Classicism Versus Positivism

Two criminological approaches that have the origin in contemporary criminology are classicism and positivism. Classicism has the origin in the eighteenth century and positivism in the nineteenth. Both, the classical and the positivism theory are expanded in the past with their own roots, but in today criminal justice system are still alive. Classicism was first developed by Cesare Beccaria and Jeremy Bentham, two famous writers which propose in their works that both law and administration of justice should be based on rationality and human rights. Cesare Beccaria’s concept of punishment is that â€Å"punishment should fit the crime.Criminals are seen to owe a ‘debt’ to society and punishment should be fixed strictly in proportion to the seriousness of the crime. † (Beccaria, 1974 cited in Burke, 2001, p. 27) and Jeremy Bentham greatest principle was â€Å"the greatest happiness for the greatest number, he felt that punishments should be calculated to infli ct pain in direct proportion to the damage done to the public interest. † (Criminology a social introduction, second edition, p. 56) Positivism or ‘the science of crime’ was first developed by Cesare Lambroso in the late nineteenth century.He is the founder of modern criminology and he is known for his notion of the ‘atavistic criminal’ (Taylor et all, 1973, p. 41) and he described criminals as â€Å"atavistic, a throwback to an earlier form of evolutionary life† (Taylor et all, 1973, p. 41). Cesare Lambroso defined them into five main categories: born criminals, epileptics, insane criminals, occasional criminals and criminals of passion. (Lecture 3) â€Å"Positivism within criminology has been enormously influential and comes for substantive and sustained criticism.Critics of individual positivism such as David Matza (1964) argue that it draws on three problematic sets of assumptions (Tierney, 1996): determinism, differentiation and pathology . † (Criminology, Tim Newburn, p. 128) Firstly both criminological approaches have different perspective on the human subject. The classicalist theory says that human are rational beings with a free will to act and once they make a decision they must accept the consequences after it. They are individuals and they make a ration choice.On the other hand the positivist theory says humans have no moral responsibility, they are driven into crime by forces largely out of their control and they are using methods derived from the natural sciences and their crime is caused by biological, psychological or social factors (‘determinism’). â€Å"Crime is not a free choice but is determined. Positivism is a deterministic theory. † (Criminology a social introduction, second edition, p. 63). Secondly in the classical model â€Å"unlike positivism, it views committing crime as making a free choice† (Criminology a social introduction, second edition, p. 8). In positiv ism theory we can find a ‘differentiation’, â€Å"the criminal is a specific type of person† (Criminology a social introduction, second edition, p. 62) and criminals differ from non-criminals. Thirdly between classicism and positivism is also a pathology difference: the criminals are not only different; there is something wrong with them. Cesare Lombroso â€Å"identified not just the born criminal, but also the emotional criminal, the morally insane criminal and masked epileptic criminal† (Criminology a social introduction, second edition, p. 62).In conclusion these two contrasting approaches are different and contain distinct periods in the past, classicism and positivism. I believe it is fair to say that their existence is not as heavily relied upon as it once was in the past. Bibliographic reference: An introduction to criminological theory, Roger Hopkins Burke. (2001) Criminology a social introduction, Eamonn Carrabine, Pam Cox, Maggy Lee, Ken Plummer and Nigel South. (Second edition, 2009) The New Criminology, Taylor, I. , Walton, P. and Young, J. , Chapter 1. London: Routledge and Kegan Paul. (1973) Criminology, Tim Newburn. (2007)

