Biopsych Cold Pressor

Physiology of Behaviour; Sex differences in physiological responses of the cold pressor test. Abstract This lab report aims to analyse the sex differences in a physiological responses to a potentially aversive physiological stress inducing stimuli. This was conducted by a cold pressor test. 8 males and 8 females participated. Heart rate, respiration rate, and galvanic skin was recorded whilst participants undertook the CPT test. Results showed no significant differences that there is a gender difference in experimental induced stimuli of pain. IntroductionTo say that male and females are biologically and physiologically the same is denying physical reality’s differentiation takes place immediately as the male or female begins to develop within the womb. The sex hormones –primarily oestrogen and testosterone–have a significant impact on the behaviour of males and females. Why do boys typically like to play with trucks and girls like to play with dolls? Feminists u sually claim this is the result of socialization, but there is growing scientific evidence that boys and girls are greatly influenced by their respective hormones.Within biological psychology the biology and physiological differences are studied thoroughly between male and female. In biological psychology, physiological pain has been studied frequently. Furthering this, the differences between male and female pain response and threshold for pain have been measured in several experiments. Pain is often described as an uncomfortable response to unpleasant stimuli. Different physiological responses take place when pain is perceived.The International Association for the Study of Pain's widely used definition states: â€Å"Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such damage†. (Bonica,1979) Pain motivates the individual to remove themselves from these unpleasant stimuli or situations, to prot ect the body. Pain is a part of the body’s defence system. Humans attempt to avoid similar painful and unpleasant experiences in the future. (Lynn,1984)Most pain resolves promptly once the painful stimulus is removed and the body has healed, but sometimes pain persists despite removal f the stimulus and apparent healing of the body; and sometimes pain arises in the absence of any detectable stimulus, damage or disease. (Raj,2007) People report a pain threshold and a pain tolerance. The pain threshold is the point at which sensation becomes pain, where as Pain tolerance is the amount of pain a person can handle without breaking down, either physically or emotionally. Men and women have reported over several studies different measures of pain threshold and pain tolerance in this following study I aim to review the literature between the sex differences of men and women in line with pain tolerance and pain threshold. Previous tests for pain threshold and tolerance that have been used are the electric shock test, tooth pulp stimulation, and tourniquet induced scheme (von Baeyer, 2007. ) The pain experiment that will be used in this lab report is the cold pressor test. The cold pressor test is a cardiovascular test performed by immersing the hand into an ice water container, usually for one minute, and measuring changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Its response is clinically indicative concerning vascular response and pulse excitability.The cold pressor test has been used for several years as a means of measuring experimentally induced pain. The cold pressor test is a preferred method to experimentally induce pain. Even though inducing pain seems unethical, as it is a necessity for psychological research, this method is preferred. It does not cause any psychology damage, it does not cause any damage to tissue or limbs, and minimum means of stimulation is used in comparison to other experimental induced pain methods. Methodology needs to be clear and con cise for carrying out the cold pressor test to be accurate.Temperature of the water is important to take into consideration when carrying out the cold pressor test, as temperature activates the sympathetic nervous system to release physiological responses. In a study researching the difference that the temperature of the water can make to the results showed significant outcomes. Twenty-six participants (12 men, 14 women) underwent 4  cold pressor  trials with  temperature order counterbalanced across 1 °C, 3 °C, 5 °C, and 7 °C,  temperatures  representative of  the  range used in previous literature.Significant main effects of temperature  were found for tolerance time, with higher  temperatures  resulting in longer times, and pain intensity, with lower  temperatures  resulting in higher intensities. Gender differences were obtained, with men tolerating  the  stimulus for significantly longer than women. Mitchell et al has found that water variati ons in CPT pain response in adults elicited by temperature variations of as little as 2 °C. The local warming changes the pain stimulus, enhancing the likelihood of longer tolerance.In conclusion, small differences in water temperature  have a significant effect on pain intensity and tolerance time. Methodology has to be carefully followed to ensure that the water temperature does not change across the study as very minor changes in experimental protocol can produce significant differences in the cold pressor test. (Mitchell, 2004). Other measures can also be obtained from the cold pressor such as pain threshold and pain tolerance. (Lowery, 2006)This is done by requiring a participant to place their hand in the cold pressor for as long as they can.Once pain is present, they let the researcher know. Once the pain is unbearable, the participant removes his/her hand. This provides a measure of threshold (first feeling pain) and tolerance (total time minus threshold). Within the hum an race, the vast majority of studies obtained results that women are more sensitive than men to experimentally induced pain, as evidenced by the cold pressor test. (Dixon, 2004) In a meta-analysis of 17 studies, Riley et al (1998) found that the effect sizes for sex differences in pain threshold and tolerance were moderate to large.Nevertheless, different experimenters suggested that these sex differences might not be as strongly supported. (Berkley, 1997) In their 1995 review, Fillingim and Maixner summarized 34 human studies. In 24 of these studies, men exhibited less pain than women, but sex differences were reported in only one of several measures or conditions examined in 7 of the 24 studies. .) In 10 of the 34 studies, sex differences were not found. . (Fillingim, 1995). The menstrual cycle plays a big part in the explanation of gender differences of pain tolerance and threshold.Studies have previously shown that higher oestrogen levels produce a greater pain perception. One study analysed the difference using the cold pressor test where 22 female students participated at two different phases of the menstrual cycle (days 2–4 and days 20–24). A control group of nineteen male students participated on two occasions, separated by a three week period were used. The results showed that men have a higher pain threshold than women, and women seemed to have a greater threshold for pain in the second period of their cycle. (Helstrom, B. amp; Lundberg, U. 2000) After reviewing and assessing the literature relating to gender differences in pain using the cold pressor test, we have decided to test the following 3 hypotheses; 1. Females and males will differ in pain threshold. 2. Females and males will differ in tolerance to pain. 3. There will be sex difference in physiological stress response (as measured by heart rate, respiration rate, and galvanic skin response) Participants The participants used were a random sample of 8 males and 8 females within an age range of 18-23. The mean age was 20.No participants were wearing tights or clothing that would disrupt the results of the physiological measures All subjects were assumed as English as a first language therefore understanding the instructions of the experiment. All subjects did not suffer from any medical issues outlined in the medical history form which included Reynaud’s Syndrome, high or low blood pressure, diabetes or epilepsy, recent injury or surgery, neurological illness, chronic pain or any type of pain that might influence the results of the experiment. Materials One bucket of iced water at 20% of ice and 80% of water.A towel was used, a biopac physiological recording unit, a computer, a thermometer, electrode pads, timers, and recording sheets. Procedure Experimenters set up the lab, got ice for the bucket and measured the temperature of the water being between 3-5 degrees using a thermometer. The biopac was opened on the computer and electrode pads were set up to be ready for use. Participants were recruited, and asked to read the information sheets and sign the consent forms. Then the participants were brought into the lab where they were then hooked up to the biopac. Electrode pads were placed on the finger, wrist, and ankles.An experiment then explained to the participant the procedure. Participants were asked to take a deep breath when they heard the calibrate button, then a to relax for 2 minutes as a baseline was taken. The participants were then told that they would place their hands in a bucket of iced water. They were told when they began to felt pain say ‘uncomfortable’ and when they could not uphold a further threshold to say ‘stop’. Participants were facing away from the computer so they could not see the recordings. The experimenters then calibrated the biopac as the subject took a deep breath.The experimenters then recorded a baseline measurement of the participants GSR, Heart rate, and respirat ion. After 2 minutes the participants were then asked to place their hands in the ice bucket of water and the experimenters then measured tolerance and thresholdThe participants were then given a towl to watm their hands and they were debriefed. Experimenters then took note of the results from the GSR, heart rate and respiration rate from the baseline measurement, when the participant said ‘uncomfortable’ and when the participant said ‘stop’. The data was then analysed through means of SPSS. Results Hypothesis 1When reviewing the overall mean for the differences in male and female response to pain threshold, there was different means found; Females 28. 0 Males; 45. 8. The hypothesis that females and males will differ in pain threshold scores was tested by means of a t-test for independent group samples. The results were as follows; t=1. 83 df=10 p;0. 