Wednesday, October 30, 2019
How does communicaton influence ones sense of identity Essay
How does communicaton influence ones sense of identity - Essay Example Therefore communication and ones sense of identity are two interrelated concepts. People can’t live without communication with each other, it is impossible not to talk to other people, not to share information. A sense of identity is a certain filter that helps to structure and organize information and communicative strategies relevant to an individual: â€Å"The concepts and information relevant to the self also have an instrumental influence on decisions to pursue particular goals†(Sense of Identity). In its turn, communication is a certain measurement of individual’s sense of identity. Individuals’ sense of identity varies; therefore it is natural that every performer of a certain social role communicates in a different manner. For example, self-assured individuals are more direct and energetic communicants. Uncertain individuals are more tolerant or even passive communicants in comparison with the active communicants mentioned above. This observation can be explained in the following way: the society imposes its social roles on individuals; social stereotypes make every individual to perceive another with regard to the social role he plays. Consequently, a process of communication reflects the way individuals perceive themselves (i.e. their sense of identity), the way individuals perceive each other: in the process of communication â€Å"we learn how others see us, and we internalize many views of the world and of who we are and should be†(Communication and personal identity). Nevertheless, there are basic principles of successful communication. These are: attentive and valuable attention paid to an interlocutor; respect, courtesy and patience. Basically, if to comply with these basic principles, then sense of identity of every interlocutor won’t decrease. Vice versa, in the process of a favorable communication the assessment of self-identity of any communicator is increased (Communication and personal identity). The easiest way to trace the connection between self-identity and communication is to consider it in practice. The clearest example is daily communication with our family members. The opinion of the closest relatives, of our beloved people influence the way we consider ourselves. This communication takes place from the first days of our life and forms our first identity, so it is very important and essential. In the paradigm of the following concepts we’ll consider this interrelation: direct definition, identity scripts and attachment styles. Direct definition is the way our family members ‘label’ us (little boy, a big girl etc). Parents’ gender roles are usually transferred to their children. Thus, what children value in future depends on values imposed on them by their parents in their childhood. Identity scripts are â€Å"rules for how we are supposed to live and who we are supposed to be†(Communication and personal identity). Family values and heritage are reflected in identity scripts. They are transferred to children in the process of communication and thus a sense of identity is pre-shaped in identity scripts. The last concept is attachment styles. This concept implies the way parents impose on us how to treat and relate to others. Generally, a child develops a sense of a positive sense of self-worth (Communication and personal identity). Therefore communication and sense of identity are two related concepts. Communication represents a certain measurement of
Monday, October 28, 2019
Comparative Study Of Corruption Study Essay Example for Free
Comparative Study Of Corruption Study Essay ABSTRACT            Having Nordic countries consistently on top of the CPIs least corrupt countries for years, there must be something in this culture and tradition that make them highly regarded as having a clean and honest government. Based on the 2006 Corruption Perception Index, Finland and Iceland are the top two least corrupt countries while Haiti and Burma hailed as the two most corrupt countries in the world. This paper aims to find the reasons why these countries were in their current position in the CPI by comparing their government system, culture and tradition. This paper also aims to find solid evidences that will prove that the culture of corruption is not a matter of effective and efficient policies but on the culture of strict implementation of such policies, the moral and ethical standards of the people and the collective concern of the people to their country.            A brief background of the 2006 CPI report is included in the first part of this paper. A separate section, discussing thoroughly the different elements which may contribute to each country’s culture of corruption is the main focus of this paper. Data from competent writers and qualified analysts were compared in order to make readers further understand the economic, political and social status of each country. A brief conclusion is also included, summarizing the main points of comparison between countries. BACKGROUND ON CPI’s 2006 RESULTS            In the 2006 Corruption Perception Index, Finland emerged on top as the least corrupt country in the world, scoring 9.6 out of the 10 clean score. Scoring equally are Iceland and New Zealand. In the CPI 2006 published by the Transparency International, Haiti turned out to be the most corrupt of the 163 countries involved in the survey scoring only 1.8 while slightly on top is Myanmar with 1.9 score. If we are to look into the previous CPI results, we can see that the top Finland and other Nordic countries, Iceland and New Zealand have been consistently on the five least corrupt countries. The question here is who or what makes a country the least or the most corrupt country in the world? â€Å"The CPI is a composite index which uses survey results from business people and country analysts as with their assessment and perception of corruption among public officials and political figures†(J.G. Lambsdorff). This means that the CPI is considered as a competent and reliable material considering that it makes use of qualified people in assessing the existence of corruption. It utilizes different sets of polls relative to perception of corruption, had them compiled and analyzed before it came up with the figures published in the CPI. In 2006, Transparency International made use of 112 sets of polls and survey from independent bodies listed below:            Freedom House: â€Å"Nations in Transit†               Economist Intelligence Unit                United Nations Commission for Africa                World Economic Forum                World Markets Research Center (London)                Merchant International Group Limited (London)                Political and Economic Risk Consultancy (Hong Kong)                International Institute for Management and Development (Laussane)                Country Policy and Institutional Assessment (IDA and IBRD of World Bank)            It is also important to note that bribery among public officials and servants is one of the major factors considered by analysts as the major indicator of corruption. â€Å"Political culture and political institutions determine the level of corruption†(P. Tiihonen). It is therefore but fair enough to conclude that corruption begins when bribery is tolerated by anyone in the government or any public office. To have a deeper understanding of corruption, we will try to compare two of the most corrupt countries in the world with that of the two least corrupt countries using different areas and aspects. By doing so, we will be able to assess what factors make Finland and Iceland’s government clean and the factors that brought Haiti and Myanmar on top of the list of the most corrupt countries. ELEMENTS THAT MAKE A COUNTRY CLEAN OR CORRUPT Government and Political System            Finland has the culture of good governance. Based on the political structure of Finland, we can say that it has one of the best, if not the best system of government. First, Finland is a country that does not recognize social class. This is what they referred to as â€Å"Egalitarian Society†where everyone, regardless of social status is given equal opportunity to avail of the services of the government and to be of service to the people (Tiihonen). Education is compulsory, women are given the full rights for suffrage and political participation as candidates, pension is provided for all citizens who reached 65 years old, healthcare services are free for everyone and education is free from basic to higher education. If all people are able to experience this kind of welfare in their country, it would be far from their means of finding comfort to bribe and accept bribe. Nordic countries like Finland and Iceland live up to their political culture of transparency and corruption free society2. Considering the legal framework of Finland, one can immediately conclude that their government is serious with combating corruption as bribery, which includes both giving and accepting bribe, is a criminal offense (Criminal Code: R1 101/19.12.89). For them money, jewelry, household, special or low interest loans, trips, honorary titles and recommendations are forms of bribes (J. Brady). Nordic countries also have the collective decision structure, wherein decisions are in the hands of a collegiate body making hard for bribery to be tolerated. In complete contrast, Haiti is a country of faltering democratic institutions and unstable political situation making it the poorest country in the Americas5. Recent reports involved government officials in the issue of drug trafficking, particularly the Presidential Security Unit and the Palace Guard4. Reported incidents of violence against anti-government demonstrators, said to be demanding to better public services like water and highways, are clear indicators of the country’s political instability. Growing counts of human rights violations and the Aristede’s government’s disrespect for the people’s freedom of expression are regarded by analysts as â€Å"political humanitarian catastrophe†(J. Regan). Another indicator of the country’s unclean government is the incident of credit union pyramid scheme involving banks which money allegedly came from drug money. It turned out later that the scheme is a scam where the government promised to pay depositors who lost $200 million dollars and so far has not yet been fulfilled6. As with Myanmar, political instability is not too obvious as that of Haiti. A political observer, in his article entitled â€Å"Magnificent, Troubled Myanmar†the writer described the country as â€Å"beautiful, tragic, natural, and chaotic place†7. In his article, he made mention of the people’s fear of the government by strictly avoiding discussion or making comments about their government even by merely consorting foreigners. In this situation, we can say that freedom and civil liberty is not honored by the government of Myanmar. As with corruption, the author stressed the severely low income of the people of the country, with as low as half a dollar per day for most citizens. Considering their 883% literacy rate, this is a tragic economic situation. Based on this situation alone, corruption, especially bribery is highly expected. In fact, Myanmar’s public servants have negative real earnings (M. Maung). According to Maung, the iniquities in Burma today are driving its people into corruption. Such iniquities include: 9the growing power and wealth of the military rulers at the expense of impoverished masses, the sub-human conditions and plight of hundreds of thousands of displaced refugees stranded along Burmas borders. Ethical and Moral Standards            In Nordic countries like Finland and Iceland, to be a public servant means to of real service to the public. Civil servants in these countries take pride of being a member of a generally honest government. For Finnish society, having a good name means a lot so they really do their best to avoid being accused of any malpractice especially that of related to dishonesty (P. Tiihonen). The Finnish society also maintained their administrative culture of creating efficient civil servants by reserving senior civil service post to lawyers or at least those who earned degrees in law10. The government of Finland also gives its civil servants the responsibility for every decision and action they make. They are left independent in their tasks and do their individual duties with the least supervisory intervention. This is the reason why Finnish government employs highly-educated individuals in the civil service posts11.            Highly in contrast is the situation in the Burmese civil society. In a country as poor as Burma, to accept bribe is a matter of practicality. Bribery is normal in their everyday life where even the service of a lineman needs bribe. Accepting bribe for them is of being resourceful7. Like the people of Burma, Haiti citizens are evidently of low morale since most of them do not take courage to express their dislike and frustrations to their government. The continuing reports of chaos and demonstrations of few brave citizens are indications that these people resort to violence just to seek for the government’s attention. Quality of Life            Finland is a moral and welfare society where almost everyone enjoys a comfortable life. With free education, pension, health care benefits and honest and dedicated civil servants, I would say that Finnish people might have been the luckiest people in the world. They enjoy their civil rights and political freedoms especially in participating in public issues. For them, everything that concerns the public must be open to all citizens. This means that they are all given the right to question any government policy or decision. Even diaries and records concerning public transactions are literally open to everybody2. Finland also takes pride of their culture of being environment friendly. For them, taking care of their natural resources are powerful means of maintaining their economic edge. As evidence Finland still tops the Environmental Sustainability Index along with Norway, Canada and Sweden11. Considering violence in Haiti and the severe poverty in Burma, it is evident that their citizens are far from enjoying a good quality of life. Political instability, rampant and open bribery, environmental degradation and disrespect of individual freedom are the frustrating realities of life of the people of Haiti and Burma. With widespread unemployment and a negative real wage for most people, Burma is a picture of a real poor country whose government does not seem to care for its people. CONCLUSION            By comparing the two least corrupt and two most corrupt countries in the world, based on the 2006 Corruption Perception Index, we were able to have an idea of how these countries differ on several areas. In our analysis of such areas we were able to draw some information that relates to their system of government and their philosophies which somehow define their stand in the issue of corruption. To summarize the major points of comparison, Nordic countries like Finland and Iceland have the following philosophies for a corruption-free society: Nordic countries strictly do not tolerate dishonesty especially corruption, a principle they call â€Å"ethicality.