The Secret of Ella and Micha Chapter 18

Ella Micha won't text me back and it's eating away at my mind. I need to find out where he is, but Caroline's making it difficult. She's a photographer and wants to take pictures of the different views of our town. I take her to the lake first because it's the sunnier side of town, and pull over in a few different turnouts that give her various views. When we reach the bridge, she gets really enthusiastic and wants pictures of it too. â€Å"It has so much history to it,† she says. â€Å"And it probably carries a lot of memories for people.† I wonder if Caroline is a mind reader on top of a photographer. A thin cloud of dust surrounds us as I tap the brakes and park the car just at the brink of the bridge and she hops out with her camera bag on her shoulder. Lila and I trek after her, taking our sweet time, but I halt at the line that splits the road from the bridge. â€Å"So is this the bridge?† Lila asks, watching me through her sunglasses. I stare at the spot on the ground where Micha and I stood kissing in the rain. â€Å"Yeah, this is the bridge.† With a quiver in my heart, I step onto the concrete and walk up to the railing. Gripping the bar, I gaze out at the lake, glistening in the sunlight, so much brighter than that rainy night. Caroline clicks her camera, getting the lake at every angle while Lila roams to the other side. The wind blows through my hair and I shut my eyes, going back to that night. I'd been cleaning out my mom's medicine cabinet earlier that morning and had come across the bottle of pills she'd taken to keep her delusions under control. I'd wondered if they'd worked for her and how they made her mind see life. So I took one to see for myself and then headed off with Micha to a party. As soon as I'd climbed in his car, he'd sensed something was off with me. â€Å"You look out of it,† he said. â€Å"Maybe we should just stay in tonight.† I shook my head and motioned for him to drive. Frowning, he drove us to the party, but he kept a close eye on me almost the entire night, following me like a puppy. Usually, I didn't mind, but I grew restless with the desire to figure out what the hell my mother was thinking. So when Micha got preoccupied by a girl, I cornered Grantford and asked him to drive me to the bridge. He had happily obliged, thinking he was going to get some. When we arrived at the bridge it was raining buckets of water. I thanked him politely and told him he could go. He was pissed and started yammering something about why the hell did he drive me out here. I shrugged and slammed the door shut, stepping out into the rain. He spun away from the bridge, the tires of his pickup kicking up gravel and mud all over my boots. I walked over to the railing and stepped up onto the curb, observing the water through the veil of rain. But it wasn't close enough, so I stepped up onto the beam just like I remembered her doing. It still didn't make sense why she did it – why she thought she could fly and I don't think it ever will. I jerk away from my reminiscing and concentrate on Caroline, who's still snapping pictures, with the long lens of her camera close to my face. â€Å"You're a deep thinker,† she remarks and clicks her camera again. â€Å"And you photograph well.† I shake my head. â€Å"No, I'm not. Not really.† She snaps another picture and moves the camera away. â€Å"As a photographer I get to see through a totally different eye. I think it makes me see people differently – more clearly.† â€Å"Like a mirror?† â€Å"Yeah, kind of.† She turns the lens toward the lake and starts snapping pictures of it. I recline against the railing and scroll through my messages. I only have one, Micha's voicemail from a few weeks ago. I decide maybe it's time. I press dial and put it up to my ear. â€Å"Hey Ella, it's Micha,† he says nervously, unlike himself, and sighs â€Å"Well, that was a stupid opening line, so pretend you didn't hear that.† A smile tugs at the corners of my lips. That sounds more like him. â€Å"Anyway, I'm kind of irritated that you just took off and haven't called.† He pauses and I can hear Ethan in the background. â€Å"Actually, I'm fucking pissed off. I don't even know what to say. You just bail after everything we've been through. Do you know how crazy I've been wondering where you were or if you were even alive? My heart compresses in my chest. I've never heard him so upset. â€Å"You just bailed out on everyone and people need you, even if you don't think so. Grady's sick – he has cancer and†¦Ã¢â‚¬  He inhales a shaky breath. â€Å"I still love you†¦ I don't know what else to say and there's probably not even a point of saying anymore†¦ you won't call me back.† It clicks and the message ends. It's not what I was imagining. I'd never once looked at it from his side – how worried he must have been. I send him another text, but again, he doesn't respond. *** One week passes and I still don't hear from Micha. He won't call me or answer my texts, and his phone is going straight to voicemail. His mom has no idea where he is either and she's starting to get really worried. Ever since I returned from the bridge, little images of what happened when Micha picked me up that night have been flickering through my head. Something infinite happened that night, not with Micha, but with me. I arrive at the conclusion, while I'm sitting out on my porch, staring at his vacant driveway, that it's time to get to the bottom of what's going on with Micha. There is only one person I could think of who might know where he is. Ethan. And I need backup. â€Å"What are we trying to get out of him?† Lila asks as I drive up to the shop Ethan works at. â€Å"Where Micha is.† I tell her, putting the shifter into park. â€Å"And I think Ethan might know.† Her forehead scrunches as she eyes the open garage door. Ethan is behind a car being worked on, tossing a screwdriver and catching it like a baseball. â€Å"But why am I here?† â€Å"Because you're my backup.† â€Å"And what exactly is it you want me to do?† â€Å"I'm not sure yet.† I bite my nail, assessing the situation. Ethan is dressed in a nice pair of jeans and plaid button-down shirt, not his work clothes, which means he can leave if he wants to and he probably will, making this as difficult as possible. Especially if Micha told him not to tell me. He tips his head back and laughs at something his dad said. Then his eyes find my dad's Firebird and his expression drops. I open the door and he throws down the tool and runs through the shop. I jog across the gravel and swing open the front door, leaving Lila behind. Sitting behind the counter is Mrs. Gregory, Ethan's mother who has the same dark hair and brown eyes as Ethan. She looks up quickly from a magazine and her eyes brighten. â€Å"Ella, is that you?† She gets up from the stool and rounds the counter to give me a hug. â€Å"I didn't know you were back, honey.† â€Å"For the summer, I am.† My eyes skim the room and the shop. â€Å"Is Ethan in there?† She points over her shoulder. â€Å"He just ran back into the storage room. You want me to go get him?† â€Å"Would you mind if I did?† I ask politely. â€Å"Sure, hun.† She steps aside and lets me behind the counter. The storage room is lined with rows and rows of shelves holding parts for cars. It's quiet, dark, and the sink has a drip. â€Å"Ethan,† I say, shutting the door quietly behind me. â€Å"I know you're in here.† â€Å"I hear a shuffle from the back corner diagonal from me. I hurry down the tire aisle, peeking through the shelf, and catch him running up the other side. I skitter backwards, hoping to cut him off at the end by the door. â€Å"Ethan will you please talk to me?† My voice echoes back at me. Looking left then right, I exit the aisle. â€Å"Look, I know he told you where he went, so will you please just tell me†¦ or at least tell me if he's okay.† He suddenly reveals himself from an aisle a few rows down. â€Å"He told me not to tell you where he was.† I press my lips together at the sting in my heart. â€Å"I need to know. I'm worried about him.† He props his elbow on the edge of a shelf. â€Å"Well, now you know how he's felt for the last eight months.† The painful feeling of reality sinks in. â€Å"Please, please, will you just tell me where he is. It's killing me not knowing.† He eyes me over, like he's hunting for my sincerity. â€Å"He went to see his dad.† My jaw almost hits the floor. â€Å"When did he find out where his dad was?† Ethan sighs and leans against the shelf. â€Å"He started calling the house a few weeks ago, asking to talk to Micha. Micha wouldn't talk to him, but then a few days ago, he finally decided it was time to go see him.