98, 2tailed. The hypothesis was therefore not upheld. There was no significant difference between the pain t hreshold scores and gender. Hypothesis 2 When reviewing the overall mean for the differences in male and female results for tolerance to pain; the following means were obtained Females; 110. Males; 45. 8. The hypothesis that females and males will differ in tolerance to pain scores was tested inferentially by means of a t-test for independent group samples. The following results were obtained t=1. 16, df=10, p;0. 273. The hypothesis was therefore not upheld. There was no significant difference between pain tolerance scores and gender. Hypothesis 3 A 2 way ANOVA was carried out to asses the sex differences in physiological responses. The results showed no significant differences in relation to sex differences in Heart Rate df=1, f=. 066, p=. 802, GSR- df=1, f=. 534, p=. 82, and Respiration rate- df=1, f=. 410, p=. 885 Discussion The results that were collected from the data did not support any of the 3 hypotheses. This can be due to several different reasons. Our results were in line with several different studies, where sex differences were not found in pain tolerance and pain threshold. .) In 10 of the 34 studies reviewed, sex differences were not found to be statistically significant. (Fillingim, 1995). However, other studies have found that gender differences did support significant results. . In 24 studies reviewed by Riley et al, men exhibited less pain than women.Several variables in different studies have been taken into account which produces different outcomes of results. In several studies, it shows that hunger can be important in the threshold and tolerance of pain. One study reported the effects of 2, 10, 14, and 24 hr. of food deprivation (hunger) and of 0, 2, 3, and 4 min. of cold-pressor stimulation. This study found that the relationship between intensity of hunger and level of autonomic response is not linear and that there seemed to be no gender difference between hunger and pain. (Engel, 1959). Personality factors have also shown in some stu dies to show a difference in pain perception.This study effects of personality and pain catastrophizing upon pain tolerance and pain ratings and to examine the impact of an experimental pain induction on subsequent ratings of catastrophizing. The results found were t that sex differences in catastrophizing and pain responsivity are partially accounted for by the dispositional tendency to describe oneself as emotionally vulnerable. Females tended to describe themselves more emotionally vulnerable than males resulting in males having a higher threshold for pain. (Thorn, 2004). Anxiety can also possibly play a part in the effects of a cold pressor test.It has been found that anxiety based situations can provoke a higher intensity of pain. In Jones (2002) they found that, contrary to previous results, that men had a higher rating of intensity of pain in anxiety provoked situations compared to women. A major issue that has been addressed in the introduction plays a big role to why women can possibly have a higher intensity of pain compared to men. Previous studies have found that it can depend what time in the menstrual cycle that women are in can have an effect on their ratings and perceptions of pain.The hormone oestrogen seems to produce a higher sensitivity to pain and when conducting the cold pressor test this is a serious issue to be taken into consideration. evaluated sex differences in response to cold pressor pain in normally menstruating women (NMW), women maintained on oral contraceptives (OCW), and men. Testing occurred during 5 phases of the menstrual cycle. All participants completed 10 sessions (2 sessions per phase). During the cold presser test, participants immersed the forearm into water maintained at 4 °C, and pain threshold and tolerance were measured.The results were analysed and the study supports the notion that differences in pain perception between the sexes and among menstrual cycle phases are subtle. However, normally menstruating wome n showed an increase in pain tolerance and threshold over repeated stimulation, whereas men only exhibited a minor increase in pain threshold, therefore it shows a sex difference in reaction to repeated painful stimuli between men and women. Following our results, it is believed that our results could have been implicated due to the distractions of the participants.The cold pressor test was conducted in a lab where there was other cold compressor tests being conducted, therefore with the level of noise it was easy to be distracted. This can be an issue for methodology. A previous study has undertaken a study on how distraction can affect experimental pain results. The results were found that distraction had varying impact on different aspects of pain responding, and affectively neutral distraction during pain stimulation reduced the sensory pain ratings but not pain tolerance.Affectively neutral distraction may be used to manage a patient's reaction to brief, painful stimulation, bu t may not work in long term chronic pain (Hodes, 1990). Also as discussed in the introduction, temperature is an extremely important methodological factor when carrying out the CPT. In this experiment we found it very difficult to keep a perfect modulation of the temperature. Previous studies have shown that this minor glitch in the experiment can have an affective major impact on the results. Although water temperature only had risen to an extra one degree, this should be still taken into account for the outcome of the results.Within our sample size, we obtained 16 subjects. (8 males and 8 females). Although the results are weighted, one can feel that this is too small a sample size to draw correct inferences and conclude from. In the future a bigger sample size should be obtained as there will be a greater sensitivity to the results and different results could possibly have an outcome. In continuation with the methodology implications of the participants, they should of not known what the experiment was about. Some of the subjects stated after the experiment that they already knew this experiment via the media.Therefore, participants could of possibly tried to withstand a threshold for longer as they knew what exactly the experimenters were testing. As the experimenters were all female, in sociological aspects, men could have possibly pretended to not feel pain, in order to impress the experimenters. This can affect the results to an extent. There also could be an implication of anticipation of pain versus actual pain. If the subject is anticipating feeling pain, this can make them think that they feel more pain as they have psychologically believed that this experiment will amount to a certain level of pain.Even though some would conclude that inducing pain and stressors on individuals is ethically wrong, psychology needs a mean to test experimental pain for a growth in psychology. The cold pressor test was the best test to carry out to induce pain as it do es not cause any psychological or physiological harm, the participants’ control over the process (i. e. , their ability to withdraw the limb), and the pain only mounts very slowly, the subject can withdraw their hand if it reached a level of any severe pain.After analysing and assessing various discursive points and implications of the study, this study can conclude that there are methodological implications within the cold pressor test. Different studies all have different outcomes on whether there is an actual sex difference within pain tolerance and pain threshold, and this can be due to different variables being used within studies. Further research should progress in the areas of the affect of a difference in water temperature, and anxiety provoked situations in relation to gender difference as there has been previously little research conducted.Berkley, K (1997) Sex differences in pain Behav Brain Sci, 20 pp. 371–380 Dixon, K. E, Thorn, B. E, Ward, L. C (2004) An evaluation of sex differences in psychological and physiological responses to experimentally-induced pain A path analytic description Pain, 112 pp. 188–196 Engel, B. T. (1959), â€Å"Some physiological correlates of hunger and pain†, Journal of experimental psychology, vol. 57, no. 6, pp. 389-396. Fillingim, R. B, Maixner, W. (1995) Gender differences in the responses to noxious stimuli Pain Forum, 4, pp. 209–221 Fillingim, RB; Wright, RA (2003). â€Å"SexDifferences and Incentive Effects on Perceptual and Cardiovascular Responses to Cold Pressor Pain†. Psychosomatic Medicine 65 (2): 284–91 Helstrom, B. & Lundberg, U. (2000), â€Å"Pain perception to the cold pressor test during the menstrual cycle in relation to oestrogen levels and a comparison with men†,  Integrative Physiological & Behavioural Science,  vol. 35, no. 2, pp. 132-141 Hodes, R. L. , Howland, E. W. , Lightfoot, N. & Cleeland, C. S. (1990), â€Å"The effects of distracti on on responses to cold pressor pain†, Pain, vol. 41, no. 1, pp. 109-114. Jones, A. , Spindler, H. Jorgensen, M. M. & Zachariae, R. (2002) â€Å"The effect of situation-evoked anxiety and gender on pain report using the cold pressor test†, Scandinavian Journal of Psychology, vol. 43, no. 4, pp. 307-313. Lynn B. Cutaneous nociceptors. In: Winlow W, Holden AV. The neurobiology of pain: Symposium of the Northern Neurobiology Group, held at Leeds on 18 April 1983. Manchester: Manchester University Press; 1984. Mitchell, L. A. , MacDonald, R. A. R. & Brodie, E. E. (2004), â€Å"Temperature and the Cold Pressor Test†, The Journal of Pain, vol. 5, no. 4, pp. 233-238 Raj PP.Taxonomy and classification of pain. In: Niv D, Kreitler S, Diego B, Lamberto A. (2007) The Handbook of Chronic Pain. Nova Biomedical Books; Riley, J. L, Robinson, M. E, Wise, E. A, Mers, C. D,Fillingim, R. B (1998)Sex differences in the perception of noxious experimental stimuli A meta-analysis Pain, 74 pp. 181–187 Thorn, B. E. , Clements, K. L. , Ward, L. C. , Dixon, K. E. , Kersh, B. C. , Boothby, J. L. & Chaplin, W. F. 2004, â€Å"Personality factors in the explanation of sex differences in pain catastrophizing and response to experimental pain†,  The Clinical journal of pain,  vol. 0, no. 5, pp. 275-282 von Baeyer, C. L. , Piira, T. , Chambers, C. T. , Trapanotto, M. and Zeltzer, L. K. (2005). Guidelines for the Cold Pressor Task as an Experimental Pain Stimulus for Use With Children. Journal of Pain, Vol 6, No 4, pp 218-227 2!!! a b International Association for the Study of Pain: Pain Definitions [cited 10 Sep 2011]. â€Å"Pain is an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such damage† Derived from Bonica JJ. The need of a taxonomy. Pain. 1979; 6(3):247–8.