†Finland and other Nordic countries strictly implement transparency on public records and transactions by literally opening all pubic documents to every citizen. The government also opens its door to criticisms and regard public administration as privilege being a member of an honest and highly regarded circle of civil servants. The Finnish government’s collective decision structure makes it hard for bribery and corruption to enter into the system. Nordic countries maintain a low hierarchical structure where civil servants are highly educated and were left independent and individually responsible for their decisions and actions. This structure also encourages civil servants to maintain a good status in the society by having a clean name. Nordic countries’ legacy of egalitarian society ensures that every citizen enjoys the benefits of being a citizen of a moral and welfare society.  In contrast, this paper have presented the proofs of Haiti and Burma’s political instability, severe poverty, absence of political and civil rights and the government’s lack of concern for its people as causes and at the same time indicators of their corrupt government. By comparing the political and economic situations of the four countries, we were able to find out that corruption is not a matter of policy and laws but the strict implementation of it. Also, that poverty is not an indicator of corruption but a reflection of it. Making Finland as a perfect example, the world must make considerable efforts in implementing its laws and begin to nurture an honest society starting at the public administration. REFERENCES  1Transparency International.â€Å"Corruptions Perception Index 2006†. Retrieved on July 14, 2007 from http://www.transparency.org/publications/gcr/download_gcr#19 2â€Å"Nordics Least Corrupted Nations in the World†Retrieved on July 14, 2007 from http://www.scandinavica.com/culture/society/corruption.htm 4â€Å"Jamaica Still Leading Caribbean Drug Route†CNN News. March 01, 2003. Retrieved on July 14, 2007 from http://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/americas/03/01/drugs.caribbean.reut/index.html 5â€Å"Haiti Tops World Corruption Table†BBC News. November 06, 2006. Retrieved on July 14, 2007 from http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/6120522.stm 6â€Å"Aid To Haiti is Unfrozen, but Corruption and Chaos Remain†Retrieved on July 14, 2007 from http://www.allbusiness.com/central-america/289066-1.html?yahss=114-2974554-289066 7â€Å"Magnificent, Troubled Myanmar†Retrieved on July 14, 2007 from http://www.vagabonding.com/travelogue/000038.html 8â€Å"Myanmar†Retrieved on July 14, 2007 from http://www.infoplease.com/ipa/A0107808.html 9Maung, Maya. â€Å"The State of Burmese Economy under Military Management†Retrieved on July 14, 2007 from http://www.ibiblio.org/obl/docs/HRDU%201995/The%20state%20of%20Burmese%20Economy.htm 10Brady, Joe. â€Å"Corruption-Nearly None at All†Retrieved on July 14, 2007 from  http://virtual.finland.fi/netcomm/news/showarticle.asp?intNWSAID=25892 11Tiihonen, Paula. â€Å"Good Governance and Corruption in Finland†Retrieved on July 14 2007 from http://virtual.finland.fi/netcomm/news/showarticle.asp?intNWSAID=25891 Lambsdorff, Johann Graf. â€Å"The Corruptions Perceptions Index 2006†. Pages 324-330 Lavers ,Tom. â€Å"The Global Corruption Barometer†pg. 13 â€Å"Finland Ranks as Least Corrupt†CNN News. October 08, 2003. Retrieved on July 14 2007 from http://www.cnn.com/2003/BUSINESS/10/08/corruption.index/index.html
Saturday, October 26, 2019
Following The Article In The S :: essays research papers
Following the article in the Standard Newspaper dated 8/07/1998 on â€Å"Customer Care Improvement by Robert L Fousler (MD) Consultant s for Effective Training, I am in total agreement with him concerning the points that he has put forth concerning Customer Care within business organizations. Customer Care is an important point in management and should be carried out by any manager within any business organization irrespective of what departments he is directly of indirectly in charge of. It is important to note that a business or organization cannot effectively attract customers /clients if it cannot deal with its internal clients. In any business/organization, internal clients are the employees within the organization. Mr. Fousler mentions that in Kenya, many industries in the market and developing from a â€Å"Sellers†market into a â€Å"Buyers†market. This means that the only difference between one Seller and another will be in the quality of the service rendered to them. In addition to this, the expectations and demands of clients have been increasing and have been rapidly dynamic over the past five years and in order for you to please, and indeed, maintain a client then the services rendered to them should be adequate and ready to fulfill their needs. Most service industries, if not all, are all client/customer oriented and they depend on the client to pay for their services that are intangible. With this in mind, it is in their best interest to ensure that the services they offer are useful to the client and that the Customer Support is highly advanced and effectively operational. In reference to this, it is important for organizations, particularly those in the service industry, to realize that their future success is dependant on managers viewing their staff as the most important assets they have and that everything depends on how they work as a team. He goes on to mention that Customer Care skills should not only be offered to staff in service-oriented organizations but to all organizations in general. If people can serve one another and each department serving the other, then the Customer Service skills will be extended to the â€Å"External†customer. He also highlights the importance of Customer Care in any organization and says that it is not wise to train only certain sections in the organization since everything everyone does in the organization has an impact on the client in one way or the other.
Thursday, October 24, 2019
Culture and Health Attitudes
United States and China Health Attitudes PSYC3540 Culture, Ethnicity, and Diversity U05a1 Culture and Health Attitudes Capella University November, 2012 United States and China Health Attitudes Although every culture has different belief of being healthy, they all share the same definition. According to Mastsumoto and Juang (2013) healthy is defined as, â€Å"a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being not merely the absence of diseases or infirmity†(p. 180). Not only do it takes physically, mentally, and socially well-being but diseases free to be classified as healthy in all cultures.The United States and the China culture share many differences and similarities when it comes to the belief of being healthy. Recently, there was an interview between a twenty-five year old Chinese girl and me. This girl owned her own business. She was born and raised in China but moved to the United States when she turned twenty years old. She told me she learned that China and the United States share many differences and similarities toward being healthy. The Chinese girl told me in the interviewed in China, they mainly believe in the principle of yin and yang to be healthy.According to the Wikipedia Encyclopedia (2012), â€Å"The concept of yin and yang is also applicable to the human body; for example, the upper part of the body and the back are assigned to yang which is cold foods, while the lower parts of the body are believed to have the yin character which is hot foods. Yin and yang characterization also extends to the various body functions, and – more importantly – to disease symptoms (e. g. , cold and heat sensations are assumed to be yin and yang symptoms, respectively). †Yin and yang is what Chinese people use as a balance between good and bad health.They believe that imbalance of yin or yang is what leads to poor health. For example, if a person eats too much of yin, which might be spicy foods, they are told that the yin caused them to have poor health; this person sure drinks some herbal teas to balance him or her back to good health. Although China believes in good health, there are a lot of mental health people there. The Chinese girl also told me that there are a lot of people in China that have mental health problems – over millions. Most of the mental health problems are due to depression.There are a lot of mental health patients in China that attempts suicide. According to Li, Philips, and Cohen (2012), â€Å"More women attempt suicide than men. The most frequent causes of the attempts were interpersonal conflict (87%), psychological problems (33%), and conflict between others that affected the subject (27%)†(para 1). The Chinese girl said the main cause of the women attempting suicide is due to interpersonal conflict, psychological problems, and conflict with the other people. There are no solutions for the mental health problems in China.Not only do they have mental health p roblems but also chronic diseases. China is known to have more chronic diseases than any other diseases. The Chinese girl told me they are known to have a high risk of cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer. Summary chronic diseases now account for an estimated 80% of deaths and 70% of disability adjusted life-years lost in China (Longde, Lingzhi, Fan, Yamin, and Burton, 2005). The chronic diseases death and the disability adjusted life-years lost are very high in China.The chronic diseases are mostly related to high blood pressure and tobacco used. Most of these people that die from chronic diseases are middle-aged people. The Chinese girl talked about how the Chinese uses the yin and yang to diagnosis chronic diseases. She also stated they use herbal to try to cure these chronic diseases. I told the Chinese girl unlike China, the United States also have a theory they use to become healthy. I told her the United States believe in the influence of the biome dical model of health.The biomedical model of health is where the doctors look at parts of the body to figure out what is wrong with the body and fix it (Helman, 1991). An example of biomedical model of health would be a person going to the doctor because he or she is having chest pain. First, the doctor will do an x-ray on the chest. Secondly, the doctor will diagnosis from the x-ray of the person had a chest or a heart attack. Last, the doctor will give the person some medicine to cure his or her chest pain. Mental health is more common in the United States than in China.The Chinese girl stated that she read that over twenty million people in the United State have mental health (Manderscheid and Henderson, 2004); which is more than China. The age of mental health patients in the United States is over 18. Although, in the United Sates, most women suffer from mental health than men, mental is not due to depression of attempt suicide but depression of mood disorders. There is no cure for mental health problems in the United States. Not only is the United States common known for mental health problems but also diseases that lead to death.I told the girl in the interview that the United States three death diseases are heart disease, cancer, and stroke. Heart disease is the first leading death in the United States. Heart disease occurs mostly in men than women; it is mostly in older people (Fang, Kate, and Nora, 2011). Heart diseases are mostly could by smoking and not eating healthy. To cut the heart disease status, a person should exercise, do not smoke or quit smoking, and eat the right foods such as fruits and vegetables. Cancer is the second leading death in the United States.According to Klabunde, Brown, Ballard-Barbash, White, Thompson, Plescia, & King, (2012), â€Å"Each year, approximately 350,000 persons are diagnosed with breast, cervical, or colorectal cancer in the United States, and nearly 100,000 die from these diseases†(para. 1). There are over twenty-five percent of people in the United States diagnosed with cancer. The cause of most cancers is unknown. There is no cure of cancer. Stroke is the third leading death in the United States. Fang, Kate, M. and Mary (2012) stated that over fifty percent of the United States has been diagnosed with a stroke.Stroke is known to be cause by high blood pressure, stress, high cholesterol, and smoke. The cures to be stroke free is to exercise, eat healthy, and do not smoke. In conclusion, the interviewed between the Chinese girl and I was to help realize that there are a lot of differences and similarities of being healthy in each culture. China and the United States have theories of being healthy; they just have different theories – China theory is called yin and yang while the United States theory is called biomedical model of health. Both China and the United States have mental problems; the United States just have more.Another example of the cultures similarities are th ey both have diseases that cause death such as heart disease and cancer. Reference Fang, J. , Kate, M. S. , & Nora, L. K. (2011). Prevalence of coronary heart disease – united states, 2006-2010. (). Atlanta, United States, Atlanta: U. S. Center for Disease Control. Retrieved from http://search. proquest. com/docview/903302820? accountid=27965 Fang, J. , Kate, M. S. , & Mary, G. G. (2012). Prevalence of stroke – united states, 2006-2010. (). Atlanta, United States, Atlanta: U. S. Center for Disease Control. Retrieved from ttp://search. proquest. com/docview/1020131364? accountid=27965 Helman, C. G. (1991). Limits of biomedical explanation. Lancet, 337(8749), 1080. Klabunde, C. N. , PhD. , Brown, M. , Ballard-Barbash, R. , White, M. C. , ScD. , Thompson, T. , Plescia, M. , & King, S. C. , M. D. (2012). Cancer screening – united states, 2010. (). Atlanta, United States, Atlanta: U. S. Center for Disease Control. Retrieved from http://search. proquest. com/docview/9 22348301? accountid=27965 Manderscheid, R. W. , & Henderson, M. J. (2004). Mental health, united states, 2002 executive ummary. Administration and Policy in Mental Health, 32(1), 49-49. Retrieved from http://search. proquest. com/docview/211057805? accountid=27965 Matsumoto, D. , & Juang, L. (2013). Culture and psychology (5th ed. ). