Analyzing the passage Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Analyzing the passage - Essay Example Her chief concern for delicate subjects on woman issue for which conventional history offers limited regard Pilar opts to explore in wider context, given the opportunity of being able to decide with keeping other things on record. By asking ‘Who chooses what we should know or what’s important? (Garcia, 28)’ enables Pilar to reiterate her significant understanding of a responsible initiative on knowing or learning by an individual’s will and sense of accountability. These lines which Cristina Garcia thought of constituting Pilar’s objective with a more sensible basis, is dealt with in several respects of taking action in ‘Dreaming in Cuban’ as the author directs the protagonist to adopt mobility and nostalgic means of arriving at the resolution for the fulfillment of her purpose (Goliath). On stressing ‘If it were up to me, I’d record other things (28)’ alludes that it is not Pilar’s sole discretion to carry out an extra-special undertaking that requires meeting and reconnecting with the early times of her original homeland through the tools of the present. With such tone as may be imagined to align with the theme of the radical statement, Pilar is likely found to have assessed equivalent worth at discerning matters beyond the realms of her Cuban foundation. Even while Celia, Pilar’s grandmother, creates the main influence behind her endeavor, the control does not entirely restrain Pilar from choosing how to act in convenience for herself. As she exemplifies options of discussing the Bombay prostitutes or the natural disaster in Congo, similarly she speaks out of an empowerment radiating between herself and the subject of interest under a common gender. In the process, Pilar figures she could only obtain too much of learning and appears to admit certain level of ignorance saying ‘Why don’t I know anything about them? (28)’ which signals how intricate her journey could get on accomplishing the task. Shifting physical as well as psychological settings by varying depths of imagination, Pilar attempts to gain access to real points of unknown origins in Cuba to fill in the gaps of ignorance as she allows pertinent experience of commodities that are Cuban in nature. Globalization, thus, imposes upon her ‘recapture progress’ the role of demonstrating the outcomes of ‘commodification’ or of modern mass production of pop culture in many forms of Cuban goods such as those in music, art, and fashion (Goliath). Without the knowledge of information and concerns not within her typical reach as indicated with ‘Why don’t I know anything bout them? (28)’ it would perhaps amount to improbability of leading the key of recollections to justify her momentary attachment to ‘commodified’ encounters though the latter barely imparts the much-needed aid to facilitate recovery of the crucial past for Pilar. A s a main female character in the novel who makes profoundly sentimental exclamation of the famous passage, Pilar naturally draws in the capability of distinguishing the priceless authenticity of the classic old world from the current truth of evolved styles and movement that all come with a market value. With ‘Like the time there was a freak hailstorm in the Congo and the women took it as a sign that they should rule; or life stories of prostitutes in Bombay (28)’

Course reflection Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Course reflection - Essay Example Important lesson learned here is that if one lives in the West, he should understand the Western culture very well especially the real civilization. In order to understand the entire cultural practices well, one should make an effort of attending musical classes, make a good relationship with the western scientists, and learn the philosophy well. For those who live in the United States, they have a clear knowledge about the society, and the kind of work people do there. High Points of the Course Defining Western Civilization Western Civilization is a combination various cultural practices, government systems, religions, values, heritages, and customs. It defines elements like, philosophy, spiritual believes, and cultural practices of western people. According to Metropolitan Museum of Arts, Western Civilization is all practices of western and central Europeans, which include North, and South America, and Australia. All this contributed to growth of overall globalization. Western Civi lization evolved over the centuries. Although development of Western Civilization did not occur during the time of Mesopotamians and Egyptians, their way of writing and different roles concerning gender was what Western Civilization became. ... When writing about past events or history of something, one should quote the exact dates when that event occurred. For Example, the European World War II started on September 1, 1939 and lasted until May 7, 1945. The use of dates is to put occurrence of events in the right order to know the development of events over a certain period. This dating of events also varies with historians. This is because some of the Western people use the Western calendar while others use the Hebrews calendar, which is extremely different from the western calendar. The first year of the Hebrews calendar is equivalent to year 3760 of the Western calendar. The most enjoyable part of the course The most enjoyable part of the course was the history of marriage in Western Civilization. The Romans, Hebrews, and Germanic people practiced they own marriage cultures. Marriage was an economical arrangement meaning that those getting married had no room to engage themselves in romantic love. In many of Western Hist ory, marriage was a matter involving only the husband and wife, but it was a concern of the two families, which brought them together. Parents were the ones to make choices of the men to marry their daughters. The married women usually had limited rights in the family than the husbands who were the head of the family. The women were to be the sub servants of their husbands. Surprisingly, granting someone divorce was easy because men had an advantage of marrying as many wives as they want. Marriage in Medieval Europe Introduction of Christianity in Europe brought a fabulous change in Europeans culture of marriage, although this change took long to take its roots. Although Roman law affected Christianity, it

