individual’s life. The sphere of health has increased far beyond the concept of health system of the previous generation, including exercise and well-being. In this context, autonomy means the right of the patient to choose the treatment that he believes is best for him. The intimate knowledge of the family regarding the individual aids the decision making process. When the individual is in poor health, his actions are limited thereby necessitating support from family and friends. Stress When there is a common problem creating stress, the whole family is stuck in a vicious cycle of negativity aggravating health related issues. When there is an increasing demand in the ability to cope, stress becomes a threat to the physical and emotional well-being of the others as well. Stress is a psychological and physiological response to events that cause personal imbalance in life. Prolonged exposure to stress increases the risk to health as stress is cumulative. Anything that forces one to adjust is a stressor. These include a divorce, a child leaving home, a planned pregnancy, a move to a new town, a career change, graduating process, diagnosis of a malignant disease. These events are rare occurrences in a lifetime. Therefore, analyzing further, we conclude that major stressors are the daily hassles and demands made on an individual.[i]   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Family and relationships are the most common stressors, though environmental conditions can be strenuous. Arguments, financial conditions, marital disagreements, rebellious teens, or caring for a chronically ill family member or a child with special needs can increase stress levels of all the family members. Some of these situations have an impact on society. Therefore, poverty, financial pressures, racial and sexual discrimination or harassment, unemployment, isolation, and a lack of social support take a toll on the quality of life and become stressful to deal with. Stress Warning Signs and Symptoms[ii] Cognitive Symptoms Emotional Symptoms Memory problems Indecisiveness Inability to concentrate Poor judgment Anxious or racing thoughts Constant worrying Loss of objectivity Fearful anticipation Moodiness Agitation Restlessness Irritability, impatience Inability to relax Sense of loneliness and isolation Depression or general unhappiness Physical Symptoms Behavioral Symptoms Headaches or backaches Muscle tension and stiffness Diarrhea or constipation Nausea, dizziness Insomnia Chest pain, rapid heartbeat Weight gain or loss Skin breakouts (hives, eczema) Eating more or less Sleeping too much or too little Procrastination, neglecting responsibilities Using alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs to relax Nervous habits (e.g. nail biting,) Overdoing activities (e.g. exercising, shopping) Overreacting to unexpected problems    FAMILY STRESS Family stress is the imbalance between the demands of the family and its ability to cope. The way in which the family perceives the stressor explains the values and previous experiences of the family in meeting the crisis. The family is aided by resources like the external support provided by friends, colleagues and the community. The central mechanism through which the stress is eliminated or managed is â€Å"Coping†. The following elements that we consider are the individual family member, the family system, the community to which the family belongs. Problem Statement: Let us cite an example to prove that stress caused due to families will increase the health risk of all members. The concept of a broken family which is a major factor attributing to chronic stress will be examined in detail.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The root cause of poverty and income disparity is undeniably dependant on the presence or absence of the marriage. A married person remains influenced by factors that  Ã‚  Ã‚   inoculate that person against divorce. These include sharing a religious faith, getting married over the age of 25 and completing education. All of these factors lead to greater economic prosperity and remain a basis for good health. Broken families experience lower levels of educational achievement and therefore earn less. They pass on the prospect of meager incomes and family instability to the next generation. Broken families arise from divorce, cohabitation, out of Wedlock childbirth. Divorce The Monthly Vital Statistics report from the National centre for health statistics has stated that the growth in the number of children born into broken families in America has risen to 58 for every 100 born in 1992 from 12 for every 100 born in 1950.[iii] It directly reduces the prosperity of the family. It determines the length of the poverty spell and is the greatest threat to women from the lower income families. It reduces the likelihood of asset formation. â€Å"For a nuclear family, the family income averaged at $43,600, and when these same children lived with single parents, their family income is reduced to an average income of $25,300.[iv] It increases a mother’s financial responsibility. Divorce and additional work hours affect her network of support for parenting. These chronic stresses lead to physical and mental illness, addictions, even leading to suicide in some cases. There is a reduction in the educational accomplishments of the affected children.   Therefore, their probable prosperity level remains unachieved. There is a rise in the chance of a teenage pregnancy. The family and social stress weakens their psychological and physical health, and predisposes them to rapid initiation of sexual relationships and higher levels of marital instability. It raises the probability in boys never to marry.[v]. For the father, factors like increased financial responsibility, greater chances of cohabiting, decreasing parental influence, and addictions, decrease their performance at work. The relationship and work related stresses could trigger major health problems. Cohabitation These couples express uncertainty about their marriage together and are probable to divorce at a rate higher mainly due to their inability to commit. The present generation exhibit that sex, living arrangements and parenting depend less on marriage. 40% of the cohabiting couples have children, and 12% have had a biological child during cohabitation.