† â€Å"Is he still with his dad?† I ask. He hesitates. â€Å"No†¦ Let's just say the visit didn't go very well.† I force the lump in my throat down. â€Å"Is he okay?† â€Å"I'm not sure†¦.He was staying with some of our old friends over at Farrows Park the last time I talked to him.† â€Å"Is he coming back?† â€Å"Again, I'm not sure.† I sink to the cold concrete floor and let my head fall into my hands. â€Å"Why didn't he tell me?† Ethan puffs out a loud breath and sits down beside me. â€Å"Because he didn't want you dealing with his problems on top of your own. He worries about you all the time. It's kind of annoying.† I raise my head and scowl at him. He chuckles and nudges me with his elbow. â€Å"What? I'm the one who's had to listen to him talk about you for the last eight months. At one point, I almost stabbed my ears out just so I didn't have to hear it.† I give a gentle pat to his knee. â€Å"Pretend all you want. You're not as bad of a guy as you want people to think.† He comprehends the deeper meaning to my words. â€Å"Yeah, yeah, say what you want, but deep down, I'm just your average douche bag, like every other guy out there.† Laughing, we get up and go out to the lobby, where there's a guy waiting at the front counter. He walks me to the door and stares out at Lila sitting out on the hood of my car examining her watch. â€Å"So what are you going to do?† he asks as I push open the door. â€Å"I'm not sure yet,† I say. â€Å"I doubt you're going to tell me where the house is that he's staying at.† â€Å"I don't think it'd be a good idea for you to go there. He needs to clear his head.† He backs up toward the register with his hands stuffed into his pockets. â€Å"I got customers to take care of.† I meet Lila at the car and she slides off the hood. â€Å"Did he tell you anything?† We climb in the car and I quickly explain to her the vague details of what happened. â€Å"So where are we going?† she asks, buckling her seatbelt. The sunlight sparkles through the windshield and into my eyes. â€Å"We're going home.† *** A couple more days drag by and I still don't hear anything from Micha. It baffles me how much I miss him, but I do my best to keep busy, not wanting to get sucked up in the loneliness and worry. Dean and Caroline went home about a week ago. Caroline told me they'd come back to visit before the summer was over or she would at least see me again at the wedding, which is in October. Lila is out for the day with Ethan, not on a date, something they both insisted when I brought it up. My dad is locked in his room. He had a rough night and got into a fight. I received a call from Denny at two o'clock in the morning telling me to come pick him up. Deciding I need a break from my house, I peek in on my dad who is fast asleep, and then drive over to Grady's house. Amy's car is parked in front of the trailer and the front door is wide open, swaying in the wind a little. I hop out of the car as she walks outside with a bag over her shoulder and a box of Grady's stuff in her arms. I fear the worst has happened. â€Å"Is everything okay?† She sighs, transferring the box to the side of her hip to free her hand so she can get the car door open. â€Å"He caught a bad case of pneumonia and he's been taken to the hospital over in Monroe.† I brace my hand on the trunk of the car for support. â€Å"Is he okay?† Shaking her head, she sets the box on the seat and slams the door shut with her hip. â€Å"His body's already fightin' cancer. This just makes things worse.† â€Å"I need to go see him,† I mumble and turn for my car. â€Å"He can't have visitors right now, Ella,† she says empathetically. â€Å"His immune system's too low.† I frown. â€Å"Will you let me know when he can?† She gives me a small smile, but there's something in her eyes I don't like. â€Å"Yeah, hun. I will.† As I back down the driveway, watching her lock up, I feel helpless and out-of-control. I want to run away, back to Vegas, or somewhere else equally as far away, so I won't have to feel it. But I don't. *** I try not to stress too much about Grady, but my thoughts keep drifting to him. Whether he's in a hospital bed with sterilized walls? Or did Amy take a box of his stuff to fix it up for him? â€Å"What song is this?† Lila is lying on her stomach in my bed, flipping through the pages of a magazine. â€Å"‘Black Sun' by Jo Mango,† I say, sharpening one of my charcoal pencils over the garbage in my bedroom. â€Å"It's sad.† She frowns, resting her chin in her hand. â€Å"It makes me want to cry.† â€Å"It's a good song to draw to.† I return to my drawing on the floor. The dark lines of it form pieces of a shattered mirror and I start sketching a picture of a guitar inside one of them. When I'm done, each piece will hold something about my life, but it might take me a while to finish it. Lila raises her head away from her hand and glances at the window. â€Å"Did you hear that?† There's shouting coming from outside, loud enough to be heard over the music. I shade one of the corners with my pinky. â€Å"It's probably just the neighbors.† The yelling gets louder and Lila sits up nervously and draws back the curtain. â€Å"Ella, there's a man and a woman fighting out in front of the driveway.† I set my pencil down on the floor and go over to the window. There's a short, fat man and a tall, slender woman yelling at each other just outside the boundaries of my front yard. â€Å"That's the Anderson's,† I explain. â€Å"They always do that.† â€Å"We should stop it,† she says worriedly. â€Å"He might hurt her.† â€Å"I'll take care of it,† I tell her. â€Å"You stay here.† I pad down the stairs, barefoot and in my boxer shorts and tank top, and poke my head out the door, but the Anderson's have vanished from the street. The lyrics and music of â€Å"Behind Blue Eyes† by The Who is blasting from the stereo in Micha's room next door. It's his sad mood song, the one he lets play over and over again when he's depressed. The lights aren't on in the house, but the one in the garage shines brightly into the night. Sticking out of the open door is the back end of his Chevelle. There's a large dent in the bumper that wasn't there when he left and a scratch on the corner of the fender. Walking down the steps the concrete is ice-cold against my bare feet. I spot him through the window of the garage, searching the shelf for something with a cigarette in his mouth. I watch him move, my pulse instantly speeding up, and I have to work to keep breathing. As he pulls away from the shelf with a box in his hand, he turns his head toward the window, like he senses me out here. Our eyes lock and collide. He sets the box down and disappears out of my view. A few seconds later he walks out of the garage. His jeans ride low on his hips and the porch light hits his chest, highlighting his well-defined muscles and the cursive font of the tattoo on his rib. â€Å"When did you start smoking again?† I inquire from my driveway. He takes the cigarette out of his mouth with his eyes on me. â€Å"I slipped up a few days ago†¦ There's just too much going on, I guess.† I take a few small steps across the driveway and my heart thuds in my chest. â€Å"Is it because of your dad?† Micha reaches the grass, just before the fence divides our houses. â€Å"How do you know about that?† I stop just short of the fence and wrap my arms around myself to keep warm. â€Å"Ethan told me.† He shakes his head, annoyed. â€Å"He's worse than a girl.† â€Å"Hey.† I feign offense, attempting to lighten his mood. â€Å"Not all girls are bad. I've always been an excellent secret keeper. You know that.† He places his hands on the fence and clutches at the links. â€Å"I don't know if that's true anymore.† He gestures his hand at me. â€Å"Maybe this was who you always were. Maybe this place was just getting in the way of you.† He's upset and I need to get to the bottom of why. â€Å"You could have told me about your dad.† â€Å"Could I of?† The front of his thighs push against the fence. â€Å"I don't think you can handle it right now – you can barely handle your own problems.† I reduce the small gap left between the fence and myself. â€Å"Try me.† His eyes examine my face, looking for something deep within me. Then his head falls down, defeated, and he lets out a slow breath. â€Å"It was almost as painful as that day you ran off. I mean, he has a whole other fucking family†¦.† His voice cracks and he clears his throat. â€Å"Like we weren't good enough or something.