Resiliency in Homelessness

Resiliency in Homelessness Problem Statement There is a great deal of research into resilience in children, whether they are housed or homeless. However, there is less research about resilience in adults, whether they are housed or homeless. This does not make sense to me. Childrens well-being, which includes their resilience, is directly correlated with that of the adults in their families. Women currently earn 60 cents for every dollar a man earns with a wider ethnic pay gap (CCH, page 3). Families with children make up thirty-five percent of the homeless population, with the remaining sixty-five percent of the homeless population being single individuals (CCH, page 1). Get data on #s headed by single parents, especially female-headed families. According to the City of Chicago 2007 Point in Time Count, the racial demographics of the homeless population were: African American: 75 percent; White: 16 percent; Latino: 6 percent (CCH, FAQ). Strength in the face of adversity is one of the most important characteristics you can have . Challenges and disappointments are inevitable in life. Resilience is one of the keys to life satisfaction. Resilience can help prevent depression, enhances relationships, helps us deal with sudden and unexpected challenges, as well as those we anticipate and cannot avoid. It also safeguards us against long-term difficulties.Given this reality I decided to investigate if resilience reduces negative effects of homelessness in adults and in their transition after becoming housed. The information I find can be useful for those working with adults who are homeless and those making the transition from homelessness to housing. Methodology I wrote 10 questions based on the theory found in a literature review on resilience. I interviewed five experts in the field of homelessness: Erin Ryan MSW, the Executive Director of Lincoln Park Community Shelter (LPCS) ; Ms. Jen Patterson, Director of Development and Communications at Housing Opportunities for Women (HOW); Mr. Steven Skovensky, Ms. Natalie Hutchinson, and Ms. Ann Birhle, are Resident Services Managers at Mercy Housing Lakefront. LPCS, HOW and Mercy Housing are located in Chicago. All five interviewees have at least five years working with the homeless and those housed after being homeless. I chose Mr. Skovensky, Ms. Patterson, Ms. Hutchinson and Ms. Birhle because after working with them from approximately 2000-2003. (I currently work with Ms. Hutchinson, Ms. Birhle and Mr. Skovensky.) footnote I asked Ms. Ryan after becoming acquainted with some of Lincoln Park Community Shelters graduates. I asked an Executive Director of another shelter in Chicago but there was no response from her. [Ms. Ryans phone interview lasted 30 minutes, due to a prior commitment; she later answered questions sent by email. Ms. Pattersons interview lasted an hour at her office. Mr. Skovenskys and Ms. Birhles interviews lasted approximately 40 minutes in their offices. Ms. Hutchinsons interview lasted an hour in her office.] footnotes The questions I asked each person were: 1) their definition of resilience; 2) if resilient clients behave differently than those who are less resilient; 3) if resilience can be taught; 4) if resilience can be taught in a difficult situation; 5) the strengths and limitations or shortcomings the clients have; 6) if men and women show resilience in different ways; 7) cultural, racial or ethnic differences in how resilience is shown; 8) how their organizations work with clients/residents to learn resilience; 9) if resilience can ease the negative effects of homelessness and the transition to being housed; 10) if there was anything important I did not ask them about Interview Summary Everyones definitions of resilience agree with each others and mirror literature. Examples of resilience given included: the ability to adapt to ones circumstances, the ability to move forward when faced with challenges and/or barriers, which are different for everyone and have multiple layers, like jobs, families, and so on (Patterson, Ryan); the ability to persevere and bounce back under extreme conditions and overcome extreme barriers; ability to recover and rebound from difficult or traumatic experiences (Skovensky); an ability to recover and rebound from difficult or traumatic experiences and learn from them and create positive change (Hutchinson); Ms. Patterson mentioned that someones social network, which allows people to be more resilient; that support system disappearing is the worst thing that happens before someone goes to HOW. People need to use their skills and support network to navigate and rebuild. The adaptability piece the ability to shift and change easily is key . The resilient person has an easier time because life is constantly changing. Barriers may include any form of trauma, like violence, loss, addiction, mental health crises, incarceration, becoming homeless, and the public health system (being ill and not having insurance). Primarily one of the big things of resilience is overcoming what would incapacitate most people (Skovensky). Responses varied when participants were asked if more resilient clients behave differently than those who are less resilient. Those less resilient might take a couple steps backward or not move forward in a way they thought they could. The person might move from the shelter to housing, found they werent as ready as they thought, and move back into the shelter. Some clients might need more support, such as a case manager in an on-site office or someone ensuring they take their meds daily or need transportation daily (Patterson). Erin noticed that often the hardest thing to overcome is a persons stereotypes of what homelessness is. LPCS staff encounters what appears to a denial system in place. More educated people often act like theyre better than others. People are sometimes unwilling to help until defenses are broken. Its important to help people come to terms with it during what Ms. Ryan called a grief process, which some handle better than others. Some are more willing to network, are open to suggestion, willing to take advice, more open-minded and talk to people; they have more human connections. Those who are more isolated have a more difficult time. This includes people dealing with chronic illnesses, whether physical or mental illnesses. Mitigating factors can complicate things for people, with the admission they need help and the willingness to accept it being important. This is especially true with addiction. This also reflects the literature on resilience. which? Mr. Skovensky mentioned two things that stand out for him: 1) those who appear more resilient seem to have an element of using humor as a coping mechanism; they seemed to laugh, smile, almost incongruent with their experiences. Youd think theyd be completely demoralized but they could laugh and smile and keep moving forward. 2) Using their creativity; using art, and/or writing to chronicle their experience. One person in the photography group saying it made him feel better about his life and his problems; may be more about self-esteem than resilience though. Somebody sharing their experiences in their writing inspired others in the writing group; it helps the writer and the audience (Skovensky). This reflected what Smith and her colleagues found. More resilient people dont seem to be as stuck in past hurt or mired down. They have the ability to roll with the punches a bit better. More resilient people dont personalize things as much, dont say that negative things are being directed specifically at them; they can contextualize things better. its easier to ask for help because they dont take things personally. They can rely on available resources more easily, feel more of a sense of community, and involvement (Hutchinson). Ms. Ryan and Ms. Patterson believe that the basic principles and concepts of resilience can be taught. However, imparting that information; people must be willing to put that information into practice. Some people say want to be told what to do but the most one can do is lay out the options available so the client can make their decisions from there. As Ms. Patterson said, clients must do it for themselves. Mr. Skovensky believes that resilience may have more to do with personality. Resiliency seems more like a character trait or something engrained in our personality than a skill. Which paper is this like? Coping mechanisms, which involve specific strategies for dealing with problems or concerns, are skills that can be taught. Examples understanding your support system and the role it plays; understanding resources available; understanding how to process anger in a way not detrimental to you or others; understanding its okay to say no to situations, dont have to be all things to all people; only thing one can own is your own actions, not others actions. Resiliency, on the other hand, seems more intangible in how you can measure and explain. As a result it is hard to describe who is resilient and who isnt. Like Ms. Birhle, Ms. Hutchinson believes resilience can be encouraged but requires a certain kind of outlook that can be mod eled for people. Resilience comes from a particular way of looking at the world, a particular perspective, which can be taught. People who are more resilient feel more of a we instead of us vs. them. Anyone can teach anything to someone willing to learn. If someone isnt ready for the change, then why even consider it? People can be taught different ways of coping if the person is ready and open to learning it. This reminded me of the pre-contemplative stage described by James Prochaska and his colleagues. In this stage, there is no intention to change behavior in the foreseeable future; many people are unaware or under-aware of their problems, despite the fact that their friends and families are well aware of the problems (Prochaska, DiClimente, Norcross, 1992). When it comes to teaching resilience in difficult situations, there was some disagreement. Ms. Patterson said yes but also acknowledged that it is harder to take a step back from things and take a long-term perspective during hard times, especially if one hasnt practiced at it. Ms. Ryan said she thinks different coping skills can be taught which, over time, can make one more resilient. People can also experience a shift in world-view as a result of tragedy or joy that can increase resilience, such as a cultural, spiritual, or otherwise awa kening (such as hitting rock bottom in an addiction). For Ms. Hutchinson, it is either the best or worst of time to teach resilience, depending on the person. In substance abuse, it is similar to hitting bottom before being ready to change. A tree will bend or break in a strong wind. Resilience is the bending tree. Have to recognize the need for it, and be willing to try it. When I asked if people can improve on their resilience, Ms. Hutchinson said yes; like stretching and exercise, it becomes easier the more someone does it. Mr. Skovensky disagreed, saying he believes that coping skills can be taught but is not convinced that resilience can be taught, since he believes it is a personality/character trait. For him, it comes back to a persons life experience and personality (Skovensky). I then asked about strengths they see in their clients. Ms. Patterson sees many strengths in HOW clients, including the motivation to succeed and improve their lives, the willingness to take responsi bilities of living, initiative, determination, and the willingness to take control of their lives. The clients are willing to reframe their experiences and how they define and see themselves. Ms. Ryan sees diverse strengths with mainly cultural differences. Some people tend to have stronger ties with family support systems, or churches or other groups. Also, those who have grown up without as many opportunities, who are closer to poverty, are usually a bit more resourceful in terms of using internal coping skills and resilience. Some cultures value the concept of community and it is not shameful to ask for help, whereas others value independence and self-reliance more. The it takes a child vs. bootstraps philosophies. In Ms. Ryans opinion, the first one is more helpful in terms of long-term resilience from something as devastating as homelessness. For Mr. Skovensky, the ones who have been the most resilient have some insight into their own situation, insight into whatever their barriers are (whether addiction and recovery, or mental illness). Having an outlet, whether its creative or a good sense of humor, that gives them the ability to place it in context. Having a good support system is vital. Resilient people dont let themselves be labeled (like Im an alcoholic, Im bipolar, etc.). They exhibit a willingness to take responsibility for their lives. Ms. Hutchinson sees hopefulness, determination, a sense of purpose, tenacity, the ability to forgive themselves and others, the willingness to ask for assistance, and endurance. When asked about limitations or shortcomings, the answers varied somewhat. For Mr. Skovensky, it includes the inability to build/sustain relationships with anyone (case manager or family member); flat-out addiction. A sub-grouping of that is a lack of insight into how an addiction can be affecting their life. Being unwilling to ask for help. For Ms. Hutchinson, the question about shortcomings was a one. She doesnt like to think of it as a shortcoming because it is a value judgment in a way. For her, it includes: being challenged by past traumas, which clients see as making it difficult for them to move; have less energy for the present if burdened by the past or past trauma; weighted down; trying to find a quality and struggling to do so; difficulty accepting responsibility for decisions or actions. Those with less resilience tend to have an outward locus of control; things happen to them. They are more reactive than proactive. Resilient people have the ability to accept things rathe r than fight them; instead of why me, its why not me, its happened and now I have to respond. Most participants saw some difference in resilience based on gender. Ms. Patterson said there is an equality when the monetary dynamic and the accompanying power dynamic are removed. There might not be a lot of possessions or money but everyone was really strong because they want to find their way to somewhere safe. At RESTs womens shelter, women seemed a bit more territorial as a way of showing they are valuable and contributing. At the Mens shelter they said yeah sure, go ahead. For Mr. Skovensky, its more difficult for women to succeed than men. Women have more barriers because the way society is set up. Its almost like they have to work harder to overcome barriers and trauma. I dont think I can comment on whether men or women are more resilient. Barriers include more violence (domestic, sexual abuse during childhood) against women, more stereotyping and expectation of what womens roles are, exploitation of women on the street (prostitution), unequal power dynamic in society. The literature I found does not explore differences and similarities in how men and women show resilience and the role socialization plays in those behaviors. Ms. Birhle and Ms. Hutchinson agreed that men and women display differences due to gender socialization playing a role. Sometimes men think they have to be rugged individualists. As a result it may more difficult for them to ask for help in certain things; be vulnerable or show v ulnerable feelings (Hutchinson). While Ms. Birhle does not subscribe to women are this way and men are a different way, she noticed that it takes men more time to ask for help. They try to suck it up, saying I can handle it. Ms. Ryan said there were differences at a surface level but not much individually. The issues are the same with men and women exhibiting similar reactions. I asked Ms. Hutchinson and Ms. Birhle if there are any differences along racial or ethnic lines. Ms. Hutchinson said that it might have more to do with class issues then ethnicity. Its about access to resources in a way. If you dont have resources, it plays a bigger role than ethnicity or race, which is more about economics than race or ethnicity. If people feel there is a place to reach out to theyll do it. We can find differences in places people have access to resources than the role race plays, which tends to be more monetary. A white person may have skin privilege. A white person might not feel harassed in a store where a person of color does. I consider this to be significant since she is black. Ms. Birhle noticed it mainly with minority communities. African-Americans and Asians tend to ________ more of a stigma; as a result members of those communities tend to a harder time doing it. Asians are more priva te; mental illness is considered a problem and they might not get help. African-American people in our society have adapted to more oppressive situations and probably been resilient to racism and lack of great opportunity. On the one hand, African-Americans can be really resilient because they have always dealt with a lot; black people have to work harder. On the other hand, the environment contributes to a lot of problems, whether violence or poor education and not seeing a way out. It is different for whites. Blacks having less access to resources and racism, which is institutionalized in society. There is a similarity class-wise (economically) across race and ethnicity but whites dont have the issue of race in this society Interview Summary 2 I asked what the organizations do to help their clients with resilience. Ms. Patterson said that HOW teaches their clients what they need to do but wont do it for them. I was unable to ask Ms. Ryan. The LPCS website mentions three tracks clients can participate in that help with substance abuse recovery, mental and physical health, and job hunting. These tracks helps clients identify and address the reasons why they are homelessness and the barriers they face to becoming self-sufficient. Clients are required to participate in one or more track. These programs reflect information about resilience in terms of the capacity to make realistic plans and take steps to carry them out; a positive view of yourself and confidence in your strengths and abilities; skills in communication and problem solving and finding help. Mercy Housing Lakefront provides many services and programs for its residents. Mercy Housing Lakefronts model of engagement of providing supportive housing with on-site case management and trying to treat people like adults and not forcing them to make changes and dealing with people where theyre at, I think in developing a good relationship with them, developing a community. Mercy Housing Lakefront also: 1) tries to provide a lot of activities the form of Tenant Leadership program, creative opportunities (writing group, art group); 2) trying to provide a home, a safe place; 3) referral to local services and benefits when residents ask for referrals (Birhle). offer encouragement and support that may strengthen or encourage resiliency through case management and groups, they work with people to develop coping skills (Skovensky). There is a program at the Belray Apartments called Motivation Mondays, which helps provide motivation for changing participants lives for the better. Group members gather resources emotionally, talk about self as a whole being. Participants are asked what they want to accomplish, what their barriers are, and what support do they need (Hutchinson). My last question was if resilience eases the negative effects of homelessness. Four of the five interviewees said yes. For Ms. Ryan, the more quickly people adapt, the more quickly theyre out of it, bounce back and avoid a downward spiral. Resilience includes: capacity to make realistic plans and carry them out; positive view of oneself; self-confidence; communication skills and problem-solving skills; capacity to manage strong feelings and impulses (Ryan). Ms. Patterson stated that resilience helps people cope with the challenges, identify solutions and act on them. Resilience may not change the challenges and barriers people face but can help people cope (Patterson). For Ms. Hutchinson, resilience eases the negative effect of any trauma. Homelessness can be recognized as a temporary state. If they are resilient, they recognize they will come out of it and can come out of it. Their comments strongly reflect literature on resilience. Mr. Skovensky found it hard to answer that question, not experienced it himself. For him, he thinks it does help as a means of overcoming the negative effects The last question The last question asked if resilience helps people make the transition from homelessness to being housed. One reason I asked this question is I couldnt find anything in literature about this subject. Four of the five said yes. Ms. Patterson said that being housed presents a different set of challenges than being homeless. [ The challenges include maintaining a budget and home, developing relationships with the landlord and neighbors, connecting with area resources. Ms. Ryan relates resilience closely with adaptability. The better able someone is to adapt to a new situation, the more resilient they are. Making the transition from homelessness to housing is a big change, and requires adaptability in order to handle it well, especially if someone has been homeless for a long period of time.] [Ms. Hutchinson stated that resiliency is a positive quality which helps you move from one place to another. It is a response to stressors. For Ms. Birhle the staff noticed that for some residents those less resilient homelessness takes such a toll, they are tired and want to just have their apartment. The more resilient a person is, the better able they are to adapt, and adapt to changes that are huge and stressful, recognizing when they need help and asking for it.] Mr. Skovensky hopes resilience helps with that transition. They want people to know the services and groups that are available at the building and in community. The Delmar Apartments conducts a new tenant orientation, providing a cohort the person can be part of as a support system. This reflects the need for a support system in literature. I asked Ms. Hutchinson if there was anything I didnt ask that she considered to be important. She couldnt think of anything then began a dialog with me. She asked what I think is the core aspect of resilience? What is the most important thing, where if that one thing is absent you cant have resiliency? My answer was determination, tenacity; if you dont have it, youre not going anywhere. Ms. Hutchinson then ask: What about endurance? My response was that stepping back to recharge ones batteries isnt the same as quitting. Ms. Hutchinson said that maybe part of it too is planning; we cant be reactive all the time. Spending time to reflect is important since it is needed for recharging and learning. The ability to reflect on your experiences is so important; allowing us the space for reflective thought. These important questions and the concepts they represent are not mentioned in the literature I found. Recommendations Study adult population and resilience. How does resilience help adults, especially those experiencing adversity? Study how resilience helps those making the transition from homelessness to being housed. Tailor services to what the person or family wants and needs. The decision as to what services the family or individual partake in should be a collaboration between the clients and service-providers. Study how Prochaskas work on whether the stages of change relate to resilience. Why or why not? How can people be encouraged to move out of pre-contemplation and powerlessness to making positive changes? Study to learn best practices on what services best bolster and/or teach resilience. What are the best practices on learning how to turn negative experiences into lessons of growth. Study how tenacity, determination, endurance and reflecting on ones experiences relate to resilience. What role do those qualities play in resilience, if any? Study what the core aspect of resilience is, where resilience does not exist if that aspect is absent. Study how to  ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¬____________ that aspect Many articles about building resilience are available on-line. This is unavailable for those without Internet connections and looking for information. How do creative arts (including art, writing, photography, and so on) play in resilience? How to they ______ resilience? Workshops and training classes on building resilience are available in many places. However, cost may be prohibitive to anyone with a low-income or unable to take time off work or lacks transportation to the workshop. Insurance, whether public or private, could pay for attending these workshops. Carpooling can provide transportation for those lacking transit. Emphasizing employment as the main route out of poverty misses the mark, especially lacking an adequate education, and support system (childcare, adequate mental health, and so on). Explore the differences and similarities in how men and women show resilience and the role socialization plays in those behaviors.