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The television is one of today’s major sources of entertainment. It could not be denied that this particular innovation of technology attracts numerous audiences that share a certain agreement that television is indeed a primary source of relaxation to the weary minds of many people in the society. In fact, â€Å"According to the International Herald Tribune, over a billion TV sets cover the globe, 50  percent more than there were five years ago. In Japanese homes, TV sets outnumber flush toilets. Only about half of Mexican homes have a telephone, but just about every household has a TV. And many Americans have 25 or 30 channels to choose from. States the Tribune: â€Å"The cultural, political and economic effects of this global television revolution are enormous. .  .  . Some worry that all that TV watching will make the rest of the world lose its appetite for reading, as has already happened to two generations of Americans.† (Herald tribune, 1990, 3) Certainly, from this particular report, it could be observed that television has been taking over the other forms of entertainment ever since the time it was first introduced to the society. It could be noted too that as years pass, the simple innovation of a box like feature of a television continuous to involve in such a state that the said form of entertainment is able to meet the specific standard of relaxation for different types of audiences. There exists the large screen televisions, the flat screen TVs, the mobile televisions and so on and so forth (Anuradha, 1994, 34). From this point it could then be agreed upon by many that television fondness among the present generation towards the next generations is here to stay. However, the question is, with the large amount of hours spent by viewers in front of the television, how true is it to say that the habit of television viewing affects the viewers directly, leaving a great impact upon their lives as individuals? It could also be understood that television is among the major mediums used to host several advertisements that are posted for liquor beverages. To understand the impact of the system, understanding what television has originally made for could be the first step in the clarification. Television can plant the same idea in hundreds of millions of minds—all in the same instant! And unlike the printed page, it does not require its viewers to be educated in the complex art of reading, nor does it ask them to form their own mental images and impressions. It delivers its messages with pictures and sound and all the enticements they can produce. (Evra, 1997, 24) It did not take long for politicians to see the tremendous potential of television. In the United States, Dwight D.  Eisenhower used TV shrewdly in his 1952 presidential campaign. According to the book Tube of Plenty—The Evolution of American Television (Greenwood,1980), Eisenhower  won the election because he proved the more â€Å"merchandisable† candidate in the media. The book shows that TV may have played an even greater role in John F.  Kennedy’s victory over Richard M.  Nixon in the 1960 election. When the candidates debated on TV, Kennedy scored higher with viewers than Nixon did. Yet, audiences who heard the same debate over the radio felt that it had been a draw. Why the difference? Nixon looked pale and haggard, while Kennedy was robust and tanned, exuding confidence and vitality. After the election, Kennedy said of television: â€Å"We wouldn’t have had a prayer without that gadget.† (Evra, 1997, 25) â€Å"That gadget† continued to make its power felt worldwide. Some began calling it the third superpower. Satellite technology enabled broadcasters to beam their signals across national borders and even oceans. World leaders used TV as a forum to garner international support and denounce their rivals. Some governments used it to transmit propaganda into enemy countries. And just as governments had tried to control Gutenberg’s invention once they understood its power, many governments took tight hold of television. In 1986 nearly half of all nations were broadcasting only government-controlled programs. At present, there are numerous developments with regards the programs presented through the use of the satellite connections of televisions. News programs were among those, which primarily utilized the benefits brought about by television networking (Evra, 1997, 29). However, aside from this particular programming presentation, other recreational sorts of programs also found the said satellite networking system quite much effective in helping the society gain recreation and not simply information from utilizing the said technological gadget. Since then, entertainment and recreation became one of the most important factors of interest it television programming (Scheuer, 1999, 99). The production of soap operas, and fantasy based stories that are aimed to entertain especially the young audiences (Evra, 1997, 54). This is where the negative and positive effects of television on the human society enters the discussion. (A)   The Benefits of Television Television has made available some wholesome entertainment programs too. In the privacy of his home a person can enjoy a Shakespeare drama, the Metropolitan Opera, ballet and concerts. There is a television series produced in England that may be enjoyed with or without sound. When the actors talk to one another (which is very seldom) they also employ sign language. This makes available an entertaining and instructive program both for people who can hear and for those who cannot. (Awake! 1990, 29) The field of education has greatly benefited from television. It makes available a variety of instructive material with a full view of the teacher and of any experiments or visual illustrations that he may provide. One can learn about mathematics, various other sciences, basic household skills, languages and many other things on educational television. Many enjoy â€Å"visual essays† that couple a fine view of live performances in arts such as music or dancing with commentary by an expert in the field. Some countries employ TV to cut down their illiteracy rate (Littner, 1980, 25). Developing countries have found it an effective tool to train people for jobs where there are not enough qualified teachers. And television presentations can be stored on videotape for repeated use. Young viewers can often talk intelligently on matters that the pre-television generations never dreamed of; and in the case of very young children, TV may contribute to a larger vocabulary, though it often has the opposite effect on older youths. â€Å"But television is merely a means of communication. Whether it benefits you personally depends upon the type of programs that you watch. Many voices have been raised in protest at the poor quality of much TV programming. In the United States television has been criticized for â€Å"pandering to the lowest common denominator in public taste.† (Evra, 1997, 32) Certainly, the power of television viewing has mainly affected the ways by which the young learners are able to increase their vocabularies as well as their knowledge about the major factors of the society as well as the major branches of education, especially when they are viewing educational programs. In these terms, the fact that television also brings about benefits to the society is indeed proven. (B)   The Disadvantages of Viewing TV There are several factors of viewing that brings about negative effects to the human individuals. There are at least four major themes that characterize this particular impact. The said program themes in the television that brings about the disadvantages include (a) Sexual Immorality; (b) Corruption and Social Chaos or dishonesty; (c) fantasy and make believe; and (d) Violence (Anuradha, 1994, 24). These particular themes are usually the primary themes used by television programming that at some point attracts the larger amount of viewers form the public. Why is this so? According to psychology experts, people who usually watch television are those who are having not much of things to do; those who are not preoccupied enough with their jobs that they are able to spend long hours of the day sitting in front of their televisions (coon, 1999, 26). They are the main targets of the producers of programs in the television. Hence, to be able to gain much profit from them, these producers aim to tickle their interests through the utilization of the major themes that directly attract their attention (Anuradha, 1994, 54). Making believe is among the top themes used by producers in creating the programs that they present to the society. Movies and television series that are arranged in patterns of the fantasy themes have normally received much appreciation from public viewers (Scheuer, 1999). As for a fact, movies such as Harry Potter, the Terminator, Lord of the Rings and other more programs following the same theme attracted much of the population in the society. They are among the movies, which are considered to become the blockbusters of the years when they were first shown to the public. True, the relaxation that the said movies bring to its viewers is indeed incomparable. Psychologists again add that the need of people to rest from reality through believing in fantasy stories is indeed a defense mechanism of the society in facing the reality of life (Coon, 1999, 145). Watching movies that make them realize that they are powerful enough like â€Å"heroes† such as Spiderman and batman in facing their lives, effective and strategic in ways of facing their transgressions through the use of magic like Harry Potter; makes the human society feel like there are of no limits and that they are empowered in terms of fantasy to face the challenges that they meet everyday (Coon, 1999, 146). However, not all the audiences that are able to access the said movies are mature enough to understand that what they are seeing is simply make believe. In fact, 70% of the viewers of these particular themes are young children from the ages two towards the ages six, who are known to believe whatever they see in the television. They are not that much capable of setting apart the truth from make-believe. Hence, upon seeing the programs that were mentioned above, they are disposed of to beliefs that they are able to become like that of the characters that they see on television. Children as young as they are have no limitations as to what they are supposed to or not believe in. The trend of television toward the â€Å"new morality† is also a disheartening one. Startled viewers have seen shows that deal with homosexuality and lesbianism. Full frontal nudity has appeared on stations of the Public Broadcasting System. Comedy shows often feature off-color humor. And what about the â€Å"soap operas†? The pamphlet TV and the New Morality observes: â€Å"Daytime soap operas deal frankly with adultery and casually show unmarried couples in bed together.† (Awake! 1998, 23) Again, the young audiences are not addressed fairly in this part of the program arrangement of the television showing. Form this particular picture; it could be observed that the moral disposition of the children is rather placed in such a confusing status. Hence, when they grow older, their understanding of what is right and what is wrong is then misarranged that they be subjected to confusion when they are already facing the actual situations in life when they are the ones who are already expected on what is right and what is not. In terms of human relations, in bygone days when a person wished to learn of events or matters of local or world importance, he would have to get that information by direct communication with other people. Friends would gather at the village well or at the general store for an exchange of news and views. But with television, people may get the same information without bothering with their neighbors (Evra, 1997, 47). If they are not careful, they can allow television to quash their incentive to communicate with others. One writer spoke of TV watchers as being â€Å"anonymous island-audiences, newly separated from one another.† (Awake! 1998, 24)Certainly, television programs at some point ruins the doubtless relationships of humans with each other. The used to be loyally disposed relationships between humans are being directly affected by the doubtful ideas presented in televisions. Knowing both the advantages and the disadvantages brought about by television viewing, it should then occur to each individual that the importance of balancing television viewing with other activities away from it is an essential part in assisting the youths especially in their behavioral advancements towards adulthood that are actually directly affected by their practices in television viewing. Television and Liquor Advertisements WHAT is the aim of commercial advertising? Businesses say that their advertising provides a public service because it gives us information about their products. The International Advertising Association states: â€Å"To be properly informed the Consumer needs advertising. Informed choice is based on information. Advertising—in its broadest sense—is the vital conduit for that information between Producer and Consumer.† Of course, we all know that such advertising does more than merely inform—its job is to sell. It is not objective or neutral. Successful ads skillfully engage the mind of the consumer and motivate him to buy the product advertised. Recently, advertisements using sexuality as a way of persuading consumers to buy adult beverages has been a trend in the advertising industry. Why is this so? As we know the advertising business is enticed with the goal of targeting a specific group of consumers to attract to buy their products. As to clearly explain, to be strategically sound, an ad is usually carefully directed to a certain audience, whether it be children, housewives, businesspeople, or some other group. The message is crafted to appeal to the most important concerns of that audience. Then the ad is run in the media that will most effectively reach them. Before an ad is designed, a great deal of research goes into finding out about the group of people most likely to buy and use the product being advertised. Advertisers need to know who these people are, how they think and behave what they desire and dream of. Advertisers also consider informations about consumers such as who they are, where they live, what they buy and why. Knowing all these gives them the ammunition to write persuasive sales messages. Their targets will respond to persuasion; they won’t respond to bluster, our self-interests, or rhetorical arrows shot randomly into the air. And as obvious as it is, the prospect consumers of hard liquor products or adult beverages, which are men had been successfully persuaded by such kind of advertisements using sexuality. In fact, these kinds of advertisements have already been socially accepted as years passed in the advertising industry. The question is, is this kind of practice to be considered healthy? Could it be justified as to becoming socially accepted as a simple norm in the society? How should consumers react on this kind of persuasion? These questions and more shall be answered in the following paragraphs. The Reality behind Advertisements using Sexuality Ads are carefully crafted to appeal to the specific desires and values of the target audience. Perhaps an ad will appeal to the need to have fun, the hunger for security, or a yearning to be accepted by others. Maybe the ad will direct itself to a desire to impress others, to be clean, or to stand out as different. Indeed, advertisements could be in any form. It could be shown through music, visual materials such as posters, newspaper ads and the television, it could also be posted through the Internet. In fact, these ads are usually accompanied by women who almost wore nothing holding the beverage on one hand and the other hand flirting with the man whom they are luring to have a drink with. Yes, this has become a common trend. Although all the advertisements showing sexual patterns of persuasion are most likely addressed to the grown-ups, it still couldn’t be denied that it is not only them who are able to have access to these advertisements. As reality suggests, the advertisements specially shown in TV are not only viewed by adults but as well as young children. Of course the advertisers know that TV, as a medium of communication, has a profound effect. Their advertising conditions people mentally so that they will buy their products. Surely, the commercial leaders of the world are not so simple-minded as to throw away money if TV advertising has little or no effect. On the contrary, instead of buying, the innocent minds of children are more likely polluted with trash and lust, things that they should not even see. Not only that, Internet today is mostly accessible to anybody who would like to learn anything. Yet, behind the aims of learning something new, many youths stumble to the sites showcasing commercial ads regarding beverages that has a strong spirit affecting the aggressiveness of anybody who drinks it. The worst thing it, the ads are more often then not, posting pornographic materials along with the product they sell. Aside from this, teens that are able to watch these kinds of â€Å"short flicks† on sexuality are usually stimulated to do the same things they see. Unfortunately, many teenagers fail to see the real effects of these advertisements to them selves. As a result, grave conclusions on the matter have been accepted by the society as parts of norms already. Things such as premarital sex, grave sexual assaults between teenagers and cases alike. Yes, the advertisements showcasing the sexuality as a social norm prove to be quite disturbing. Knowing this, how should we react as consumers towards the said advertisements? Conclusion As conscientious consumers, we should be aware enough of what we buy from what we watch and what we see. Basing from the thing we see, we should be prompted to protect the children and teenagers from becoming victims of the effects of advertisements posting lust to be such a luring and desirable act for anybody. Regarding the said issue, it is more considerable to accept banning commercials and advertisements showcasing sexuality as a medium of consumer-persuasion-strategy. Why is this so much agreeable about? First, the effects of the said advertisements prove to be much overwhelming especially concerning the morality of many people specially youths worldwide. This fact should wake everybody up to face the reality that each of us has a responsibility to protect our society from being polluted by the many grave effects of the wide array of pornography which are usually seen in Adult beverage advertisements. Second, everyone is liable of being a responsible citizen for the next genera tin following the footsteps of the older generation. Third, we all have a battle against exploitation. Why is this related? It is because many of the talents used in the posters and commercials for adult beverages are more likely underage, or if not, at times because of financial reasons, they are encouraged to pose for certain ads. Although there is an Advertising code for beverage commercials stating that women posing for the said commercials should be aged 25 and above, it is still more often that not being abused. Yes, each person has his own reason for agreeing in making their society a better place to live in. One way of making it is cleaning the most influential power in the society which is the media.   One of the key solutions to this problem is our respect for each other. As we could see, if people tend to respect each other’s right and think of other’s welfare other than just thinking of the profit to be gained, the morality of humanity could be closely watched and circumstances such as commercials involving sexuality could be fairly avoided. References: â€Å"Advertising-How necessary?† (February 8,1988). Awake! Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. Brooklyn, New York. 3-4. Alcohol.gov. (2005). ALCOHOL BEVERAGES ADVERTISING CODE. www.alcohol.gov.au/advertising.pdf.   (November 6, 2007).   

