Barriers to identifying and Treating Older Adults with Substance abuse Problems

Substance abuse among older adults is a serious social problem. Detection of this problem, according to specialists, is hampered by barriers . This is all the more serious considering the fact that substance abuse is a serious problem among older adults but is seldom addressed because of the barriers. The need to identify and break down the barriers is important because it is important to identify and cure substance abuse patients from older adult age group bracket.This is to consider the implications of such condition to older adults – impairment of senses and mental capabilities; the health danger of mixing alcohol and other substance with medication older adults take; the threat of malnutrition considering the inability of the body to take in food; and lastly, the consideration on overall physiological effects of substance to the aging body which deteriorates because of old age and the everyday wear and tear. This is an important consideration why it is important to identif y the barriers that hinder or hamper the identification and cure of older adults suffering from substance abuse.II. Discussion Many research endeavors and researchers have already ascertained the fact that substance abuse is a problem among older adults who are addicted to different substances like alcohol as well as prescription drugs and illegal drugs. Studies are already available regarding the number of older adults in the society who are suffering from this problem . The complex way of life and how way of life differs from one place to another depending on and based from customs, tradition, cultural characteristics, etc. , has strongly affected many important aspects of life.Many professionals believe that this consideration plays an important role in the condition of the society being unable to identify older adults with substance abuse because of perceived barriers. It is important to know what these barriers are, discuss and analyze them to be able to understand these barrie rs and if possible provide solutions so that these barriers are removed and the health of the people with substance abuse problems be allowed to improve through intervention. What exactly are these barriers that hinder the identification and treatment of older adults with substance abuse problems?A. Psychological barriers Psychological barriers are present in this condition. Older adults tend to have psychological issues leading to their cases of substance abuse, as well as psychological issues when it comes to coming out and seeking help for their problem. Often, they have preconceived notions about how the society will treat them if they openly discuss their problems with substance abuse especially considering the stigma that substance abuse and the society places on the individual. Because of that, they are not overly enthused in seeking help.â€Å"Compared to younger adults, older adults are less likely to seek out and use mental health or substance abuse services . † For example, they might have the tendency to feel that professionals may look at their case as hopeless and useless to cure since they are already old and have only few years to live that intervention would have little effect. Others think that admitting substance abuse at this stage is something that is shameful. There are many other preconceived notions that deter individuals to come forward.More importantly, it is hard for those suffering from substance abuse to admit that they are addicted and for them to accept cure. This is a significant barrier. This is deterrent enough for these people to hide in the shadows. When they do, professionals, who try to seek them out, finds it more and more difficult to do so. Because of this, psychological consideration becomes a significant barrier in identifying and treating older adults with substance abuse problems. This psychological and social condition results to two things which strongly affect the efforts to identify and treat older adults with substance abuse problems.First is the lack of cooperative instincts or tendencies on the part of the individual or his or her close family and friends because of the feared repercussions. Second is the absence of the voluntary action to come forward and instead undertake efforts to further shield this addiction from being detected by professionals. Analysts are already conscious of this problem and barrier and are already suggesting ways to counter this, like the identification of ideal and useful approaches to this. Barriers are identified and later on removed and resolved to help the older adults.â€Å"In addressing alcohol problems or prescription medication misuse in later life, the use of nonjudgmental, motivational approaches can be a key to successfully engaging these patients in-care . † B. Target population Another barrier is the focus on target population. Often, adults, especially older adults, are perceived as individuals who are already capable, in control and are not as prone to substance abuse compared to younger adults who are in the early or middle part of their career, or even underage individuals who are more vulnerable to the temptations of substance abuse.This creates a misguided focus. Professionals and the society often look at a particular demographic alone and often ignores the older adult group in this kind of problem. This focus on traditional target demographics limits. Even blinds, professionals from exploring older adult groups, and the medical community should reevaluate paradigms, break traditional notions and stereotypes and consider the fact that every age group that is capable of accessing and ingesting substance that could lead to abuse can be an ideal target for substance abuse patients.In many research studies as well as in popular culture and mass media, often, the individuals portrayed as suffering from substance abuse are young to middle age adults. Efforts to study and identify substance abuse are often fo cused on selected groups and often not including older adults. C. Screening and social indicators Social indicators also mislead professionals into believing older adults are sober and are not explored for cases of substance abuse. According to professionals, social indicators like substance abuse symptoms seen at work, in the neighborhood, on the road, etc are often not common with older adults.This means older adults aren't the target of complaints for poor performance at work because of substance use and abuse; families and friends seldom complain about older adults in the household suffering from substance abuse, etc. â€Å"Older adult drinkers tend to have fewer social indicators of abuse . † Of course, this is not to mention that there are fewer indicators among this group of people considering how they are grossly outnumbered by the youth and the young adult and how figures involving older adults are overlooked.Those from younger age groups are bigger and appear more s erious, more chronic and more important, which is an incorrect perspective. What also hinders professionals from identifying and treating older adults with substance abuse is the screening process. Professionals believe that the social condition often makes older adults as individuals who are not commonly screened for any physiological or psychological signs of addiction. â€Å"It is second barrier that elders are not routinely screened for alcohol abuse by medical and mental health providers .† There are many reasons as to why this is the case. For example, it is convenient to explore the possibility that screening is often focused on younger individuals who are more vulnerable to substance abuse than older adults, creating a practice wherein older adults are often not subjected to screening. III. Conclusion Substance abuse is a serious problem. This is a kind of problem that is not limited only to young individuals but to adults and the older adults as well, including the e lderly.Evidently, there remains many significant barriers that make it difficult for professionals to identify cases of substance abuse among older adults and enforce medical as well as psychological intervention on the matter. These barriers are not easily broken down. It needs to be identified first and it is often deeply entrenched and deeply buried in the socio cultural practice and way of life of the people. Such barrier becomes formidable and hinders the entry of substance abuse recovery and rehabilitation assistance from professionals.In the end, what is important is not the mere identification of the presence of a barrier or certain barriers. More importantly, it is important to know how these barriers can be broken so that older adults with substance abuse problems are identified and provided with medical attention, care and intervention they needed to get over this kind of mental and physical health problem. On a positive light, it is indeed good to know that somehow, prof essionals are showing new ways and methods to identify substance abuse among older adults , which is significant in fighting off the barriers and allowing identification and intervention to take place.To identify the barriers and more importantly to address them by acting upon it to remove such barriers, it is important that change takes place: change in the perspective and outlook of the medical professionals; change in the perspective and outlook of health care individuals and entities; and most importantly, change in perspective and outlook of the people and the society in general so that identification is easier and the intervention administered faster and more efficiently. References Doweiko, H. E. (2006). Concepts of chemical dependency.California: Cengage. Edelman, C. L. and Mandle, C. L. (2005). Health Promotion Throughout the Life Span. Pennsylvania: Elsevier Health Sciences. Hales, R. E. and Yudofsky, S. C. (2004). Essentials of clinical psychiatry. Virginia: American Psyc hiatric Publication. Maddux, J. E. and Winstead, B. A. (2007). Psychopathology: Foundations for a Contemporary Understanding. New Jersey: CRC Press. Ries, R. K. , Miller, S. , Fiellin, D. A. and Saitz, R. (2009). Principles of Addiction Medicine. Pennsylvania: Wolters Kluwer Health.

Absolutism in Europe – Summary

During the 17th century two future rulers, Peter the Great of Russia and Louis XIV of France, were born who would push absolutism to new heights. Absolutism is a form of government where all the power is in the hands of one individual. Absolute monarchies are the most common form of absolutism. Peter the Great and Louis XIV had similar traumatic experiences involving people with traditional power during their childhoods. Louis’ was the Fronde, a rebellion by nobles. The Fronde began in 1650 when Louis was a young boy.Many times during the uprising his life was put in danger as his mother and himself were occasionally treated as prisoners. They also had to retreat from Paris. Peter the Great’s traumatic childhood experience was the Streltsy uprising of 1682. The Streltsy, the traditional guards of the nobles in Russia, mobbed the Kremlin after rumors were circulated that Peter’s half brother, Ivan, had been killed. They lynched many nobles including two of Peterâ €™s uncles. The killings were quite brutal, including some being thrown off of balconies unto the Streltsy’s bayonets.The young Peter witnessed this and it began his deep mistrust and hatred of traditional ways in Russia. Another similarity of Peter and Louis was their handling of their nobles. They both took power from them in different ways. Louis built the luxurious palace of Versailles. The grand building project of Versailles employed many artisans and common builder for a lifetime. Thus it was supported by the population of France. Many of the most prominent nobles were forced to live there for about half a year in apartments. Their actual power was essentially traded for social pomp and court life.They filled their days with various social acts like watching the rising of the King in the morning and the pursuits of the frivolous fashions of the day. Another purpose of Versailles was to show the sheer might of Louis XIV. Peter the Great pushed very hard for moderniz ation of Russia. His need to imitate the west led him to have his own massive building project, St. Petersburg. Conscripted laborers primarily built this new city. The conditions were harsh and over 60,000 died. This contrasted sharply with Louis XIV’s building of Versailles.Another push way forced modern ways upon his constituents was to have dress codes for the royals. He had them dress in western clothing. This was disliked by many, especially the women, for their impracticality for the harsh landscapes of Russia. He also had the men shaved their beards. If they refused he’d cut them off himself. War campaigns Louis XIV and Peter the Great contrasted drastically. Peter was the first ruler of Russia to turn its army from amateur to professional. He abandoned the Streltsy that he had formed a hate from in childhood and began to train his soldiers using modern techniques.His love of the military started in childhood when he would play war with real men. Western general s were brought in to teach the young Peter different formation which they would practice often. Eventually this play army became the beginnings of his real army. In addition to an army he created a navy. Most of Peter’s wars had a purpose and were led by the king directly from the battlefield. His first war against the Tartars, who were backed by the Ottomans, and mostly in the southeast area of the empire.This war was used to secure the border which often fell victim to horrific raids by the Tartars. His second major war was against Sweden. While the Great Northern War was long, 21 years, it gave Peter the land he needed for the port city of St. Petersburg. Also, it marked the last time Sweden was ever a military power. To Louis XIV war was usually just a way to show the glory of France, thus the glory of its ruler Louis. Some of the wars included, the war of devolution, the war against Holland, the war of the league of Augsburg, and the war of Spanish Succession.Most of the se wars resulted in little actual benefits for the victor. That is because they had been mostly for glory. One last notable similarity is how both Louis XIV and Peter the Great dismissed their main advisors at a young age. Louis dismissed his advisors at the age of 23 when he began to truly become the absolute rule her was. Peter the Great did the same at the younger age of 17. Overall Peter and Louis both had major affects on the entire continent of Europe from their reigns onwards. They are both the best examples of absolutism that the world will probably see.