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Cengage Learning. Li, X. , Phillips, M. R. , & Cohen, A. (2012). Indepth interviews with 244 female suicide attempters and their associates in northern china: Understanding the process and causes of the attempt. Crisis: The Journal Of Crisis Intervention And Suicide Prevention, 33(2), 66-72. doi:10. 1027/0227-5910/a000108Longde, W. , Lingzhi, K. , Fan, W. , Yamin, B. , & Burton, R. (2005). Preventing chronic diseases in China. Lancet, 366(9499), 1821-1824. doi:10. 1016/S0140-6736(05)67344-8 Traditional Chinese medicine. (2012). In Wikipedia. The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved November 8, 2012, from http://en. wikipedia. org/w/index. php? title= Traditional_ Chinese_medicine&oldid=521839625 Zheng, S. , Song, M. , Wu, L. , Yang, S. , Shen, J. , Lu, X. & Wang, W. (2010). China: Public health genomics. Public Health Genomics, 13(5), 269-275. doi: http://dx. doi. org/10. 1159/000240969
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Rbs – Case Study Example
Case Study Example Section I: Summary of Background and Facts Reliance Baking Soda was discovered by James Stewart Augusta in 1915. He called it the â€Å"miracle compound. †It was founded to serve as a leavening agent in baked goods to let them rise properly. With the invent of self-rising flour and instant cake mixes, baking soda’s original use importance declined. With this decline, Stewart Corporation started promoting baking soda for a myriad of other uses, which include household cleaner, laundry aid, and deodorizer.Reliance baking soda holds a 70% market share. They produce three box sizes, 8oz, 1lb, and 5lbs. The 1lb box holds almost 50% of the sales volume. Reliance has excellent brand awareness and customer loyalty. Stewart Corporation is comprised of four divisions. Reliance Baking Soda (RBS) is in the household division. Anna Regnante was promoted Domestic Brand Director for RBS. She was placed in charge of increasing Reliance’s profit by 10% in 2008 . The Household Division is planning to introduce two new product launches in 2008.According to Chris Dale, Managing Director for Stewart’s Household Products Division, they need the incremental profit increase from RBS to â€Å"fund the marketing launch expenses for the new products. †(Quelch & Beckham, 2009, p1) Regnante needs to figure out how she can generate the required profit growth for the old-fashioned, mainstay product of baking soda. Section II: Statement of the core problems Regnante’s core problem is figuring out what marketing mix to use to increase Reliance Baking Soda’s profit by 10% in 2008. One of the main problems with RBS is the current lack of advertising.Regnante’s predecessor had cut the consumer promotion budget in half. Advertising is a key component in making sure the brand’s product is marketed to its consumers. RBS did not properly advertise the significance for what all baking soda could be used to do, which inc ludes outdoor cleaning, baby care, pet care, and a myriad of other things. RBS had established brand awareness and loyalty with customers; but, they needed to educate the customers and position the brand through advertisements which can give RBS more of a competitive advantage. Decreasing the amount of money allocated owards advertising was not a wise choice, especially, when the company needed to revamp how baking soda was marketed. The trade promotions were effective in moving the product; however, they accounted for around 73% of total sales. This led to the company only selling around 25% of RBS at regular prices, which could be leaving RBS a lot less profitable. The trade was overbuying during the promotional periods, which caused inconsistencies in regular purchasing patterns of the product. Another issue was with the cooperative advertising program.Regnante was concerned that RBS was not getting sufficient advertising in exchange for the trade promotions. In fact, she found t hat â€Å"Advertising trade support for RBS is much lower than our branded competitors. †(Quelch & Beckham, 2009, p. 5) RBS also rarely advertised in retail stores, magazines, or television commercials. If RBS was more diverse with advertising, then, they would be able to capture their target audience in other ways. Section III: Secondary Problems Reliance Baking Soda lacked in providing different promotional discounts to grocery stores.By not providing promotional discounts for grocery stores, the store managers did not have a creative way to attract customers into the store to purchase baking soda. Grocery store chains thought that the Reliance Baking Soda needed to market their products better because baking soda was a boring product. Reliance Baking Soda does not manufacture for private label brands. Therefore, their market share decreased. This lack of going after the private label market has caused the RBS to lose 5% of its market share to private label brands.Reliance Baking Soda was the market leader, so, if they were able to manufacture private labels brands they would have not loss 5% market share; and its overall market share could have increase. Also, a problem existed with trade promotion events due to the fact that the company did not negotiate or set a price with the trade on what to sale its products for when they were purchased during a trade promotion. By not having set promotional retail prices, the trade was allowed to stock up on inventory at reduced prices. They did not have to extend the savings to the consumer.This ultimately caused a loss in profit for RBS. To make matters worse, these trade promotions often overlapped with consumer promotions. Therefore, it is hard to tell what the actual real incremental profits for the promotions were. Section IV: Constraints and Limitations Besides the problems listed in the above sections, Reliance Baking Soda is constrained and limited by the fact that baking soda is in the mature part of its life cycle. When a product reaches maturity, there is no room for traditional growth. The product must discover new uses.RBS is not a â€Å"wow†product that can be categorized as a necessity; therefore, it must be aggressive in its advertising in order to stimulate further purchase. The product was old-fashioned and needed some ‘refurbishment’ to make it attractive to the target market. The need for RBS nose-dived, following the introduction of self-rising flour and instant cake mixes. Naturally, it would be cheaper for bakeries to move to baking soda and reduce costs. This was a very big setback for RBS, as the market leader and the largest provider of the â€Å"miracle compound. Randall Todd, an Account Manager, for several of the major grocery chains, stated that even though the product was physically placed on the store shelves, it was not â€Å"visible†to the consumer. It was a very slow moving product, which needed â€Å"a lot of push marketi ng to stimulate trade interest. †(Quelch & Beckham, 2009, p. 2). Randall further observed that it was â€Å"not a natural traffic builder, it does not have high turnover, and it is boring. †(Quelch & Beckham, 2009, p. 2). RBS needed promotional methods which would turn the tide in their favor. According to Exhibit 3, RBS had â€Å"low advertising recall. There was greater need to refocus marketing communication efforts. Another limitation was the continual price increase for baking soda over the last 5 years. The price changes were not good because it had a negative impact on the numbers of cases that were shipped to the stores. This could lead to stores choosing a competitor’s brand or selling more of its private label brand. The final limitation is that RBS being a mature product is sold on the push system. The household sales force is paid based on quarterly sales quotas. This allows the sales staff to wait on trade promotions to sell the product.Therefore, they are not concerned with the day to day sales of RBS. Section V: Alternative Solutions Reliance Baking Soda must increase profit in its household division by 10% in 2008. In deciding how to do this, Regnante must decide what to do about the trade promotions, consumer promotions and advertising. Since baking soda is a mature product, a push system has been implemented at RBS using a quarterly quota system. In order to deal with the problem of 73% of factory shipments being sold using trade promotions, a new monthly quota system could be placed in service.This would make the sales force focus on selling baking soda all throughout the year, not just when promotions are in place. Another option is to totally revamp the co-op advertising reimbursement system. At this time retailers are not promoting the product with the same size ads of RBS’s competitors. RBS offers a 5% of invoice incentive for any ad. RBS should offer 50% of the ad cost up to a certain percentage of the invoi ce for a purchase made within 45 days of the ad. The ad also needs to be submitted for approval prior to the ad being placed.RBS needs to make sure that their co-op advertising plan states what an acceptable ad size is. This will encourage the retailers to do local advertising for RBS. The third option would be to increase the advertising and consumer promotions through event advertising. With this option, RBS could focus on important events like Earth Day. They could create a whole marketing campaign around this event and others like it. Another option would be to mount an internet campaign on the alternative uses of baking soda. This alternative would not involve huge cash outlays.RBS could create blogs on websites as well as have a complete interactive website devoted to helping the consumer understand the myriad of uses for baking soda. The final option is to focus on pushing the product through trade promotions. RBS could offer 10-15% off total invoice price several times durin g the year to make sure that our product is being shipped. With this increased trade promotion, RBS could list a lower suggested retail price on the promotional packages, so that stores will have to pass the savings along to their customers. This would alleviate the problem of purchasing simply to increase revenue.Section V: Implementation of Best Alternative The best solution is to take a holistic marketing approach and incorporate a marketing plan that uses trade promotions, consumer promotions and advertising in conjunction with one another. This approach should focus on event marketing for its major advertising expenditures. One such event that lends itself to the promotion of the different uses for baking soda is Earth Day. With more and more of the American population focusing on Eco-friendly products, RBS can showcase baking soda as being a one stop wonder.RBS should partner with Earth Day events and hand out 2oz samples with pamphlets on how baking soda is an environmentally safe cleaning agent. It should list all of the possible uses of the eco-friendly baking soda. The pamphlet could, also, reference RBS’s Eco-pack, which will include a $1. 00 off rebate. RBS can package 1 lb boxes of baking soda in twin packs called Eco-packs. The packaging should have new ideas of how to use baking soda in environmental friendly ways. Since this is a special packaging product, RBS should offer a trade promotion on the twin pack only for the six weeks starting the first of March.This promotion should consist of buy eleven cases, get one free. During this time RBS should also beef up television, print and internet advertising, which all should include the environmental aspect of the product. To coincide with the company’s marketing efforts, RBS should offer an incentive for the trade to promote RBS through advertising. RBS could pay for 50% of the advertisement cost attributable the RBS product, up to 5% of a total invoice purchase within 45 days of the advertisement this promotion would run through the entire month of April.Other events that could be marketed include the Start of Summer, Fire Prevention Month and the Holiday Season. For the start of summer, RBS should focus its advertising efforts on its uses for outdoor cleaning, pool, camping and weed removal. This is not a traditional high volume time; therefore, they should also use their trade partners by offering the same advertising incentives that were offered during the Earth Day promotion during the months of May and June. Since RBS can be used to put out certain fires. The company should focus on fire safety and prevention during the month of October.RBS could put a pamphlet and a $. 