† The ache in his voice nearly kills me. I close my eyes and tell myself I can do this – that I'm the strong one at the moment. My eyes open and I put my finger under his chin, forcing him to look at me. His eyes are glassy, like he's about to cry, and he tries to look away. I place an unsteady hand on his cheek and maintain his gaze. â€Å"I know it hurts right now,† I say, grappling my voice even. â€Å"But it will get better. It'll just take some time and I'll be here for you this time. I promise.† He looks unconvinced. Not knowing what else to say, I stand on my tiptoes, lean over the fence, and lightly graze my lips across his. Heat caresses my mouth and skin. â€Å"I need you right now,† Micha murmurs against my lips with so much desire in his eyes that my knees buckle. â€Å"I need this right now.† His hand cups around the back of my neck, much gentler than the intensity in his voice, and he crashes my body against his. He tempts me with a soft brush of his lips and every ounce of sexual tension between us explodes. I can't help myself – I fall into him. My lips part willingly, lost in the mind-numbing moment as he slips his tongue deep inside my mouth, devouring me thoroughly. He tastes like cigarettes mingled with mint and the scent of his cologne is intoxicating. My hands trace up the front of his bare chest, and I loop my arms around his neck. The links of the fence dig into my skin as we crush it between our bodies, trying to bury ourselves into one another. Micha pulls away for a second and my lips falter in protest, but he lifts me up over the fence and encourages my legs around his waist. My inner thighs burn as they graze his hips. Every part of him touches me and it makes my body flame. I arch into him, moaning as his lips return to mine even more ravenously. â€Å"Oh my God, this feels so good.† He groans, before heading toward his house. â€Å"What are you doing?† I whisper against his lips, knowing where he's going, but I'm not sure I'm ready for it yet. â€Å"Shh†¦Ã¢â‚¬  His warm tongue slips deep inside my mouth and I forget about arguing. His hands hold me up by the ass as he kicks the back door open and stumbles into his kitchen. He knocks over a lamp and bumps into the wall as he carries me blindly down the hall and into his room. Then we collapse on the bed, tangled together. The music is loud and he reaches over to the stereo and turns it down so it filters through the room softly. â€Å"Ow,† I squeal, squirming. â€Å"Something just poked me.† â€Å"I'm pretty sure that's supposed to happen,† Micha jokes with feral eyes. I swat his chest and reach underneath me, retrieving a drumstick. He snatches it from my hand, laughing softly as he chucks it over his shoulder and it lands somewhere in the dark. His face turns serious as he smoothes my hair back, looking into my eyes so passionately, my nerves crack through. â€Å"Do you know I realized I loved you when we were like sixteen? But I didn't want to tell you because I was afraid you'd run away.† I prop up on my elbows, making our faces inches away. Strands of his hair hang in my face. â€Å"But I was normal back then. Or at least partly normal.† He lets his forehead rest against mine. â€Å"Yeah, but I thought that's how things were supposed to happen when people were in love.† I realize how bad I must have hurt him when I ran off after he tried to tell me he loved me. â€Å"Micha, I'm sorry.† His jaw spasms and he tips his head back up. When he kisses me again, it feels different somehow – more intimate. My apprehension starts to emerge, but I choke it down and let my head fall back against the pillow. His lips follow mine and he kisses all the fear out of me. My chest presses into his as my neck arches against his trail of kisses along my skin, sucking and nipping at it all the way down. â€Å"Fuck,† he groans when his mouth reaches the curve of my breast. The fabric of my tank top is thin and I don't have a bra on. Hesitantly, his tongue lightly slides between my breasts. Instantly, my nipples harden and an irrepressible moan escapes from my lips as desire takes over my body. I sit up, stunning him, and he moves back. â€Å"What's wrong?† he asks. Sucking in a deep breath of air, I shut my eyes and wiggle my shirt off. My chest heaves, bare and exposed, as my lungs strain for air. I've never been this far with a guy before – never wanted to. Getting close to someone meant getting attached and getting attached has only brought me hurt in the past. But Micha's different. He always has been. I just didn't realize it until now. He takes me in deliberately and then covers his body with mine, colliding our bare chest together as we collapse back onto the mattress. My fingers tangle in his soft hair as his hands travel down my shoulders to my breasts. My back bows up, seeking to feed a starvation inside my body, but unsure how to do it. Pausing, I curve my hips and rub up against him. A shot of ecstasy swells through my body and a gasp fumbles from my lips. Hearing the unrestrained noise sends me into a state of anxiety and I fall back to reality. I'm not sure if my mind is ready to go where my body obviously wants to – whether I can allow myself to completely let go. â€Å"Micha wait,† I say in a strained voice. He jerks back quickly, his hand still cupping my breast. â€Å"What is it?† â€Å"I'm sorry. I just can't†¦ I don't think I'm ready yet.† He kisses my forehead tenderly and boosts up on his elbows, his body still hovering over me. With his fingertip, he sketches a line from my temple to my jaw and my eyelids flutter. â€Å"Will you let me try one more thing?† I open my eyes, dazed from his touch. â€Å"I'm not sure if I can go any farther tonight.† â€Å"Just trust me, okay?† he says. â€Å"And if it gets to be too much, just say and I promise I'll stop.† I bite at my lip, knowing where he's going with this. â€Å"Okay.† Unhurriedly, with his eyes fastened on mine, he moves his mouth and kisses the hollow of my neck, sending shivers over my skin. His lips move downward and linger just above my breast. My eyes shut as his mouth touches my nipple and his tongue slips out over it. He sucks on it hard and I swear to God I can't breathe. My legs vice-grip around him and the longer he devours me, the fiercer his mouth gets. With each movement of his tongue, my thighs burn hotter. I need†¦ something. â€Å"Micha, I†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Shh†¦Ã¢â‚¬  he whispers and trails rapturous kisses up my neck. â€Å"I'll take care of it.† His fingers slide down my bare stomach and to the bottom of my shorts, leaving a path of heat along my skin. As his lips find mine again, his finger slips deep inside me. The lyrics of the music fade away as my panic bursts into a thousand blissful pieces. Micha When Ella screams out my name, with her head tipped back, her eyes lost, it's unlike anything I've ever experienced before. She trusted me enough to do things to her that no one else has and it makes me feel alive again. Of course, my dick is so hard it actually hurts. â€Å"Behind Blue Eyes† by The Who is stuck on repeat and fills up the moment. It's the song I turn on when I feel down, but I don't think it's going to be that anymore – not after tonight. I brush her hair away from her forehead. â€Å"Are you okay?† Her green eyes are glazed over as she nods her head up and down. There's a look on her face that brings a smile to my lips. â€Å"I'm better than fine.† She leans up and kisses me. I draw her in, intensifying the kiss, then let her go, needing to cool down. â€Å"You should stay here tonight.† I expect her to protest, but she nods as she tugs her shirt back over her head. â€Å"Okay, but I'll have to use your phone to text Lila. I didn't bring mine with me.† I kiss her forehead, then her temple, breathing her in. â€Å"I'm gonna go take a shower. I'll be right back.† Confining a laugh, she reaches for my phone on my nightstand. â€Å"A cold one?† I grab some clothes out of my dresser and back out the doorway. â€Å"You better watch it, Ella May. Or I may decide against it and you'll just have to deal with me for the rest of the night.† She flops back on the bed as she sends a text. â€Å"Maybe that's what I'm hoping for.† Shaking my head, I throw my clothes on the floor and jump onto the bed, putting a knee on each side of her. She laughs as I playfully trap her arms above her head. I move my lips next to her ear and gently take a nip at her. I breathe on her neck, letting my warm breath cause her to shudder, teasing her and driving both our bodies crazy. She lets out a moan and I feel her legs start to move around me. Sighing, I pull away before I get even more wound up. â€Å"Okay, I have to go take a shower.† I climb off the bed, watching her all the way to the door. Once I'm out of the room, all of the pain I've been feeling about my dad smothers me again, but all I can do is keep breathing.