The Effects of the Quality of Employees' Interaction with thier Research Paper

The Effects of the Quality of Employees' Interaction with thier Mangers on Quality of thier Work - Research Paper Example In this case, level of interaction is the independent variable and accuracy at work is dependent variable. Theory X and Theory Y: These two theories deal with the perception of managers about the employees. It was developed by  Douglas McGregor  at the  MIT Sloan School of Management  in the 1960s. According to it, a better communication between employees and managers helps managers to identify the individual motivational level of employees and decides the level of supervision. So that work can be done effectively with the help of mutual cooperation. The second hypothesis links the employee-manager interaction and the efficiency of work with the help of thoroughness of the work. It considers communication as an independent variable and thoroughness of the work as a dependent variable. Leader Member Exchange Theory: This theory highlights the association or closeness of employees to managers.   Graen (1976) first introduced the concept of ‘Role-making processes in complex organizations’ (Beissinger, 1988). But Bass (1990) empirically proved the arguments of LMX . It clearly states that those who have better communication with managers take more responsibility. In this case also, the arguments of second and third hypotheses: that is thoroughness and attention to details, are addressed. Here again, thoroughness is the dependent variable. The Scientific Management Theory: Frederick Taylor, Frank and Lillian Gilbreth introduced the theory to improve the efficiency of individual workers.   But scientific management as a distinct theory or school of thought was obsolete by the 1930s. According to this theory, each work task is narrowed to its most elementary function after scientific analysis. This process is done on the basis of idea of specialization. The scientific management theory helps to justify all the three hypotheses.

BBA Communication 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

BBA Communication 2 - Essay Example It is beautiful and it’s wonderful if it’s a product of a careful planning. Today’s life is full of opportunities, covering everyone from shoe menders to business investors. If one has some sort of skill it is easier to market them on sale, provided one knows where to and how to. However, there stands a difference between living a life and living it beautifully. Life becomes beautiful only when one could live up to see their dreams come true. Those dreams only come true if one acts to turn them into realities. I had always dream to study and practice my religion with grounds of inner beliefs considering no better profession other than this as purification of one’s soul. However, my family especially my parents had it altogether planned differently since the very beginning. Brief Background As a child, I had always been a quite friendly kid although I always had groups of kids to play with at school; I never had any one at home to share my feelings with. My mother was a drama actress; she had inculcated such profession even before marrying dad. She met dad who was one of the stage show organizer whom she later felt in love with and got married. I therefore belong to a family of showbiz people. This basically was the root cause of me and my sister’s subjects had nothing but arts in it. I watched time and noticed that my grandmother had already sign up her mom’s older sister for many extracurricular activities that she however subsequently dropped out of. As, mom became of age to sign up and was then willing to join such groups, her demands were refuse with statements by her parents, such as, â€Å"No, we don’t want to spend more funds to go wasted just the way your sister did.† My mother tried convincing her parents, but they didn’t agree. She always felt cheated for a chance to participate and an opportunity for lifetime. The consequences of this are what I today have to live up with such as pressuri ze over choosing any career but in the field of arts, music or drama. There was no freedom of choice what I wanted to do. No one ever felt the need to inquire my subject area of interest. Earlier Education – Age 4 and onwards Ever since I was a baby, I was made to listen to music and to catch the beat or copy the dance moves. There was a weekly dance contest between my sister and I, which I always used to lose. My sister used to imitate the best dancers; I would witness her pre-planning the dance routines with her friend or cousin and putting them then at family gatherings on a dance show. As was evident sooner my sister became one of leading artist of school plays. When I was finally old enough to sign up for dance and drama lessons, my mom jumped over, certain that I would love to be a part of it and perform like a star pupil due to her obvious budding talent and enthusiasm. The first class I burst into tears when the time came to go into the studio, I didn’t wanted to. The second class I braved going in but tried leaving room for a variety of reasons. Wishing that mom would sense my desire not to attain this education. But, nothing seems to work and the classes continued over a month and although I tried to show much lack of enthusiasm and interest I was still forced to join the group and participate. Parents Role –

SIX WAY TO BE A BETTER LISTENER Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

SIX WAY TO BE A BETTER LISTENER - Essay Example In any case, I believe I should follow this point to be a better listener. On the other hand, I believe I follow the second point more exactly as I do not ask excessive questions and stay on the topic being discussed rather than jump from conversation to conversation. Similarly, I believe that I have positive body language while communicating with people with good eye contact and mirrored postures. Since body language is reportedly the major component of communication, I feel that this is one thing which makes me a good communicator and a good listener. However, there are times when my mind wanders in a conversation which means that the third point mentioned in the article requires some additional work on my part. Often I have difficulties in staying focused on what the other person is saying and indulge in going against the fourth point mentioned in the article as I unknowingly mentally judge people during a conversation. I have to become better at understanding other people’s point of view and to know where they are coming from in a given conversation. At the same time, I know that people have different perspectives about the same topics and I understand that people may take even the most controversial topics in stride. This understanding allows me to understand people’s feelings about the topic and recognize when a person is upset or angry about something from the way they speak and their body language. Thus I am able to go beyond just the words which are being used and get to the heart of the matter with regard to what the person I am talking to really feels about a given subject. Similarly, I am good at reassuring people that I have understood what they have said and understood what they mean when they are trying to tell me something. This brings me in line with the sixth point of being a good listener which suggests that a person should convey to the speaker that the message given by him/her has been understood and appreciated.

Critically assess the importance of solar variability, volcanic Essay

Critically assess the importance of solar variability, volcanic eruptions and greenhouse gas concentrations as climate forcing f - Essay Example Climate change is brought about by many factors. These include circulation of the oceanic processes, solar variations, volcanic eruptions, plate tectonic activities and human factors. Studies to determine the level of climate change is done using observation and theorems. Factors that affect climate are called climate forcings (Yang et al,2000) .They are internal and external climate forcings; these forcings affect some parts of the environment faster or slower depending on the position of the given atmospheric location. The ocean is known to respond slowly to climate forcings. Forcings are either internal or external depending on the genesis of the process (Valet, 2003). Internal forcings include natural processes within the atmosphere like volcanic eruptions, tectonic plate movements, variations in solar radiations and concentration of greenhouse gas effects (Geel et al., 1999). External forcings are human activities that lead to the emission of dangerous gases into the atmosphere. There also are climate change feedbacks which are elements that act in three ways to climatic forcings (Orr, 1999). It can be sudden, where there occurs a sudden cooling effect occasioned by a high presence of volcanic ash in the atmosphere which will reflect sunlight and heat. It can be gradual, in this case, the water bodies become warm slowly; and then overflow. The third possibility is a combination of both fast and slow reactions, in such a situation a sudden cooling of ice is experienced in the Arctic Ocean followed by a sudden meltdown of the ocean ice (Grootes and Stuiver, 1997). Currently, we are in a period between two ice ages, and if there are no other influences, another ice age will occur in a time scale of thousands of years. The rate of global temperature change linked to astronomical forcing is approximated to be in the order of a few tenths of a degree Celsius per thousand years (Washington et al., 2001). Solar Variations Information on solar changes is obtained f rom cosmogenic radionuclide records. The variables used in this study illustrate how changes over periods of time have influenced the climatic conditions of given geographical regulates and the production of carbon dioxide. (Svensmark and Friis-Christensen, 1997). High powered galactic cosmic rays induce a reactivity series of nuclear reactions that produce cosmogenic radionuclide in the atmosphere. When elements carrying high energy hit oxygen and nitrogen in the atmosphere, Be (beryllium) is formed. Further reactions of this element with nitrogen form slow neutrons. The sun regulates the intensity of the galactic cosmic rays (GCR) that reaches the earth’s surface and in this way, affects the production of radionuclides in the atmosphere. After Be is formed, it combines with aerosols and hangs in the atmosphere for one to two years (Mc Hargue and Damon, 1997). Disparities in 10Be records between Antarctica and Greenland during 1950 AD have led to differing conclusions regard ing solar activity in this period (Lean, 1991). According to Greenland records, there was low 10 Be production after 1950 AD but in the Antarctic records, the trend is opposite. These 11-year averages of sunspot data and the neutron monitor show