25 coupon in the bags that children traditionally bring home from school during this month. The pamphlet should focus on key fire safety initiatives and highlight RBS commitment to fire prevention and uses of RBS in fire situations. During the first three weeks in October, RBS should offer a trade promotion of 10% off invoice prices on all sizes. This will help the trade partners get ready for the upcoming holiday season. The final event marketing campaign of the year should focus on the holiday season and getting your home in tip-top shape for the holiday’s in a health conscious manner.RBS should again partner with other Household Division products to advertise nationally how to get your home ready for the holidays. This ad should run in the October/November editions of top Women’s magazines. It should also offer a contest for a $10,000 kitchen makeover. This contest will be open to the purchasers of the products advertised in the magazines. This will also be advertised on the internet and through POP displays in the stores. During the months of October and November, RBS should offer its co-op advertising promotion as defined in the Earth Day section.Section VI: Justification Since Reliance is in the maturity stage of its life cycle, it is important fo r them to focus on extending the usage rate and repositioning itself in the market. According to Shaeffer (2009), â€Å"As a market matures, the customer buys solutions and not products. †Therefore, it becomes more vital to focus advertising efforts on new ways of using baking soda. By focusing on event marketing, Reliance can help the consumers understand all the possible uses of traditional baking soda.This increased knowledge will drive the sale of baking soda to the levels needed to meet the 10% profit increase of the household division. To increase the profit by 10% the Profit before SG&A, Overhead and Taxes needs to be $20,587,000. The event marketing campaign proposed will increase the profit to $20,974,000, which well exceeds the 10% increase. The 2008 Profit and Loss Budget is listed as Exhibit 1. This budget was prepared based upon historical cost and sales data to gauge the response level of both the trade and consumer promotions. Exhibit 1 Reliance Baking SodaPro fit and Loss Budget For the Year Ended December 31, 2008 | | | | | |2007E |2008 | |Manufacturer's Price Per Case | | | | | |8oz | | | |7. 2 |7. 2 | | |1lb. | | | |12. 02 |12. 02 | | |5lb. | | | |54. 28 |54. 8 | | | | | | | | | |Factory Shipments (in 000's of cases) | | | | |8oz | | | |714 |883 | | |1lb | | | |1226 |1531 | | |5lb | | | |648 |660 | | | | | | | | | |Variable Manufacturing Cost Per Case | | | | |8oz. | | | |3. 38 |3. 38 | | |1 lb. | | | |5. 58 |5. 58 | | |5 lbs. | | | |24. 8 |24. | | | | | | | | | |Gross Sales | | | | 55,051 | 60,585 | |Variable Manufacturing Cost | | 25,325 | 27,896 | |Gross Margin | | | | 29,726 | 32,690 | | | | | | | | | |Advertising | | | | | | | |TV | | | 3,815 | 4,300 | | |Print | | | | 694 | 1,000 | | |Internet | | | | 248 | 300 | |Total Advertising | | | 4,757 | 5,600 | |PR/Media Production Cost | | 198 | 297 | |Consumer Promotion | | | 551 | 839 | |Trade Promotion | | | 5,505 | 4,980 | | | | | | | | | |Total Marketing Expense | | | 11,011 | 11, 716 | | | | | | | | | |Profit before SG&A, Overhead and taxes | $ 18,715 | $ 20,974 | Works Cited Shaeffer, Lee. (2009, October 14). Maximize Product Profitability as the Market Matures. Product Management Library of Knowledge. Retrieved October 1, 2010, from http://www. aipmm. com/html/newsletter/archives/000359. php
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
Address the Problem of Global Warming
Address the Problem of Global Warming Free Online Research Papers The numbers are striking. No region of the world will be unaffected if Global Warming continues to increasingly grow. Yet day after day people take actions that can change the earth and its climate in significant ways. Many people just stand motionless as the wave of climate change becomes more apparent. The IPCC predicts that during the next century, the average rate of warming will be greater than anything seen in the last 10,000 years. Global sea levels could rise by at least fifteen and perhaps as much as ninety-five centimeters. Surface temperatures could increase by between 1.0 and 3.5 degrees Celsius. With climate change there will be an even greater complexity with water resources in every branch of the globe. Nineteen countries are under strain for deficiency of water. This figure is expected to double by the year 2025 even if the climate does not change. The present rate of extinction for birds, animals and plants is already between 50 and 100 times the natural one. If the current rate of deforestation in the tropics continues this would go up, potentially, to 1,000 to 10,000 times the natural extinction rate within the next 30 years. If global warming occurs, every thing and everyone will be affected in some way. An increase of just 0.2% in the solar output could have the same affect as doubling the carbon dioxide in the Earths atmosphere. On average most places will be warmer which will cause changes in the quantity and pattern of rain. Everything in the natural environment will all be affected. If a blanket of air did not surround the Earth, it would be much too cold for human habitation. Earth’s atmosphere acts as a shield. Small amounts of carbon dioxide and other gases in the atmosphere, help to retain heat in a crucial process known as the greenhouse effect. Sunlight passes through the atmosphere and strikes the Earth, some of the light is reflected and some of the light is absorbed. The absorbed light warms the surface of the Earth. The heated surface then radiates infrared light into the atmosphere, where small amounts of carbon dioxide keep the radiation from escaping. Since prehistoric times, carbon dioxide has helped to regulate the temperature of the Earth. Due to the burning of large amounts of coal, oil, and natural gas, the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has nearly doubled over the past one hundred years. As we all know, trees remove carbon dioxide from the air as part of their natural processes. As human being cut down forests, the capacity of trees to remove carbon dioxide from the air is diminished. It is believed that as we continue to burn large amounts of fossil fuels, and deplete our forests, the greenhouse effect will result in Global Warming. Scientists warn that the Earths average surface temperature could increase by five degrees Celsius over the next century A warming trend of only a few degrees could cause a melting of the polar ice caps, resulting in increased ocean levels and flooding of coastal cities. United Nations programs and organizations actively focus on global warming to stifle the ever more evident battle of Global Warming. The ratification of the Kyoto Protocol, an international agreement that aims to diminish the discharge of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, has shed new light into the ongoing battle of Global Warming. Under the 1997 protocol, 38 industrialized nations are committed to cut their greenhouse gas emissions to an average of 5.2 percent below 1990 levels by the period 2008-2012. The United States, the largest emitter of greenhouse gases, pledged to reduce its emissions to seven percent below 1990 levels, while the European Union pledged to reduce its emissions by eight percent below its 1990 levels. Developed countries have been previously responsible for the majority of the Earth’s greenhouse-gas emissions. It is enormously critical that industrialized countries should carry on with their treaties and contracts to pave the way on climate change. Developed countries should serve as a model to under industrialized countries. â€Å"The ultimate objective of the Convention on Climate Change is to achieve a stable level of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere that will avoid dangerous interference with the climate system. Even stabilization at a little above present level will require significant cuts in global emissions next century. The dilemma facing us is how to achieve that at the same time as improving living standards throughout the developed and developing worlds.†Trading emissions credits, received by companies that surpass authorized emissions cuts, is one of the systems encouraged by the protocol for combating global warming. But the Kyoto Protocol will not take effect until it is ratified by fifty-five percent of the nations emitting at least fifty-five percent of six greenhouse gases that trap the sun’s heat close the Earth’s surface. A report commissioned by the United States Department of Energy demonstrates that â€Å"Companies can reduce their emissions through energy efficiency measures and save costs. Capital turnover during the next 15 years will allow industry to introduce cleaner technology with lower emissions at little extra cost.†Lower emissions are often united with other environmental enhancements, such as improved air quality. â€Å"Emissions trading has become the policy of choice for addressing climate change in nations around the globe, finds a new report from the Pew Center on Global Climate Change. The report concludes that, while the greenhouse gas emissions market remains fragmented, trading activity has increased around the world over the last five years.†Many major corporations are already indicating that emissions’ trading is a very moneymaking and lucrative means to ease greenhouse gas ejection. Some authors estimate that â€Å"approximately 65 greenhouse gas trades for quantities above 1,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide have occurred worldwide since 1996.†This outline includes trades of actual emissions cutbacks as well as financially based reductions. The authors also warn that local and national trading programs are working under different rules, which could delay the formation of a united market and boost the costs of trading. â€Å"With the level of greenhouse gas emissions in the Asia-Pacific region increasing, measures to curb the effects of these emissions are urgently needed. A model†¦is being developed to coordinate efforts for greenhouse gas emissions forecasting, the analysis of the results of measures to curb emissions, and the evaluation of the effects of global warming. Forecasts on global warming are being used to develop another model to evaluate the phenomenons effect on water resources, plant life, human health, and agriculture.†President George Bushs new global warming plan was announced on February 14 of 2002. Officials at the World Resources Institute declared that the plan was said to increase greenhouse gas emissions by fourteen percent, which was later followed by some skeptics as misleading information. Certain organizations stress the need for an accurate system that institutes a suitable emissions foundation for greenhouse gases. One such program fulfilling the concept and that has been used in the past is voluntary emissions reporting. Reporting programs that not only attract practical companies, but also draw basic fundamental corporations, should be considered a necessary dynamic characteristic. A strategy by which communities seek economic development and benefit the local environment is known as sustainable development. Societies have found that they are creating, rather than solving, environmental problems by traditional approach. Sustainable development offers long lasting solutions. The future depends on how well we balance social, economic, and environmental goals, and this is what sustainable development suggests â€Å"Sustainability refers to the ability of a society, ecosystem, or any such ongoing system to continue functioning into the indefinite future without being forced into decline through exhaustion. . . of key resources. With the many questions and unanswered problems that Global Warming encompasses, market-based measures and other actions of the sort must be achieved in order to establish safety and security on Earth. In the world’s pursuit of economic growth, we must treat our world with pure motives with chaste solutions. It is absolutely mandatory that the nations of the world work multilaterally to not only address the problem of Global Warming, but also resolve and decipher the crisis that it withholds. Marco D’Angelo Research Papers on Address the Problem of Global WarmingRelationship between Media Coverage and Social andThe Spring and AutumnGenetic EngineeringMind TravelDefinition of Export QuotasPETSTEL analysis of IndiaAnalysis Of A Cosmetics Advertisement19 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraEffects of Television Violence on ChildrenIncorporating Risk and Uncertainty Factor in Capital
Monday, October 21, 2019
African Women essays
African Women essays The second largest continent in the world, Africa is huge, complex land mass occupied by thousands of tribes and nations. West Africa, from which most slaves came, contains tremendous differences in culture, language, and political and economic structure. An African woman could have expected to participate to participate in the economic life of the community out side her own home. Along the coast of West Africa, which most slaves came, women were often traders, an especially important role in an area where the economy was still primarily mercantile rather than industrial. An African woman could also have expected to own and control some of her own property after marriage without having to get permission from her husband. In many areas women could buy land or goods. Women in all parts of the world had an affect through their husband and sons but African women had formal structure through which to work, making decisions and effecting changes that have an impact on the entire tribe or n ation. In those days, African women had somewhat more power and autonomy than women in European countries. But how far did their power reach? (Shining Thread Of Hope Pg 10) Women in Africa could trade, own property, and sometimes collectively influence political decisions, but they could not exercise power over men. In most places, for example, women, girls, young children were not allowed to eat until the men and boys had finished, and they were forbidden to eat certain highly nutrition food. An African woman was accustomed to being resourceful, determined, and somewhat independent economically. She probably had all the qualities to a greater degree than the average young woman in Belgium or France. To that degree, the enslaved African woman had a cultural advantage, a background that would help her survive in the New World if she brought it with her. Slavery was a great eraser, and enslaved Africans came to northern farms and southern plantations as bla...