[vi] 80 % of children who have lived with cohabiting parents will spend some of their childhood in a single-parent home.[vii] Cohabiting marks future weakness in the income gained by a nuclear family, tending to aggravate the social and economic stresses caused to the children. There is a growing acceptance of illicit relationships and premarital sex amongst children of the adolescence stage. This leads to increase in teenage pregnancy. The stress caused by the family coupled with stresses created by the society make it difficult for the children to cope with. They increase anxiety and temper related issues and mental stress. They tend to experience behavioral problems. Living together creates an imbalance in the emotional and financial security of an individual. These chronic stresses affect the health of the individual. Out-of-Wedlock   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This situation derails progress towards achieving a stable family structure and good health. Most teenage mothers remain single parents[viii]. Their children spend more time in poverty and appalling living conditions in comparison to children from any other family structure. They manifest behavioral problems like anxiety, depression, require psychiatric care, and have tendencies to commit suicide. They are likely to exhibit antisocial behavior. Their risk factors multiply with a downward spiral in health.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The probability of low-birth weight and low neo-natal health index scores is the highest in births arising out-of-wedlock. The mother’s exhibit increased maternal depression levels. Children from broken families are likely to abuse themselves and therefore harm their well-being. The immune system of these children functions at a rapid rate under chronic stress, thereby rendering them to infectious diseases. WAYS TO PREVENT FAMILY STRESS In stressful circumstances, nutritious meals, exercises, building self-resilience, relaxation techniques and sleep, thinking optimistically, use of social support networks, professional psychotherapy, and sharing the stress maintain health. â€Å"The Holmes- Rahe Life Stress Inventory† is a scale that rates social adjustment and the susceptibility to a breakdown caused by stress.[ix]. Ways to prevent stress are:[x] Learn key concepts about personalities, families, communication, make wise child conception or adoption choices Apply this knowledge in daily life. One can increase nurturance levels in family by effective problem solving, clarity in thinking, listing communication strengths, and removing blocks for unconscious toxic habits Understand personal and family policies on feeling and expressing grief or anger, upgrade appropriate personal values and attitudes, keep the family members informed and evolve pro-grief policies Understand if there are others in the family who are grieving their losses. Then, it is equally important to share and discuss healthy grieving and to use a qualified therapist to heal the wounds. Conclusion Genetic variations and experiences of a lifetime increase sensitivity to stress. Chronic stress damages cardiovascular system and immune system suppression. It compromises the ability to fight disease and affects mental health. Medical conditions that are caused by stress include Chronic pain, migraines, ulcers, high blood pressure, anxiety, depression Heart disease, diabetes, asthma, pms, obesity Infertility, autoimmune diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, skin problems Children from broken families are prone to anxiety and depression related health problems and emotional disorders. There is a decrease in economic prosperity and educational achievements The negative impact caused by stress can be reduced by increasing commitment within family members, use of social support networks and self-improvement. Children from stable families achieve higher levels in education, prosper well, make committed and strong relationships, further, and establish a high nurtured environment for their children unlike children from broken families. [i] Mc Cubbin IH, Patterson MJ.The Family Stress Process The double ABCX model of adjustment and adaption. Marriage and Family review.1983.6(1-2):37-7. [ii] Jaffe E, Smith M, Larson H, Segal J. Understanding stress [online] 2007 [cited 2008 June 25]. Available from:URL: http://www.helpguide.org/mental/stress_signs.html [iii] The federal statistics system is unable to provide accurate data on the number of children from broken families as the National Center for Health Statistics and the Bureau of the Census does not collect the complete data on divorce now.1992. [iv] Corcoran   E M, Chaudry A. The Dynamics of Childhood Poverty .In : Future of Children.1997. Vol. 7, No. 2 ,pp. 40-54, quoting from G. J. Duncan et al., unpublished research paper, Survey Research Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, 1994.Lone-Parent Families in the United States, In: Dynamics, Economic Status, and Developmental Consequences. [v] Bumpass LL, Martin CT, Sweet AJ. The Impact of Family Background and Early Marital Factors on Marital Disruption,In:   Journal of Family Issues.1991. Vol. 12, No. 1, pp. 22-42. [vi] Bumpass et al., The Role of Cohabitation in Declining Rates of Marriage, In: Journal of Family Issues.1991.Vol 12, No.1, pp.22-42. [vii] Bumpass et al., The Impact of Family Background. [viii] Hotz VJ, McElroy SW, Sanders SG. The Impacts of Teenage Childbearing on the Mothers and the Consequences of those Impacts for Government, In: Maynard RA, editors, Urban Institute Press, Washington DC. Economic costs and social costs of teenage pregnancy, In: Kids having kids. 1997. pp-55-94. [ix] The Holmes-Rahe Life Stress Inventory [Document on the internet]. [cited: 2008 Jun 25]. Available from: http://www.bhicares.org/pdf/manual/indepthassessment/homesrahestressinventory.pdf [x] Gerlach KP, Three ways to prevent family stress and divorce, In: High Nurturance Family Relationships. 2008. [Cited,2008 Jun 25]. Available from: http://sfhelp.org/prevent/intro.htm

The Heart of Darkness :: essays research papers