The Ethics of Mountaintop Removal Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Ethics of Mountaintop Removal - Essay Example Moreover, mountaintop removal is associated with the destruction of the physical environment for the surrounding communities which minimizes on the overall good done to the neighboring communities. Human beings generally love the aesthetic view of their surroundings which makes them feel happy about what they see around (Camacho, 2010). Mountaintop removal while mining coal, however, destroys this aesthetic view by deforestation and surface destruction among other scenery destructive activities (Mcgarvey & Johnston, 2013). In fact, deforestation in itself is responsible not only for changing the climatic conditions of an area but also affects the freshness of air that the inhabitants of the neighboring communities breathe (Zullig, M.S.P.H & Hendryx, 2011). This is with regard to the fact that vegetation is responsible for facilitating the gaseous exchange between oxygen and carbon dioxide. Such an interference with the natural sceneries is, therefore, an undesirable activity which re mains to be a total interference to the moral and ethical standards of inhabitants of the neighboring community. Without regulation of the mining activities of companies involved in the mining of coal, it may be impossible to maximize on the principles of utilitarianism which entails creating more â€Å"good† to the community while reducing the bad effects of the mining activities in the neighborhood.The coal industries can be considered to be more consumptive than preservative in their mining processes.

Critical Thinking Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 7

Critical Thinking - Essay Example 2. Are there any similarities between the characteristics demanded of an entrepreneur and those of a professional athlete? Would an athlete be a good prospect for entrepreneurship? Why or why not? Could teamwork be important in an entrepreneurial effort? Why or why not? I think that there are many similarities between the characteristics of an entrepreneur and a professional athlete, most notably the discipline required to succeed. Preparation time is also a key aspect of both jobs because nothing should be left to chance. Just like an entrepreneur has to come up with short and long-term business plans, professional athletes need to set goals so that they are always improving. An athlete would be a good prospect for entrepreneurship because he or she would be able to carry over these same traits. Teamwork is very important in an entrepreneurial effort because no one can do something by themselves. Although they may have a thought or vision, they will need other people to carry out the objectives and work for the betterment of the

Charitable Contributions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Charitable Contributions - Essay Example ndation, n.d.) Public charities are made up of churches, hospitals and qualified medical research organizations affiliated with hospitals, schools, colleges and universities. Similar among all these institutions are: a) they receive contributions from many sources and have active program(s) for fundraising; b) their income is generated by activities that enhance and promote their purposes; and, c) they actively work in relationship with another public charity. To be a public charity, organizations mentioned above should submit documents that â€Å"must contain purposes and powers of an organization and disposition of its assets under dissolution, in order to qualify for exemption under Internal Revenue Code section 501 (c)(3).† (Sample Organizing Documents – Public Charity, 2009) In short, they must comply with the language the IRS requires. These documents may be, but are not limited to, the trust instrument, corporate charter, articles of incorporation, articles of association, or other written instrument by which the organization is created under state law. It should be remembered that these requirements may vary among states and/or countries as well. Public charities must ensure that the purpose and assets stated in these documents are dedicated to charitable purposes. To be exempt under IRS section 501(c)(3) of the Code, initially, a public charity must file IRS Form 1023.This and other forms can be acquired online or from a cd, both available on the IRS website (www.irs.gov), by calling 1-800-TAX-FORM (1-800-829-3676) or visiting local IRS offices. There are certain organizations that are already considered tax exempt even without the filing of Form 1023. These are a) churches, b) their integrated auxiliaries or associations of churches and c) any organization with a gross income of not more than $5,000 in a taxable year. Applicants must ensure that their organizing documents comply with the IRS requirements. The IRS will not process incomplete

Discuss to what extent the existence of corporate and personal taxes Essay - 1

Discuss to what extent the existence of corporate and personal taxes could affect companies' dividend policy and capital structure decisions - Essay Example Dividends could be said to be the reward for the shareholders' participation in contributions towards the corpus of company and its management. The dividend policy plays a crucial role in the financial operations of corporate in the UK because it is closely dependent on current profits and also future profitability of the entity. As per law, Companies could distribute dividends, only out of earnings or reserves of the Company, since otherwise; it would amount to paying back its own capital to the shareholders. Thus, a Company could only distribute dividends out of its accumulated profits and free reserves available for such distribution: It may choose not to pay any dividend and may retain its earnings for future plans, the Company's decision not to pay dividends may stem from the need for maintaining reserves for market expansions, need to buy back shares at later date, building funds for heavy investments projects, programmes, etc. It may decide to pay minimum dividends out of its retained earnings, keeping the long term prospects of the Company in view, with the optimistic view that in future years, it would be able to maintain or increase, the level of profitability, and thus its rate of dividend. This is because a falling rate of dividend may discourage potential investors and they may become circumspect about investing in such companies. This would have detrimental consequences on the company's market image. The Company's operations are such that it is in a strong position to regularly pay high rates of dividends, even quarterly basis, in terms of a strong market position and market realisations. Moreover, because of reputation and goodwill gained by the Company, it is also able to attract outside investors for future growth plans and expansion, and it need not depend entirely on the present earnings and Capital reserves at its disposal. It would not be wrong to say that dividend policies, besides the tax element, is also dependent upon available of consistent profits and dividend yielding assets Role of Taxation in determination of dividend policies: Taxation plays an important role in the determination of dividends because of the following reasons: Incidence of double taxation, especially in developed countries. Capital gains being subject to a lower rate of taxation than