Opposites Attract in Antony and Cleopatra Essay -- Antony Cleopatra Es

Opposites Attract in Antony and Cleopatra      Ã‚   William Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra is a play that is centred around a pair of historical lovers from two distinct cultures, Mark Antony from Rome and Queen Cleopatra from Egypt. The Roman and Egyptian cultures have vastly different norms and social ideas that are almost complete polar opposites in nature. These conflicting views are instrumental in the way that Cleopatra and Antony act. These two characters are so great in their respective societies that they serve as models to look to, although Antony may not be everybody's perfect vision of what a Roman should be. It is also important to look at not only what these two characters think of their cultures, but what cultural outsiders think as well. Through all of this, it will be shown how these primarily opposite cultures can function together, and bring together two of the most prominent lovers in all of Shakespeare, if not in all of recorded western history.    Cleopatra and Antony cannot be seen as average human beings. Never are they described in the same manner as Shakespeare would describe others in this play. "Each truly is all but everything in himself and herself, and knows it, and neither fears that he or she is really nothing in himself or herself, or nothing without the other" (Bloom, Modern Critical Interpretations 1). These two are magnificent and mighty characters, in very grand roles, both in this play and in history.    Antony, as one of the triumvirs, is much more than an individual Roman soldier. He is one of the three who hold the entire known world in a powerful authoritative grip. Antony, acknowledges the force and magnitude of his and Cleopatra's personalities when he sends a messa... ...rs, 1988. 109-35. Barton, Anne. "'Nature's Piece 'Gainst Fancy': The Divided Catastrophe in Antony and Cleopatra." Modern Critical Interpretations: William Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra. Ed. Harold Bloom. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1988. 35-55. Bloom, Harold, ed. Introduction. Modern Critical Interpretations: William Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1988. ---. Shakespeare: The Invention of the Human. New York: Riverhead Books, 1998. Kittredge, George Lyman. Introduction. Antony and Cleopatra. By William Shakespeare. Waltham, MA: Blaisdell Publishing Company, 1966. Markels, Julian. The Pillar of the World: Antony and Cleopatra in Shakespeare's Development. Ohio: Ohio State University Press, 1968. Shakespeare, William. Antony and Cleopatra. Ed. John Wilders. London: Routledge, 1995.    Opposites Attract in Antony and Cleopatra Essay -- Antony Cleopatra Es Opposites Attract in Antony and Cleopatra      Ã‚   William Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra is a play that is centred around a pair of historical lovers from two distinct cultures, Mark Antony from Rome and Queen Cleopatra from Egypt. The Roman and Egyptian cultures have vastly different norms and social ideas that are almost complete polar opposites in nature. These conflicting views are instrumental in the way that Cleopatra and Antony act. These two characters are so great in their respective societies that they serve as models to look to, although Antony may not be everybody's perfect vision of what a Roman should be. It is also important to look at not only what these two characters think of their cultures, but what cultural outsiders think as well. Through all of this, it will be shown how these primarily opposite cultures can function together, and bring together two of the most prominent lovers in all of Shakespeare, if not in all of recorded western history.    Cleopatra and Antony cannot be seen as average human beings. Never are they described in the same manner as Shakespeare would describe others in this play. "Each truly is all but everything in himself and herself, and knows it, and neither fears that he or she is really nothing in himself or herself, or nothing without the other" (Bloom, Modern Critical Interpretations 1). These two are magnificent and mighty characters, in very grand roles, both in this play and in history.    Antony, as one of the triumvirs, is much more than an individual Roman soldier. He is one of the three who hold the entire known world in a powerful authoritative grip. Antony, acknowledges the force and magnitude of his and Cleopatra's personalities when he sends a messa... ...rs, 1988. 109-35. Barton, Anne. "'Nature's Piece 'Gainst Fancy': The Divided Catastrophe in Antony and Cleopatra." Modern Critical Interpretations: William Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra. Ed. Harold Bloom. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1988. 35-55. Bloom, Harold, ed. Introduction. Modern Critical Interpretations: William Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1988. ---. Shakespeare: The Invention of the Human. New York: Riverhead Books, 1998. Kittredge, George Lyman. Introduction. Antony and Cleopatra. By William Shakespeare. Waltham, MA: Blaisdell Publishing Company, 1966. Markels, Julian. The Pillar of the World: Antony and Cleopatra in Shakespeare's Development. Ohio: Ohio State University Press, 1968. Shakespeare, William. Antony and Cleopatra. Ed. John Wilders. London: Routledge, 1995.   

Facebook Addiction Disorder Essay

Nowadays, the new thing in is Facebook. The big Facebook has changed the life of millions. But is that a good or a bad thing? Well some would think it’s good, but in many cases it isn’t. A new type of addiction was formed, Facebook addiction disorder. This addiction leads, mostly teenagers, to become very addicted to Facebook, and cannot live without it. Critics say that there is, at least, six symptoms of F. A. D. Some have come up with ideas to beat this new addiction. Facebook has completely changed society, for the good and for the worse. The article written by B.  Earl, â€Å" Facebook Syndrome: 8 Ways To Beat Your Facebook Addiction†, explains ways to find out if you are addicted to Facebook. He also explains ways to beat Facebook syndrome. The article written by A. Summers, â€Å"Facebook Addiction Disorder- The 6 Symptoms of F. A. D. † , explains how much Facebook has changed people, specially teenagers. She also mentions six symptoms of F. A. D. B. Earl of The Daily Mind writes, â€Å" If you ever late for a meeting or an appointment because you were checking your updates on Facebook or watching a related video on YouTube, then you know you are addicted†. He is referring to someone’s action, and how the result of that may effect their daily lives. This just to show that this actually happens to people. Many people over sleep due to being on Facebook until late hours, and sometimes lose their job because of too many late or absences to work. A. Summers wrote on the SocialTimes,â€Å" Tolerance- This term is used to described the desperate behavior or a Facebook addict. They spend an increasing amount of time on the site, coming to a stage where they need it on order to obtain satisfaction or on the other extreme, it is having a detrimental affect on them as a person and their life†. Ms. Summer’s quote also relates to that of Mr. Earl. She also is stating how someone who is used to being on Facebook for a large amount of hours per day will get addicted. When one cannot use Facebook because they have to participate in activities and is not allowed to use Facebook, withdrawal signs become visible. Some signs are anxiety, distress, and they require the need to talk about Facebook and what goes on while one is restricted from using it (Summers). She is referring to withdrawal symptoms, just as alcohol or cigarettes have withdrawal symptoms. B. Earl states â€Å"get off the computer. Really†¦do you need to spend that much time on the computer? Honestly ask yourself that†. This relates to what Summers said because if people spent less time on the computer, and more time socializing with people the real way, they would not get withdrawals. Facebook should not get in the way of either one’s individuals studies nor their careers. Nowadays, over 90% of young teenagers have a Facebook account (Adam). This just to show how much Facebook has changed our society, and it’s influencing teenagers to be less social. Adam blogged â€Å"Facebook games have become increasingly popular, and once again, what started out as basic games such as Sudoku or Scrabble has now advanced to games where you can create a whole new world within your laptop and smartphone†. People do this every day and waste money constantly on these foolish internet games. This is what Adam is trying to get at with his blog, people are starting to become so anti-social. Teenagers are starting not know how to communicate to people face to face.