How Diversity

How diversity affects police work? Tract Ann Fuchs August 16, 2013 AS 310 cultural Diversity DRY. Don Kirk Macon The role of the police is to enforce the law, not to question it. This meaner that the police have been used to do society racial dirty work–to return runaway slaves to their masters and to enforce segregation in the South. We have only to think of Southern sheriffs like â€Å"Bull† Connors to remind us of how the white power structure has fought to maintain its privileges. However, it also pays to remember that it is always easier to admit the sins of the past than it is to identify those of today.Few people today would defend a sheriff like Connors, but while there Is widespread agreement today that racism is a serious problem, that consensus dwindles when people are asked to confirm specific examples. People will admit to the problem in general, but balk at attributing racist motives to any example that cuts too close to home. The police today must contend directly with a number of Issues that carry a racial subtext both in fact and in perception: crime, drugs, disorder, civil unrest, and police brutality.While some can look at the same glass and call it half empty, while there call it half full, there is ample reason to suggest that even the most optimistic observers would agree that the police face a major challenge In this era of racial anxiety (Transaction & Becquerel, 1991). The purpose of this paper will be to explore the dynamics of the racially charged issues that the police must deal with, It will also explore how and why a nationwide shift to Community Policing is essential if law enforcement Is to face the challenge of promoting greater racial harmony as we are In the 21st century.It will also contend that Community Policing helps ensure hat the police are not misused again, as they have been in the past. Given the daily interaction between law enforcement officers and the diverse public, diversity training tort law enforc ement workers aids a better understanding tot different types of people and their situations. Such education leads to better Interaction. Those whose professional ideal Is to protect and serve people equally from all backgrounds must face the challenges and complexities off diverse society.A lack of communication effectiveness, coupled with little understanding of individuals' surrounds, can result In Inadvertent violation of Individuals' rights as well as officer safety and risk issues. Officers, even more than others, must ensure that their prejudices remain in check and that they refrain from acting on any biased thought. Although our nation has been enriched by diversity, many police procedures and Interactions with citizens can be more complex because of diversity. Racial tensions and communication challenges with immigrants. Or example, are bound to complicate some police encounters. It would be naive to preach to law enforcement officers, agents, and managers about the value of diversity when day-to-day activities part of all criminal Justice representatives is required as a precursor to improving interpersonal relations and contact across cultural, ethnic, and racial lines. (Robert M. Shasta, 2103) Law enforcement officers are affected by culture diversity each day as they patrol and interact with citizen within their Jurisdictions. Communities depend on law enforcement for measures of security, safety and service.Some segments of communities have felt neglected or misunderstood by local law enforcement, leading to a lack of trust and a sense of insecurity. With this being the feeling of the community, contemporary law enforcement on the local, state, and federal level has changed immensely from the practices used by law enforcement in the past. Today law enforcement officers receive education and training far exceeding any training implemented in history. Training and education focuses on cultural diversity, religion, and effective communication.In ad dition, a demand for a more educated, professional, and level headed officer is sought-after by a system imposed of rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and laws that if not followed can result in due process of law violations, loss of cases, civil litigation's, and much more. These positive characteristics instilled in law enforcement officers alleviate behaviors considered unethical. Law enforcement officers educated in cultural diversity are less likely to apply bias, prejudice, and discrimination toward people of color, or one's sexual preference, gender, age, and religious and spiritual beliefs (Harley, 2008).Unfortunately, even with professionalism and equality at the top of law enforcement acquirement individuals working within the criminal Justice system are permitted discretionary powers that can be used in either a positive or negative manner. Law enforcement officers when encountering a situation can apply discretion based on personal, religious, and family beliefs. This, in return can be detrimental to the indigent and minority groups as ignorance appears to be a trait beneficial to an officer who engages in prejudice or discriminatory decision making.Unfair treatment, such as racial profiling, continues to be problem indigent and minorities encounter throughout the United States on a regular basis. Racial profiling has led to numerous civil litigation's, and criminal charges filed against individual officers, departments, and states. Not all bad comes from a culturally diverse Nation and criminal Justice system. Contemporary law enforcement is considered an equal opportunity employer and seeks out minority to work as professionals within the system.In addition, more minorities are attending college and receiving associates, bachelors, masters, and even doctoral degrees. Research proved by pairing law enforcement officers from different ethnic backgrounds community members are given the ability to witness Irishman different ethnic groups can, in fact coexist, and work together for the greater good of society. Moreover, in certain situations and under certain circumstances minority officers are better capable of understand and dealing with the actions of an individual from the same ethnic group than that of an officer from a different ethnicity.This in return can alleviate the possibility of verbal and physical confrontation between the citizen and law enforcement officer. Understanding different cultures can further alleviate civil litigation against the individual officer, apartment, and state as departments can create policies and procedures that assist offices when encountering minority. Diversity within a law enforcement department creative ideas. These ideas can produce a more effective and organized police department (Harley, 2008).Community policing is a key feature that was used in the past and still is by law enforcement today. Officers concerned with and focus on obtaining good community policing skills are cul turally diverse and realize establishing a rapport with members of society from the same culture and different culture is equally important. Community and law enforcement relations is crucial in more ways than not. A majority of investigations require the cooperation and assistance of community members for the successful detection and apprehension of criminal wrongdoers.Without the cooperation of community members, law enforcement is left without eye witnesses, testimony, and other assistance much needed to save valuable time, money, and resource. The Job of law enforcement requires a certain level of comfort and professionalism in interacting with people from all backgrounds whether one is working with community members to build trust r dealing with suspects, victims, and coworkers. Through increased awareness, cultural knowledge, and skills, law enforcement as a profession can increase its cultural competence.Acquiring cultural competence is not an instantaneous process; it is mul tilayered and complex, and includes: Exploration of officers' belief systems and biases Awareness of an officer's perspectives and perceptions, especially as they may differ from those associated with minority viewpoints Acquisition of cultural information relevant to the concerns of law enforcement, and he capacity to apply that knowledge in ethnic, racial, and other diverse communities Increased communication skills leading to effective rapport building and communication with all community members Development of a set of principles, attitudes, policies, and structures that will enable all individuals in an organization to work effectively and equitably across all cultures and ethnicities. There are, of course, no guarantees that Community Policing can prevent civil disorders. But by reducing opportunities for police brutality and encouraging better relations between people and their police, Community policing an reduce the threat. Obviously, Community Policing cannot solve all the underlying economic and social problems, that poor neighborhoods face.Community Officers also cannot close the income gap between whites and minorities, nor do they come to their beats bearing lists of high-paying Jobs for unskilled workers. Community Officers also cannot undo the effects of past childhood abuse and neglect. They cannot single-handedly eradicate the scourge of substance abuse, domestic evidence, illiteracy, and poverty, though they may be able to do far more than their motor patrol counterparts. Yet even the most dedicated Community Officers cannot lay both Mother and Father for all the children whose parent's simply do not care. The strategies an individual uses to approach and build rapport with his or her own cultural group may result in unexpected difficulties with another group.The acts of approaching, communicating, questioning, assisting, and establishing trust with members of culturally diverse groups require special knowledge and skills that have nothing t o do with the fact that â€Å"the law is the law' and must be enforced equally. Acquiring knowledge and skills that lead to sensitivity does not imply preferential members of all groups. (Robert M. Shasta, 2103) The American criminal Justice system was based on the belief of providing equality to all individuals legal and illegal charged with a crime or suspected of committing a crime in the United States. Unfortunately, disparity and discrimination continues to occur from the time an individual of a low socioeconomic status or of color comes into contact with law enforcement right through the entire stages of a trial, and into the correctional facility.

Data Collection Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Data Collection - Assignment Example rt from FEMA to explain the state of emergency management as well as present their findings regarding the heavy loss that was experienced following hurricane Katrina. In the report, it was apparent that the multi-agency operation lacked proper coordination because of the communication challenge occasioned by destruction of telecommunication network. Further on, the decision by government to cut down on its budgetary allocation to emergency management and the concomitant impacts have widely been tackled in peer reviewed articles, print media, as well as online news website. Information gathered from the aforementioned sources is critical in informing the various stakeholders of steps to be undertaken to address the challenge. First, from the issues raised by the disaster managers, it is apparent that limited budgetary allocation has further complicated the path to finding solution to the challenge. Secondly, citizen apathy and preference to varied communication challenge has made emergency officers face an uphill task when trying to reach out to victims of a disaster. From the information gathered, various recommendations have been put forth, including adoption of social media platforms to enhance communication. Additionally, these recommendations have proposed new state of communication infrastructure that, if adopted, would guarantee minimal interference in case of

Moral Stages of Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Moral Stages of Development - Essay Example Interspersed throughout these critical learning levels are seven different stages of understanding in which the child slowly progresses from one level to the next. Kohlberg defines the first level of moral development as that time when a child is very impressionable to rules and standards of behavior, but only to the extent that he or she will act a certain way to avoid physical punishment or gain physical rewards (treats, etc.). Level Two moral development involves both conformity and loyalty to social norms, according to Kohlberg, and this is the level that parents and educators strive to instill in their children. In this stage, laws and societal rules are accepted and understand as being put in place for the good of the nation or group. In contrast, Level Three, also called the Autonomous Level, sees an individual making judgment choices based not only on societal expectations and laws but on his or her own personal ethical code, which has developed throughout the years (Kohlberg 1971). According to Miller, Van Esterik and Van Esterik, the concept of childhood itself has only been in use for a few hundred years (2001); this relative newness gives researchers few concrete ideologies when it comes to understanding the moral development of a young person in school. Kottak agrees that the role of the classroom and the effects of a changing world are constantly creating new issues with students; he feels that in particular, television has a great role to play in the gender development of students everywhere. Kottak notes that in a few short decades as television became omnipresent, students began treating their teachers and their peers with what he regards as less respect and simply less attention. Instead of learning their place in society from their teachers and their parents, they are also learning it from movies and TV programs; in fact these very programs have a direct effect on the gender bias in classrooms (Kottak 2000). Where parents and even teachers might tend to avoid actually discussing the issue of gender bias in the classroom and the wider world, television opens up the topic for discussion and children are learning early on about their history as a sex and making decisions about their future in this respect. Conclusion Kohlberg's levels of moral development can be directly implemented by teachers in early learning situations most effectively; the more time left before instilling basic social expectations, the more difficult it is to instill them at all. As children in level one are the most susceptible to learning fresh concepts, it is best that teachers of younger children do their best to address issues of gender bias in such a way as to bring the children forward into a new reality, instead of merely teaching them about what already exists. Perhaps this is the most crucial aspect of level one learning: instead of showing children the things that need changing and hoping they will decide to take a stand in the future, teach them about their role in a more perfected society, where the genders are truly