Thesis Enrolment Essay Example for Free

Thesis Enrolment Essay 1.0. Project Description An enrolment system is necessary for the school to keep track of their students’ records. This is a useful way for retrieving student’s information. On the other hand a student’s personal information account will enable a student to view his or her status and other school related requirements or details. If these two will be implemented automatically, then the school will operate more efficiently and effectively. The purpose of this online enrolment system is for those individuals who want to enrol in Cebu Centre for Dance but they are having the hard time in finding for the exact location of the school and applying an enrolment system through online will make it easier and faster for the enrolees to apply to the said dance school. The enrolee requires filling up a form online with his or her personal information that includes his or her specific details that the system requires. This lets the enrolee choose or enrol to a course offered by the school. Once the enrolee submits the form and formally settles the payment, that enrolee is considered an official student of the school. This marks the use of the student’s personal information account. So the student could now log in into his account using his unique username and password that would let him view his class schedule and other school related details. An online enrolment system and student’s personal information account will help school and its students communicate and keep track of their records successfully. And since the widespread use of the internet has given people the chance to access to information and to the different websites, this gives us the idea of creating the system. 1.1. Background of the Project/ Overview of the Current State of Technology Company Background Cebu Centre for Dance is the newest dance school in Cebu City. It is located at Tango Plaza building, Queens Road. It aims is to provide high quality dance training as well as fitness training in the Queen city of the south. It offers ballet dance training for all 3 years and up, adult ballet for fitness, contemporary dance training, classical jazz, and Latin ballroom. For fitness training, it offers Zumba by Emma Satchell, Yoga and Pilates. Companys Current State in terms of Technology The Cebu Centre for Dance has its own existing website, the http://www.cebucentrefordance.webeden.net/. In their website, you can view the details about the dance school, the different courses offered, the list of faculty members, and its dance resources, and on how to contact the said dance training school. The Cebu Centre for Dance’s website lacks some features that would help in making their operation more efficient and more effective towards their students and to those who really want to enrol in the said dance school. So the creation of an online enrolment system and student’s personal information account would make a difference and improvement in organizing and retrieving students’ information. Companys needs/ challenges that needs Technological Intervention The school’s website lacks some features that are needed for making their school’s operation more effective and more efficient. It needs a system that could retrieve and track the records of their students and enrolees wherein the admin could view the necessary details about them. The school manages their enrolment manually in which it’s not very accessible and convenient for students/enrolees especially in this rapidly changing world. On the other hand, keeping track of the records is also done manually that makes it more complicated and unsecured. So the school is really in need of an automated system for the enrolment and an online account for their students’/enrolees’ personal information. Brief Introduction of the Project as the Solution As what was defined in 1.0 Project Description, â€Å"An enrolment system is necessary for the school to keep track of their students’ records. This is a useful way for retrieving student’s information. On the other hand a student’s personal information account will enable a student to view his or her status and other school related requirements or details. If these two will be implemented automatically, then the school will operate more efficiently and effectively.† This project would really satisfy the needs of the school of having an automated system for their enrolment and an online account for their students. The admin could view and check the record and status of a specific student. He can also alter some information about that student. The enrolees can register by filling up a form online and submits this one to the site to be stored in the database. Once the payment and other confidential matters are being settled, that enrolee could now be considered as an official student of the said dance school. He could then log-in to his personal account to update and view the important details stored in it. 1.2. Project Objectives/ Objectives of the Project The main objective of this project is to develop and come up with an enrolment system that would satisfy the needs of the students and the school wherein the admin can be able to manage the student’s information account. This project aims to build a working and efficient enrolment system and be implemented online. 1.2.1. General Objective The over-all goal for the creation of this online enrolment system and student’s personal information account is to transform the manual system of enrolment of the school to an automated one. The purpose for this is for the enrolees to enrol to the school anytime of the day because it’s done online. An online enrolment system will help the school officials to manage and utilize their time properly because the system will be the one working for the enrolment process to be stored in a database. On the other hand, having a student’s personal information account will help not only the school, but also the student in managing and viewing for their record and important school requirements in convenient way but just logging in to their account. Through this, students’ records will be put to the database for security purposes and easy access to information. 1.2.2. Specific Objectives * To develop an automated or online system of enrolment * To create a student’s personal information account * To make the enrolment system more effective and more efficient for both the school and the enrolees * To let both the school and the students have an easy access to information * To let the admin protect and organize the students’ records * To let the admin view the records of their students * To let the admin alter the information stored in the database * To let the enrolees register to the school 24 hours online * To let the students log in to their own personal account * To let the students view and update their account in a more convenient manner * To let the admin post a reminder or note to the student’s account easier and faster 1.3. Scope and Limitations of the Project The online enrolment system can only let the enrolee fill up the form and submit this one to be stored to the database. In an enrolment process, payment is really necessary before the enrolee to be considered as an official student of the school. It can be a down payment or a full payment depending on the agreement made by the school and the enrolee. But in our online enrolment system, no money transactions are done because the payment will only be done through personal meet ups. In the enrolment system, the school can trace what are the standings and schedules of the students. For the student’s personal information account, only the official students of the school are allowed to log in to their accounts using their unique usernames and passwords. The enrolees are not allowed to log in to an account because they need to achieve first the necessary requirements to be considered as an official student of the school. The student can only view and update his account. He cannot delete his account because only the admin can do that. The admin can change and manage the information on the student’s account. The admin can view the records of the students’ fees – collected or uncollected. The admin can send personal message to the student and post important announcements. 1.4. Significance of the Project/ Importance of the Project The system proposed should be done in a specific period of time so that the Cebu Centre for Dance can now have an automated enrolment system. The school won’t use anymore the manual system they’re used to. It’s a great benefit for both the students and the school because aside from the fact that it’s hassle free and convenient, it’s also user friendly. The purpose for this is for the enrolees to enrol to the school anytime of the day because it’s done online. An online enrolment system will help the school officials to manage and utilize their time properly because the system will be the one working for the enrolment process to be stored in a database. In this rapidly changing world, technology is really a must for everyone especially in schools because the need for it provides us with easy and more effective solutions to everyday living. Without technology we could not communicate quickly from important people we like to talk to, find important information from the Internet, or even keep track school events and announcements. This project allows people to utilise tools that allows overcoming of mental and the practical application of knowledge to advance our everyday life. 2.0. Review of Related Works and Studies/ Review of Related Literature With the advent of computers, the world entered a more technologically advanced era of computing using various technical tools. In the creation of the system, different resources were being used. It includes the Xampp, Dreamweaver, and Adobe Photoshop CS5, the Internet, university-owned computer, personal computers and laptops (Lenovo and Toshiba). The use of some browsers such as Mozilla and Google Chrome made this database project possible. Through these media, we could now successfully create and develop our own database. It is based on SQL or termed as the Structured Query Language that is used for managing and querying databases. Creating the system can become extremely complex and inconsistent, because most of the information can’t be tabulated into simple computer programs, thus the call for a maximum level database was needed and created. 3.0. Project Methodology The creation of an online enrolment system and student’s personal information account requires specific steps that are needed to be achieved. These are the steps: DESIGN MAINTENANCE and SUPPORT IMPLEMENTATION ANALYSIS PLANNING Data Collection This project involves three major steps starting from planning down to the implementation of the system. PLANNING Software Requirements Analyse the requirements. ANALYSIS Identify the conclusion Implements the system IMPLEMENTATION Tests the system All of the activities stated above will be done by Anna Mae Talingting, and Marjorie Castillo. They are the resource persons to be contacted and are responsible for the task required. The making of the system will approximately take 3 months, which is from November to February. It will be done to a place that has computers and other enough resources that would help make and accomplish the system. The activity should be done so that the school can now have an automated enrolment system and students can use it as soon as possible that the system will be done and implemented.

Impact of Divorce on Children | Essay

Impact of Divorce on Children | Essay The increase in the rate of divorce may be the most dramatic change in family life and divorce is being more and more common in the modern society. Demographers suggest that about 50% of first marriages would be voluntarily dissolved in recent years (Cherlin, 1992). Compared with statistics in the middle of 19th century which only 5% of first marriages ended in divorce (Preston McDonald, 1979), the number is shocking. Moreover, slightly more than half of all divorces involve children and adolescences aged below 18. More than one million children experience parental divorce every year (U.S. Bureau of the Census, 1998, Table 160), and Bumpass (1990) suggested that about 40% of all children will experience parental divorce before reaching adulthood. The statistics and experts opinions demonstrate the trend of increasing divorce rate, and thus there are more and more children experiencing parental divorce. In response to this, the essay is going to focus on the impact of parental divorc e in different aspects if the event happens at the time when the children are in their adolescence and young adulthood. After that, the essay will discuss the impact on them when they grow up into young adults. With the increasing rate of divorce, parental divorce happening at the time when children are in their adolescence and young adulthood is more commonplace. The parental divorce may affect the children in different aspects. The impact may also be widespread. A 25-year study of 60 post-divorce families with 131 children was conducted by psychologist Judith Wallerstein. Wallerstein (2001) finds out that the immediate effects of divorce on children may be different according to their gender, age and developmental stage. For adolescents which are one of the focuses of this essay, they will suffer depression. They will also have suicidal thoughts and express anxiety about having successful marriages. Sandford(2008) also suggests that some findings in 1990s indicated that children of divorce have lower academic achievement. They may also have some behavioral, psychological, relationship or even health problems. Researches done over the past years have consistently shown that divorce has a negative impact on the academic achievement of children of divorce. (Wallerstein, Corbin, Lewis, 1988; Popenoe, 1993). They are more likely to have low grades and score lower on academic tests. They also have lower educational aspirations and are two to three times more likely to be dropped out of school. The impact may continue to their adulthood and lower their social competence as they just achieve lower levels of education and thus lower occupational status. Thus, their income is usually less. Adolescents experiencing parental divorce may also have different psychological problems. According to Wallerstein (2001), the level of depression and anxiety is higher in children of divorce. Their self esteem is also lower and they experience more often use of psychological services. It is found that girls from divorced families are much more depressed than girls from intact families in some cases. For boys, they are more hopeless and discouraged when there are more family distresses. It should be noted that some differences in psychological well-being may due to financial disadvantages. Compared with peers from married families, children of divorce may have a lower standard of living. It is due to two reasons. Firstly, living standard of women usually decline more than mens after divorce (Ross, 1995). Secondly, most children live with their mothers after divorce (Smyth, Sheenhan and Felberg, 2001). Thus they usually live with a lower family income. They will probably move to new r esidences and to poor neighborhoods. Because of the difficult economic conditions, they would have another form of loss and become more depress. Children of divorce are also prone to different behavioral problems. They may have disorders in conduct, difficulty with authorities and behaviors that are antisocial (Hetherington and Kelly, 2002). Compared with children from intact families, they are also two to three times more probably to engage in adolescent delinquency and the conduct problems are more common among boys than in girls. Jeynes (2001) also suggests that adolescent from divorced families have alcohol more often and in larger quantities. They are also more likely to take drugs, have pre-marital sex, end up in prison and commit murder, etc. Apart from psychological and behavioral problems, relationship problems are common among children from divorced families. Sandford (2008) suggests that female adolescents that have experienced parental divorce are more likely to have earlier sexual activities and have more sexual partners than those without experience in parental divorce during their high school years. He also points out that they begin their menstruation earlier. And it seems to be some relationships between early menstruation and early sexual intercourse. It is suggested that the girls having earlier sexual activity have poor self-regulatory skills. It might be attributed to the avoidance of teaching the skills needed to gain self-control in divorced families. Moreover, it might be due to disengagement between these children and their parents at a younger age. Thus their relationship is not as good as that in intact family. Divorced childrens relationship with parents is also weaker (Sandford, 2008). According to research done by Hetherington and Kelly (2002), similar proportion of children from divorced families and from intact families feel close to their mothers (70% vs. 80%). However, only less than one-third of children report such closeness with their father while 70% of children with married parents report these feelings. The findings coincide with other researches that there are high proportion of disengaged or totally absent fathers following divorces. It is the conflicts between the ex-spouses and custody arrangements that cause fathers to feel disengaged from their children. Avoidance of child support payments is also a reason for the fathers to stay away from their children. Because of the above reasons, adolescents from divorced families view their father to be less caring. Marital instability is also another relationship faced by children from divorced families when they grow up and it wil l be discussed later in the essay. Although research found quite a lot of negative impacts on adolescents when they face parental divorce, positive consequences are also possible. A study by Arditti (1999) suggests that the children from divorced families, especially daughters, develop very close relationships with their custodial mother. It may be due to the extra care given by the custodial mothers as their fathers are disengaged from the families. The impact of divorce on children may not be short term. It is possible that divorce will affect the children in different aspects even when they grow up into young adults. Several impacts are confirmed by Amato (2000) that they are consistent with prior research. Firstly, children with divorced parents are more likely to experience psychological problems in adulthood. Secondly, they have more problems in forming and maintaining stable intimate relationships with their partners. Thirdly, they have weaker ties to their parents when they grow up into young adults.   Amato (2000) suggests that divorce is undoubtedly â€Å"a risk factor for psychological problems during childhood and into adulthood†. It is agreed that there is a tendency of adults having parental divorce experience less satisfaction with their lives, higher rates of depression and lower self-esteem. Wallerstein, Lewis and Blakeslee (2001) findings also point out that about one third of the children had serious psychological problems such as clinical depression, poor performance in school or difficulty in maintaining friendships. Moreover, their 25-year in depth study also suggests that even 25 years after the divorce, the children (now adults) â€Å"still recalled the shock, unhappiness, loneliness, bewilderment and anger†. Higher level of depression has also been found to continue in adulthood. Both men and women report comparatively worse of psychological well-being. Although Amato (2000) argues that the adults who experienced parental divorce and are suffering fro m serious psychological problems are not as many as one third of them, the effects of divorce would probably persist into adulthood. Weaker ties to their parents is another impact when children grown up into young adults. Weisberg and Appleton (2003) describe a survey carried out by a sociologist. 1500 adults who had experienced a divorce before the age of 14 and a comparison group of children from intact family were surveyed. It was found that children of divorce (now adults) felt they were outsiders in their own home. They also had frequent feelings of being alone and were less likely to seek comfort from their parents. The weak ties to their parents usually persist into their adulthood. Another research done by Hetherington and Kelly (2002) also found that less than one-third of children of divorce report close feelings to their fathers. And even when they grow up into adult, they doubt whether their fathers care or love them. It is also suggested that children with parental divorce would have more problems in forming and maintaining stable intimate relationships with their partners (Amato, 2000). According to Hetherington and Kelly (2002), children of divorce are more likely than children of intact families to have marital instability and lower marital satisfaction. They generally have more thoughts about divorce and the divorce rates among children of divorce are also a bit higher when they grow up into adults. The phenomenon may be explained by the wariness to commit to a relationship, perceiving divorce as an alternative for unhappy marriages. Moreover, a contentious family life may result in generally weaker relationship skills. Weisberg and Appleton (2003) also stated that a lot of studies have shown that parental divorce is a risk factor for other problems in adulthood. The problems include low socioeconomic attainment, poor subjective wellbeing, increased marital problems, and a greater likelihood of seeing ones own marriages end in divorce (Amato, 1999). It might be hard to understand why the problems persist into adulthood. Weisberg and Appleton (2003) suggested that parental divorce may lead to financial crisis. The original plans to attend college may be abandoned, thus resulting in lower occupational attainment and wages throughout adulthood. For children who were exposed to poor parental models of interpersonal behavior, they might have difficulty when wanting to form stable, satisfying and intimate relationship as young adults. The above considerations suggest that it may be possible that some children show improvement soon after parental divorce in terms of behavior or relationship, however, some effects might only appear when the children reach young adulthood. Although the essay focuses on the impact of parental divorce on children, it is also important to note some of the methods that the children can adopt in order to adjust to divorce and minimize the negative impacts brought. Kelly (2003) suggests that conflicts between parents should be diminished. Competent residential parenting such as warmth and emotional support and adequate monitoring to the children is also needed. The non-residential parents also have a role. They should offer stable financial support to the divorced family. Regular contacts with the children and involvement in issues related to their children should also be carried out in order to help with childrens adjustment to divorce. It is the effort made by the parents that can minimized the impacts mentioned above. As discussed above, it is shown that parental divorce is an upsetting and disruptive event in the lives of the children. Although some scholars argue that children can develop successfully in a variety of family structures and view divorce as an escape from a dysfunctional home environment, more evidences and findings suggest that having experience of parental divorce may cause different problems such as psychological, emotional, behavioral and social problems. The children in divorced families may also deal with relationships in a disturbed manner. The effect may not be short term and can extent to adulthood in some cases. There may be intergenerational transmission of divorce and the adults may have difficulties in dealing with intimate relationship. The marriages of the adults with parental divorce experience would also be affected. It is arguable that not all children from divorced families suffer from these problems. And there are a lot of factors affect the impacts of parental divorce on children or the recovery process such as access to parents or parental support. Sex difference, the family structure or the relationship with parents may also be some of the factors. Although many factors should be considered, some negative impacts are proved that they would happen more frequently among children with parental divorce. And we should understand the impacts in order to find measures that can help the children adjust to divorce.