Public Toilet

G answer B F A 1) J I C E D 2) Cycle Time (CT) = Productive time per hour Output per day = 7 hrs. /day X 60 min/hr X 60 sec/min 1008 units/day = 25,200 sec 1008 units = 25 sec/unit 6 5 4 3 2 1 3) Workstation = J I G H F E C D B ATask Time 24 25 25 25 25 24 Idle Time = 1 0 0 0 0 1 ( Total = 2 sec ) 4) WS = Sum of task times Cycle time (CT) = 148 sec 25 sec/units = 5. 2 ? 6 units of WS 5) Efficiency = Sum of task times X 100% CT * Actual # of (WS) = 148 sec * 100 % ( 25 sec/units * 4 units of WS) = 98. 67 % ) Idle time per units = (CT * actual # of WS) – sum of task times = (25 sec/unit X 6 units of WS) – 148 seconds = 2 sec/units Idle time in seconds per day = idle time per units X output per day (in unit) = 2 sec/unit X 1008units/day = 2016 sec/day Idle time in hour per day = Idle time in seconds per day 60 min/hr X 60 sec/min = 2016 sec/day 60 min/hr X 60 sec/min = 0. 56 hr/day Thus,The cost of idleness per week = Idle time in hour per day X wage rate per hour X # working day per week = 0. 56 hr/day X RM 40 per day = RM 22. 40 per week QUESTION 4 Claytan Fine China, a well-known dinner ware producer has upgraded its moulding procedure by using the most sophisticated equipment. The mouding process consists of 10 elements. The following table shows the task element in alphabetical order and their precedence element task(s) and times in seconds.Task Element| Precedence Task| Task Time (seconds)| A| -| 24| B| A| 25| C| A| 13| D| -| 10| E| C, D| 12| F| B, E| 11| G| B| 15| H| -| 14| I| F,G. H| 10| J| I| 24| 1. Draw a precedence diagram 2. If the expected weekly output is 5040 dinner sets and daily productive time is 7 hours (in a 5 day work-week), compute the cycle for the process. 3. Compute the theoretical number of workstations. 4. Arrange the task element into proper workstations by using the longest task-time heuristic/rule. 5. Calculate the efficiency of the balanced line and balance delay. 6. If the wage rate is RM 40 per day, calcula te the idleness cost per week.QUESTION 8 Hakim Bidaman Enterprise is in the process of developing an aggregate capacity plan for the month of Jan-Sept 2010. The company has gathered the data as shown in the following table: MONTH| Jan| Feb| Mar| Apr| May| Jun| Jul | Aug| Sept| Forecast Demand (unit)| 5000| 4900| 4500| 4200| 6300| 5000| 5100| 4800| 4700| Other information to be considered: 1. Each output requires 26 minute to be produced. 2. Labour cost per hour is RM 5. 00 3. Overtime rate per hour is RM 7. 50 4. Overtime given to 4 workers only with a limitation of 2 hours per day. 5. Beginning inventory is 400 units. . The inventory carrying cost is RM 2. 40 per unit. 7. Hiring cost per worker is RM 400 and lay off cost per worker is RM 600 8. Subcontracting cost is RM 20 per unit. 9. Current workforce level is 10 workers. 10. The company operates 8 hours daily in 26 days a month. Determine the production cost for the planning horizon by using all five strategies. Apply informatio n given as necessary for a certain strategy. ANWER STRATEGY 1 Monthly forecast output = number of day per monthly X daily standard output = 26 days (60 minutes/hr ? 6 minutes/unit X 8 hours/day) = 480 units per worker per month MONTH| FORECASTDEMAND (UNIT)=UNIT PRODUCED| CURRENT WORKER| WORKERS REQUIRED| HIRE| LAY OFF| Jan| 5000 – 400 = 4600| 10| 4600/480 = 10| | | Feb| 4900| 10| 4900/480 = 10| | | Mar| 4500| 10| 4500/480 = 9| | 1| Apr| 4200| 9| 4200/480 = 9| | | May| 6300| 9| 6300/480 = 13| 4| | Jun| 5000| 13| 5000/480 = 10| | 3| Jul| 5100| 10| 5100/480 = 11| 1| | Aug| 4800| 11| 4800/480 = 10| | 1| Sept| 4700| 10| 4700/480 = 10| | | | 44100| | | 5| 5| TOTAL PRODUCTION COST Regular production cost = (44100 units) X (RM5/hr) X (26 minute/unit ? 0 minute/hr) = RM 95,550 Hire worker = (5 worker) X (RM400) = RM 2,000 Lay off worker = (5 worker) X (RM600) = RM 3,000 Thus, total cost = RM 100,500 STRATEGY 2 Units Produced = (number of day per monthly) X (working days per pe daily ) X (standard output per day) = (10 worker) X (26 day) X (60 minutes/hr ? 26 minutes/unit X 8hr) = 4800 unitsMONTH| FORECAST DEMAND (UNIT)| UNIT PRODUCED| UNITEXCESS| UNIT SHORTAGE| OTUNITS| ENDINV| Jan| 5000 – 400 = 4600| 4800| 200| | | 200| Feb| 4900| 4800| | 100| 100| | Mar| 4500| 4800| 300| | | 300| Apr| 4200| 4800| 600| | | 600| May| 6300| 4800| | 1500| 1500| | Jun| 5000| 4800| | 200| 200| | Jul| 5100| 4800| | 300| | 300| Aug| 4800| 4800| | -| -| -| Sept| 4700| 4800| 100| | | 100| | | 43200| | | 1800| 1500| TOTAL PRODUCTION COST Regular Production Cost = (43200 units) X (26 days ? 8 hr) X (26 minute/unit ? 60 minute/hr) = RM 60,840 Overtime Cost (1800 unit) X (RM7. 50/hr) X (26 minute/unit ? 60 minute/hr) = RM 5,850 Inv. Holding Cost = (1500 unit) X (RM2. 40 per unit) = RM 3,600 Thus, total cost = RM 70,290 STRATEGY 3 Units Produced = (number of day per monthly) X (working days per pe daily) X (standard output per day) = (10 worker) X (26 day) X (60 minutes/hr ? 26 minu tes/unit X 8hr) = 4800 units MONTH| FORECAST DEMAND (UNIT)| UNIT PRODUCED|UNITEXCESS| UNIT SHORTAGE| OTUNITS| ENDINV| Jan| 5000 – 400 = 4600| 4800| 200| | | 200| Feb| 4900| 4800| | 100| | 100| Mar| 4500| 4800| 300| | | 300| Apr| 4200| 4800| 600| | | 600| May| 6300| 4800| | 1500| 900| | Jun| 5000| 4800| | 200| 200| | Jul| 5100| 4800| | 300| 300| | Aug| 4800| 4800| -| -| -| -| Sept| 4700| 4800| 100| | | 100| | | 43200| | | 1400| 1300| TOTAL PRODUCTION COST Regular Production Cost = (43200) X (RM5/hr) X (26 minute/unit ? 0 minute/hr) = RM 93,600 Overtime Cost = (1400 units) X (RM5/hr) X (26 minute/unit ? 60 minute/hr) = RM 3,033 Inv. Holding Cost = (1300 units) X (RM2. 40 per unit) = RM 3,120 Thus, total cost = RM 99, 753 STRATEGY 4 Units Produced = (number of day per monthly) X (working days per pe daily) X (standard output per day) = (10 worker) X (26 day) X (60 minutes/hr ? 26 minutes/unit X 8hr) = 4800 unitsMONTH| FORECAST DEMAND (UNIT)| UNIT PRODUCED| UNITEXCESS| UNIT SHOR TAGE| OTUNITS| ENDINV| Jan| 5000 – 400 = 4600| 4800| 200| | | 200| Feb| 4900| 4800| | 100| | 100| Mar| 4500| 4800| 300| | | 400| Apr| 4200| 4800| 600| | | 1000| May| 6300| 4800| | 1500| 1500| | Jun| 5000| 4800| | 200| 200| | Jul| 5100| 4800| | 300| 300| | Aug| 4800| 4800| -| -| -| -| Sept| 4700| 4800| 100| | | 100| | | 43200| | | 1000| 1800| TOTAL PRODUCTION COST Regular production cost = (43200) X (RM5/hr) X (26 minute/unit ? 0 minute/hr) = RM 93,600 Overtime Cost = (1000 units) X (RM7. 50/hr) X (26 minute/unit ? 60 minute/hr) = RM 3,250 Inv. Holding Cost = (1800 units) X (RM2. 40 per unit) = RM 4,320 Thus, total cost = RM 101,170 STRATEGY 5 Units Produced = (number of day per monthly) X (working days per pe daily) X (standard output per day) = (10 worker) X (26 day) X (60 minutes/hr ? 26 minutes/unit X 8hr) = 4800 unitsMONTH| FORECAST DEMAND (UNIT)| UNIT PRODUCED| UNITEXCESS| UNIT SHORTAGE| OT UNITS(max=480Unit)| ENDINV| SUBUNIT| Jan| 5000 – 400 = 4600| 4800| 200| | | 200| | Feb| 4900| 4800| | 100| | 100| | Mar| 4500| 4800| 300| | | 400| | Apr| 4200| 4800| 600| | | 1000| | May| 6300| 4800| | 1500| 480| | 20| Jun| 5000| 4800| | 200| 200| | | Jul| 5100| 4800| | 300| 300| | | Aug| 4800| 4800| -| -| -| -| | Sept| 4700| 4800| 100| | | 100| | | | 43200| | | 980| 1800| 20| Overtime unit max = 4 X 2 X 26 per month ? 6 month/unit X 60 minute/unit = 480 units TOTAL PRODUCTION COST Regular Production Cost = (43200) X (RM5/hr) X (26 minute/unit ? 60 minute/hr) = RM 93,600 Overtime Cost = (980 units) X (RM7. 50/hr) X (26 minute/unit ? 60 minute/hr) = RM 3,185 Inv. Holding Cost = (1800 units) X (RM2. 40 per unit) = RM 4,320 Subcontracting Cost = (20 units) X (RM20 per unit) = RM 400 Thus, total cost = RM 101,505

Four Little Girls Essays - Counterculture Of The 1960s, Free Essays

Four Little Girls Essays - Counterculture Of The 1960s, Free Essays Four Little Girls When documentaries are filmed, produced, and then viewed, the audience is left with more knowledge and awareness than before having watched it. When I watch a National Geographic documentary on exploitation of indigenous peoples, I become aware of their situation and further understand the cruel world around me. Also, my emotions are stirred up. With the awareness that documentaries bring, also comes the waves of emotional buildup. This is why documentaries are most effective in grabbing an audiences attention on a subject matter having to do with exploitation, injustice, and racism; they show the cruelty and disrespect the victims are faced with. Four Little Girls, a documentary directed by Spike Lee, is an example of this. He interviews those that were involved or held knowledge of the bombing at 16th St. Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama in 1963. He speaks with officials and professionals, preachers, family members and childhood friends of the four girls killed at this incident. At the same time that these interviews are going on, there are clips from the 50s and 60s of black protesters, marches, and beatings relevant to the political and social crisis of the day. Also included are picture shots of the girls, including their gravestones. Lee incorporates the ongoing Civil Rights Movement with the story of the bombing incident and the four girls that died as a result. The Civil Rights Movement becomes more real to us when the protagonists are also made real. The victims parents tell the audience through their words, stories, and pictures, of who the girls were and how they lived. They also display the girls badges, awards, certificates, and Bible that one had in her pocketbook the day she was in the church basement attending Sunday school. The white officials, who were more or less viewed as the antagonists, spoke of that same era from their point of view. Through intercutting photos of lynched black men wearing a sign that read This Nigger Voted, white men made common yet hypocritical remarks of how Birmingham was a pleasant place to raise a family. The films goes through a series of events and attempts by black leaders to build an effective civil rights coalition between local leaders like Reverend Fred Shuttlesworth and national leaders like Martin Luther King, Jr., and James Bevel. But the forces of the older black population slowly digressed as white leaders, like Bull Connor, Police Commissioner, strode around through black neighborhoods in his white army tank. The struggle moved on to the younger generation. Police men were even arresting them and placing them in jail cells. The quick inclusion of students into the movement allowed for a massive amount of young people to come together and protest full strength. It began first with the high school students, then junior high, and finally grade school students. When a younger child had been asked by her mother where she had been that day, the child proudly said, In jail. In jail? What were you doin in jail?, asked her astonished mother. The child answered, For freedom. Testimonies from the black citizens of Birmingham were intertwined coherently. Hope as well as fear spoke from their words as they invested courage into the populaces young people who proudly marched to jail. Subtle encouragement of the young was the way the black community supported their role in the movement. One teacher had said that when she told her class about the protests and demonstrations that were attracting students to the streets, she told them, I hope that when I turn my back to write on the blackboard that I dont turn around and find all you gone. The whole class was gone when she turned back around. There is a scent of pride in her voice when she remarks about the empty classroom. Birmingham had history of bombs being used to make political points. The existence of the steel mills, industry, and foundries, made accessibility to dynamite quite efficient and easy. When black families began to build substantial homes on a hill, the homes were destroyed by honkies that felt that they did not deserve to live too well. Dynamite Hill as the area was called, prepared for the events at 16th St. Baptist Church in 1963. The 16th St. Church had become a meeting place for all people involved in the civil rights struggle. It was an immediate target for the Klu Klux Klan to slow the momentum of the movement. The