Guidelines for a Reflective Paper

In reality, it Is a lifestyle of Its own – something some people view as Hellenizing and patriotic while some view as terrifying and unacceptable. Some people are incredibly proud of a family member having served or have given his/her life to service; while some feel remorseful for having lost a loved one in war. However you look at it, military service is like a pendulum. It goes back and forth; left and right; liked or disliked; loved and hated; patriotic or horrific.To get to the point, every member of a military family is affected by the demands of the military; husband, wife, children, and even extended families such as grandparents, uncles and aunts. Additionally, every aspect of life Is also affected by the military -? marriage, schooling, religious practices, cultural, moral, social, and economic. Perhaps, the children represent a great percentage of the affected population. They are the silent majority – since they can't protest and need to get along with the f low of the rigid military life.My Life Before Who really knows what life Is Like for the children In the military? How do they cope with the separations due to deployments, changes In schools, leaving their friends Enid, starting a new social circle someplace In the world, divorce, culture shocks, language barriers, and career choices? No one would know better but a child who grew up wrapped around the military tight grip. I was one of these children. We are referred to as military brats; a moniker I am not really crazy about. But the military was my life for _ years. I learned to love it and hate it.I learned to appreciate it and loathe It. Learned to live It. And I found out that kids on the other side of the world (non-military) have Just as much If not more reasons to love and hate their life. I am not going to draw comparisons and contrasts between the two sectors but I would like to focus on how the military life has affected me as a person that I am now. How did it influence my philosophy in life? What did I experience out there that helped me mold my character? How did the military drive my energy and resources (in spite of Its straining demands) so I could look at the positives and build on them?

Operations Management in Business Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Operations Management in Business - Assignment Example It helps the organization to determine the business process of the firm. However, the tactical level includes the process of project management, selection of equipments, scheduling of processes, materials and goods traffic handling. Thus it handles the entire production operation of the plant (MITSloan, 2014). The operations of an organization allow it to accomplish its mission by employing the right technological and human recourses driven by the right managerial processes. Operation management allows an organization of produce goods as well as services. The manufacturing process yields tangible products as output whereas the service operations produce intangible output. Operations management process can be broken down in to simple steps like Planning, Organizing and Controlling. Planning involves laying down the blueprint of the course of actions. Organizing establishes the structure of the tasks involved and the hierarchy of authorities. Controlling allows the manager to ensure that the tasks are aligned with the plans. Thus the operations management allows a firm to meet its organizational goals by efficiently producing its goods and services in order to meet the demands of the customers (Kumar and Suresh, 2009). This section covers the operations function of The Bramble Co., which is a furniture wholesale supplier, headquartered in Wisconsin, USA. It supplies finished goods to countries like Australia, UK, Germany, Switzerland, Hong Kong, South Africa, New Zealand, etc. The company runs its privately owned manufacturing plant in Java, Indonesia. The manufacturing plant covers a massive area of seven hectares (The Bramble Co., 2014). The company uses high end wood crafting technology along with integration of traditional craftsmanship. Bramble employs skilled workers from Europe in order to establish an efficient workforce. The company ships around seventy containers per month each having a size of

Marketing Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Marketing - Assignment Example This brand is promoted by a concept in marketing called branding. Branding affects the company’s relations with the customers and suppliers because it also deals with the experiences of the customers of the business you engaged into competitors (www.businesslink.gov.uk, Branding: the Basics). THE EVALUATION AND RANKING We have learned in class that it is very important to assess and evaluate the brands to make sure that the company has been effective and successful in promoting their products and services and highlighting the strengths of these products and services. A methodology is used by Interbrand to evaluate brands on the basis of how much they are likely to earn in the future considering the anticipated income. This method uses forecasting of the company’s future in market leadership, stability and the ability of the company and the brand to reach other countries. There are four steps in ranking a brand. The first step is to figure out what percentage of a compan y’s revenues can be acclaimed to brand. The next step is to project a certain number of years of earnings and sales for the brand. The third step is to subtract the expenses or costs such as taxes and cost for operation in the projected earnings to get the net earnings. The last step is to get other earnings to make sure that the earnings credited to the brand will be determined.

Federal Express Performance and Strategy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Federal Express Performance and Strategy - Essay Example â€Å"FedEx has a unique product line because they offer a wide range of services—FedEx Express, FedEx Ground, etc.—in which their customers can get about anything and everything done. FedEx has a diverse and broad customer base, they are not really aiming towards a certain demographic, but a lot of their services are business related†. (Roger, 2006; Greg, 2007) FedEx is really trying to please everyone, from a person in the business industry to a house wife. The services offered allows anyone in the business industry to send packages anywhere around the world so that can improve their business. Their services also allow a house wife or grandmother to send birthday gifts to their families. With all the services that FedEx offers their consumers, it no wonder why they have competition with UPS, DHL, and the United States Postal Service (USPS). â€Å"UPS is a package delivering company and global provider of specialized transportation and logistics services . DHL is a premier global delivery network by trailblazing express shipping from one country to another†. (Chaffey, 2009) USPS is an independent federal agency that provides mail processing and delivery service for individuals and business in the United States. Even with this tough competition, that has not stopped FedEx from expanding their services worldwide and opening head quarters in Hong Kong, China, that will serve all of Asia; Brussels, Belgium, that will bring services to all of Europe; Dubai, United Arab Emirates, that will serve of all the Middle East and Africa; Miami, Florida, that will serve all of the Latin America and the Caribbean1. With all of these international locations and the head quarte rs in America, it is no surprise that today FedEx Express has the world’s largest all-cargo air fleet, and in a 24 hour period those fleets travel nearly 500,000 miles while its couriers log 2.5 million a day, which is equivalent to 100 trips around the world1. (Chaffey,

Development of Brazil's Market Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Development of Brazil's Market - Essay Example The process of industrialization that took place around the year 1960 led to the development of economic sectors like the automobile industry, steel industry and the expansion of the infrastructure ventures. After world war two, the economy of Brazil rose and by the year 1975 it had an annual Gross National Product of 7.4%. On the other hand, the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was ranging to 8.5%. Moreover, by around 1970s the per capita income of Brazil multiplied four times putting it at around US$ 2,200. Around the year 1980s, United States made a significant step that in turn affected the international trade market. It increased the rate of interest in the capital market. That factor made Brazil make an adjustment in the economy, which later translated to the economy of Brazil dropping so drastically. From the year 1990, Brazil made several reforms in the economy like privatization of certain industries, tightening measures in the economy that encourages foreign investment. Further more from this decade, Brazil resorted to supporting the internal economy; therefore it decided to encourage investors in the country. In an effort to implement new changes, Brazil experience inflation, until they decided to improve income distributing. The Brazilian exchange market for the year 2009 was at 25%, however, three years later BOVESPA showed negative deviation reduced to 20%. In the successive years, the stock exchange market has drastically dropped to the extent that most of the people do not want to talk about the market trend. The primary reason as to why there was a decrease from the year 2013 was because of low demand for the products of China that is the principal trading partner. In addition to that, the kind of leadership in China has also contributed the dwindling in performance in the stock exchange market. The female president who was elected in the year 2011 concentrated much on the on the banking and other