Leadership in organisations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Leadership in organisations - Essay Example It is the former who make a major contribution to the society. Leadership skills are required in every field irrespective of the nature. Leadership in organizations has been a topic of interest for many researchers and scholars over the last century. There is immense research that has gone into finding what qualities differentiate the leaders from the rest and why leadership is important to an organiztaion. Organizational leadership is very important for an organization. It is these leaders who account for the majority of the success of the organization. In spite of the research that has gone into organizational leadership, there are various questions unanswered. This report is a research proposal for carrying out further research in the filed of organizational leadership. 1.1 Suitability of Researcher for the Research Leadership has always excited the researcher and understanding leadership has turned into a passion. The researcher has read about the topic intensely and has been ins pired by the various leaders such as Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Winston Churchill, etc. The researcher has been amazed by these leaders ability to command respect from the followers and lead them to a better life. The researcher would like to take this opportunity to officially study his/her passion through this research. The researcher has been following the developments in the filed prior to the idea of conducting an academic research on the topic. 1.2 Research Question The effectiveness and usefulness of a research primarily depends on the depth and accuracy of a research question. Research question addresses the scope of the research. Research question tries to find answers and for new questions about the research subject for further research or investigation (Lester, 1986). In a deductive approach the researcher makes an assumption or theory and then tries to prove his or her theory with the help of the research findings and data. On the other hand, in an inductive approac h the researcher uses practical findings and research results to derive a hypothesis. The research question needs to be apt and to the topic. Research question must not be too elaborative or too restrictive. Too elaborative research question would not be very useful to drive the point and it would be more of an explanation than a question. Too restrictive research question might not cover the scope of the research. The research question must be designed in such a way that it compels for an answer. Research question must not address any insignificant issues and divert from the core of the subject. Hence, the researcher must frame the research question with lot of care in such a way that it focuses on the core issue and compels for an answer. The purpose of this research is to study leadership in organization and throw new light on the topic. The research will be targeted in understanding how leadership makes an impact on the organization. It addresses the popular question of how lead ers and managers are different. Even though there has been a lot of debate over the above question, the researcher intends to bring in a new dimension to the debate. The various styles of leadership will be addressed and studying further. Researcher is of the view that leaders have qualities of entrepreneurs. An entrepreneur is definitely a leader who leads his company or organization to success and greater heights. But what researcher

How it's hard to leave your country saudi arabia to study in USA Essay

How it's hard to leave your country saudi arabia to study in USA - Essay Example Another difficulty is experienced in line with the curriculum. The curricula of the two countries are very different. One needs to have the basic knowledge of course he wants to study in the USA. Bridging the gap between the two curricula especially where transition is made to advance education presents problems to the learners who are required to gather the basics first before catching up with the other students. Socialization is another problem; shifting to the USA requires one to leave their family, friends and relatives. Being all alone in a country where you are not acquitted to anyone poses a socialization problem especially as guidance is needed to settle. Knowing places in school, churches, and hospitals requires that one be acquitted with others. Making friends becomes a priority from such a person. Cultures are also different. Interacting with people can be difficult when there is a cultural barrier. Some of the things considered to be culturally inappropriate in Saudi Arabia may seem to be a routine in the USA. Saudi Arabia is a very conservative country culturally while the USA is much modernized and has a mixture of many cultures. Coping with the western culture is a big challenge for a Saudi Arabia

BHS 499 (Senior Capstone Project) Module 2 CBT Essay

BHS 499 (Senior Capstone Project) Module 2 CBT - Essay Example Moreover, there were reports that 21 individuals have been documented to have waited for 24 months for their insurance and are struggling to survive (Robert M. Hayes, Deane Beebe, and Heidi Kreamer, 2007). Levit, Smith, Cowan, Lazenby, Sensenig, and Catlin reported (2003; p 155) that the US health care system which has tremendously developed, is found to be the most expensive in the world with a total spending that continues to increase. In fact, national health expenditures have heightened dramatically beginning 1970 from $73.1 billion up to $1.4 trillion as of 2001. Blumberg and Nichols argue, United States does not oblige their citizens to acquire a comprehensive health insurance unlike other industrial nations. Therefore, even if an individual has more than a single option for acquiring an insurance coverage, each option is linked with a choice as well as the opportunity cost of taking it. But are several people in US uninsured There are certain factors which have caused the increase spending in health care over time and consequently contributed by many Americans are uninsured. These factors are: The greater demand of consumers for health services, advances and costs in medical technology, the aging of the population, prevalence of chronic disease, introduction of new at the same time expensive technologies, health care labor market wage increases, increased spending on prescription drugs and changes in the insurance marketplace. These factors are said to be interrelated in the manner to which they propel health care spending. Inadequate health insurance throughout the nation, population characteristics, differences in employment patterns and public program eligibility standards vary one state to another (Hoffman and Wang, 2004; p. 33). On the other hand, President Obama also emphasized that his government will exert more effort to add $6 billion funds for National Institutes of Health Cancer Researches. National Cancer Institute (NCI) is a very importal health care agency that engage in the drug development process; from clinical trials program until drug discovery research. The agency also expedite discoveries of various interventions that are directed to save people's lives such as Cancer Research. Cancer research contributes in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of several major diseases (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2000). In the past years of flat budgets, NCI received about three percent (3%) budget increase.Scientists at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) have demonstrated the breakthroughs that reduced and will still continue to reduce sufferings and allow people to live longer and healthier lives. However in the past, the NIH budget severely limited the large medical advances. B etween 1999 and 2003, there was supposed to be a 15% additional budget to the NIH but unluckily, there was only a 3.2 % increase in 2004; 2% in 2005; 1% in 2006 (the lowest percentage% increase since 1970); and out of 27 NIH institutes, the National Cancer Institute had the greatest appropriation with $4.84 billion (Alliance for Aging Research, 2009).According to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMMS), health care expenditure is expected to transcend $3 trillion in the subsequent decade with just about Evolution of the Problem

Review of an Academic Research Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Review of an Academic Research Paper - Essay Example The research paper conveys the whole process of research from collection of data, to analysis, and to final discussion. For this reason the researchers should be careful while writing the academic research paper and should make sure that all elements and parts of a proper academic research paper are included. The basic layout of the academic research paper consists of following elements: abstract, key words, introduction, literature review, methodology part, analysis and findings, discussion part, and the conclusion and recommendations. Along with this another important element is of the references, as it is important to properly acknowledge the sources of secondary information within the academic research paper. In this paper, the academic research paper by Stainton, Johnson, and Borodizicz (2010) on the topic of â€Å"Education validity of business gaming simulation: a research methodology framework† has been critically analysed on the basis of the proper layout for the acad emic research paper. In the research paper the authors have explored the overall validity of the business gaming simulation on the basis of the previous researches and have proposed a framework for the successful educational validity studies which can facilitate the simulation designers in the process of implementing the valuable simulation media.

Discuss Critically the Implications of Whistleblowing for Essay

Discuss Critically the Implications of Whistleblowing for Accountability, and Raising and Escalating Concerns - Essay Example 110). The secret filming agency also revealed that disabled patients were exposed to a lot of mental and physical torture. This is attributed to the fact that they are in most cases ignored or mistreated when they attend healthcare centers (Jeffrey, 2009, p. 24). Whistle blowing is not easy task as many would think because it puts ones career and reputation on the line. Whistle blowers who advocate for better medical care for patients who have demanding needs are in most cases scared of the attitudes their colleagues. In most cases, their colleagues are not in support of their actions (Killion & Dempski, 2006, p. 122). Alerting the society about the needs of patients is crucial and very important. However, this has to be done with extreme care so as to avoid raising false alarms. There should be careful analysis of situations in order to get comprehensive information about the situation. This helps in making sure that the raised concerns are adequately and appropriately addressed. He alth care workers and practitioners are not regulated by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) (Lewis, 2001, p. 299). The organization however does its best to ensure that it passes the right information relating to how patients can be handled in a careful and respectful manner. Nurses are well trained on matters relating to duty and are encouraged to put first the interests and concerns of patients. They are also supposed to ensure that patients are adequately protected from all manner of risks (Lippincott & Wilkins, 2002, p. 110). The Nursing and Midwifery Council has produced various publications that offer guidance to health practitioners regarding their roles and duties. For instance, in their publication, ‘Raising and escalating concerns’ they gave a number of tips on how healthcare practitioners can improve their service delivery. They noted that healthcare practitioners have the duty of acting responsibly should they feel that a colleague may be putting a pati ent's life at risk in the course of delivering medication (Vandekerckhove, 2006, p. 255). Practitioners have also been empowered to seek assistance from respective authorities should there be a problem that could hinder effective service delivery. The hospitals environments are supposed to avail maximum comfort to the sick ill and also be able to assure them of an improvement in their health (White, 2005, p. 100). Governments in developed countries have laws that protect whistle blowers. A perfect example is the enactment of the interest disclosure act of nineteen ninety-eight (Lewis, 2001, p. 300). The law was put in place to protect workers from victimization once they air out issues concerning professional malpractices. The act covers workers who expose genuine concerns regarding their employers or colleagues (Vandekerckhove, 2006, p. 221). Appropriate procedures must be observed when raising concerns about specific issues. Firstly, the issues being raised should be valid and law ful. They should be raised for public interest rather than personal interests (Lippincott & Wilkins, 2002, p. 129). Once issues are raised, relevant authorities make a follow up to ensure that there is fairness and transparency in addressing the raised concerns (Boatright, 2009, p. 99). Service delivery in a public institution should always reflect

Family of woodstock Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Family of woodstock - Essay Example It is intriguing that the Family does not discriminate between serious and small problems, but seeks to help people in a positive manner. Any individual seeking help from the Family receives guidelines or services that fix the specific problem presented. Interestingly, the staff and volunteers at the Family of Woodstock are committed to operating during both the day and the night, ensuring that no individual in the society is stranded without any source of help (â€Å"Family of Woodstock celebrates its 40th anniversary†, 2010). Several factors motivated the founders of the Family of Woodstock. In 1970, when the Family was established, the initial services provided were hotlines, which allowed people with problems to call for help. Evidently, the founders recognized that people in the society had certain needs yet no service providers were available to meet those needs. For example, children who had run away from home ended up in the streets without shelter and food. Founders of the Family realized that these children needed help in the form of counselling and the basic needs. Moreover, it was also critical for these children to be reunited with their families. The hotlines operating in 1970 sought to address this need. However, the founders also recognized other needs in the society such as the need for legal assistance, the need for a soft landing machine that would help people get over long journeys. Many of the problems identified surrounded children, teens, parents, and the public. The founders of the Family identified a risk factor for each of these groups of people. Over the years, the Family has focused on identifying the needs of the people as well as the risk factors they face and developing strategies for addressing them (â€Å"Ulster Savings Charitable Foundation gives $5,000 grant to Family of Woodstock†, 2012). Notably, the Family of Woodstock has exhibited a high level of specialization in a bid