ESRM 100 Test 1 Essay Example

ESRM 100 Test 1 Essay Example ESRM 100 Test 1 Paper ESRM 100 Test 1 Paper How much has the population increased in the last 35 years? from 2.5 to 6.6 billion(more than doubled) Sustainability Use it, but dont use it up Carrying Capacity Maximum number of individuals of a species that can be sustained by a population by an environment over a long term Gaia Hypothesis global environment has been profoundly changed by life throughout the history of life on Earth, and that these changes have improved the chances that life on Earth will continue Principle of Environmental Unity Everything affects everything else Environmental Science Group of sciences that explain how life on earth is sustained, what leads to environmental problems, and how theyre solved. Ulitarian Justification Ecological Justification Aesthetic Justification Moral Justification 1 Economic/Survival 2 Value larger life suport functions of the environment 3 Beauty 4 Ones view of right and wrong System Set of parts that function together to act as a whole Things we need to understand to effectively manage natural systems Types of disturbances and changes that are likely to occur The time period which changes occur The importance of each change to the long-term productivity of the system Biota Biosphere 1)All living things within a given area 2)Region of earth where life exists Ecosystem A community of organisms and their local nonliving environment in which matter cycles and energy flows Ecological footprint the total area each person requires based on the resources used and the waste produced We may be consuming about 20% more of Earths biological productivity than is replaced each year Age structure proportion of the population in each age group Limiting factors to population growthshort-term intermediate termlong term 1) drought, energy supply, disease 2)desertification, pollutants,disruption of supply of unrenewable resources3) soil erosion, climate change, ground water Ways to create zero population growth Raising the first childbearing agesocial pressures to delay marriagebirth control and family planning Factors affecting carrying capacity food supplyland and soul resourcesWater resourcesPopulation densityTechnology Biochemical Cycle complete path a chemical takes through the earths four major reservoirs What are the earths four major reservoirs? atmospherehydrospherelithosphere(rocks and soils)biosphere(plants and animals) Flux amount that moves between sinks and sources How many elements are required for life? 24 Geological cycle Formation and change of Earths materials through physical,chemical and biological processes Consists of four sub-cycles -tectonic, hydrologic, rock, biogeochemical How much do plates move a year 1-12 inches a year What leads to plate movements? convection currents in earths mantle Tectonic subduction one plate being pulled under another Where is the earths water? 97% in the oceans, 2% in glaciers, 1% as landwater or atmosphere Drainage basin area contributing runoff to a stream or river How much of the earths water is freshwater? 2.4% What % of the earths atmosphere is nitrogen 80% Nitrogen fixation converts nitrogen to ammonia/nitrate Types of symbionts obligate symbionts absolutely necessaryfacultative symbionts helpful but not essential habitatniche habitat where it livesniche what it does for a living oldest fossils 3.5 billion years old ecosystem individuals of various species and their nonliving environment Ecosystems have 3 fundamentals characteristics structure(living and non living), proccesses and change gross production producing organic matter within the body net production storing some of the newly produced organic matter for future use what % of the land surface is occupied by agriculture 12% Biological diversity wealth of species that live on earth What four processes lead to evolution mutation, genetic drift, natural selection, migration Gene chemical information for a single characteristic genotype genetic makeup of an invidual or group Divergent Evolution single species evolving into two Ways in which extinction is caused hunting/harvestingdisrupting/destroying habitatsintroducing exotic speciespollution primary successionsecondary succession 1) initial establishment and development of an ecosystem where one did not exist2)reestablishment of an ecosystem following disturbances

An Overview of the Legitimization and the Improvement of Drug Rules in America

An Overview of the Legitimization and the Improvement of Drug Rules in America Reforming Americas Drug Policies. An extremely controversial question lingers among citizens and government officials of the United States today. Should drugs be legalized ? Is the War on Drugs working ? After thoroughly researching this topic and understanding each side of the argument, I can easily state that the War on Drugs is not working, and the United States government has taken the wrong approach on handling drugs in the United States. Although it may seem as a problematic solution to some Americans, the legalization (and regulation, of course) of drugs is the only way to solve the issues caused by the newly founded War on Drugs. Legalization will not only halt the wasteful, ineffective War on Drugs, but it will help the United States economy, and solve the over crowding problems in our jails and legal systems that are caused by this war that was begun for the nations public health(Harris 1). Despite the strong opposing arguments, many disagree with this opinion. Many people say the War on Drugs is working, and no benefits can result from legalizing drugs. Drugs are looked down upon, and some are known to be very dangerous, even lethal if abused. In addition, some say drug use rates would only increase if legalized, causing even more problems among our communities. Most people would assume drugs would be more readily available to our youth, and addicts would just be able to get the drugs they crave easier. It is easy to assume things such as this when hearing that legalization is the solution to our nations drug problems, but these assumptions are indeed wrong. When government and health officials in our country became aware of some of the problems certain drug users were going through, such as drug abuse, violence, and death, the officials in our government began to make more and more laws restricting drugs in the United States. These resulted in the prohibition of drugs, making all drugs illegal to posses, manufacture, or distribute (Schaffer 3). Then Nixon declared war on all drugs, and the War on Drugs began, becoming increasingly worse as the years progressed. Under Nixons orders, drug laws became stricter, and efforts were made to try and influence the American population not to do drugs. Lies and propaganda were used in commercials, while outrageous claims were being made to scare people away from drugs (Harris 2). Right away, problems were being caused. The US prison population was relatively stable from about 1926, when figures were first compiled, through 1970. After this point, the effects of Nixons war against drugs, and later t he Reagan and Bush war against drugs, produced a dramatic increase in the number of prisoners. (Schaffer 39). Today, this problem has progressed and has become even worse. There are currently about 1.5 million people in state and Federal prisons and jails throughout the United States. At the current time, at least 24 states are under Federal court orders to relieve prison overcrowding.(Schaffer 39) Despite these high numbers of prisoners that resulted from the War on Drugs, about 10 million Americans are casual drug users (Schaffer 4). These statistics clearly show that a large portion of Americans still use drugs, despite the strict laws that make them illegal. Despite the $15 billion spent on drug use prevention every year, most Americans agree that it is not working (Schaffer 5). American citizens are not the only ones holding the opinion that the war is not working. Official reports state that the war on drugs has reduced the American supply of drugs 10 to 15 percent. However, f ormer San Jose Police Chief Joseph McNamara told New York Magazine, Off the record, [the Drug Enforcement Agency says] its more like one percent.'(Schaffer 32). In addition to the War on Drugs being ineffective, the legalization of drugs will not only eliminate that problem, but it will eliminate other problems caused by the prohibition of drugs. One huge problem in our government today is the money wasted on trying to enforce these drug laws. Jails are also becoming overcrowded, clogging our court systems, and wasting even more money. Some people think that it is good that many convicts go to jail, because it eliminates the violence that supposedly is linked to illegal drugs. Violence is not linked to the use of illegal drugs, and it is only caused by the prohibition. Of all psychoactive substances, alcohol is the only one whose consumption has been shown to commonly increase aggression.(Harris 7). All major authorities agree that the vast majority of drug-related violent crime is caused by the prohibition against drugs, rather than the drugs themselves. This was the same situation which was true during alcohol Prohibition. Alcohol Prohibit ion gave rise to a violent criminal organization. Violent crime dropped 65 percent in the year Prohibition was repealed (Schaffer 12). It is obvious that the prohibition against drugs is the problem, and not the drugs themselves. The violence caused by prohibition is apparent in drug marketing, such as disputes among rival distributors, arguments and robberies involving buyers and sellers, property crimes committed to raise drug money and, more speculatively, social and economic interactions between the illegal markets and the surrounding communities (Schaffer 26). Additionally, the money spent each year on this war could be saved, and used more productively. If the governments of America didnt have to spend so much money on putting drug offenders in jail and making efforts to reduce drug use, they could more wisely use the money on putting more serious criminals in jail. The money could also be used to help more drug abusers with their problems. One way to save much of the money sp ent on the war would directly result from less citizens being put in jail for drug offences. State prisons are so crowded, that at least 24 states are under Federal court orders to relieve prison overcrowding. On average, it costs thirty thousand dollars a year to hold one prisoner in a jail (Schaffer 24). The cost to put a single drug dealer in jail is about $450,000. The same $450,000 can provide treatment or education for about 200 people. In addition, putting a person in prison produces about fifteen dollars in related welfare costs, for every dollar spent on incarceration. Every dollar spent on treatment and education saves about five dollars in related welfare costs. (Schaffer 19). Legalization clearly demonstrates benefits that outweigh any negative effect in this situation, and this can lead to making our communities much better places. Not only would the people of our country gain from legalization of drugs, but our countrys economy would as well. The best analysis done to date by any Federal official shows that legalization of the now illegal drugs would result in a net $37 Billion annual savings. This estimate is considered conservative. That is, it is likely that the savings would be more (Schaffer 18). One important substance that would aid in the boost of our economy is marijuana, or the hemp plant. Hemp is cheaper to produce than cotton, and has many more uses and benefits than cotton does. Growing hemp plants as a cash crop would provide many jobs, and prove to be a large, profitable industry (Gieringer 4). Not only will marijuana be used as a cash crop, but it can also be sold to many Americans, with regulations such as those for alcohol. Substances would be safe because they would come from plausible drug companies, it would eliminate dealers from trying to sell drugs, and it would also be taxable, generat ing money for the government. Marijuana legalization offers an important advantage over decriminalization in that it allows for legal distribution and taxation of cannabis.(Gieringer 5) Also, by eliminating dealers and placing regulations on the substance like those on alcohol, marijuana would also be harder for the youth to get a hold of (Gieringer 7). Altogether, legalization would save the taxpayers around $8 $16 billion, not counting the economic benefits of hemp agriculture and other spin-off industries (Gieringer 8). There are clear positive effects on our economy that could result from the legalization of drugs, or even marijuana alone. The legalization of drugs may seem to be a solution that would only cause more problems in our society, and it may seem that drug use would only increase. However, by making all drugs illegal, the government has taken the wrong approach on solving our nations drug issues. The War on Drugs has proven to only more problems in our society, and these problems can and should be eliminated. There are far too many benefits of legalizing drugs for our countrys laws to remain as they are. Not only is the drug war ineffective, but has caused our jails to become overcrowded. It has also brought violence among our nation with the drug traffickers that smuggle drugs into the country and distribute them. The sixty seven billion dollars that is spent each year on the war on drugs can be used more productively by solving many of our nations other problems, in turn making our country a better place to be.