Reflective Paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Reflective - Research Paper Example On the other hand, controlling describes a means of ensuring that organizational performance does not diverge from standards. Controlling it establishes standards of performance, compares real performance against organizational standards and takes necessary corrective actions. Planning as a core management function in Starbucks commercial takes both command groups and self-managed teams in the concept of individual versus group decision making. In Starbucks Company, the human resource department has been planned as a self managed team to set its own goals, develop strategies and outline schedules of evaluating and hiring new employees to supervise delivery and storage of coffee by customers. Starbucks executives are organized as self-managed teams to work in their departments and directly report to the managing director in the main office (Galloway, 1998). The implication of using this concept is that it allows use of group decision-making methods like dialectical inquiry, brainstorming and nominal group technique that improve the process of decision-making in Starbucks Company. Coffee customers are involved in brainstorming groups to verbally suggest good ideas of improving the performance of the company. Organizing, a core management function in O*NET website takes a good organizational culture as a concept to give a detailed work descriptions to the world for workforce development by human resource professionals, researchers, job seekers and students. Managers of O*NET website have put shared principles, values, ways and traditions of job analysis and career exploration to influence the way organizational employees act. The strong organizational culture has influenced the structure of O*NET website in which the major values of the organization are widely shared and deeply held. The implications of organizing a strong organizational culture in O*NET website has attracted high-level employee talent. Talented

Cost and Quality Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Cost and Quality - Assignment Example Connectively, Work break down structure may be presented into three different formats namely; indented format, chart format and bubbled format (Haugan, 2002). Therefore, this study will utilize organization chart format to show how the fifteen wires access point will be broken down within the next 90 days. In above connection, the study will describe the project management areas of knowledge as discussed in the Project Management Institute Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK). The study will further evaluate different cost management factors in an IT project management context. The works break down assumptions and estimated duration The cost and time to be consumed by each task will be estimated as indicated in table 1.15. Additionally, the work break down codes will be established to identify each task. Whereby, each task will be given a unique code to track it as well as cost associated with each task (Furman, 2011). In order to enhance security and vulnerability of authori zed access, the project managers responsible for this IT project will work closely with the subproject team to ensure maximum data security by preventing unauthorized access of the company data (Nahari & Krutz, 2011). Connectively, the IT project will take into consideration the following deliverable: the project team will be provided with the wireless network security handling point paper and a document for access configuration. Additionally, an architectural structure for wireless security will be established. Additionally, certain assumptions of success for this project will be taken into consideration based on task scheduling, cost and quality. Whereby, the certain task will be executed fast to allow execution of other tasks (Kendrick, 2009). Security related issues will be given the first priority via conducting a wireless pilot project. In addition, cost will involve cost for purchasing the actual tools for this project as well as hiring employees who will be responsible for e xecuting the task. However, large amount of cost will be attributed to the amount of time allotted to each task rather than costs associated with tools for executing tasks (Vines, 2002). Additionally, quality will be determined by security audit team in the IT department. Whereby, if the project security meet or exceed the anticipated security standards then project will be considered successful (Webber, Larry, & Webber, Frederick, 2006). Therefore, the four tasks for this wireless access will include; software and hardware installations, security and support programs, pilot program as well as full implementation. The 15 work break down packages under the four tasks mentioned above will involve the following; selection of hardware, conducting research on wireless security, identification of weakness and fixing them, ensuring that there is adherence to security standards, executing of hardening activities, integrating existing network authentication, technological encryption, configu ration of wireless access joints, managing network systems, making a minor security audits, updating helpdesk and training helpdesk personnel, conducting wireless project review, coordinating support team and pilot programs, coordinating support implementation team as well running vulnerability testing tools (Reynolds, 2010). The schedule below indicates the task break down schedule that will be used to design a work break down structure for wireless installation. Task break down Schedule (Table 1.15) Task Codes Wireless task