Market Research on Luxury Watches Essay Example for Free

Market Research on Luxury Watches Essay Market Trend There was a slow-down in the growth in sales of premium and luxury watches in India in 2008-’09. It prompted the market leader Titan industries to enter the economy market. Following the footsteps, luxury watch brands like Tag Heuer and Rolex introduced low-price models. But in recent years, mobile phones may also have dampened growth in the penetration of watches in India, as they provide a time read-out as well as alarm and other time-related functions. Watch industry experts believe that their product’s original function is increasingly losing importance, and that wristwatches are now being bought as fashion accessories. Owning more than one watch is like owning different pieces of jewellery. Competitive landscape The economy watch demand is being met for the most part by the unorganised sector and by direct imports. The premium segment is increasingly being peppered by fashion brands such as Esprit, Swatch, Fossil and Tommy Hilfiger. There has also been strong value growth for these brands, with growing demand from middle- and upper-income groups in urban India. Titan, HMT and Maxima are the leading Indian players and Timex, Casio and Swatch are now the strong multinational players in the market. More multinationals are entering the retail market, but no new domestic companies have done so, and the multinationals’ share of value sales has increased over the review period. Premium Brand Product Perception With the watches market in India now becoming fashion and style driven, especially at the premium end, companies now launch models and designs every six months. International brands such as Fossil launch spring/summer and winter ranges. Titan, on the other hand, times its launches to fit in with the Indian festive season – Deepavali and weddings. Companies like Casio and Swatch and luxury brands like Rolex are exploring a niche market for chronographs, but this is currently negligible. Companies also need to respond to product innovations. The Citizen eco-friendly watch has been well received in India and is reportedly selling well in its price bracket, eliminating the trouble of replacing batteries and encouraging the use of multiple watches. Apparel brands such as Esprit, Tommy Hilfiger, Benetton and Levi’s have all gained familiarity among India’s urban youth, who may become more willing to try these brands’ premium watches. Affluent, urban Indians may feel more comfortable about buying premium watches, while continuing to regard luxury watches as examples of overindulgent or insensitive spending. ‘New’ Rich India : The ‘New’ rich India is now indulging into the experience of owning Luxury Brands. Indias rapidly growing high-end retail market is expected to increase from the around $3. 5 billion in 2008 to $30 billion by 2015. Luxury clothing, fragrances, premium wine, high-end watches have achieved good penetration among male Indian consumers. Among women, jewellery and cosmetics can already boast high levels of awareness, followed by categories such as handbags and mobile phones. These items, while not necessarily being better (in quality, performance, or appearance) than their less expensive substitutes, are purchased with the main purpose of displaying wealth or income or status symbol of their owners. There is a distinct shift from ‘Old luxury’ to ‘New luxury’. Old luxury is defined by the attributes, qualities and features of the product, whilst ‘New luxury’ is defined by the consumer’s point of focus on the experience that their purchase stimulates and not in ownership or possession of the product itself. † The customers Redefined luxury as they believe it to be a sign of self worth They are worth it; it authenticates the buyers success and status; it is a signal to others that the owner is a member of an exclusive group; They require flawless performance in this application, the cost of product malfunction is too high to buy anything but the best. Motivation of Study: The matter of wearing and enjoying fine timepieces is a passion that these days must be justified. We like nice expensive watches even though cheap watches exist to do the same thing. Hence like any other luxury good , today modern shoppers buy luxury goods to reward themselves, to satisfy psychological needs or to make themselves feel good to show off their personality or to boost their self-esteem. Contribution of the research: This study aims to understand the above said consumer buying behaviour which will help the present marketing Managers to better reposition their branding and advertising strategy to capture the correct target market for luxury products to boost the sales in times where economy are at a challenge. Literature Review: Research Objective: This study intends to find out if consumer buying behaviour of young purchasers are influenced by factors such as premium price of luxury watches, perceived quality of luxury watches, societal status and brand loyalty associated with the consumption of luxury brand. This study also intends to evaluate whether perceived qualities of the luxury branded watch have influence on the buying decision of consumer. It is also intended to determine whether the high quality standards of luxury watches are the reasoning consumers opt for the luxury watches. Affiliations of social status of acquiring certain luxury branded goods will also be studied to understand whether consumer buying luxury branded goods just for the matter of being affiliate with certain quarters of people having the same luxury brand of goods. This study also will also evaluate whether brand loyalty of luxury brand will influence the buying decision of consumer. This study also aims to uncover whether a person who has been abroad is a reason for the consumer purchasing a luxury watch Research Question: The purpose of this study is to evaluate what motivational factors encourage consumers into purchasing luxury brand watches . In evaluating this statement , this study aims to answer the following questions : †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ Is it the price or the type of users of the brand that drives the buying behaviour of the consumer for luxury branded goods? Is it the strong emotion of discriminating themselves with the lower class consumers that drives higher class consumers to turn to luxury brands? Is it the tag name of a mega brand that drives the long term demand for that luxury brand? Is gender a deterministic factor in deciding the purchase of a luxury brand? If yes then what factors are important gender wise ? Is it the product utility or the brand perception that is key for luxury watch brands? Will a person’s visit abroad influence his decision to purchase a luxury watch? Previous Research contribution : Findings of overall previous research indicate that individual’s preferences plays a key role in purchasing luxury goods. Individual’s preferences may be based on desire and non-desires, which are based on experience in purchasing luxury items from their satisfaction, or nondesire such as bias towards brand products. Leibenstein (1950, p. 188) classified demand of goods and services consumption in relevant to motivation into two main aspects: functional and non-functional. Functional demand is â€Å"demand for a commodity which is due to the qualities inherent in the commodity itself†. On the contrary, demand of goods consumption that comes from other factors, which is not the product quality, is defined non-functional demand. The outcome from Leibensteins (1950) study especially stresses the role of interpersonal effects towards luxury brands consumption, and derived three main effects; Veblen, Snob, and Bandwagon INTERPERSONAL EFFECTS Perceived Conspicuous Value Perceived unique Value Perceived Social Value Ostentation Non-Conformity Conformity VEBLENIAN SNOB BANDWAGON Interpersonal effects (Vigenron Johnson) (1999 p. 7) Veblen Effect: The Veblen effect can be explained through conspicuous consumption in which people feel that it is necessary to purchase luxury products because they have a high price tag (Leibenstein, 1950). Conspicuous consumption is use by people to show wealth, power and status (Veblen, 1899). Prices of product have a significant aspect in consumers’ opinion of quality (Vigneron Johnson, 1999). Studies by Erickson Johansson (1995) have shown that price is used to judge quality of luxury products between a range of brands. Usually people would associate high prices with better quality. Additionally, those who do associate high prices with better quality would also suggest that high prices show a considerable amount of prestige (Lichtenstein et al. , 1993). Snob Effect: The snob effect takes into account personal and emotional desires (personal effects), and the influence of other people’s behaviour (interpersonal effects) towards the purchasing of luxury brand products (see Figure 1). The snob effect can be further explained through two circumstances. Firstly, the launch on new products which creates exclusivity in which the snob would purchase the product immediately because a minor amount of consumers at that particular time would have acquired it. Snob consumers only purchase limited items that have a high value, whereas those readily available are less desirable. Rare items demand respect and prestige (Solomon, 1994,p. 570). Products that are viewed as unique, popular, and expensive causes a higher demand for consumers (Verhallen Robben, 1994), especially snob consumers. Snyder and Fromkin (1977) support the statement by Verhallen and Robben (1994) suggesting that people have the desire to be unique. India:The Affluent Masses: Luxury volumes have been spurred by a significant growth in the rich in recent past. The new rich come in varied shapes, sizes and style quotients. Exporters, multinational bankers, college kids earning plum salaries at call centers or BPO operations, well-heeled corporate wives, and successful entrepreneurs. What they have in common is that they have very high purchasing power Bandwagon Effect : The bandwagon effect represents consumers who purchase luxury products because they wish to fit in with a particular group. For example, people would consume products that are fashionable and stylish to associate themselves to similar people (Berry, 1994). Dubois Duquesne (1993) explains that the snob and bandwagon effect are not alike. Although the similarity between the bandwagon and the snob effect is that people wish to enhance their