Heart of Darkness is a novel of indescribable horrors and actions that lie outside the human mind. It describes a mans (Marlow) voyage on a west African river to find an a man named Kurtz. The actual journey truly is towards the â€Å"heart of darkness†, where it takes Marlow by evidence of European indignity towards the natives. He wants to see this land for himself, he does not quite believe in himself of what is really there. This story hints at horrors that Marlow is incapable of describing, which leaves the reader to imagine actions that are outside of normal everyday life. The voyage that Marlow has taken has been long and exhausting. It’s an adventure for him. He has experienced a great deal of confrontation with the natives, jungle dangers and savagery. There is no interest of the humans who live here and they are extremely mistreated. To them this is normal human behavior. Nothing has been done differently. Nowhere did we stop long enough to get a particular impression, but there was general sense of wonder. â€Å"It was like a weary pilgrimage amongst hints for nightmares†. This describes Marlow’s voyage to the â€Å"heart of darkness†, the literal heart of darkness: Africa. He was fully warned and well-aware of the evil he would encounter, however he chose to ignore that in effort to satisfy his curiosity. The author is also saying something about human nature. Human curiosity about an unknown place can make him cross the line of civilized human behavior and enter a world of nightmares. Marlow wanted to see it for himself, but what made it most fascinating was this land was something he had never experienced before. He knew he would be a "weary pilgrimage amongst hints for nightmares" but he wanted to prove something to himself that could remain doubtable if not seen. There is a persistence of the human instinct that pushes people to try to find the unknown and calm their deepest desires and questions. To actually see and experience the unknown are the only true ways we will believe. This adventure novel can mean a whole different thing. The â€Å"heart of darkness† can be a symbolic journey into the dark center of the heart and soul of a human revealing concealed evil. It is exploration of the inner self, reflecting the unconscious self of a human. Ironically, the truth is exposed not in terms of light, but in terms of darkness.

American Traditions Reflected In The Literature Of 1865-1912 Essay

The United States has always professed itself to be the â€Å"land of the free. † In fact, most of its traditions are rooted in its value for freedom, family and country. How often is it in public speeches that we are reminded that â€Å"all men are created equal that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights†¦that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. † Literary pieces produced between the years of 1865 and 1912 show a growing awareness and search for understanding of civil rights and democracy. Uniqueness and personal individuality and perspective were reflected in the writing styles and stories that appeared during this time. Nineteenth century poet Emily Dickinson’s poems in â€Å"The Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson† reflect her views and awareness of the role of women in a patriarchal and free society. Indeed her writings could very well be considered ‘feminist. ‘ Walt Whitman’s â€Å"Leaves of Grass’ was representative of an America that was alive, rich and natural. He states: â€Å"The Americans of all nations at any time upon the earth have probably the fullest poetical nature. The United States is essentially the greatest poem† (Whitman, 1855) Yet while his views were generally â€Å"romantic† in nature, his demonstrates a keen awareness social issues such as the growing materialism brought about by industrialism. He called for literature that would bind the readers in a more spiritual and imaginative state as individuals in his â€Å"Democratic Vistas† (1871. ) American Literature saw the birth of awareness and definition of freedom. Freedom was then too general a concept yet the literary products in this period showed the emergence of expressions for individuality against convention, true liberty, and pride in identity. American Literature 2 2. GENDER AND ETHNIC MINORITIES IN THE ECONOMIC AND LITERARY DEVELOPMENT IN 1865-1912 Literature has been used as an expression of freedom of thought, feelings, and ideals. It has also been used as a tool of social awareness and activism that meant to inspire reform particularly in the disparity experienced by women and ethnic minorities in that era. As the industrial age prepared to take root in the United States, ethnic minorities like the Native Americans, Africans and Asians, and other ethnic groups grew more marginalized in existence. Africans became slaves who were made to work in the tobacco and cotton fields. Others were pressed into domestic servitude in the homes of the wealthy White men. Literature at in reference to women and the ethnic minorities viewed them as objects that â€Å"White men† own. This dehumanization served as a sort of â€Å"muse† for the emerging â€Å"realist† writers. If popular literature referred to them as non-entities, the realists raised their plight up as a sign for the need for social awareness and change. In her â€Å"Woman in the Nineteenth Century,† essayist and on of America’s first respected female journalists Margaret Fuller, brought up the existence of sexual discrimination and suggested steps in an effort to promote the independence of women. She was an advocate of equality gained through human freedom and dignity. Mark Twain’s â€Å"Huckleberry Finn† defied conventions and spoke out against the practice of slavery and the irrationality of â€Å"civilized† society. The friendship of his lead characters Jim and Huck went beyond the strictures of a slave-owning society and culminated in something that was happy and generous. Emancipation of women, abolishment of racism, marginalization and slavery according to the realist writers, were what should define American freedom, humanity and democracy†¦not the materialism and human ownership brought by industrialization. References â€Å"The Romantic Period, 1820-1860, Essayists and Poets†. Outline of American Literature. United States International Information Programs (2006) Retrieved August 29, 2007 from http://usinfo. state. gov/products/pubs/oal/lit3. htm â€Å"The Rise of Realism: 1860-1914†. Outline of American Literature. United States International Information Programs (2006) Retrieved August 29, 2007 from http://usinfo. state. gov/products/pubs/oal/lit5. htm