Assessment Techniques for Evaluating Student Progress Essay

Assessment Techniques for Evaluating Student Progress - Essay Example While formal assessment offers accountability in an education system that calls for measured results, informal assessment is a method that can bring about improvement since it gives a student the ability to evaluate self and to see individually how further learning can lead to success. The two major types of formal assessment are 1) norm-referenced tests and 2) criterion-referenced tests. Both depend on a particular standard, but norm is based on a comparison with other students taking the same test, and criterion-referenced tests measure student ability within a course of study. The student's performance is compared to an established level of achievement for each task or unit of the curriculum (Rothenbacher & Leconte, 1990). The broad definition of curriculum as it relates to this paper is "all the learning planned and guided by the school, whether in groups or individually inside or outside the school" (Kelly, 1983). This type of assessment depends on standardized tests, which are administered annually by school districts and provide a ready source of data. These tests are administered across a large number of students for the purpose of comparing individual performance to the rest of the group. Also, because test publishers provide information about the tests' reliability and validity, the results are generally accepted by educators and the community. In addition, in a structured classroom setting, students have immediate access to assistance and might enjoy the social environment a formal classroom provides. A.2 Criterion-referenced Assessment This method offers a quick analysis that measures students against a set objective or criterion. It also eliminates competition and because the student is not measured by how his or her peers are doing, self-evaluation can bring about a higher level of self-esteem. Based on standardized testing, a result can be determined by a standardized checklist or rubrics, which offers validity within the system. Criterion-referenced assessment might be categorized as either formal or informal. Disadvantages of Formal Assessment Techniques B.1 Norm-referenced Assessment The test results, because they are compared to the results of other students, don't always determine the ability of the individual student. A standardized test is discriminatory because the curve favors high scorers, and lower-scoring students are automatically placed at the bottom. Therefore the actual ability of the test taker is not measured. Standardized tests, especially norm-referenced tests, are the same across all student levels and geographical areas and therefore set up an unrealistic result with the assumption that all students are the same. B.2 Criterion-referenced Assessment Although this system offers more areas of evaluation for individual students, the end result is a standard measurement. Educators sometimes base their evaluation of a student's ability on the overall results instead of looking at an individual's response to different units within the curriculum. A set standard, no matter how informal it may seem, is still structured and the

T & m -wk5 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

T & m -wk5 - Essay Example 113). To date, the counselor has not done that with the MMPI-2, but he is very well versed with the MMPI. The counselor in this case has not had as much experience with the MMPI-2 so they are justified in staying with the test that they know. The National Association of School Psychologists (2000) the school counselor must be aware of the validity and the reliability of the tests they are using and they must have up-to-date standardization information about the test. (Section C, #2) Although the counselor has this information, they have not had time to read it and understand it, so it would not be in the best interest of the child (Section C, #2) to use the one that the counselor does not know. The MMPI and the MMPI-2 are level C tests which means the counselor must have a PhD in psychology or other related field or they must have professional licensure/registration to practice psychology, or be under a qualified psychologist in a related field (Sigma Assessment Systems, 2007). The quandary does not say that this is the qualification of the individual but there is the assumption that they do have the qualifications for the first one so thy could administer the MMPI-2 when they are ready to use it. In many situations, an old aspect of a test will be used because the organization or the school will not have the funds for the newest version. As long as the older version is similar to the newer one, it does not seem that there would be a problem with it being

Hypersensitivity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Hypersensitivity - Essay Example On the other hand, simple organic substances are more commonly known to cause delayed reactions. An individual may be exposed to these allergens through inhalation, ingestion, injection, or skin contact. (Porth, 2002) The classifications of hypersensitivity are not dependent on severity, but the type of cells, and location of tissues that is affected. Hypersensitivity reactions are classified into four types: type I (mediated by IgE), type II (tissue-specific), type III (immune-complex mediated), and type IV (cell-mediated) (Holmes, 2003). The first three types are mediated by antibodies, and the fourth type is mediated by T-cells, which produce a delayed reaction or onset of symptoms. However, it is seldom that one type occurs in isolation from the other (Nowak & Handford, 2004). During a hypersensitivity reaction or allergic reaction, an individual is usually prescribed with bronchodilators, steroids, and antihistamines. This paper will discuss type I hypersensitivity or anaphylactic hypersensitivity, as well as the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the three agents mentioned above. In addition, Chinese herbal medicines will also be briefly discussed. This type describes the allergy as the immediate hypersensitivty or anaphylactic hypersensit... In addition, Chinese herbal medicines will also be briefly discussed. Type I Hypersensitivity This type describes the allergy as the immediate hypersensitivty or anaphylactic hypersensitivity. It is mediated by the IgE antibody, which results to mast cell degranulation (Porth, 2003). The most common examples are systemic anaphylaxis, hay fever, allergic rhinitis, eczema, and asthma. The mucous membranes of the organs are very richly supplied with mast cells that are filled with IgE antibodies, and these mast cells are ideally located to be able to detect the entry of antigens. Upon initial entry, the individual or host will not manifest any symptoms or reactions. However, the cells have already captured and processed the allergen, and the antigen has then bound with IgE on mast cells, which have caused the cells to degranulate. These granules then spread into the circulation and binds with the mast cells throughout the body. Subsequently, the host is ready for the next contact with the allergen. (Nowak & Handford, 2004) Now during the second exposure, the mast cells are activated, causing the release of mediators, which then result to the immediate responses of the immune system, and this response is mostly cause by the release of preformed histamines (Ewan, 1998; Nowak & Handford, 2004). Kay (2001) gave a concise aetiology of acute allergy. She summarized that immediate hypersensitivity is brought about by the release of preformed granule-associated mediators, membrane derived lipids, cytokines, and chemokines when an allergen interacts with IgE that is bound to mast cells or basophils by the high affinity IgE receptors. In addition, the primary inducers of IgE are interleukin-4 and

How to Escape from a Bad Date by Piven et al (297-302)Patterns 11th ed Essay

How to Escape from a Bad Date by Piven et al (297-302)Patterns 11th ed - Essay Example Likely, the idea is that young individuals would want to have the perfect date every time they would get out with someone they treat to be a special someone in their lives. The importance of dating makes a particular developmental impact on the personality of any individual engaging in such social relations. This is why it is important to assure that each one does not bring about shame towards those that are involved in the relationship establishment. However, it could not be denied that there are dates that bring about shame to one. What if it happens that a person dates someone that is the perfect opposite of what he or she expected to be, and somewhat even worse at some point? This is when the need to escape from a bad date comes in. The reading written by Piven, Borgenicht and Worrick provides a proper set of guidelines that would give dating partners the best chance of moving away from bad dates that are bound to bring about particular shameful experiences in the past that would likely give them lesser chances of experiencing better levels of self-confidence later on. Getting away from a bad date experience though need not be harsh on the part of those who would be left alone in the date. The reading on this matter written by the authors mentioned above creatively advices several strategies on the part of the one wanting to end the date to move about the process in a less shaming way with respect to the one that is to be left on. The writers of the book were likely able to find better approaches to provide essential guidelines and points of important issues that need to be given attention to when one naturally wants to move away from a particular dating tragedy. This was likely because of the fact that the writers were able to base their informative advices from their own experiences making the entire reading not only informative but also entertaining in many ways. Certainly,

Politics, Society and Business in the New Europe Essay

Politics, Society and Business in the New Europe - Essay Example Germany's employers increased vulnerability to conflict that showed up centralized bargaining agreement and its effects will distabilize its system in the longer term (Steele,2005). Because globalisation pushes all countries toward neoliberalism and deregulation, encouraging firms to lower labor cost and increase labor market flexibility, (Thelen, 2003) which result to distabilization of Germany's economy. It would create trouble between employer and union e.g. labor strike and lockout in some companies if the problem will not be resolve . Besides, the state could no longer depend the welfare of their citizen because in globalization it is the multinational who is powerful. They are the one who detates the state in the removal of some Tariffs, Regulations, Certain Standards, Laws, Legislation and Regulatory measures and the restriction of capital flows and invesment. Germanys' were able to realized that the rich (multinational) grow richer and the poor grows poorer around the world. In otherwords, globalization is beneficial only for those who prososed the theory like the first world countries. ... manys' as second world exporter their employers are trying to come up a bargaining agreement to sustain economic activity by maintaining labor peace and closure or lockout of some establishment.. Martinez and Garcia (Cited by Shah,2007), revealed that there are five (5) points in neoliberalism as follows: 1. The rule of Market- freedom of capital, goods and services these is to trickle down of "Wealth distribution." It is the deunionizing of labor forces and removals of any impedements to capital mobility regulated by the state or government. 2. Reducing public expenditure for social services e.g. health and education, by the government; 3. Deregulation to allow market forces to act as a self-regulating mechanism; 4. Privatization of public enterprise ( things from water to even internet); 5. Changing perceptions of public and community good to individualism and individual responsibility. Robbins and Bacon (Cited by Shah, 2007) pointed out five (5) principles of ideology of neoliberalism: 1. Sustained economic growth is the way to human progress; 2. Free markets without government "interference" would be most effecient and socially optimal allocation of resources; 3. Economic globalisation would be beneficial to everyone; 4. Privatization removes inefficiencies of public sector; 5. Government would provide the infrastructure to advance the rule of law with respect to property rights and contracts. Gounet (n.d.) stated six (6) characteristics of neo-liberalism /competition/free trade and laissez-faire as follows: 1. Bourgeois ideology preponderates by awakening industrial capitalism against feudality and parasitism by abolishing the previleges, for free competition, free trade and laissez faire to bring about wealth. 2. Age of mondialisation is the