Community Health Nursing Essay Example for Free

Community Health Nursing Essay Identification of Community Nestled in Southern Indiana just west of Louisville, Kentucky and south of Indianapolis, Indiana is Dubois County, Indiana. Dubois County is comprised of the towns of Birdseye, Ferdinand, Holland, Huntingburg and Jasper. Of those towns, Jasper is the largest and is the county seat (Kelly School of Business, 2014). Over fifty-two percent of the population consists of adults ranging from 25-64 years of age (Kelly School of Business, 2014). The leading cause of mortality in this county is heart disease, cancer, suicide and injuries (Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center Dubois County Health Department, 2011). According to the 2011 health rankings of the county, Dubois County was higher in the benchmark of poor health, adult obesity, adult smoking, excessive drinking, motor vehicle crash death rate and teen birth rate than the national benchmarks (Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center Dubois County Health Department, 2011). Industry overview consists of manufacturing, transportation/warehousing, health care, and finance/insurance with manufacturing providing the majority of the jobs at an average wage per job of $54,000 in 2010(Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center Dubois County Health Department, 2011). Obesity in the county grew to 28.9% in 2008 compared to 26.8% in 2006(Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center Dubois County Health Department, 2011). Physical inactivity also increased in the two year span growing from 20.9% in 2006 to 24.5% in 2008(Memorial Hospital And Health Care Center Dubois County Health Department, 2011). Summary of Tools Population Economic Status Assessment The Population Economic Status Assessment of the county was utilized to obtain the population estimates, cultural diversity, income levels, poverty among children and unemployment rates. In 2013 the population estimates of 42, 361 were found in Dubois County (United States Census Bureau, 2014). Of  these, the cultural demographics of 98% were white and 6.4% were Hispanic or Latino (United States Census Bureau, 2014). In 2011, Dubois County provided only 0.6% of the births in Indiana and 0.7% of the deaths (Kelly School of Business, 2014). The median household income was $54,168 and 7.9% were below poverty level wen the span of 2008-2012 was studied (United States Census Bureau, 2014). The rate of poverty among children in Dubois County was under 10% in 2010(Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center Dubois County Health Department, 2011). A 7.5% unemployment rate in 2010 was seen as well as an increase in families receiving temporary assistance (Memorial Hospital and Health Care Cen ter Dubois County Health Department, 2011). Neighborhood/Community Safety Inventory Environmental safety hazards present in Dubois County range from air pollution, invasive animal species, climate, and resources. Air pollution is a byproduct of the manufacturing industry. The Particulate Matter measurement in 2010 was 27.2ug/m3 which contributes to the asthma and cancer rates in the community (Air Quality, 2012). Another environmental concern is the possible conversion of a coal-fired plant into an incinerator of biomass which also threatens to worsen the respiratory issues of the population (Healthy Dubois County, 2014). Invasive animal species of the county include the Emerald Ash Borer and Gypsy moth who could deforest the trees and shrubs thereby threatening our environment (Dubois County Soil and Water Conservation District, 2014). The climate is humid and the annual precipitation is spread throughout the year (Federal Emergency Management Agency, 2014). The soil is flat and provides poor drainage thus placing the county at risk for flooding (Federal Emergency Management Agency, 2014). Cultural Assessment Tool The primary cultural groups of Dubois County are whites with German ancestry and a growing Latino population. The numbers of females to males of both cultures is approximately 50:50(Dubois County, n.d.) Religious affiliations of the community include Catholics, Lutheran, Methodist and Mormon with Catholics being approximately 71% of the population (Onboard Informatics, 2013). Disaster Assessment Planning Guide Dubois Countys disaster preparedness plans and resources are maintained by the county health department. The four major areas of focus include: acts of nature, such as floods and tornados; disease outbreaks, such as influenza and Hepatitis; accidents, including chemical spills; and terrorist acts (Dubois County Health Department, 2012). With such disasters the most vulnerable populations are the young and old, who are the most likely to be affected by a disaster. Public agencies such as the Red Cross, Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center, Dubois County Health Department are a few of the local agencies that can offer resources and aid to those individuals during times of crisis. Ethnicity issues related to disaster are language barriers of those who have recently traveled to the area. Windshield Survey The environment of Dubois County is a mix of urban and rural areas that are rich in history. In Jasper, IN there are eighteen parks located in this county seat of Dubois County. They are well maintained by the Parks and Recreation Department of the town. The homes in Jasper overall are well maintained and landscaping includes a mix of trees, shrubs and flowers. The home lot size ranges from small to large as you progress away from the downtown area. Older homes are more focused in the downtown area and newer homes are being developed in the outer areas of town. Not all of the homes have access to sidewalks or walking trails within walking distance. The Patoka River flows through the town and a recreational railway also passes through the town. Residents take advantage of the river front area with a river walk pathway that passes 2.1 miles along the river. The river walk and pavilion area along the river and parks provide common areas for families and fitness enthusiast. Other gathering places include a number of restaurants and bars in town. These restaurants are fast food, fast-casual and bar/grill type establishments. Transportation includes personal vehicles and public transportation. Schools include five primary education schools, one high school and one community college. There are over 50 dentists, 18 family practice, 5 pediatricians and 38 nursing homes/skilled/assisted living agencies in Jasper. The community business owners work hard to build up the town and county through such organizations as Dubois Strong and Greater Downtown Jasper Business Association. Dubois Strongs focus is to support business growth through marketing to access to capital to help new  and existing business to thrive. Diversity can be seen in the growth of Hispanic churches/mass times, Hispanic food stores, and restaurants. Population Health Scavenger Hunt The Dubois County Health Departments target population is the residents of Dubois County and to support the health of the county. The county website promotes the health department and the health department advertises in the local news media with regards to upcoming events and programs. The Jasper Chamber of Commerce promotes local businesses, new resident information, recreation activities, recycling programs, and more. The director of the chamber is also active in promoting the improvement and activities within the city through news media and working with various committees. Both the fire and police department are housed within the city center of Jasper and both provide programs for children in addition to keeping our city safe. The police department provides schools with the DARE program for drug prevention. The City of Jasper, through the service of various agencies, houses a community food bank, energy assistance program, foreclosure prevention services and health family promotio n program for those who qualify. Description of Selected Community Dubois County is a community built with German ancestry that has diversified over the years to include a Hispanic/Latino population. Individuals within the population are proactive in keeping the community thriving in this ever changing environment. Growth of the various cultures can be seen in the development of Hispanic churches and food stores. Cardiovascular disease was the leading cause of mortality in 2006-2008(Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center Dubois County Health Department, 2011). Health disease prevention is provided through programs through the hospital and availably of outside activities found in the river walk and parks in the area. Interpretation of Data When comparing the number of births and deaths in Dubois County to Indiana as a whole, the numbers are even, in comparison. Yet in international migration, the county ranks 23 out of 92 counties (Kelly School of Business, 2014). In examination of the leading causes of death in the county, most young people die due to injury and older people die from either cancer or heart disease. Conclusions could be made from this data. A population who is primarily employed by manufacturing facilities could be the source of the accidents in the young and the environmental agents from these plants may cause death in the elderly after multiple years of exposure. Also, another causative factor to consider is the availability of fast food linked to the increased mortality from heart disease. Problems in the Selected Community When the leading causes of mortality in Dubois County with regards to the Healthy People 2020 goals are examined, the topics of Heart Disease and Stroke, Nutrition and Weight Status and Cancer appear to be the top three problems for this community. Heart disease and stroke are leading causes of mortality in America and therefore lend themselves to an increase in healthcare cost (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2013). Prevention of these events can start with control of blood pressure, cholesterol, tobacco use, improved diet and increase in physical activity (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2013). Controlling these risk factors is therefore one of the goals of Healthy People 2020 as they attempt to ameliorate the health of the nation through health promotion and prevention. Not only does improving ones nutrition and weight decrease the risk of heart disease and stroke, but it will also aid in the prevention of other diseases including cancer. The Healthy People 2020 goal of Nutrition and Weight Status not only looks at an individuals diet, but increasing household food security and eliminating hunger (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2013). With the accessibility of fast food, increased physical inactivity and environmental safety concerns over the past few years, these goals for health promotion and prevention are applicable to this community. The resources in the community along with the communitys desire to care for its members should help this community thrive. Problem in Relation to Goals Healthy People 2020 are science based goals for â€Å"improving the health of all Americans† (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2012). It â€Å"established benchmarks and monitored progress over time in order to encourage collaboration across communities and sectors, empower individuals toward making informed health decisions, and measure the impact of prevention activities† over a ten year period( U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2012). Through the identification of a community’s health needs, a community can determine the health priorities and opportunities for improvement† (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2012). This process helps the community to live â€Å"longer lives free of preventable disease, disability, injury and premature death† (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2012). Therefore looking at the Dubois County community’s health concerns for heart disease and stroke, the goal of nutrition and weight status is a great starting point for improving the health of the community. As the individual lives of the community members improve so will the county. A healthy community is a thriving community. Poor nutrition has been linked to heart disease, diabetes and some cancers. Not only is nutrition an individuals choice, but resources must be accessible for proper nutrition and exercise. Fresh produce through Farmers Markets, health promotion through work, and accessible healthy activities for the public are a few solutions to support the community as they strive to ameliorate their lives. Availability of Community Resources A variety of organizations throughout the community provide services to improve the nutrition and health of those it serves. The Greater Downtown Business Association hosts a Farmers Market every Saturday morning from May through October. Not only does this provide locally grown produce to the community, but it also offers a positive social gathering for families and those interested in improving their nutrition. Many of the local churches and organizations offer 5K run/walk opportunities throughout the county as well. Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center offers fitness and nutrition classes for the community as part of their mission to Be for others. Primary Prevention Topic My primary prevention topic is the prevention of overweight and obesity by means of healthy nutrition and physical activity. Amelioration of health will reduce the disease risk for heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer in our community. A successful community starts with healthy individuals. Use of Questions The largest contributor to morbidity and mortality in Dubois County is poor nutrition either through lack of education or resources. The businesses and organizations are trying to improve the nutrition/physical fitness of the community by offering classes, walk/runs and other means of health promotions through media promotion. The local physicians have discussed services on local radio programs, through seminars at the hospital and in articles in the local papers. There is also a community food bank and farmers market. The most recent controversial community health concern published by the news media is that of the proposed biomass plant to be initiated in the old power plant location. There has been community involvement by community leaders and individuals to keep this from happening due to the concern of air quality. As it stands, the company that was going to initiate the transition to biomass has recently revoked their commitment to the project. Most people in the community are concerned about staying healthy for a better quality of life, but they may just not realize all the free or low cost resources available to them. Local news media advertise the hospital programs available and promote the local fitness activities available. Education needs to remain a constant to inform the community of the opportunities available to them. As mentioned previously, most of the emergency room visits are due to injuries/accidents, but cardiology issues is the top hospital inpatient discharge diagnosis (Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center Dubois County Health Department, 2011). Therefore focus on prevention and treatment of heart disease is of paramount importance. Focusing on prevention will improve the longevity of this community. Quality of life in the community is reduced by the prevalence of multiple factories in the area. As previously mentioned, the air quality has impacted the community’s rate of asthma and cancer. Imp roving quality of life needs to include improving air quality. References 2011 Dubois County Health Needs Assessment (Memorial Hospital and Health Care Center Dubois County Health Department, 2011) Retrieved from www.duboiscountyin.org/stories/2011dchealthassess.pdf Air Quality. (2012). Indiana County of Dubois Government Website. Retrieved from www.duboiscountyin.org City Data: Dubois County, Indiana. (Onboard Informatics, 2013). Retrieved April 22, 2014 from www.city-data.com/county/Dubois_County-IN.html Dubois County. (n.d.). In Wikipedia. Retrieved April 22, 2014 from http://enwikipedia.org/wiki/DuboisCounty,Indiana Dubois County Health Department (2012). Indiana County of Dubois Government Website. Retrieved from www.duboiscountyin.org Dubois County Indiana Profile (Kelly School of Business, 2014). Retrieved from www.stats.indiana.edu Flood Insurance Study: Dubois County, Indiana and Incorporated Areas (Federal Emergency Management Agency, 2014). Retrieved from in.gov Healthy Dubois County (Healthy Dubois County, 2014). Retrieved from www.healthyduboiscounty.org Invasive Animal Species Information (Dubois County Soil and Water Conservation District, 2014). Retrieved from www.duboisswcd.org State County Quick Facts: Dubois County, Indiana (United States Census Bureau, 2014). Retrieved from www.quickfacts.census.gov. U.S . Department of Health and Human Services. (2012). About Healthy People. HealthyPeople.gov. Retrieved from http://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/about. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2013). Nutrition and Weight Status. HealthyPeople.gov. Retrieved from http://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topicsobjectives2020/overview.aspx?topicid=29 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2013). Heart Disease and Stroke. HealthyPeople.gov. Retrieved from http://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topicsobjectives2020/overview.aspx?topicid=21