Sunday, October 20, 2019
Human Body Project Ideas for Biology and Behavior
Human Body Project Ideas for Biology and Behavior Human body science projects and studies allow us to get a better understanding of the human body. Not only do we gain an improved knowledge of anatomical functions, but we gain a greater understanding of human behavior as well. The following human body project ideas provide suggestions for topics that can be explored through experimentation. Behavioral Project Ideas Does your sense of smell alter your sense of taste?Which sense (taste, smell, touch) is best for identifying foods?Does music affect blood pressure?Does fear affect blood pressure? (Fear Science Project - Sample)How does caffeine affect the body?Does exercise affect memory retention?Does music affect hand-eye coordination?Does the weather affect a persons mood?Does playing video games affect a persons heart rate?Do colors affect a persons mood? (Colors and Mood Project - Sample)Does gender affect reaction time?Is yawning contagious?Does smiling affect a persons mood?Does human behavior change during a full moon?Does room temperature affect concentration?Does sight affect the ability to determine sound direction? Biological Project Ideas Does a persons BMI affect blood pressure?Do all people have the same normal body temperature?Which type of exercises increases muscle growth the most?How do various types of acid (phosphoric acid, citric acid, etc.) affect tooth enamel?Do a persons heart rate and blood pressure vary during the day?Does exercise affect lung capacity?Does blood vessel elasticity affect blood pressure?Is calcium necessary for bone strength?Does light intensity affect peripheral vision?Does eye color affect a persons ability to distinguish colors?Do different stressors ( heat, cold, etc.) affect nerve sensitivity?Do food smells affect saliva production? Human Body Information Need additional information about the human body for your project? These resources will help you get started: The human body is made up of several organ systems that work together as one unit. Find out what you need to know about organ systems.Have you ever wondered why certain sounds make you cringe? Learn about your five senses and how they work.The brain is a fascinating organ that directs a multitude of functions in the body. Discover how sweets can alter your brain, why swinging makes you fall asleep faster, and how video games affect brain function.Want to learn some interesting facts about the body? Discover 10 Fascinating Facts About Your Heart, 12 Facts About Your Blood, 10 Facts About Cells, and 8 Different Types of Body Cells. More Science Project Ideas For more information and ideas for science projects, see 30 Ideas for Animal Experiments and Projects, 22 Ideas for Science Experiments Using Plants, 8 Types of Biology-Based Science Fair Projects, Scientific Method Steps, and How to Write a Bibliography for a Science Fair Project. Science Models Constructing models is a fun and exciting way to learn about science. Try making a model of the lungs or making a DNA model using candy. It is important to note that just constructing a model is not an experiment. Models should be used to enhance your science project.
Saturday, October 19, 2019
Performance Measures Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words
Performance Measures - Assignment Example spite encouraging a comparison of income generated to assets used, Caplan (2014) argues that this measurement could encourage focus on short-term as opposed to long term financial performance and deferment of asset replacement. The second measure is residual income, RI. RI refers to the operating income earned by an investment center above the minimum desired return on the assets invested (Needles et al., 2014). This is a dollar amount of profit that remains after the subtraction of the targeted income for an investment center. RI is a significant measure because it enhances goal congruence (Jiambalvo, 2011). This follows the fact that RI encourages managers to invest so as to post higher RI values. Of these two performance measurements, RI would be considered as more important. Whereas both measures determine performance, RI incorporates the rate of return that an organization expects from invested capital (Needles et al., 2014). Thus, any investment with a return exceeding the minimum needed rate of return yields a positive RI. As such, RI measures an important aspect of performance, the level of investment, which ROI omits, making it a more important measure of
Friday, October 18, 2019
Describe three controversies that led to the distinctions between Essay
Describe three controversies that led to the distinctions between Orthodox and Western Christianity - Essay Example On the other hand, the bishop of Rome governed the western group implying its administration was under a single bishop. As a result, basic theological differences emerged between the eastern and the western Christians (Vidmar 47). Separation between the Roman Catholic Church rather the western Christianity and the Eastern Orthodox Christianity was primarily based on deviation by Rome from the seven ecumenical councils’ original conclusions. This included the universal papal supremacy claim. Similarly, â€Å"Filoque controversy†is noted as another contributing factor to the difference between the two religions. The insertion of the phrase into the Nicene Creed changed the implication of the Holy Spirit source. Rather than in the usual perception of its origin from the Father, the â€Å"Filogue†which meant from the son, changed the Creed to imply both the Father and the Son were the source of the Holy Spirit. Despite the western emphasis of Christ’s divinity, the Orthodox Christians were against the alterations and the emerging meaning after the insertion. According to the Eastern Christians, the Father defines the origin of both the Son and the Holy Spirit (Ware 56). The concept of â€Å"Sola Scripture†is another area that distinguishes the western Christianity from the Orthodox. According to the western Christians, the â€Å"Scripture alone†rather the â€Å"Sola Scripture†claim that God’s word can be clearly comprehended and construed by an individual believer. Therefore, it is sufficient to be defined as the final authority under the western Christianity; however, the Orthodox posits that the Holy Scripture in the Holy tradition are of equal importance and value. Their definition of the Holy Scripture stems from the definition and interpretation affirmed in the first seven ecumenical council’s teachings by the church. In addition, the difference in theological approaches explains the distinction that exists between the Western Christianity and
Assignment 2 Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2
2 - Assignment Example In the current methodology of commissions for the front-line salesmen, the annual break-even point in dollar sales and in unit sales for Shop 48 is sales of 12,500 pair of shoes for gross sales of $375,000. Appendix 1 shows a graph from zero to seventeen thousand units sold in a given year, with both fixed and variable expenses taken into account. Based upon projected annual sales of 17,000 pairs of shoes, potential profit for Shop 48 would be $54,000 on annual sales of $510,000. Another question raised was what the profit or loss would be on 12,000 pairs yearly. After expenses, the store would realize a net loss of $6,000. In the next circumstance, the company is toying with the idea of offering the store manager of Shop 48 an incentive commission of $0.75 (seventy-five cents) per pair of shoes, leaving the salespersons’ commission intact. What would this added commission have on the break-even point in dollar sales and in unit sales? It is clearly shown that the break even point would indeed rise considerably. Technically there would be no â€Å"break even point†, for at 13,333 pairs the shop would be operating at a loss of $3.75 and one more pair (13,334) would give them a net profit of $7.50. Either way, sales would have to be roughly $400,000 per annum to achieve a profit, or an increase of $25,000 in gross sales annually. As an another option to the situation above, what if the store manager was given fifty cents commission on each pair of shoes sold beyond the break-even point? Their question on this was what the shops net operating income would be based upon 15,000 pairs of shoes sold annually. This would include the data as discussed for current operations in that 12,500 pair of shoes for gross sales of $375,000 is the BE point. With this, 15,000 pairs of shoes would give the store gross sales of $450,000 annually. With the added expense of the fifty cent commission on 2,500 pairs net profit would then be
Thursday, October 17, 2019
Aotmic Bomb Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words
Aotmic Bomb - Essay Example According to Colonel Paul Tibbets, The man who dropped the bomb. The original plans were to have the bomb dropped in Germany but the idea was dropped after Germany surrendered. Japan was not the primary target. The decision to drop the bomb to Japan was considered after Germany surrendered (Studs). Critics also argue that there was an element of racism, why was the bomb drooped on Japan and not Germany, was it because greater precautions were exercised in considering to drop the bomb on Germany which was a "white" nation and less care was taken against Japan as they were "yellow". If America really wanted to use the bomb in Germany then, the Manhattan project would have been accelerated (Edward). The assertion that the USA bombed Japan to end war wasn't correct but a war gimmick to justify the massacre of innocent civilians asks (Tony). The USA had to show its rival, the USSR that they were capable of destroying a city completely. To prove to this the bomb had to be tested on human beings. The Japanese squadrons were fighter jets, piloted by Japanese suicide pilots in an effort to fight the Americans. These suicide pilots died in attempt to bomb American ships and military bases. In this context it wasn't necessary to bomb Japan as their weapons and military equipment were inferior.