Deregulation And Globalization in the Banking Sector

Deregulation And Globalization in the Banking Sector Globalization refers to the process by which economies, cultures and societies integrate through global networks such as communication, trade and transportation. Economic globalization is the most famous form of globalization. Economic globalization refers to the integration of regional and national economies into a common international economy by engaging in trade, spread of technology, migration and direct foreign investment. In the economic sense, globalization refers to the elimination or removal of barriers on the national borders with the aim of facilitating smooth flow of goods, services, capital and labor (Agdish, pg 101).Globalization leads to emergence of global financial markets and access to external funding. The global recession of 2007-2010 is an example of financial instability occasioned by globalization. The industrial production blossoms due to globalization that makes it possible for economies to access to foreign products with particular reference to the movement of goods and materials across national borders. Deregulation on the other hand refers to the elimination of government regulation or rules that hinder free operation of the market forces (Velde, pg 85). It means limiting government control on the trade and business processes thus promoting free trade. Globalization and deregulation have an impact on the optimal boundary of financial institutions in Turkey such as Finans Bank, Dexia, Akbank Turam Alem Bank, EFG Euro bank and NBG. This paper highlights the effects of deregulation and globalization in the banking and financial sector and its impact on the optimal boundaries of companies and firms in the financial sector. Deregulation and globalization are some of the external factors that encourage and promote consolidation in the financial services sector thus affecting the optimal boundaries of firms in financial and banking sector in Turkey. The need to recapitalize financially in challenged institutions is the driving factor of consolidation. Deregulation and globalization leads to rise in competitive trade that promotes restructuring in the financial sector services as a strategic response. Turkeys banking and financial sector has its own experience of effects of globalization and the effects of deregulation on the optimal boundary of firms in these sectors. The free market forces or the pull and push factors encourage entry of foreign banks in the host nations financial market. The low level of competition, the potential of accessing new markets in the host countries especially in developing countries is equally responsible for the entry of foreign banks (Velde, pg 87). There are benefits and costs of entry of a foreign bank in the financial and banking sector of the host nation. The benefits include bringing new technology, financial support for needy banks and new techniques of risk management. Other benefits include the continuation of lending to economies experiencing shocks that have potential of adversely affecting the banking sector and cushion the financial capital that may leave or flee the nation during crisis. The entry of foreign banks tends to boost the quality and performance of corporate governance thus enhancing efficiency of the host nations banks hence stabilizing the economy. However, the entry of foreign banks and financial institutions carry with them certain risks such as negative shocks leading to instability thus weakening the local banking sector and the failure by such foreign banks to provide financial assistance in times of crisis. The regulations in host nations many a times do not control the activities and operations o f foreign banks (Pascual, pg 44). Turkey experiences increase in the entry of foreign banks into the country due globalization and deregulation that attract such financial institutions. The host countries such as Turkey view deregulation and entry of foreign banks as a solution of solving the problem of high levels of debt. The urge to boost international trade and improve technology in a bid to modernize the local banking sector informs the decision by countries such as Turkey to pursue deregistration as a method of enhancing trade. The host country, which is Turkey, hopes that entry of foreign banks may spur savings and widen the service and product base.After financial crisis; countries try to attract foreign investment from banks that may be able to take advantage of the low prices in the host nations market. The concept of foreign banking is informed by the fact the banks enjoy the information and contacts with the manufacturing firms in the host nation at a lower cost. The removal of regulations and effects of globalization makes it easier for a foreign bank to enter in the host country (Velde, pg 88). The financial crisis of 2000-2001 resulted in restructuring of the banking sector in Turkey that really affected the optimal boundaries of firms in the banking and financial sector. This financial crisis provoked the interest of foreign banks to take over the local Turkish banks at a cheaper price. During the crisis, the foreign banks engaged in mergers and acquisitions that increased their share by 0.66 percent. The Shares of the foreign banks have continued to increase because they purchased through the stock exchange. The growth of EU banking system has been a motivating factor for consolidation of banks. The American banking system led to big financial institutions, as JP Morgans Chase that took over Bank One. These big American institutions have reached their optimal level in America and are currently seeking opportunities in foreign countries like Turkey that have high growth potential(Caprio ,pg 96). The participation of foreign banks in the privatization process and in Turkey is likely to increase in the future and equally increase the foreign share in the local or domestic market. The foreign banks focus on local banks that provide home and consumer credits besides serving the corporate clients. For example, the Finans Bank was able to attract National Bank of Greece due the high quality of its retail products that includes consumer loans, checks, insurance and car loans. Dexia purchased the Denizbank to improve its customer base that grew to 1.4 million customers in Turkey. The Citigroup too bought 20 percent equity interest in the Akbank to strengthen is hold and position in Turkey. These firms were able to improve their optimal boundaries due to globalization and deregulation. The push factor for some of these foreign firms now operating in Turkey was the low level of profitability in their home countries. These banks equally moved in to Turkey in order to diversify their op erations and client base (Agdish, pg 102). The urge to boost international trade and subsequent investment inform the decision by some banks to expand abroad. For example, the entry of Greece firms in Turkey was to invest in certain sectors such as tourism, navigation and industry. The small size of banking sector in Greece makes their banks to expand into countries such as Turkey .The ING bank for example continues with its activities of leasing and involvement in the insurance sector while Sekerbank continue to invest in the agriculture, construction and tourism sectors following its financial deal with Bank Turam Alem. EFG Euro bank and NBG have interest in clients dealing with commercial and industrial enterprises (Agdish, pg 103). There are effects of deregulation and globalization on financial institutions and banks in Turkey and this affects the optimal boundary firms in these sectors positively or negatively. The level and degree of effect on financial institutions vary depending on the nature and size of their assets, the level of risk aversion, government support and their ability to manage the changing financial environment. Some banks benefitted from such financial conditions while others continue to experience adverse effects. Structural changes in the banking sector are some of the results of entry of foreign banks in the Turkish financial sector as they influence credit analysis, operational and financial planning, human capital and marketing (Ali, pg 56). The financial market in Turkey improved with the entry of foreign banks thus making the domestic banks to withstand the financial crisis. The decline of interest rates, technological transfer, improvement in risk management and transparency are some of the benefits of entry of foreign banks to the optimal boundary of banks such as Turam Alem Bank, EFG Euro bank and NBG. The services offered in the banking sector have continue to increase in variety such as the internet banking and other financial instruments, efficiency increases with the entry of foreign banks into Turkey due to increase in the use of computer technology and less man power. These foreign banks facilitate the entry of foreign capital in Turkey and continue to fund large-scale projects due to their relationship and link to the global financial markets (Ali, pg 57). In conclusion, it is important to note that deregulation results in free flow of goods, capital and services without any manner of interference or control by the government except in cases where the firms engage in fraudulent activity. Deregulation is a key feature of free market economy and has direct impact on the optimal boundary of firms in the banking and financial sector in Turkey .Globalization leads to minimal national border barriers this affects the optimal boundary of banking and financial firms in Turkey , which increases competition and easy entrance into new markets. Stock exchange is one of the common features of free market concept since foreign banks are able to engage in business with their local and domestic counterparts through trading on the stock exchange. It is equally important to note that globalization and deregulation can have positive or negative impact on the performance of the financial and banking system depending on the strategies and strengths of firm s. The entry of foreign banks into Turkeys banking sector resulted into restructuring of the financial sector due to the transfer of information and technology.