Hypersensitivity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Hypersensitivity - Essay Example On the other hand, simple organic substances are more commonly known to cause delayed reactions. An individual may be exposed to these allergens through inhalation, ingestion, injection, or skin contact. (Porth, 2002) The classifications of hypersensitivity are not dependent on severity, but the type of cells, and location of tissues that is affected. Hypersensitivity reactions are classified into four types: type I (mediated by IgE), type II (tissue-specific), type III (immune-complex mediated), and type IV (cell-mediated) (Holmes, 2003). The first three types are mediated by antibodies, and the fourth type is mediated by T-cells, which produce a delayed reaction or onset of symptoms. However, it is seldom that one type occurs in isolation from the other (Nowak & Handford, 2004). During a hypersensitivity reaction or allergic reaction, an individual is usually prescribed with bronchodilators, steroids, and antihistamines. This paper will discuss type I hypersensitivity or anaphylactic hypersensitivity, as well as the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the three agents mentioned above. In addition, Chinese herbal medicines will also be briefly discussed. This type describes the allergy as the immediate hypersensitivty or anaphylactic hypersensit... In addition, Chinese herbal medicines will also be briefly discussed. Type I Hypersensitivity This type describes the allergy as the immediate hypersensitivty or anaphylactic hypersensitivity. It is mediated by the IgE antibody, which results to mast cell degranulation (Porth, 2003). The most common examples are systemic anaphylaxis, hay fever, allergic rhinitis, eczema, and asthma. The mucous membranes of the organs are very richly supplied with mast cells that are filled with IgE antibodies, and these mast cells are ideally located to be able to detect the entry of antigens. Upon initial entry, the individual or host will not manifest any symptoms or reactions. However, the cells have already captured and processed the allergen, and the antigen has then bound with IgE on mast cells, which have caused the cells to degranulate. These granules then spread into the circulation and binds with the mast cells throughout the body. Subsequently, the host is ready for the next contact with the allergen. (Nowak & Handford, 2004) Now during the second exposure, the mast cells are activated, causing the release of mediators, which then result to the immediate responses of the immune system, and this response is mostly cause by the release of preformed histamines (Ewan, 1998; Nowak & Handford, 2004). Kay (2001) gave a concise aetiology of acute allergy. She summarized that immediate hypersensitivity is brought about by the release of preformed granule-associated mediators, membrane derived lipids, cytokines, and chemokines when an allergen interacts with IgE that is bound to mast cells or basophils by the high affinity IgE receptors. In addition, the primary inducers of IgE are interleukin-4 and

Politics, Society and Business in the New Europe Essay

Politics, Society and Business in the New Europe - Essay Example Germany's employers increased vulnerability to conflict that showed up centralized bargaining agreement and its effects will distabilize its system in the longer term (Steele,2005). Because globalisation pushes all countries toward neoliberalism and deregulation, encouraging firms to lower labor cost and increase labor market flexibility, (Thelen, 2003) which result to distabilization of Germany's economy. It would create trouble between employer and union e.g. labor strike and lockout in some companies if the problem will not be resolve . Besides, the state could no longer depend the welfare of their citizen because in globalization it is the multinational who is powerful. They are the one who detates the state in the removal of some Tariffs, Regulations, Certain Standards, Laws, Legislation and Regulatory measures and the restriction of capital flows and invesment. Germanys' were able to realized that the rich (multinational) grow richer and the poor grows poorer around the world. In otherwords, globalization is beneficial only for those who prososed the theory like the first world countries. ... manys' as second world exporter their employers are trying to come up a bargaining agreement to sustain economic activity by maintaining labor peace and closure or lockout of some establishment.. Martinez and Garcia (Cited by Shah,2007), revealed that there are five (5) points in neoliberalism as follows: 1. The rule of Market- freedom of capital, goods and services these is to trickle down of "Wealth distribution." It is the deunionizing of labor forces and removals of any impedements to capital mobility regulated by the state or government. 2. Reducing public expenditure for social services e.g. health and education, by the government; 3. Deregulation to allow market forces to act as a self-regulating mechanism; 4. Privatization of public enterprise ( things from water to even internet); 5. Changing perceptions of public and community good to individualism and individual responsibility. Robbins and Bacon (Cited by Shah, 2007) pointed out five (5) principles of ideology of neoliberalism: 1. Sustained economic growth is the way to human progress; 2. Free markets without government "interference" would be most effecient and socially optimal allocation of resources; 3. Economic globalisation would be beneficial to everyone; 4. Privatization removes inefficiencies of public sector; 5. Government would provide the infrastructure to advance the rule of law with respect to property rights and contracts. Gounet (n.d.) stated six (6) characteristics of neo-liberalism /competition/free trade and laissez-faire as follows: 1. Bourgeois ideology preponderates by awakening industrial capitalism against feudality and parasitism by abolishing the previleges, for free competition, free trade and laissez faire to bring about wealth. 2. Age of mondialisation is the

Muscular Disorders Case Report Essay Example for Free

Muscular Disorders Case Report Essay A mother presents with her 13 y/o son with a history of frequent falls, difficulty getting up from a lying or sitting position, trouble jumping, large calf muscles and poor grades in school. Based on the description and symptoms given, the likely diagnosis would be Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy, or DMD; although DMD and its symptoms tend to show up at an earlier age but not always. This type of muscular dystrophy is the most common and severe form of the dystrophinopathic diseases. Dystrophinopathic diseases are muscular dystrophies that are of a genetic nature caused by a deficiency in the protein dystrophin. This protein is vital to muscle function and contraction. In the case of DMD, there is a mutation in the gene, called the DMD gene, responsible for producing dystrophin causing a deficiency. This gene mutation is X-linked recessive and is inherited. This means that females in the family carry the gene mutation and can pass is on to their offspring male or female, but it is expressed in the males. DMD is usually diagnosed when a young boy shows signs of muscle weakness and there is a family history of the disease. Per Genome (2010), â€Å"a muscle biopsy for dystrophin studies can also be done to look for abnormal levels of dystrophin in the muscle. † Genome (2010), also states that â€Å"genetic testing on a blood sample for changes in the DMD gene can help establish the diagnosis of Duchenne’s muscular dystrophy without performing a muscle biopsy. † For most individuals, a combination of these testing methods is used to confirm a diagnosis of DMD. There is no known cure for DMD. Treatment involves treating the symptoms and keeping the patient as comfortable as possible. Medline (2012) says that â€Å"steroid drugs can slow the loss of muscle strength and may be started when the child is diagnosed or when muscle strength begins to decline. † Other drugs, such as Albuterol, can be used to control breathing problems that occur in the later stages of the disease and drugs to help with heart functions are prescribed to help control any cardio symptoms that may be present. The prognosis for individuals with DMD is bleak; it is a rapidly progressive disease and patients with DMD usually surrender to the disease or complications from it in their 20’s or 30’s, sometimes even earlier. I grew up with a family next door to me in which the two oldest boys had DMD. The disease eventually took both of their lives. The oldest boy did live long enough to graduate from high school but the younger of the two died from complications when he was 16. It was horrible for the family to stand by and watch their sons slowly decline and eventually die. This disease continued to plague their lives when the daughters passed it on to their boys and probably still plagues them today. There have been great strides in the field of research in regards to DMD but as of yet no cure has been found. Hopefully one day, there will be a cure for this devastating, debilitating disease and no more families will be forced to watch their children die right before their eyes.