Dissertation Research question (5% of words), Dissertation thesis Essay
Dissertation Research question (5% of words), Dissertation thesis argument (10% of words), chapter outline (85% of words) - Essay Example e controversy arises out of the fact that the UNSC’s authority for sanctions are contained in Article 41 of the UN Charter 1945 and only applies to states.3 In this regard, non-state actors against whom targeted sanctions and blacklisting are directed do not have direct remedies against the UNSC.4 At the same time, the UNSC does not have direct authority over non-state actors who are legitimate sources of threats to international peace and security, and must therefore, rely on states to give effect to its blacklisting and targeted sanctions.5 This study is important because the need for targeted sanctions and blacklisting is obviated by the threat that individual non-state actors pose to international peace and security. Arguably, non-state actors, especially terrorist organizations, pose the most serious threat to international peace and security.6 By virtue of Article 24 of the UN Charter, the UNSC is responsible for maintaining international peace and security.7 It has been argued however, that the UNSC faces a crisis in legitimacy because its institutional framework is incompatible with today’s security threats.8 Thus the enforceability and in turn, the legitimacy of UNSC targeted sanctions is the focus of this research. This research will focus on the institutional legitimacy of the UNSC as a whole by focusing on its authority to impose targeted sanctions against non-state actors and its blacklisting mandate relative to non-state actors. This research will be divided into three chapters as outlined below. Chapter 1: This chapter will cover the normative and empirical implications of targeting sanctions and blacklisting. This chapter will focus on three questions necessary for establishing the thesis argument: what are targeted sanctions and blacklisting? Why are they important or necessary? What is the UNSC’s authority for implementing targeted sanctions and blacklisting? Are targeted sanctions and black listing proportionate to the ends that
Wednesday, October 16, 2019
Aotmic Bomb Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words
Aotmic Bomb - Essay Example According to Colonel Paul Tibbets, The man who dropped the bomb. The original plans were to have the bomb dropped in Germany but the idea was dropped after Germany surrendered. Japan was not the primary target. The decision to drop the bomb to Japan was considered after Germany surrendered (Studs). Critics also argue that there was an element of racism, why was the bomb drooped on Japan and not Germany, was it because greater precautions were exercised in considering to drop the bomb on Germany which was a "white" nation and less care was taken against Japan as they were "yellow". If America really wanted to use the bomb in Germany then, the Manhattan project would have been accelerated (Edward). The assertion that the USA bombed Japan to end war wasn't correct but a war gimmick to justify the massacre of innocent civilians asks (Tony). The USA had to show its rival, the USSR that they were capable of destroying a city completely. To prove to this the bomb had to be tested on human beings. The Japanese squadrons were fighter jets, piloted by Japanese suicide pilots in an effort to fight the Americans. These suicide pilots died in attempt to bomb American ships and military bases. In this context it wasn't necessary to bomb Japan as their weapons and military equipment were inferior.
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
Expatriates and the problems associated with international diemensions Essay
Expatriates and the problems associated with international diemensions - Essay Example The interpersonal relationships with the host country staff and cultural differences in the working environment in the foreign location also pose a problem for the expatriates to function at their best. Thus the consideration of several critical contextual, situational, cultural and economic factors relating to expatriation both from the perspective of the host country as well as the parent country is of vital importance to ensure an efficient expatriate performance. On the basis of the feedbacks for the Emaill Survey received from the current and previous expatriate employees of Officecomm, this paper presents a detailed report on the HR problems and issues concerning the expatriate employees. The paper also makes certain recommendations for the improvement of the expatriate employee performance based by reducing the impact of these issues on the analysis of the feedbacks. Black (1988) opines that "International assignments create significant demands that often exceed the knowledge, skills, and abilities of the expatriate" The expatriate's assumptions regarding the social interactions both in the workplace as well as with outsiders do not hold any real ground as he/she is completely alien in the host country. This gives rise to specific challenges in fulfilling his/her assignment successfully. Such challenges may relate to discharging the functions of leading, communicating and imparting technical knowledge to the host country employees.(Tsang, 2001; Wang, Tong, & Koh, 2004). Apart from the social issues there are other contextual and cultural issues the host country may pose to the expatriates. Differences in Languages, communication and feedback methods, other behavioural issues and differences in the management styles as compared to those in the parent country may hinder the performance of the expatriate in the host country. 3.0 Issues Concerning the Expatriate Employees of Officecomm: Apart from the above general issues which affect the expatriate executive performance in Officecomm there are other firm-specific issues which are detailed below: 3.1 Gloomy Future on Repatriation: One of the important but unexpected issues in the global business environment is the repatriation. Repatriation is the reverse process of expatriation. It may be noted that the same characteristic features that made an employee becomes an expatriate make the returning back for them complicated due to the cultural shock they face on the reverse direction (Frazee, 1997; Allard, 1996). Harris et al. (2004) note that despite the importance of international assignments, organisations are not yet able to fully evaluate the benefits associated with their use. Clague and Krupp (1978) suggested that international assignments should be perceived not just as a means to solve specific job crises overseas, but as an integrated part of the employees' careers. Quite naturally the employee before becoming an expatriat
Monday, October 14, 2019
Stereotypes in the Classroom Essay Example for Free
Stereotypes in the Classroom Essay Page 1 â€Å"If Americans are to embrace diversity, the conscious and unconscious expressions of racism (sexism) within our society must be identified and done away with. †Teachers must prepare themselves and the children for the ever changing challenge of interacting and communicating with diverse races. Reduction of fear, ignorance, and personal detachment are possible benefits to a multicultural education ( (Wilson). Multicultural education is the potential catalyst to bring all races together in harmony. Educators today have a moral responsibility to move beyond the limits of racial context to a social context that embraces humanity without barriers and fear. The responsibility of teachers is to get to know the children and the families that will be entering the program. Classrooms need to reflect every child and every family in the class. Do not make assumptions of what a child’s ethnic background is. This is putting a stereotype as to what you think of that culture. Get to know the children so that you can respectfully and accurately reflect them, their families and their lifestyles in the classroom ( (York, 2003). Children should feel like they belong in the class. Teachers need to make sure that they greet each child by name as they enter the classroom at the beginning of the day and to say good bye at the end of the day. Teachers need to remember to stay away from commercial teaching materials. Cartoon imagines inaccurately portray human beings and human diversity (York, 2003). Multicultural children’s books can be used effectively as a means for coming to understand individual human stories, and the universal emotions and themes they contain. Teachers need to be careful when picking books to use in the classroom. A book may look good when you first look at it but it may contain one or more stereotypic images. Teachers need to be very critical in evaluating books that they want to use in the classroom. Make sure that authors are writing fiction for young children that authenticate a culture’s heritage. Wilson, K. (n. d. ). Multicultural Edcuation. Retrieved October 31, 2010, from Edchange: www. edchange. org York, S. (2003). Roots Wings Affirming Culture in Early Childhood Programs. Upper Saddle River: Pearson.
Sunday, October 13, 2019
Defining Drug Addiction
Defining Drug Addiction Sweet Jesus, Aunt Bettyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ the white ladys riding a white horse. Heroin, heroin à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ heroin and heroin, these are all slang words for one thing, heroin. It is back in full force. Heroin used to be predominantly used by poor, urban youth, but in recent years, it has grown more popular in the middle class, and affects suburban people of all ages. It is here and it is in your neighborhood. There is no one single causal change for drug abuse. A range of individual, family, social, environmental and other risk factors have been identified. Males are more likely to use illicit drugs at earlier ages than females, and more prone to use them to try to cope with problems (Spooner, 1999). Individuals who struggle with personality disorders often have trouble dealing with others. They often tend to be solemn in nature and almost unbendable in their ways and unable to manage change well. This causes an inability to respond to the normal changes and demands of living. People with personality disorders often feel that they are normal, but tend to have a narrow view of life. They find it exceedingly difficult to participate in the routine daily activities of living. The repercussions of drug abuse are vast yet all encompassing and affect people of all ages. Treatment is the only answer regardless of whether one chooses to become a drug addict or it is, as believed, a disease. This paper will explore the psychology of addiction and examine the relevant research, and psychological theories as it pertains to the issues of drug addiction and propose two solutions to address this problem with a final solution being chosen by the writer, as the best course of action for addicted individuals. Defining Drug Addiction: The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) defines addiction as a chronic, often relapsing brain disease that causes compulsive drug seeking and use, despite the harmful effects to the user and to those around them. It is a brain disease because it actually changes the structure of the brain and the way in which is functions. The American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) released a new definition of addiction last year, stating, in part that addiction is a chronic brain disorder and not simply a behavioral problem. For the first time, the ASAM has taken an official position that addiction is not solely related to behaviors and lack of control. The actual short definition reads as follows: Addiction is a primary, chronic disease of brain reward, motivation, memory and related circuitry. Dysfunction in these circuits leads to characteristic biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. This is reflected in an individual pathologically pursuing reward and/or relief by substance use and other behaviors. Addiction is characterized by the inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavioral control, and craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with ones behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and a dysfunctional emotional response. Like other chronic diseases, addiction often involves cycles of relapse and remission. Without treatment or engagement in recovery activities, addiction is progressive and can result in disability or premature death (Definition of Addiction (2011, April 19). While the decision to take drugs is voluntary for most people, the brain then changes over time, and those changes challenge a persons self-control and ability to resist the urge to use. This is why addiction classifies as a brain disease; the drug actually changes the brains structure and the way in which it functions. These changes can be long lasting and lead to harmful behaviors in people who abuse drugs (National Institutes of Health National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2011). Because of these changes, quitting is often difficult for those that are ready try, and it often takes more than one attempt. Addiction can occur despite a persons strength of character and once it occurs, repeated use changes the delicate and complex systems of the brain. According to Drs. N. Volkow and H. Schelbert, of NIDA, the brain imaging studies from drug-addicted individuals show actual physical changes in those areas of the brain critical to judgment, decision-making, learning, memory, and behavior c ontrol. This is just another reason why researchers believe that these changes alter the actual function of the brain and may help to explain the