Personal Narrative - Hit by a Car Essay -- Injury Disability

The Living Shadow I want a lot, and there's a lot I don't. But I'd rather I not want at all. To want - such a human thing to do! You know, a trait of those organic markers who demarcate and deface—then there are those gray areas. Like an epidemic, the smears spread from one to another.. I apologize. I'm making the murky waters murkier. To elucidate: A yellowing calendar page materializes before my own eyes. As I ponder above the black-and-white chessboard splashed with gray, I glance as an inexplicable draft flattens the page momentarily over a dusty dividing line. The page reads, "August 18, 2008." Immediately, the sheet transmutes into a pane of glass. Nonchalant, I stare as the pane rises up over me, and shatters against my head. The glass pieces disintegrate upon impact, and I stand among showering particles, examining my new environment. The board has become a garden, one partially teeming with life and mixed with utter death and destruction. I reach out and lightly grasp a blurry leaf. Did I touch it? Did I imagine it? As if in answer, I feel it—and then, it's gone. I went into a coma on that day. At least, that’s what they say. They say I was crossing a street near my school on the way to my home. I was jay-walking. More correctly, I was breaking the law. Yes, the irony soaks that calendar page. Yes, a car hit me, sending me flying. No, the actual impact wasn’t that damaging. Two fractured clavicles, I think. But obeying the laws of gravity, I fell. Apparently, my head landed on a concrete edge. More correctly, the back of my head collided with stone. Yes, that was damaging. A debilitated cerebellum, I think. Since my brain stem incurred damage, it meant that I would possess a physical disability for... ...I raise my pen and jerk it downward. Paint is a temporal dress at best, right? At the moment before the knife-like tip strikes a knife-like slab, my movement is halted. Flabbergasted, I try again. What else if not the same end that meets me? I relax the utensil. It’s an unspoken rule: I can’t know some constitutions. A draft inexplicably evinces, and as a reminder, a page materializes: ‘What matters,’ it states. â€Å"Life matters,† I retort. What I believe is life, is what I see—what humans see—and what they see defines what they choose to do: it’s the human way. I choose to believe what is important. And what a human thing to do! So be it, I am an organic marker. I spread the epidemic. Just an organic marker, scribbling and smearing. The murky waters stay the same, as I run my course. Like an unspoken rule, physical constraints run with me. It’s the human way.

Threatening Relationships in Carver’s Cathedral Essay -- Carver Cathed

Threatening Relationships in Carver’s Cathedral  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚   Although many critics have written numerous accounts of Richard Carver’s "Cathedral" as being about revelation and overcoming prejudice, they have overlooked a very significant aspect: the unfolding of marital drama. The story tells of how a close outside friendship can threaten marriage by provoking insecurities, creating feelings of invasion of privacy, and aggravating communication barriers. The close outside friendship between the narrator’s wife and Robert, the blind man, provokes the narrator’s insecurities. This friendship has lasted for ten long years. During those years, they have exchanged countless voice tapes wherein they both tell each other what has happened in their respective lives. Because of this, the narrator feels that his wife has told Robert more than Robert needs to know. The narrator laments, "she told him everything or so it seemed to me" (1054). The narrator’s fear is somehow confirmed when Robert arrives and says that he feels like they have already met (1055). The narrator is left wondering what his wife has disclosed. This murky situation leaves the narrator feeling insecure, especially when he sees the warm interaction between his wife and Robert. The narrator’s insecurities unfold when it takes him almost five pages just to demonstrate how close the friendship is between his wife and Robert. It is as though he is justifying his irrational behavior or perhaps questioning if his wife could be secretly in love with Robert. The narrator assumes this because his wife only writes poems if something really important happens to her. He recalls that his wife never forgot that instant when Robert "touched his fingers to every part of her face... ...m. Ed. Thomas Volteler. Detroit: Gale Research, 1989. 23-28. Carver, Raymond. "Cathedral." The Harper Anthology of Fiction. Ed. Sylvan Barnet. New York: HarperCollins, 1991. 1052-1062. Eder, Richard. "Pain on the Face of Middle America." Contemporary Literary Criticism. Ed. Daniel G. Marowski. Detroit: Gale Research Publishing, Inc., 1986. 103. Works Consulted Robinson, Marilynne. " Marriage and other Astonishing Bonds." Contemporary Literary Criticism. Ed. Roger Matuz. Detroit: Gale Publishing Inc., 1989. 276-278. Weele, Michael Vander. "Raymond Carver and the language of Desire." Short Story Criticism. Ed. Thomas Volteler. Detroit: Gale Publishing Inc., 1989. 36-41. Yardley, Jonathan. " Raymond Carver’s American Dreamers." Contemporary Literary Criticism. Eds. Daniel Marowski and Roger Matuz. Detroit: Gale Research Inc., 1989. 63.      

Alienation in the lives of Arab Women :: Research Culture Arabic Essays

Alienation in the lives of Arab Women Alienation: al ·ien ·a ·tion ( l y -n sh n, l - -) n. The act of alienating or the condition of being alienated; estrangement; isolation or dissociation. Alienation is a concept that is universal to all people of all cultures in the world and throughout all time periods. These feelings of alienation, in some form or another, have affected every human begin that has ever taken a breath and will until the race is extinct. It is these feelings of alienation that influence so many of our activities, our thoughts, and the way we shape our lives and the manner in which we form our societies. It is these reactions to alienation that have played such a large role in the shaping of cultures and societies and for this reason it is important to study the alienation that is being discussed here. It is necessary to choose a group first of all and for our purpose here it will be women in the Arab culture. This is a very diverse culture and therefore we cannot deal with any specific society too in depth and so therefore we will look at examples provided from Arab women’s novels as well as look at the culture as a whole and over a large geogra phic region. We will be primarily concerned with the sources of alienation that bring these feelings and/or situations of alienation about and focusing on a socioanalytic evaluation of these sources. Also important in this discourse are the situations of the present that we will examine by looking at a few examples from the Arab women’s novels, but also the in-depth analyses of the situations and experiences. Finally, we will look at what these situations and analyses mean for the future of Arab women and the circumstances they may be provided with in years to come and how they might deal with new forms of alienation and at the same time different forms of dealienation or situations of being able to enter parts of society and the world that they have not been able to for numbers of years, and in some cases parts they have never experienced—historically speaking. In short, the purpose of this discourse is to understand the alienation that is a part of the lives of Arab women. This is not supposed to be a definitive analysis, but rather the introduction