self-concepts, the differentiation is that they purchase luxury items for different reasons. Bandwagon consumers purchase items to be fit in with others, whereas snob consumers purchase items to be unique and stand out. Individuals who fit in with groups that purchase luxury brand products and/ or wish to differentiate themselves from people who do not purchase luxury brands are influenced by the bandwagon effect (Vigneron Johnson,1999) Luxury is reward :First time/New Purchasers :They use luxury goods as a status symbol to say â€Å"I’ve made it! †. They are motivated by their desire to be successful and demonstrate this to others. Luxury brands that have widespread recognition are popular; however they don’t wish to appear lavish or hedonistic in their appearance. They want to purchase â€Å"smart† luxury that exhibit importance while not leaving them open to criticism. Personal Effects : Consuming luxury products can also be from personal desires and taste. PERSONAL EFFECTS Perceived Emotional Value Perceived Quality Value Self-Actualization Reassurance HEDONIST PERFECTIONIST Personal effects (Vigenron Johnson) (1999 p. 8) Hedonic Effect The hedonic effect occurs when consumers purchase luxury products and value the item. People who purchase items for self-fulfillment (e. g.inner direct consumers, Riesman, et al. , 1950, or role relaxed consumers, Kahle, 1995), and those who are not affected by interpersonal influences (e. g. conforming to group norms,Bearden, et al. , 1989) represent the hedonic effect. Dichter (1960) explains that motivation of noncognitive and unconscious is able to persuade consumer preference of products. Products that are consumed are known to have an emotional value that is added to their character (Vigneron Johnson, 1999). When consumers purchase luxury products they expect that the item will offer benefits such as exclusiveness. Dubois Laurent, (1994) stated that if products create an emotional value for consumers, it represents that the product is beneficial and holds an important characteristic. Perfectionist Effect The perfectionist effect exists when consumers purchase luxury items and expects superior products and performance as well as quality (Vigneron Johnson,1999). People who represent the perfectionist effect are those who are associated to personal values and judge a product according to their value of a luxury band product. An example of the perfectionist effect is when consumers are purchasing a luxury watch they expect it to be accurate. According to Groth and McDaniel, (1993, p. 10) stated that â€Å"high prices may even make certain products or service more desirable†, because people view products with high prices with great quality (Rao Monroe, 1989). Additionally, consumers may assess the level of how luxury a product is by its quality (Vigneron and Johnson, 1999). Methodology Research Method: Quantitative data consists of closed end information that includes numerical figures. The study has collected quantitative data by applying closed-end questions towards a questionnaire. Focus Group Discussion to understand attributes both physical and emotional that influence the purchase of a luxury watch. The group comprised of 7 individuals , 3 female and 4 male participants who have been users of luxury watches. Data Collection: Primary Data collection: Gathering information from consumers of luxury watches through online questionnaire survey Secondary Data Collection: Research insights and hypothesis design with the help of previously published research work on luxury goods buying behaviour. Sampling: Non-probability sampling method is adopted. Since the target audience or respondents of interest are consumers of premium or luxury watches, the sampling method adopted here is convenience sampling and snow-ball sampling. Measurement Scaling: Measurement Techniques used ? Perception map : ? Utility of features in the watch : Chronograph, Double dial, Indicator light etc. ? Stylish Designs that make the watch a fashion statement Respondents were asked to rate the 10 different brands in order to obtain their perception of these brands on the above defined dimensions Based on two predefined dimensions i. e ? ? ? Exploratory Factor Analysis : To understand the underlying factors influencing the purchase behaviour of luxury watch for men women and overall Regression: To understand which interpersonal personal effect is critical when consumers make a luxury watch purchase decision Discriminant Analysis: To understand the group behaviours based on the following discriminating variable ? Gender ? Trip abroad ? Work Experience:Purchasing power ? AMOS : Confirmatory Factor analysis to ascertain the Exploratory Factor Analysis RESULT AND ANALYSIS 1. Discriminant Analysis: Work-Ex Fresher Inference: Wilk’s lambda (0.627) is more than 0. 4 which is not significant; Box M test is also insignificant However based on analysis top 5 attributes discriminating work ex fresher are Attributes Q5_7_attribute_analog Q5_2_attribute_alarm Q5_12_attribute_torch Q5_9__attribute_calculator Q4_8_attribute_celebrity_endorsement Variable weight of discriminating function -. 366 . 361 . 331 . 271 . 262 2. Discriminant Analysis: Gender Inference: Wilk’s lambda (0. 578) is more than 0. 4 which is not significant; based on analysis top 5 attributes discriminating males females Attributes Variable weight of discriminating function. Q4_3_attrifashion_statement Q5_3_attribute_dualclock Q5_13_attribute_barometer Q5_8_attribute_motionsensor Q9_2_buy_in_store .329 -. 285 -. 269 -. 259 -. 255 3. Discriminant Analysis: Abroad Visit Inference: Wilk’s lambda (0. 573) is more than 0. 4 which is not significant; however based on analysis top 5 attributes discriminating foreign visited and not visited people Attributes Q5_9__attribute_calculator Q5_6_attribute_color Q5_16_attribute_warranty Q5_11_attribute_straptype Q4_9_attribute_brand_image Variable weight of discriminating function . 228 . 225 . 221 -. 207 -. 205 3) Exploratory Factor Analysis-(Male Female) Research Question:- Is gender a deterministic factor in deciding the purchase of the luxury watch. If yes what factors are important gender wise? Hypothesis:- Women while making luxury goods purchase give more importance to emotional factors whereas Men go for Physical Utility features Factor analysis for male respndents(58 males) Results:? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? Fac1(Ostentation): o o o o o o o o ? ? ? ? ? ? Sth to remmeber, hand gesture, to be unique Fac2(value added feature) Calculator,digital,compass. Fac3(Generic requirements) Shape, water resistance Fac4(Economic requirements) Discounts Fac 5(Tech savvy) Compass, Motion sensor Fac 6(basic) Analog,water resistance Fac 7(Wrist suitability) Strap type Fac 8(extra feautres):Date and day display, brand image Exploratory factor analysis female Respondents (23 females):Fac1(Economical): o o o o o o Warranty, after sales, analog, emotional satisfaction Fac2(Style) Social status, to be unique, fashion statement Fac3(Special requirements) Alarm,altimeter, digital,dual clock Fac4(value added feature) Calculator,compass,barometer, torch Fac 5(Tech savvy) Hand gesture,discount Fac 6(Exclusivity) Motion sensor,alarm,brand image Result Analysis:? Men:o Attach importance to Ostentaion, value added feaures and style(veblenian effect and perfectionist effect are dominating) ? Women:o Style, Economic attributes an generic requirements ( Hedonist and snob effects dominate 4. Checking the Interpersonal and personal effects shown by males and female while purchase of luxury watch in Store Research Question:o Is it the price or the type of users of the brand that drives the buying behaviour of the consumer for luxury branded goods? o Is it the strong emotion of discriminating themselves with the lower class consumers that drives higher class consumers to turn to luxury brands? o Is it the product utility or the brand perception that is key for luxury watch brands? Hypothesis:-Luxury watch purchase is primarily to show off and as an indicator of status symbol: veneblian effect. Users also buy luxury watches due to perceived emotional value or for hedonist reasons Veneblian Effect:- Snob Effect Bandwagon Effect Hedonistic effect Type of effect Veneblian snob Bandwagon Hedonistic Coefficient 0. 517 0. 499 0. 274 0. 305. Inference:- As we can clearly observe from the above table that the veneblian effect is very prominent in all cases of interpersonal or personal effects. That means People tend to buy Luxury watches to show off of their Public and Social Status. Snob and Bandwagon effect follows Veneblian effect. 5. Regression Analysis to check whether long term demand for luxury watches is driven by brand image Research Question : Is it the brand image that drives the long term demand for that luxury brand? Hypothesis : Brand Image for lucury brands is responsible for the long term demand of these watches. Inference : Regression is insignificant with respect to the variables that drive brand image. Even the R^square value is 0. 071. Hence we can infer that brand image is not a good factor to explain the long term demand for luxury watches. 6. AMOS The default model is created based on exploratory factor analysis and taking research literature into account. Model Fit Summary Check: Cmin/DF 2-5 OK GFI 0. 9 Not OK PGFI0. 5 OK NFI,TLI,CFI0. 9 Not OK RMSEA max 0. 1 Not OK Model is comparatively fit as such But Goodness of fit index is not holding well. Validity Construct Reliability S No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Attributes Q4_1_attribute_social_status Q4_3_attribute_fashion_statement Q4_2_attribute_to_be_unique Q4_6_attribute_emotional_satisfaction Q4_9_attribute_brand_image Q5_9__attribute_calculator Q5_10_attribute_compass Q5_12_attribute_torch Q5_13_attribute_barometer Q5_3_attribute_dualclock Q5_4_attribute_altimeter Q5_2_attribute_alarm Q5_5_attribute_digital Q5_7_attribute_analog Q5_8_attribute_motionsensor Q5_16_attribute_warranty Q4_10_attribute_secon_time_brandpurchase Q4_4_attribute_premiumwatch_collection Q4_8_attribute_celebrity_endorsements. Constructs Error e1 e2 Delta 1. 028 1. 079 0. 608 0. 635 1. 282 1. 323 1. 687 1. 473 1. 793 1. 816 1. 032 2. 133 1. 407 1. 074 2. 078 0. 179 1. 402 1. 367 2. 019 Lambda 1 0. 67 0. 922 0. 884 0. 997 1 0. 912 0. 971 0. 774 1 1. 135 1. 005 1. 258 1 0. 876 0. 84 0. 403 1. 231 1 AVE CR Exclusivity e3 e4 e5 e6 e7 0. 81 0. 81 Tech_Savvy e8 e9 e14 0. 84 0. 68 Value_Added _Feature e15 e16 e17 e21 1. 22 0. 75 Reliability e22 e23 e26 0. 82 0. 69 Brand_Perce ption.