compulsive, destructive behaviors, which go along with addiction. Drugs of abuse contain chemicals, which actually tap into the brains communication system and actually disrupt the way nerve cells normally send, receive and process information. There are at least two ways that this disruption happens: by imitating the brains natural chemical messengers and by over stimulating the reward circuit of the brain (National Institutes of Health National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2011). misc_volkow.gif Image: National Institutes of Health National Institute on Drug Abuse. Repeated drug exposure changes brain function. Positron emission tomography (PET) images are illustrated showing similar brain changes in dopamine receptors resulting from addiction to different substances cocaine, methamphetamine, alcohol, or heroin. The striatum (which contains the reward and motor circuitry) shows up as bright red and yellow in the controls (in the left column), indicating numerous dopamine D2 receptors. Conversely, the brains of addicted individuals (in the right column) show a less intense signal, indicating lower levels of dopamine D2 receptors (Volkow, N. D. (Medical Imaging Scan). (2012). PET Images of Brain Changes after Repeated Drug Exposure). Reduced dopamine production eventually leaves the user incapable of feeling any sense of pleasure, even from the drugs that feed the addiction. Scientists can now visualize this, in the above scan, the lack of dopamine receptors do not show up as bright red and yellow in the right column as they do on the left, in the control group. Drugs of abuse also affect the regions of the brain that help to control desires and emotions which results in a lack of control, and leads the addict to pursue the drug compulsively despite the lack of pleasure produced. Researchers in China at the Mental Health Institute also conducted an imaging study to investigate the gray matter volume in 20 former IV heroin users at three days after abstinence, and again at one month after abstinence. They also used 20 normal subjects used as the control group. They found that at the three-day mark, decreased gray matter density was found in the frontal cortex and occipital regions of the brain but at the one-month mark, there were no significant differences in those regions in the brains of the heroin addicts and the control group. While this was a small study and would need to be replicated in a larger group, what they found was that the changes occurring in the brain were, at least in part, reversible. They had initially, based on previous studies, hypothesized that the heroin dependent subject would have decreased gray matter density permanently (Wang X., 2012). Understanding the Addicted Brain: Illicit drugs (drugs), the term used to describe drugs which are under international control and that are produced, trafficked and/or consumed illicitly(UNODC: Information about drugs, 2012), use affects every part of the brain and its functioning. Drugs and alcohol interfere with the exchange of information in your brain, which actually produce changes that promote drug use. Just seeing a drug or its paraphernalia can bring anticipatory pleasure. This paper will identify just a few of the parts that are affected. The addicted brain is distinctly different from the non-addicted brain, as manifested by changes in metabolic activity, receptor availability, gene expression, and responsiveness to environmental cues. The activation of the brains reward system seems to be the common element in what hooks individuals on drugs. Drugs alter the central nucleus of the almond shaped part of the brain, known as the amygdala. The amygdala has a key function in the acute reinforcing actions of drugs of abuse. The amygdala is a part of the limbic system and is responsible for regulating emotions, fear and pleasure (Koob Volkow, 2009). Drugs also alter the part of the brain involved in impulse control, the prefrontal cortex, which makes it more difficult for addicts to resist taking drugs. This finding may help to explain why adolescents are more susceptible to addiction the prefrontal cortex does not become fully developed until people reach their mid-20s. The brain becomes used to these changes caused by the drug and begins altering its normal production and release of neurotransmitters (Harryman, 2011). The addict begins to lose control and has difficulty limiting drug intake, the need to consume becomes compulsive because the drug has affected the regions of the brains controlling impulse, craving and behavior. The individual is addicted. Initially, interfering with this system makes the user feel good but it leads to seeking the behaviors, which give pleasure at any cost. Chronic drug use causes changes in the structure and function of the neurons that can last for years, even after the user is clean. These changes to the brains structure and functions over time actually reduce the pleasurable effects of the drugs but also increase the cravings resulting in a destructive spiral. Scientists are learning how genetics and environmental factors, like stress, contribute to these neural disruptions and increase the risk of addiction. This ongoing research is allowing researchers to understand how addictive substances affect the brains reward system, and allowing for the development of more effective therapies for treating addiction. When a person takes an addictive drug, from nicotine to heroin, chemicals travel swiftly through the blood stream into certain key brain regions known as the reward system, the nucleus accumbens, which regulates the ability to feel pleasure. With continued drug use, the circuitry of this system becomes flooded with dopamine. Dopamine, a brain chemical, or neurotransmitter, activates specific sites on brain cells called receptors to increase pleasure and reward. Over time, the brain adjusts to the excess dopamine by decreasing the number of dopamine receptors and the overall amount of dopamine in the brain. Users must then consume more and more of the drug to achieve the same high. Disruption to the brains reward system is only part of the reason why drug addictions are so difficult to overcome, and why relapses can occur even after years of abstinence. Neuroscientists have also discovered drugs alter connections in brain circuits that regulate learning and memory, causing strong associations between the drugs pleasurable sensation and the circumstances under which it is taken. In fact, scientist are beginning to postulate that the whole action surrounding the getting high, is just as addictive than the actual drug itself. The rush for the addict often comes from pursuit of the activity. Drug addicts tend to be risk takers and thrill seekers and expect to have a pleasurable reaction to their substance of abuse before they use it. Some experts in the field of addiction today prefer the term addictive behaviors, to addiction. The biological, psychological, and social processes by which addictions occur have common pathways. All addictions have roots in genetic pr edispositions and biological traits. Many in the field say that addictions have characteristics in common and so do addicts. Regardless of the source of addiction, the effects are mainly concentrated in the brain: physically, chemically, and psychologically affecting emotions and energy levels. Addicts have distinct preferences for one substance over another and for how they go about using the substance they abuse. Many addicts have problems with self-regulation and impulse control, they tend to use drugs as a coping strategy in dealing with both stress and their everyday lives in general. They do not seek a way to escape so much, but more as a way to manage their lives. Heroin The Sequel: Across the nation, heroin use is increasing at an alarming rate and affecting a surprising population, kids in the suburbs. Heroin is a highly addictive drug and the most rapidly acting of the opiate class. The kids in the cities know not to touch it but it seems that message never made it to the kids in the suburbs. The biggest connection seems to be between prescription painkillers and heroin. The opiate high that kids get from drugs such as OxyCodone is much like the one that they get from heroin use. The kicker is that heroin is much cheaper and more easily obtained and the high is more intense. A small bag of heroin is cheaper than a six-pack of beer in some places and is estimated to be 15 times purer than it was in the 1970s. The increased purity means that it is easier for users to it. Many teens have a mistaken idea that snorting the drug makes them less likely to become addicted to it. Kids are going to believe that this is not a problem, and parents are going to continue t o leave their prescription opioids unattended if they dont know about the risks, said Wesley Clark, director of the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment at the Department of Health and Human Services (Drug Enforcement Agency, 2012). According to the 2008 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, the number of current (past-month) heroin users aged 12 or older in the U.S. increased from 153,000 in 2007 to 213,000 in 2008. There were 114,000 first-time users of heroin aged 12 or older in 2008. This number keeps climbing (National Institutes of Health, 2010). heroin_use_2009.png Image from National Institutes of Health Like most parents in upper-middle class neighborhoods, parents do not realize that there is a problem out there and continue to leave their prescriptions out and unmonitored. Heroin used to be used by predominantly poor, urban youth, read: black. In recent years, it is growing more popular in the middle class suburban areas, read: white. In truth, close to 90% of teen heroin addicts are white (Department of Drug Enforcement, 2012). In 2010, there were 140,000 persons aged 12 or older who had used heroin for the first time within the past 12 months. This estimate was similar to the estimate in 2009 (180,000) and to estimates during 2002 to 2008 (ranging from 91,000 to 118,000 per year). The average age at first use among recent initiates aged 12 to 49 was 21.3 years, significantly lower than the 2009 estimate (25.5 years) (National Institutes of Health National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2011). Heroins most important ingredient is morphine. Morphine is derived from the sap of the Papaver somniferum, the scientific name for the opium poppy. Afghanistan is the number one opium poppy producer in the world, and supplies more than 90% of the worlds opium. poppy.gif seedpod.jpg The opium poppy, papaver somniferum and the seed pod, showing the exudates/sap. Image: Morphine Heroin. It would not be a far stretch to think that the war in Afghanistan and the increase in heroin use in the United States are somehow related. According to a CNN news report, there have been eight Americans who have died from overdoses involving heroin, morphine or other opiates in Afghanistan from 2010 to 2011. These overdoses were revealed in documents that showed that the Army had officially investigated 56 soldiers, including the eight that died, on suspicion of possession, use and distribution of heroin and other opiates. Heroin use is on the rise in the Army overall, military statistics show that the number of soldiers testing positive for heroin has increased from ten in 2002 to 116 in 2010. Army officials did not respond to questions, but official records from the Criminal Investigation Command show how soldiers bought drugs from Afghan juveniles. The report also reveals that soldier lingo for the drug is Afghan dip(CNN, Martinez, M., 2012). USA Today, reported that medical offi cials estimated that 25% to 35% of about 10,000 ailing soldiers assigned to special wounded-care companies or battalions are addicted or dependent on drugs particularly prescription narcotic pain relievers, according to an Army inspector generals report made public in January of 2011(CNN, Retterbush, T., 2012) Since the US Invasion of Afghanistan, the heroin output has increased over 5000 percent, according to Glenn Greenway of the Drug Truth Network. Immediately following the 2001 invasion, opium prices spiraled and by 2002, the opium price was almost ten times higher than in 2000, the United Nations Office of Drug Control (UNODC) acknowledged. Heroin use in the United States and Europe are at epidemic proportions (CNN, Retterbush, T., 2012). In East Alton, there have been twelve heroin overdoses before the year is even half over. This places the county on track for a record number of heroin overdoses. This places the county on track for a record number of heroin overdoses. Fatalities from all drug overdoses are currently at 22 cases for 2011 (Occaisionalplanet.org, Mike Davis, 2011). East Alton is a Village, with a U.S. Census total population of 6,301 in 2010. There have been so many documented cases of drug activity in the community, the Police Department has now made a form available online to citizens so that they may anonymously report a house suspected in or near their neighborhood, or any suspected drug activity (Village of East Alton, 2012). Fatalities from all drug overdoses are currently at 22 cases for 2011. The US is not alone in this epidemic, Russia estimates that one in every 50 people of working age is addicted to heroin. South Wales has seen a jump of 180% in heroin addiction rates. In 2008, the European Union, (EU) estimated that a young European died every hour from a drug overdose. What is the cause for this epidemic across the planet? Last year, Russia publicly blamed the US and NATO for refusing to eradicate poppy production by US allied warlords, resulting in