Agriculture in India Essay

Since long ago, agriculture has been associated with the production of basic food crops. At present agriculture, besides farming includes forestry, fruit cultivation, dairy, poultry, mushroom, bee keeping, arbitrary, etc. Today, marketing, processing, distribution of agricultural products etc. are all accepted as a part of modern agriculture. Agriculture plays a crucial role in the life of an economy. It is the backbone of our economic system. The following facts clearly highlight the importance of INDIA. 1. Source of Livelihood: In India the main occupation of our working population is agriculture. About 70 per cent of our population is directly engaged in agriculture. 2. Contribution to National Income: Agriculture is the premier source of our national income. According to National Income Committee, in:- 1960-61, 52% national income was contributed. see more:non farming activities in indian villages 1976-77, contributed 42.2 per cent 1981-82, its contribution was 41.8 per cent. 2001-02, it contributed around 32.4 per cent 2006-07, 22% 2012-13, 13.7% 3. Supply of Food and Fodder: Agriculture sector also provides fodder for livestock. Moreover, it also meets the food requirements of the people. 4. Importance in International Trade: Agricultural products like tea, sugar, rice, tobacco, spices etc. constitute the main items of exports of India. 6. Source of Raw Material: Agriculture has been the source of raw materials to the leading industries like cotton and jute textiles, sugar, tobacco, edible and non-edible oils etc. All these depend directly on agriculture. 9. Vast Employment Opportunities: With the fast growing population and high incidence of unemployment the agricultural sector is significant as it provides greater employment opportunities in the construction of irrigation projects, drainage system  and other such activities. 13. Basis of Economic Development: The development of agriculture provides necessary capital for the development of other sectors like industry, transport and foreign trade. TYPES OF FARMING PRIMITIVE FARMING It is also commonly called ‘slash and burn agriculture’. It is used in areas where Soil has low nutrient levels. An area for cultivation is selected and then it is burned so that the required nutrients for the crop to grow are maintained and biomass is converted to useful inorganic ash. Then nth chosen crops are sown. Then the land is given a period of rest called ’fallow’. Then the same process continues until the land is wearied of nutrients(i.e. about 5-6 yrs). This type of farming usually depends on the type of soil, rain and most importantly climatic conditions. It is done using primitive tools like hoe, hull, dagger, dao, etc. and requires a lot of labour. Such crops are not produced in a large quantity and farmers grow crops only to sustain their family with little or no intention of selling them. The famer does not use chemical fertilizers or modern inputs, thus the production is low. TRADITIONAL FARMING Traditional farming represents the original method of farming. This type of farming uses extensive local knowledge and natural resources so that no harm is caused to biodiversity. Such farmers maintain soil fertility and prevent erosion of topsoil. There are many methods of traditional farming namely:- Nomadic Pastoralism It is the practice of raising domesticated animals like goat, sheep, cattle, etc. All humans practicing this method live off entirely on animal products like fat, meat, milk, etc. These people are constantly in use of new grounds for their animals to feed. Mixed Sustenance Farming This can provide a very stable farming platform, where plants and animals work together to support each other. The plant waste that cannot be used by humans is used as fodder for animals and their waste acts as natural manure. This type of farming is usually the most productive and sustainable compared to any other type. COMMERCIAL FARMING It is a type of large-scale farming of crops to sell them to wholesalers or retailers. Crops such as wheat, maize, rice, tea, etc. are harvested and sold worldwide in international markets. Due to its extensive nature modern machines and use of chemical fertilizers is required thus increasing the capital. Due to its large capital, it is mainly practiced by large companies or rich farmers. Yield as well as profit is high due to the use of modern techniques and hybrid varieties of seeds. Commercial farming started with the advent of the Green Revolution and production in India increased by 50% during the years 1970-1990. In today’s world Hybridization is very important to increase the yield of crops. Many varieties of hybrid seeds are now available which are disease resistant, healthier and give more yields. FIVE YEAR PLANS First Plan (1951-1956) The First Five-year Plan was launched in 1951 which mainly focused in development of the agricultural. The total planned budget of Rs.2069 crore was allocated to seven areas: irrigation and energy (27.2%), agriculture17.4%), transport and communications (24%), industry (8.4%), social services (16.40%), land rehabilitation (4.1%), and for other sectors (2.5%). The monsoon was good and there were relatively high crop yields. Second Plan (1956-1961) The Second Plan stressed on the development of the sector. Hydroelectric projects and five steel plants at Bhilai, Durgapur, and Rourkela were established. The total amount allocated under the Second Five-Year Plan in India was Rs.48 billion. This amount was allocated among various sectors: power and irrigation, social services, communications and transport, and very less amount was allocated towards agriculture due to the other increasing problems. Third Plan (1961–1966) The Third Five-year Plan stressed on agriculture and improvement in the production of wheat, but the Sino-Indian War of 1962 led to weakness in the economy and the plan stressed on the defense industry of India although equal priority was given to agriculture and industrial sector. PROBLEMS FACED The major problems confronted by the Indian agriculture are as follows (a) Population Pressure: India has a huge population of over one billion and it is increasing at a very fast rate. According to 2012census figures the overall density of population is 3264 persons per sq. km. Every bit of land has been used up for construction of commercial sites. (b) Small and Fragmented Land Holdings: Dividing a small plot of land due to increasing population has resulted in a small piece of land getting fragmented further. The small size of such holdings makes farming activity uneconomical and leads to less productivity and eventually less income. (c) Inadequate Irrigation Facilities: In India irrigation facilities are not adequate at all. Almost all fields, owned by poor farmers, are left to get naturally irrigated by the monsoons(except those owned by rich farmers and companies). (d) Depleted Soils: Farming has been a tradition of India for over 1000 years which has resulted in the decrease in fertility of soil and deforestation has led to erosion of the fertile soil giving less productivity. (e) Storage of food grains: Storage of abundant food grains is a huge problem faced by Indians. Almost 10-12% of our harvest of food grains goes waste due to no proper storage. (f) Farm Implements: In some parts of the country mechanization of farming has taken place, but most of the farmers are poor and cannot afford to purchase and use modern tools. This hampers agriculture. Forests-86.1†¦Non agriculture-21.8†¦barren/Uncultivable-20.1†¦Permanent pasture/grazing-12†¦Fallow-24..Cropped area-142.5(Food grain-123.5; Rainfed-89) Multiple cropping In agriculture, multiple cropping is the practice of growing two or more crops in the same field during a single sowing season. There are many types of multiple cropping schemes that the government has introduced in India. They are:- Double-cropping, in which a second crop is planted after the first has been harvested. This helps in restoring the nutrients that have been used up by the plant. Relay cropping, in which a second crop is started amidst the first crop before it has been harvested. This ensures bountiful harvest as well as keeps crops healthy. Intercropping, where an additional crop is planted in the spaces available between the main crop. This helps in keeping away pests. AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION Intensive agriculture area program(1964) The main objective of the IAAP was that â€Å"greater emphasis should be given to scientific agriculture in an intensive manner in areas with high production potentials†. The emphasis was on important crops such as Wheat, Rice, cotton, etc. High yielding variety program(1966) The main motive of the program was to increase the productivity of food grains by adopting new high yielding varieties of improved seeds. The HYVP introduced :-High-yielding varieties of seeds, increased use of fertilizers, increased irrigation. These three are collectively known as the Green Revolution. National agricultural innovation project(2006) The NAIP is contributing to the transformation of the agricultural sector to more of a market to get rid of poverty and improve income. The main aim is to make people aware about how agriculture can be taken to an international level through technological innovations. SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION WATER Some Major River Valley Projects Bhakra Nangal Project On Sutlej in Punjab. Highest in India.Ht. 226m. Reservoir is called Gobind Sagar Lake. Chambal Valley Project On Chambal in MP & Rajasthan, 3 dams are there:- Gandhi Sagar Dam, Rana Pratap Sagar Dam and Jawahar Sagar Dam Damodar Valley Project On Damodar in Bihar, Based on Tennessee Valley Project USA Hirakud Project On Mahanadi in Orrisa, World’s Longest Dam: 4801m Kosi Project On Kosi in N.Bihar Tugabhadra Project On Tugabhadra in Andhra Pradesh & Karnataka Sardar Sarovar Project On Narmada, Gujarat/MP. Due to the magnitude of floods in 1978, a project of flood prone rivers was started to prevent further casualties. SOIL During the 7th five year plan, the government decided to take careful measures towards soil conservation. The scheme of reclamation of alkali soil in Punjab, Haryana, and U.P. took place. During the 9th plan this scheme was approved and being practiced in all states. It aimed at improving conditions of alkali soils for better production of crops. GREEN REVOLUTION Well-known agronomist, Dr. M S Swaminathan led the Green Revolution in India. India was in the middle of a food crisis in the mid 60’s. The food economy was falling down very fast. The domestic production of wheat had gone down to about only 12 million tons(from 23 million tons) due to inflation. About the same had to be imported from the US. The introduction of high-yielding varieties of wheat like Lerma Rojo and Sonora 64 during the mid-’60s with farm technology and chemical fertilizers brought about the green revolution.