A case study on a domestic violence intervention

A case study on a domestic violence intervention Working with Individuals AGENCY PROFILE The student social worker is placed with Bharatiya Mahila Federation (BMF). Bharatiya Mahila Federation (BMF) is an all-India organization women’s mass organization, working with the victims of Domestic Violence. BMF was established by many leaders including Aruna Asaf Ali. Mahila Samasya Nivaaran Kendras (Family Counseling Centers for Women) are located in Thane, Kalyan, and Bhiwandi. In the purview of socially relevant issues, it also takes care of the education of the slum children through a non-formal approach towards education, under the name of ‘Disha Classes’. BMF has vigorously campaigned against female foeticide. It is also working in tandem with Malati Vaidya Trust to start a Resource Center in Ganeshwadi, Badlapur. The student works with the Family Counselling Center in Thane. The center is run by para-professionals, some of whom were themselves victims at some point in time. CASE For the purpose of explanation of the various aspects of working with individuals, the student will like to mention the case of a 30 year old women named Sanaa (name changed). Sanaa is Muslim by religion and was married off at the age of 26 as her husband’s second wife. He remarried after giving divorce to his first wife. Sanaa is residing with her parents, brother and sister-in-law in Mumbra. She has four children. The first two are twin daughters and one of them named Aalia(name changed) is intellectually challenged because of the injuries inflicted on Sanaa during pregnancy. The other daughter named Nazia was forcefully taken away by her father Khalid with him since unlike the first daughter she is normal. Clearly, the father has left the entire responsibility of the child who is intellectually- challenged on the mother, without giving any maintenance from his side. The third child, who is a boy, Naseer (name changed), is physically challenged and can’t walk normally . The fourth child, Ali, is 7 months and is chronically ill has been hospitalized many times. Sanaa approached the agency’s Family Counselling Centre. She complained of being beaten up by her husband, brother-in-law and sister-in-law and the atrocities committed against her at the time of her pregnancy. Due to the injuries, she had a miscarriage the first time she got pregnant. The agency wanted the trainee to do a home-visit and verify the facts. The home visit revealed that the client is staying in a chawl in unhygienic conditions. The trainee interviewed the client and her mother. Her husband has refused to accept her and the children back and wants a divorce, but Sanaa wants to stay with him. Her husband has put a condition that he will let her come back only if she and her family give in writing that they will not file a police complaint against him and will not approach any NGO/agency for further help as they did earlier. Sanaa wants to be with him despite all the physical and mental tortures that her husband makes her go through. She does not wish to burden her parents with her and her children’s responsibility. As far as her education his concerned, she has obtained education till the secondary level. Before marriage, she used to teach kids of the primary level. The trainee tried to counsel her that staying with her husband would not change h er conditions. Instead she should file a case on him demanding maintenance for herself and her kids. The trainee also suggested that she takes up a job. Before a case could be filed, the trainee paid a visit to her husband to come for a meeting at the agency but he refused to all efforts of negotiation and said that he will confront her directly in the court. Later on, when the student called her up to know her decision about filing the case, she said she was ready to go ahead with it. Hence, she was asked to come for the meeting with the agency’s advocate on the given date. The advocate asked the trainee to submit Sanaa’s case history so that the petition could be filed in the court. The student social worker also figured out that Sanaa’s case has a lot of scope of medical intervention apart from assistance at the legal level. While the trainee was planning the further course of action for the case, the client took up a teaching job in a neighbourhood school in her locality. This indeed came as a happy news for the trainee as it reflected that mere triggering an idea can actually motivate the client to help herself. The client was also encouraged to further continue her studies. For the medical help for Sanaa’s kids, the trainee decided to take them to a BMC Hospital. After waiting in the queue for two-and-half hours outside the OPD for Skin Diseases, Naseer was diagnosed, medicines were prescribed and the doctor asked to bring him in the coming week for follow-up. The prescribed medicines were not available in the hospital’s pharmacy. So, the medicines were bought from outside. Naseer was also examined for his swollen abdomen. The doctor told that there is a doubt of him suffering from Langerhans cell Histiocytosis (LCH) and hence he needs to be admitted. Sanaa was apprehensive about admitting Naseer, since she would not be able to afford it. The trainee could observe an expression of fear on her face. It was time for the trainee to counsel her about the urgent need to get her son admitted. On the way back home, while talking to the client, the trainee found out that Sanaa’s mother wants her to quit the teaching job since its taking a l ot of her time and it becomes difficult for her mother to handle three kids when Sanaa’s is out for work in the afternoon school. As an alternative, her mother had suggested her to take up tailoring work. For the same, she expressed the need for a sewing machine. So now, there was a need to look for a donor for Naseer’s treatment and for the machine. The supervisor suggested that Sanaa’s case can be referred to another organization who is involved into such kind of work. After brainstorming, the trainee decided to refer Sanaa’s case to MESCO – an organization in Mumbra. The visit to MESCO turned out to be quite fruitful. In the meeting with its representatives, it was planned that the after submitting required documents the financial assistance would be provided for Naseer’s treatment. However, one constraint was that MESCO provides help only on first three days of every month so the trainee had to really pace up the process of arranging all the documents. For Sanaa’s tailoring venture, the representative mentioned that she will have to appear for a skill test after which she would be given a sewing machine. The documentation process can actually kill a lot of time and the trainee already had limited one in hand, since the end of the field work for the year was approaching. After running from post-to-post for one signature from the doctor at the hospital, trainee had a cost certificate in hand which turned out to be of no use since the social worker at the hospital asked to get another one for the total estimated cost of treatment, running around for which was postponed to another week by the doctor. In the meantime, the student was struggling with herself as to find a way to convince the client to get her son admitted. Every week he was falling ill and the medicine for the skin disease seemed to have an effect only in the first week. Follow-ups to the doctor after that did not make much of a difference. This led the trainee to ponder as to why this was happening and the speculation was that it is possible that the skin disease could be a symptom of LCH. After reading up on LCH, the doub t was confirmed. For weeks, Naseer was being treated for the symptom! But now the field work year was over! So what should one do in such a situation? The client cannot be left midway in the helping process. It raises a lot of ethical issues. STAGES IN WORKING WITH INDIVIDUALS 1. Social Study 2. Social Assessment 3. Intervention 4. Termination 5. Evaluation The initial description of the case is clearly a Social Study of Sanaa’s case. Social Study is a systematic study of the client and her/his circumstances in relation to her/his problem Information is collected and organised with regard to the following: Problems (the initially stated problem and associated problems if any), Age, sex, marital status, Educational qualification, Nature of employment, income, Health conditions, Personality features, Home and neighbourhood, Family constellation, Family history (significant events, attitudes,relationships, etc.). Sanaa’s case was constantly assessed for the purpose of necessary intervention. Each course of action had to be simultaneously evaluated to check for loopholes. However, the case cannot be called to have reached the termination. But the intervention done so far has proved to be be fruitful to the extent that Sanaa took up a job on her when encouraged and motivated. The trainee could locate an organization who could p rovide her with a machine for starting tailoring work and fund the treatment of her child. Naseer did receive some OPD treatment, which revealed the need for a long term treatment. The trainee was also able to facilitate the process of providing legal assistance to the client. TOOLS TECHNIQUES Tools can be defined as the ways through which a particular profession, occupation or form of trade is practiced. In social casework, tools are the means of establishing and developing contact with the clients. Through casework tools, one can have access to the information about the client, her concerns, her family, her environment. The student made use of all the five casework tools, namely, Listening, Observation, Relationship, Home-Visit and Interview. According to Grace Mathew, the last three tools mentioned here, are the channels to make the casework techniques operative. Mathew has defined casework techniques as the systematic procedures of helping. These are- Acceptance, Assurance, Facilitation of Expression of Feelings, ,Allaying overpowering feelings, Accrediting and Building Self-Confidence, Encouragement and Reassurance, Being with the Client, Emotional Support, Action-Oriented Support. Then Grace Mathew listed down certain other techniques for the purpose of enhancing res ources. These are – Providing or Procuring Material Help, Change of Physical Environment, Enhancing Information and Knowledge. There are also techniques for changing the internal processes- Counselling techniques (Reflective Discussion, Advice, Motivation, Clarification, and Correcting Perception), Anticipatory Guidance, Modelling, Role Playing, Reality Orientation, Remove Guilt Feelings and using them constructively, Interpretation, Partialisation, Universalisation, Setting Limits, Confrontation, Reaching Out, Renewing Family Links, Improving Communication Patterns, Changing Attitudes. Listening as a tool is effective only if it is active and attentive to understand the client’s emotions and to know what she/he is conveying. Effective listening is facilitated by maintaining an eye contact with the client. Distractions, wool gathering and selective listening obstruct the listening process. Observation is used in casework to note the client’s facial expression, body language and signs of uneasiness in the process of interaction with the client. Relationship between the worker an the client is a professional one and is positive in nature. The positivity of the relationship is manifest in the rapport the caseworker has with the client. Home Visit is an instrument, which enables the social worker to verify the facts of the case being handled. It also conveys a message to the client about the social worker’s interest in his/her welfare. Sometimes home-visits can be be highly revealing and at times, may change the shape of the course. The facts me be turned upside down. Interview facilitates face-to-face interaction between the caseworker and the client. The objectives in such an interaction are to obtain information from the client or to impart some to the client, to study and assess the situation of the client’s problem unique to her/him and to give assistance. Drawing from the above case, first of all the caseworker had to evoke the confidence of the client since the constant victimization to the domestic violence had made her doubt her own capabilities. The client had to be told that she can regain her lost confidence by keeping herself busy and taking up a job. She was encouraged and motivated enough to take up the teaching job again. The caseworker has been working towards making provision for material help for the treatment of kids and for the required equipment so that she can take up tailoring work at home. The caseworker did a lot of advocacy work in Sanaa’s case such as visiting the hospital for procuring the certificate, meeting with the referral organization’s representatives for seeking financial assistance for the client. Many counseling techniques as Correcting Perception, Advice, Removing Guilt Feelings, Universalisation were made use of. In the beginning, when the Home-Visit was made the caseworker advised Sana a on the way to come out of her situation, how the agency would facilitate the process. When her son was taken for treatment, so due to waiting in the long queues and the whole documentation process of OPD treatment, Sanaa started feeling guilty that why did she marry in the first place, had she not married she would not have had to face such problems. In such a situation, she had to be told that marriage was not the fault and she does not need to be guilty about something for which she is not responsible. She was married off to a man, the background and other details of whom were not at all confirmed by her family. As it came to the caseworker’s amazement while talking to the client’s mother, the latter used to see a girl frequently in the locality and got acquainted with her and on her proposal, married off her daughter to her brother. When the caseworker asked the client to get an income proof from her school, without which she would not have received financial assistance from the referral organization, she did not do so for weeks despite repeated reminders. The social worker had to then step in and find out what the matter was and what came out was that she had a misconception about it. The client th ought that if she would submit an income proof, then she would not be provided any help since, according to her, they may think if she is earning then she does not need help. The caseworker then had to correct her perception that the income proof is a formality and because her income is meager to afford the treatment of her son she would definitely be provided with financial assistance. Once the client was very thwarted with herself. At that time, the caseworker brought to light the examples of many other woman who have been and who are in worse situation than hers. THEORETICAL APPROACHES USED The student trainee made use of the Empowerment and Advocacy Approach. It has been said that empowerment seeks to help clients gain power of decision and action over their own lives by reducing the effect of social or personal blocks to existing power, by increasing capacity and self-confidence to use power and by transferring power from the environment to clients. Advocacy seeks to represent the interests of the powerless clients to powerful individuals and structures. For Furlong, empowerment is an essential objective of casework because it avoids a crude polarization of social action and individualized perspectives, placing work with individuals and families in a context of concern for social objectives. In 1994, Anderson et al, presented a model of empowerment for social development in Africa concerned with the five dimensions of practice: personal, social, educational, economic and political. These dimensions are intertwined with each other and looking at them so allows people t o meet individual needs (personal power), improve their capacity to influence others (interpersonal power), which in turn creates an ability to influence the power distribution more widely (political power). Rees came up with a set of ideas with regard to empowerment, viz., a) biography b) power c) Political understanding d) Skills e) Interdependence of Policy and Practice. For Rees, the basic aim of empowerment is social justice, greater security, political and social equality to people, through mutual support and shared learning. Kondrat emphasized upon the value of local knowledge, specifically the one coming from the clients. One intricacy of advocacy lies in the duality of its interrelated meanings of ‘representation’. The representation in advocacy is in term of the acting and arguing for the interests of the clients. However, for Phillip (1979), advocacy entails ‘representation’ in terms of interpreting and displaying the value of clients to the powe rful groups in the society. Advocacy, in part, is said to be an aspect of empowerment, since it can be used to argue for resources, or change the interpretation which powerful groups make of clients. Anderson’s model of empowerment was crucial for application in Sanaa’s case, since socio-economic, personal and educational aspects were focused upon at the level of assessment as well as intervention. The caseworker also made use of Rees’s understanding of empowerment in terms of the Skill enhancement. The client’s tailoring skills was tapped on to enable her choose a suitable livelihood option. Advocacy work was also done by initiating the process of legal assistance and facilitating the process of financial assistance by MESCO. CHALLENGES, DILEMMAS RESISTANCE One of the challenges encountered was that not all three kids could be taken for consultation together since no one from the client’s family could accompany her to the hospital. So there was a lack in terms of human resources. Social Case Work Practice is a huge responsibility, especially when any form of medical intervention is involved, especially, when one’s target system involves infants. Another challenge was the unavailability of the prescribed medicines in municipal hospital’s pharmacy. Those who cannot afford to buy the expensive medicines from outside are not even able to start the treatment. At the macro level, this remains a big loophole in the health care sector of the country. It is an obstacle for the low-income group in accessing health care services. This also paralyses the government health care sector at a very basic level. Looking for a donor or an organisation where Sanaa’s case could be referred for another challenge. The biggest ethical dilemma was about the leaving the treatment process midway. The follow-up in the case is being planned to overcome the dilemma. The client has been very resistant to the idea of admitting the child in the hospital despite repeated reassurance that the financial assistance would be taken care of.