Rationale For Choosing Communication And Therapeutic Engagement Nursing Essay

Rationale For Choosing Communication And Therapeutic Engagement Nursing Essay My ward is a Patient Intensive Care Unit (PICU) of a forensic setting. It has thirteen in-patients and a staff strength of twenty three nurses both qualified and unqualified. Agency staff are frequently engaged to make up the number of staff necessary to care for patients on a particular shift. On the average there are between seven and eleven nursing staff per shift depending on the prevailing situation on the ward. It has two supervised confinements and two intensive care areas. Admissions are planned and it is based on a set of assessment criteria. Only acutely unwell patients are admitted. This essay will draw on my first working experience as a primary nurse of an acutely unwell psychiatric patient to illustrate my development with regards to communication and therapeutic engagement. Gibbs (1988) reflective cycle will be used to reflect this experience. Description I had just started work as a newly employed member of staff and was assigned primary nurse to a thirty year old patient of Afro-Caribbean origin who was transferred from another ward following a relapse in his mental state. He was under section 3 of the Mental Health Act (1983). This patient is named A for confidentiality purposes (NMC, 2008) had diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia and had no insight into his mental illness. His carer was his mother with whom he had a luke warm relationship. He was very suspicious of staff interventions and would not engage. Routine blood tests had revealed that he had elevated createnine kinase (CK) levels (Cretenine Kinase enzyme, high levels of which case severe muscle damage, neuropletic malignant syndrome, myocardial infarction etc). Following this finding, his antipsychotic medication was withdrawn pending further blood tests. He refused to have a blood sample taken for further tests, he believed staff would drink his blood. As his primary nurs e, I made several attempts to encourage him to have the blood tests, but he would not be persuaded. He was also diagnosed with type II diabetes and was dependent of insulin. He self managed his physical illness by carrying out blood glucose level monitoring and self administering insulin under staff supervision. Patient A fed only on pre-packed barbeque chicken purchased from the supermarket and would not eat food served on the ward. I had one to one engagement with him to discuss his dietary intake and also formulate a physical and mental healthcare plan. He was not interested and made no contributions to the discussions. I gave him copies of the care plans which he declined. He said you can keep those care plans I dont need them and I am able to take care of myself. By the end of the second week, his mental state had deteriorated so much that he was very paranoid, irritable and getting into arguments with fellow patients and staff. He was involved in incidents both verbal and physical aggression and became increasingly difficult to manage on the ward. For his safety and that of others the team made a decision to nurse Mr. A in supervised confinement based on rationalist -analytical approach, having carried out risk assessment and looked at his history as well as the trust policy. As part of this risk management plan he was transferred to the intensive care area (ICA) and nursed under enhanced observation by two nursing staff. I requested to be allocated to nurse him in the ICA as often as the trust and unity policy old allow, so as to assess his mental state and attempt to build a rapport with him. Mr. A would not talk but I persisted. He noticed that I was frequently allocated to observe him and gradually opened up. I explained to him the teams decision to nurse him in the supervised confinement and the ICA. We talked about politics, football, music etc and our relationship developed and continued till he was transferred to a rehabilitation ward. Feelings I felt very frustrated and inadequate and was very much under stress. It was obvious from his reaction that he had no confidence or trust in me and saw me just like any other healthcare professional. Woods (2004) highlights the complex problems and needs of patients who find themselves in forensic settings and maintain that it is a common occurrence that some patients can not engage in treatment while others simply refuse to do so. Arnold and Underman-Boggs (1999) maintain that any meaningful relationship begins with trust. Trusting a nurse is particularly difficult for the mentally ill, for whom the idea of having a caring relationship is incomprehensible. As his primary nurse I saw myself as the advocate ready to work with him and seek his interest at all times. As nurses, we are called upon to play our roles as advocates, supervising and protecting clients rights and empowering them to take charge of their lives. Ironbar and Hooper (2003) stresses that therapeutic relationships ca n be stressful. Working closely with people who are mentally unwell and under stress can be very demanding and emotionally draining experience. Consequently, nurses need to be aware of the effect that such relationships can have on them. This requires insight, self awareness and ability to cope effectively with stress. My initial perception was that Mr A was a difficult patient and considered withdrawing as his primary nurse but I felt emotionally attached. I understood that I owed Mr A a duty of care (NMC, 2008) and simply withdrawing was not professional in my view. OCarrol et al (2007) contended that in our professional roles, nurses do not have the same option as we do in our personal life by withdrawing from difficult relationships. Rather it requires exploring the situation which may help recognise ways in which the nurse is influenced by his emotions. The authors caution that nurses must learn to manage their own emotions. Furthermore, they need to communicate their emotional reactions to the patient, albeit in a modified form. I empathised with Mr A and it drew me closer to him, revealing to me the depth of hi mental illness. I wished I could doe something here and now to help alleviate the state f confusion, anxiety and helplessness in which he found himself. Barker (2003) reports of how in recent times empathy has been shown to enable nurses to investigate and understand the experience of persons experiencing a state of chaos as a consequence of psychiatric order. I felt uncomfortable when Mr A had to be physically restrained (PSTS techniques) and nursed in supervisory confinement, I felt that this procedure was not justifiable because the privacy, dignity and respect of this client had been compromised. As nurses we are to demonstrate respect for patients by promoting their privacy and dignity (NMC, 2008) (Essence of Care, 2003). On the other hand, I thought that his safety and that f others was paramount and this could be achieved only by nursing h im separately from the rest. The NMC (2008: para 8:4) Code of Professional Conduct clearly states that when facing a professional dilemma, the first consideration must be the safety of patients. The collaborative team decision to nurse him in the supervised confinement area made me feel valued as a team member. I was actively involved in the decision making process and carried out risk assessments. I felt that I was insensitive with my sustained persistence to get him to talk. I should have understood that his moments of silence were necessary to help him calm down (SLAM, 2008). I also felt unsupported and struggled to cope with the management and care of Mr A. I was unable to access clinical supervision because my supervisor was away on holiday. Evaluation Although it seemed difficult at the beginning, but by the time Mr A was out of the ICA we had developed a good working relationship. I did not show my disappointment at his reluctance to engage when he was acutely unwell and stayed positive. Engaging with him while nursing him in the ICA offered me the opportunity to explain to him the teams decision to place him under enhanced observation. Actively listening to him and discussing with him his thoughts and feelings have helped lessen his distress. It also enabled me to give a comprehensive feedback to the team regarding his mental state. We met in one to one engagements and discussed his concerns and needs. A good and well ventilated environment was always made for our meetings. Following assessments, we discussed his care plans, participation in group activities, crisis management and other forms of therapies. He felt very much in charge, highlighting his most pressing needs. Whenever we met, there as a demonstration of mutual respect and desire for working together in a partnership. Together we identified and prioritised his goals for recovery based on his strengths and what he believes is achievable. Faulkner (1998) asserts that goals must be clearly defined so that both the professional and the patient are going in the same direction in terms of what they wish to achieve by a certain time. During or interactions clear boundaries were set and clarified for Mr A what were acceptable behaviours. Boundaries were set as to what he was allowed to do without supervision, how he engaged with others and appropriate ways o f addressing issues he felt unhappy or uncomfortable with. The plan of care was therefore service-user centred and recovery orientated approach. The recovery model has been incorporated into the principles of care delivery in the trust (SLAM, 2007). It aims to help service-users to move beyond mere survival and existence, encouraging them to move forward and carry out activities and develop relationships that give their lives meanings. Wood (2004) indicated that nursing forensic patients is not easy and requires complex treatment plans that focus fundamentally on reducing risk of harm to others. As part of his recovery, he was encouraged to self manage his diabetes under supervision. Giving his understanding of his physical illness information was provided to enable him to make informed decisions about his lifestyle. Mr A consented to giving regular blood samples. His CK level fell to normal levels and was restarted on anti psychotic medication. However, it took time for Mr A to adequately understand the situation that he was in and the effect of his illness on his lifestyles. It must also be stated that it was not always possible to meet with Mr A as planned. Scheduled meetings had to be cancelled due to being engaged with very pressing ward issues. Analysis The use of therapeutic communications in nursing, particularly empathy, is what enables therapeutic change and should not be underestimated (Norman and Ryrie, 2004). Egan (2002) argues that empathy is not just the ability to enter into and understand the world of another person but also be able to communicate this understanding to him/her. The relevance of empathetic relationships to the goals of health services are suggested by the increase in focus on patient centred care and the growth of consumerism. The client-centred focus is illustrated by the NHS patient charter which emphasises that clinicians need to collaborate with users of the health services in the prioritising of clinical needs and the setting of treatment goals (Barker, 2003). Nurses should be aware that patients who are paranoid and suspicious of staff interventions as was the case of Mr A, might not readily accept support from staff. This implies that working with such patients can be very challenging and difficult. It therefore calls for the nurse to remain impatient, calm and focused. The need to build therapeutic relationship with the patient is paramount in gaining trust and respect (Rigby and Alexander, 2008). Caring, empathy and good communication skills are needed to help patients through their illness. Therefore the use of effective interpersonal skill s facilitates the development of a positive nurse-patient relationship. McCabe (2004) argues that the use of effective interpersonal skills, a basic component of nursing, must be patient centred. Nursing Mr A in supervised confinement and subsequently in the ICA was in accordance to SLAM (2008) Engagement and Formal Observation Policy. Despite the frequent occurrence of this nursing intervention in mental health settings, for the whole of the UK there are no national standards or guidelines for practice of observation. The current situation in England and Wales is that policies are developed and implemented at a local level using SNMAC (1999) practice guidance for observation of patients at risk as a template (Harrison et al, 2006). Nursing patients in supervised confinement, though a common practice in the PICU raises a number of ethical, professional and legal issues about the role of the nurse, whether he/she is a custodian or therapist and a friend is debateable. Alland et al (2003) noted that patients view enhanced observation as uncomfortable at best, custodial and dehumanising at worst. Mr A felt that his pride and dignity had been taken away from him he was at risk an d therefore an immediate and effective risk management plan had to be implemented. This was necessary to ensure his safety and that of others even though he expressed unhappiness with this intervention. By engaging him and encouraging him to share his thoughts and feelings his anger appeared to have lessened as he joined in the discussions of politics, music, football etc. Thurgood (2004) empathised that showing your human side to clients is very important. Engaging meaningfully with patients and helping them talk about their feelings is the first step to alleviating some of their distress. The NMC (2008) Code of Professional Conduct clearly points to the rights of patients in relation to autonomy. There appeared to have been a reach to Mr As rights. The difficulty we faced as a team was finding the balance between allowing some privacy and dignity versus persevering his safety and security. Consequently, a dilemma arose for me as his primary nurse in relation to his rights, obligat ions and duties. In fact Article 5(1) e of the Human Rights Act (1998) specifies the right of the state to lawfully detain the person of unsound mind. Within the UK, that framework is provides by the Mental Health Act 1983 (DOH, 1998). One may argue then that there is no fundamental incompatibility between the Mental Health Act and the Human Rights Act. There were times that scheduled meetings with Mr A had to be cancelled because of urgent administrative duties. It meant that he lost the opportunity to meet up with me to discuss his concerns and needs. The concept of Patient Protected Time (PPT) in inpatient units is therefore valid. It allows patients to meet with a healthcare provider on one to one for a specified time when the ward is closed to administrative duties to discuss care plans, social activities, therapies and others. Such interaction according to Song and Soobratty (2007) promotes feelings of self confidence, esteem and recovery. It can also aid the patient therapeutic progress as it can help with social interaction and building relationships. However, nurses complain they already have plenty to do without an added pressure of PPT to contend with. Nurses frequently complaining of being too busy to develop therapeutic rapport with patents (Mental Health Act Commission 2008). Yawar (2008) reported that only 16% of pati ents time was spent in what can loosely be termed as therapeutic interaction. The remaining of the 84% was spent aimlessly either pacing p and down the ward or doing nothing. Nurses recognise their responsibilities to engage with patients and welcome the opportunity to do this without other demands (Edward, 2008). The Department of Health (2002) called for improvements to ensure adequate clinical support inputs to inpatient wards and to maximise the time spent by staff therapeutically engaged with patients. Therapeutic engagement, therefore involves spending quality time with patients with the aim to empower them to actively participate in their care. Conclusion Communication is without doubt the medium through which the nurse-patient relationship takes place. The skills of active listening and reflection promote better communication and encourage empathy building. My first role as a primary nurse as a good learning experience. My conduct throughout the whole experience earned me a favourable feedback from my team leader. Caring for acutely mentally unwell patients requires of the nurse sensitivity, conveying warmth and empathy. Engaging meaningfully and actively listening to patients under enhanced observation makes them perceive the practice as valuing rather than punishing, therapeutic rather then custodial. Feeling safe and secured provides a platform which can assist patients to begin to resolve some of the difficulties they may be facing in their lives. It is imperative that nurses involve patients in all aspects of their care, empowering and making decisions in partnership with the team. By developing collaborative relationship with p atients, nurses can provide prompt and focused interventions which can limit illness damage, assist in the process of symptoms management and help the process of recovery. Action plan My aim is to be proactive in the future by promptly seeking support from senior colleagues and requesting for clinical supervision. I aim t develop the skill of emotional resilience and intelligence to be able to deliver care that will promote patient welfare and aid recovery. The preceptorship experience has been a breath of fresh air. A time to look back and take stock of the transition from student nurse to an accountable practitioner. Listening and sharing in the experiences of fellow nurses was a good learning experience. The preceptors were fantastic master clinicians who were receptive to our contributions as they explored our experiences at the beginning of each teaching session. This experience has undoubtedly enhanced my critical thinking as a nurse and prepared me to move forward in my development and practice as a caring and competent nurse. I see myself as being in the right job which offers many opportunities for development and to improve upon my knowledge and skills.