an estimated 30,000 heroin deaths in Russia in a single year. The US Congressional Research Service estimates that Afghanistan currently accounts for 90% of the worlds illicit opium (the essential ingredient of all narcotics) supply. Opium revenues for Afghanistan are equivalent to 7% of the licit GDP for the nation with 10% of the population actively participating. According to the progressive online news site, Occasional Planet, the ultimate cause of the heroin epidemic destroying much of the world and local youth is the Afghanistan war and the shortsighted policies involved there. This flood of heroin is a direct result of the war efforts. afghanistan-drug-chart.jpg Image taken from occasionalplanet.org Theorists and Theories Applied: The most common type of dual diagnosis is a connection between a mental or personality disorder and a substance abuse disorder such as alcoholism or drug addiction. The reason that these two disorders go hand in hand is that drug addiction and alcohol addiction are often caused by depression, anxiety and other personality disorders. According to researchers at the University of Manitoba, Winnipeg Department of Psychiatry, using drugs or alcohol to reduce emotional distress or self-medicating is common among people with mood disorders and the general population as a whole. Researchers found that 24.1 percent of people used drugs or alcohol to relieve their symptoms. In essence, the people knew they had mental illnesses, and they took drugs and alcohol in order to make those symptoms less palpable. By taking drugs and adding dopamine to their systems, they were able to mask their mental illness symptoms. Dual diagnosis is should be the expectation and not the exception. Dr. Marvin Zuckerman, at the University of Delaware, has conducted research on an aspect of personality that he calls sensation seeking. This trait has large hereditary components. Zuckerman describes sensation seeking as a desire for varied, novel, complex, and intense sensations and experience, and the willingness to take physical, legal, and financial risks for the sake of such experiences. His theory points out that those identified as antisocial risk takers are usually drug addicts. Zuckermans theory has commonsense appeal. It is easy to accept the idea that people differ in their need for excitement and risk, change and adventure. During an interview with BigThink.com, Mr. Zuckerman had this to say in response to a question posed by the interviewer: Question: Are risk-seekers more prone to becoming addicted to drugs? Marvin Zuckerman: Well, there are four types of risk taking which form the core you might say, smoking, drinking, drugs and sex. Now you can see three of those are substance abusers, and they act through the central nervous system. They act on centers in the central nervous system that give intrinsic pleasure. Particularly stimulant drugs like cocaine. They provide pleasure. They provide the kick that activities provide, as sex provides, for the sensation seeker. They are all correlated because they are all aspects of intensity seeking sensation and the novelty too. There is a difference, for instance, in drug users between those who are high sensation seekers and those that are low. I found this out when I was treating drug abusers. The low sensation well the average sensation-seeking drug abuser tries one drug, which he enjoys particularly and sticks to it. The lows try many different drugs. So, invariably they get into odd drugs like LSD that affect their minds as well as they provide unusual sensations as well as arousal, the lows stay away from those drugs. Question: What is a specific link between high sensation seeking and drug use? Marvin Zuckerman: You find for instance that high sensation seekers there are not many men, who love war and combat, but there are a few, there are some who really find that exciting and will re-volunteer simply because they are bored with military life outside of combat. In addition, there are various substances, which are interesting as they stimulate the same sensors that are stimulated by intense and novel external stimulation. Drugs do that more directly, particularly drugs like cocaine. Control theory, or Perceptual Control Theory (PCT), takes a different path, it view variability at the essence of behavior. The heart of control theory is that the organisms control and what they control is not behavior at all but perception(Powers M. A., 2005 (1994)). To put it simply, behavior is the control of perception(Powers W. T., 2009). According to Bill Powers, the developer of PCT, the living thing is in the drivers seat, driving the car. The control theorist would say that deviance arises when the adolescent/young adult, lack sufficient ties with conventional groups, such as family, schools and religious organizations; the alienation from those prevailing values that those groups instill are associated with drug use. This lack of social bonding has been found to be predictive of early or frequent drug use and resistance to traditional authority and normlessness(Spooner, 1999). Raymond L. Calabrese offers a definition of alienation in general, as the relationship of individuals to their environment and specifically, it describes the relationship in terms of isolation, meaninglessness, normlessness and powerlessness (pg. 14). This and other personality traits have been found to be associated with drug abuse. Self-efficacy is the concept that lies at the center of Albert Banduras Social Cognitive Theory. Self-efficacy is the belief in ones capabilities to organize and execute the courses of action required to manage prospective situations (Self-Efficacy in Changing Societies, Bandura, 1995, p. 2). Bandura also mentions that developing strong self-efficacy is through mastery experiences ((Fletcher, 2003). These experiences are a double-edged sword. If completed, they improve ones self-efficacy. If failed, they weaken it. Individuals with low self-efficacy often abandon their goals at the first signs of even a minor obstacle. They tend to have all-or-nothing patterns of thinking. There is no room for being human, nor the possibility for mistakes. According to Caron, a non-profit provider of drug and alcohol treatment in PA, current statistics show relapse rates for addictive diseases usually are in the range of 50% to 90%; however, these rates vary by definition of relapse, severity of addi ction, which drug of addiction, length of treatment, and elapsed time from treatment discharge to assessment, as well as other factors. SAMHSA, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration regularly collect and publish this information. According to supporters of Addictive Personality theory, a distinct trait predisposes individuals to addictions. Much of the established medical community does not accept addictive personality as a diagnosis used to explain why some people become addicted to alcohol, drugs, activities or even emotions. Stephen Mason, PhD, said in his article Look at it this way in Psychology Today, A major misconception involving addiction is the idea that certain substances are, all by themselves, addicting. He goes on to add, Addiction depends, first and foremost, upon having an addictive personality. Such people, estimated at perhaps 10%-15% of the population, simply do not know when to stop. The nature and existence of this trait is still hotly debated in medical, neurobiological and psychological communities, there are definite implications in the brain that contribute to addictions. Dr. Alan Leshner, PhD of the National Institute on Drug Abuse describes addictions instead as a brain disease and a chronic relapsing disease, in that there are visible alterations in the brains of addicts and the effects are long lasting within their neurological patterns. Dr. Leshner also addresses the types of addiction and substance abuse that are often accredited to the addictive personality. He explains that there are two primary forms of addiction, one being the substance-based, the second being behavior-based. The substance-based addictions such as to alcohol, nicotine, narcotics are more easily explained and can be identified neurologically. Certain drugs like crack and heroin cause massive dopamine surges in the brain with different sensations ranging from invincibility or strength to euphoria or perceived enlightened states. The use of these substances almost immediately changes particular aspects of the brains behavior, making most individuals immediately susceptible to future abuse and addiction. Also common is the behavioral aspect of addictions. These are not easily explained neurologically, but generally are included in the addiction susceptibility characterized by the personality trait (Leshner, 2001). Moreover, combined addictions, addictions that include both the substance as well as the behavior are also common. The physical act of indulging in the steps involved and repetitive behavior essentially succeeds at making the invisible, visible. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT), is the method used by many today as a single source method for helping people get over emotional upsets in their lives. This type of therapy gives them the tools needed should they arise again. CBT teaches people how to change the way they think about things. In issues of addiction, the goal is to teach the person to recognize situations in which they are most likely to use, and identify situations that make them more vulnerable. It teaches them to avoid these circumstances if possible, and how to cope with other problems and behaviors which may lead to their substance abuse. CBT has two main components, functional analysis in which the therapist and client work together to identify the feelings, and give the client insight into what led to their abuse in the first place. The second component is skills training. The goal is to get the person to learn or re-learn better coping skills. This is achieved through a process of unlearning old habits and learning and developing healthier skills and habits. The main premises are to educate, to identify and to change. Some therapist mix different orientations and teachings. They are eclectic in their therapy styles, and pick and choose from different orientations. This pick and choose method is probably the most controversial style as it is, more often than not, of no benefit to the client and may be detrimental. Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, (REBT) was formulated in the 1950s by Dr. Albert Ellis. REBT and CBT are similar but slightly different approaches to psychotherapy. REBT teaches that outside elements, the world around you, do not create emotions but the interactions with such and the beliefs and expectations, which we hold which give rise to the emotions we feel. When your beliefs become rigid, then emotional disturbance is the result. REBT teaches clients to modify the belief so that it is not so rigid and therefore less likely to create emotional upset. Example of rigid beliefs Everyone should agree with me and when that is modified, it becomes It would be nice if everyone agreed wi th me, but I realize that not everyone will. REBT is based on the premise that whenever we become upset, it is not the events taking place in our lives that upset us; it is the beliefs that we hold that cause us to become depressed, anxious, enraged, etc. Immediate Short Term Effects of Heroin: Soon after using, abusers report feeling a surge of pleasurable sensations, the rush. The intensity of this rush depends on how much of the drug is taken and how quickly the drug enters the brain and binds to the natural opioid receptors. One of the reasons why heroin is so addictive is because of the speed at which it enters the brain. The effects of heroin are almost immediate and last typically, from three to five hours. This rush is accompanied by a warm flushing sensation, dry mouth, slight nausea, itching, and a heavy feeling in the extremities (AstriCon 2012: Hooked on heroin: Dane Countys deadliest drug, 2010). Some users report that they enter a dream-like state where nothing matters, they equate this to bliss (Weyant, 2012). The user may also experience severe nausea, vomiting, and severe itching, which is usually the case with first use. I got so sick the first time I banged up (injected), I actually puked but then right after that, this warm feeling came all over me and w ow, I was gone. It was like this warm, rolling orgasm but it was my whole body. I cant explain it, this is so weird talking about this with you, but you asked. Sometimes I still get sick but thats when I know its good dope, you dont mind vomiting behind smack (Weyant, 2012). After this initial rush, abusers usually will be drowsy for several hours, they call this getting a nod on (Weyant, 2012). Mental function is clouded by heroins effect on the central nervous system. Cardiac function slows, and breathing is severely slowed, sometimes to the point of death. The goal of the addict is to recreate this rush, but with each use it becomes harder and harder to obtain. It is never like the first time, no matter how much I do. Mom, its like this Its an identity, vocation, and pastime, a lover, master, and my best friend. It makes me sick sitting here admitting all of this to you but it is what it is. Heroin is just everything to every addict, all the time. (Weyant, 2012). This is the vic ious cycle of addiction. 5522_2 brain_nih.gif Brain on Drugs. Image: National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Drug Abuse Heroin Hits Home Heroin has killed more people in Dane County than any other drug in the past five
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