India in Medieval Time Essay

Structure of society was that it was divided in caste system. There was a strong caste system in India that we don’t see in Europe. Since it was mainly an agriculture based society that demands caste system for an efficiently working society. Since areas were ruled individually there was difference in society structure in different areas too. They had different gods and thus different rituals. On other hand most people in Europe did farming too but they were servants, peasants or serfs. FAMILY People lived in joint family system i.e. husband wife their children grand children their wives all lived under same roof. The eldest male person was used to be the head of family. Even today in many parts of India and even in Pakistan still live in joint family system. They had importance of respecting their elders such as saying namaste (used to greet others on meeting) and they touch feet of elders, gurus and their gods out of respect. Arrange marriages were planned. Family elders used to decide where to marry their child after verifying the age, height, looks, family values, financial background of family and matching their horoscopes. There was tradition of taking dowry that we can still see in our society. POSITION OF WOMEN In my point of view I don’t think women had good status in India in middle ages. Their marriage, up bringing and widowhood depended upon which caste they are from. They had tradition of sati. Sati means â€Å"true wife† and the tradition was that the women whose husband died was burnt alive to prove her loyalty and love for her husband and to be with him in after life. The women who were not burnt were suppose to live very simple life, no make-up and jewelry, had to wear white sari and sleep on floor and only one meal a day without honey, meat, wine and salt. Today this is against law of India. Treating women in such way is ridiculous they should have as much right to live as men. On other hand in Europe women could remarry. RELIGION Different religions were followed in India in medieval time like Buddhism, Jainism, Hinduism and later Islam spread by Sufis. They had a number of religious festivals that they still celebrate today. Navratri, diwali, ganesh chathruti, durga poja, holi, rakshabandhan and dussehra are the religious festivals of Hinduism. People believe in different gods thus they have different rituals and temples. â€Å"the belief that rituals bestow authority and power was widespread and additional incentive was the promise of heavenly rewards.† (Thapar, 2002) People of a region had usually different god than other like some people worshipped durga while other worshipped shiva and so on. But they did respect other gods too. Later when Arabs invaded ths area Sufis came along with them and mixed up with local society and gradually preached them and converted them to Islam. It wasn’t spread by force. We can easily see the diversiy of religion in India. In Europe Christianity was the centre of everything. Church was the centre of society. There was difference between eastern church and western church.one was called orthodox church and other was the catholic church. Islam also spread in Europe. In medieval times, Muslims governed Jerusalem. Jerusalem  is sacred to both Christians and Muslims. To Christians, it is the birth place of Christ, Christ spend most of his time in this city and was crucified here. To Muslims, dome of the rock is in this city which is the very place from where Muhammad (P.B.U.H) ascended to heavens. Initially, Muslims let the Christian pilgrims to visit this holy city but in 1070s Turks conquered Jerusalem who was also Muslim. They didn’t allow Christians to visit their holy sites and mistreated them. They also threatened Byzantium Empire. This became the basis of a series of holy wars called crusades. By the end of the 11th century, the emperor of Byzantine Alexius I was threatened by the Seljuk Turks. He asked the pope Gregory VII for assistance so that they can save themselves. Thousands of the Christians responded to this call and thus resulted in the first Crusade. The plans of Gregory VII were taken up by Pope Urban II who gave this plan a proper direction. Thus the idea of the first crusade is attributed to him. Even though, Europeans were unable to get their required results through the crusades, the crusades affected the world in many ways. Christians started the crusades in name of religion and their religion was affected the most. In fourth crusade western Christians on their way killed eastern Christians in Constantinople. They also killed Christians on basis that they dressed like Muslims. This was the time when Orthodox Church and Catholic Church separated completely and their conflict still remains. The Europeans were the ones having the major positive effects as a result of crusades. One of the biggest benefits was the trade of spices and luxury textiles. They also bring along with them many medicines and ways of treatments from Arab and Persia the crusades also aided the beginning of Renaissance in Italy. The history of Crusades in my opinion was more political than religious. It was a war for more power and authority. The Christians fought it in the name of God but the real name was different. They only wanted to make Muslims weaker. Even if we look in today’s world and all the War against terrorism, they are no more than occupying Muslim land geographically important for the  west and not for any religious reasons. POLITICS Gupta Empire ended in 500 C.E. after that people ruled regionally. There were many kings ruling locally. The doctrine of mandalas was very important here which was that king of one region was enemy of its immediate neighbor and was friends with the king of neighbor’s immediate neighbor. So they make ties with other king to attack and conquer. Since religion was the most important thing at that time the temples were rich with the gifts offered by pilgrims. People offered the best they had to please their gods. The muslims invaded these areas because they wanted to capture the temples wealth not because they wanted to spread Islam. Local kings also used to do the same thing. Some dynasties that ruled the southern part were the pallavas, cera, pandyas. The main kingdoms in northern areas were chaulakyas, dantidurga, Al-Balhara, Al-jurz or gurjara pratihara and dharma palas. All of them wanted to have control over Kanauj to have better strategic control since it was the central point. These kingdoms declined because they knew each others strengths and weaknesses and were attacked by Arabs. Arab forces entered India through Khyber pass, bolan pass and gomal pass. In 9th and 10th century rajputs became prominent. Muhammad bin Qasim conquered sindh in 712 C.E. Number of small kingdoms rose with rulers of Turkish origin. Among them was a kingdom with a ruler Mahmud centered at Ghazni (in Afghanistan). ‘For him, India was a wealthy land always appearing rich and attractive from the barren mountains of Hindu Kush’. (Thapar,2002) His aim was to capture the temples to take away the wealth. He destroyed the temple of Somnatha for the very reason. In 1026, Mahmud raided Somanatha, desecrated the temple and broke the idol. The event is described in Turko-Persian and Arab sources. The popular view is that Mahmud’s raid on Somanatha was such a trauma for the Hindus that it became seminal to the Hindu-Muslim antagonism of recent times. Yet there is no reference in contemporary or near contemporary local sources of the raid on Somanatha. Jaina sources describe the renovation of the temple by Kumarapala, the Chaulukya King, due to lack of maintenance by local officers  and natural decay of age. It would seem that Mahmud’s raid had not left a long-lasting impression. The earliest claim that the raid resulted in trauma for the Hindu was made not in India but in Britain, during a debate in the House of Commons in 1843.’ (Thapar, 2002) Muhmud Ghuri also attacked India. Thus we can see the diversity in India very clearly. Sufis came here with invaders, scientists and philosophers also came here. Thus there was a exchange of culture and thus the diversity of Indian culture continues. On the other hand Europe had religious conflicts between eastern Europe and western Europe. Arabs also attacked and conquered them. European kings felt so threatened and their result we can see in form of crusades. Spain became great Muslim centre where dynasties like Abbasis, Ummaids and Fatmids ruled. In Europe we can’t see as much diversity as we do in India. ECONOMY People of India used to do basically farming. Their major occupation was agriculture for which caste system developed. This was also one reason why Islam didn’t spread in India in beginning because they needed caste system for agriculture and Islam teaches equality. India was very rich in agriculture and produced spices and traded them. TRADE CENTRES Some cities were important with trade point of view. Cities like Madurai, Vanji, Vatapi, Tamraliptri, Kanauj, Ujjain, Broach and Pataliputra were considered as trade centres. Trade was done through both land and sea. TRADE ROUTES Silk route was a major trade route. Other trade routes included port of Varanasi, Goa, Mathura, Puna and Patna. TRADING COUNTRIES India did trading with Arabia, Persia, Egypt, Greece, Rome, Java, Sumatra,  Indo-China and China. Europe came to know about Indian products very well after crusades infact major reason of crusades was to start trade with India. EXPORTS Silk, gems, bleached cloth, pearls, spices, ivory and diamonds were exported. Pepper, cinnamon, opium and indigo were exported to Europe in exchange of gold and silver. ART AND ARCHITECTURE Like all other factors art and architecture of India was also very diverse. There was different style of architecture in north than south side of India. Temples of south India were built in Dravadian style of architecture with carved sculptures. In north side nagara style of architecture was used. In the regions in between north and south vasera (hybrid style) was implemented. When muslims came here they made buildings in their own style of architecture. Beautiful mosques, tombs, havelis and forts were made in medieval time. [pic] [pic] Mahabodhi temple Mahakeleshwar temple Muslims built qutub minar delhi mosque etc. which have architecture entirely different than temples. [pic] There were number of different languages. Each region had a language of their own and there was a single language that was used as official language. Vedic scriptures puranas etc were compiled. Quran and sunnah was being compiled by Arabs. In Europe church was most dominant. All the art and architecture was devoted  to the church. The main architectural styles developed were gothic and Romanesque. Romanesque church followed horizontal lines whereas gothic was much heightened and detailed. Gothic style pointed arch is used that can take more load and flying buttresses were introduced. Castles were built for defence purposes. They consist of small square towers, usually of wood, planted on hilltops or artificial mounds and had small windows. Material used for construction was stone, mortar and wood. – [pic] Wells cathedral (Gothic style) [pic] Romanesque style The churches were decorated with sculptures and paintings. Since it was a religion based society they worked for churches without wages. Church was in centre of city built on highest mound or hill and was highest and other buildings were built around it having low heights. Muslims also made mosques in Europe too. EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY Most people in India were educated. They had gurus, scholars and there was the oldest university in Taxila. A British scholar leigtner said in later British rule that these are educated people and they should be taught in their own native tongue. Whereas in Europe there were monasteries that only gave religious education. They weren’t aware of scientific knowledge until they came across Arabs and Indians. Mahmud of gazni when came to India brought along a philosopher named Al Beruni who wrote book on India names tahqiq al hind. Main invention in medieval time were weapons, nautical inventions, clock, numbering system, astrolabes, sundial, compass etc. CONCLUSION Keeping in view all the points mentioned above we can say that India is very rich in culture at all times. Its history is so diverse in all aspects whether its society, culture, religion, politics, economy, art and architecture. In general it is said that there were dark ages throughout the world which based upon above discussion is not true. Dark ages were only in Europe since there were wars and was only religious based society and there was no advancement technologically whereas India was progressing and by looking at its diversity and advancements tells us that it wasnt in dark ages at all. 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