Complementary Therapies in UK Medicine

Complementary Therapies in UK Medicine There is an increasing use of complementary therapies and complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) nowadays, and its use has steadily increased over the last ten to fifteen years in United Kingdom (UK) (Ernst and White 2000; 35). A more specifically data obtained within the UK has shown that there is a rapid increase in the use of complementary therapies and CAM with an estimated 15 million users nationwide (Andrew 2003; 337; House of Lords Select Committee 2000). It is estimated that this sector in the UK is rapidly expanding 1.6 billion pounds per annum industry, with around 60,000 practitioners, over 170 professional associations and around 5 million patients (Budd and Mills, 2000). The use of complementary therapies and CAM widely based in specific disease entities such as cancer, cystic fibrosis and asthma, in clinical settings such as obstetrical care and paediatric oncology and by international geographic locations (Yeh et al. 2000; 56). The concept of holism, which is an appreciation of the inter-relationship between body, mind and spirit, and recognition of the socio-cultural factors are fundamental to complementary therapies and medicine (Tiran 2006; 341). A number of definitions for complementary therapies and medicine have been proposed by different researchers. One of the definitions given is a broad domain of healing resource that encompasses health systems, modalities and practices and their accompany theories and beliefs, other than those intrinsic to the dominant health system of a particular society or culture in a given historical period (Snyder and Lindquist 2001; 6). According to Uzun and Tan (2004; 239), complementary therapy is defined as therapy used in conjunction with conventional therapy. Existing studies on complementary therapies and medicine focus mainly on two things. One is the focus on the specific mechanisms of actions such as particular herbal remedies, homeopathic medicines and essential oils, often with regard to assessing their safety and efficacy; the other one is focusing on specific therapies and medicine modalities such as herbal medicine, homeopathy and aromatherapy, as if they are stable or not, uniform and constant forms of health care practice (Williams 2000; 163). CURRENT ISSUES IN THE COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY AND CAM There is a steady increase in the use of complementary therapies and CAM by the general public in the last two decades (Ernst and White 2000: 32). This is parallel to their increased used in health care settings, including the UK NHS (Richardson 2001). In 1998, only 10% from 22 million visits to complementary therapy practitioners in England were though NHS contacts, highlighting a clear need for the provision of equitable and appropriate access to these services (Thomas et al. 2001; 8). Cancer patients are amongst the main users of complementary therapies in the UK, with up to a third of patients having received one or more complements therapies (Wilkinson 2002; 68). Due to the increase in demand, the UK government has commissioned a House of Lords Select Committee Report on complementary therapies (House of Lords Select Committee 2000). In order to have a clearer and better understanding of the complementary therapies, the report recognised the urgent need for the generation of high quality research evidence to support the complementary therapy and CAM use (House of Lords Select Committee 2000). The Prince of Wales Foundation for Integrated Health (FIH) has also recognised the need to combine the best of complementary therapy with conventional health care (Robert et al. 2005; 116). In order to deliver a good quality of complementary therapy, FIH has produced national guidelines for their use within the field of supportive and palliate care (FIH 2003). For application by the managers and commissioners of complementary therapy services within the field, the guidelines is used to inform service development and management, and practice development (Roberts et al. 2005; 116). REGULATIONS AND PROFESSIONAL BODIES OF COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY The number of people using complementary therapies and CAM in the K continues to grow (Thomas et al. 2001; 2). Unfortunately, a high proportion of complementary therapies and CAM practitioners in the UK are unregulated and due to the increased in demand, there is a need of certain mechanisms to protect the public against skilled practitioners (Mills 2001; 158). At present, a General Practitioner (GP) can only delegate treatment to complementary therapists, and the GP are responsible for the treatment provided and their effects (Walker and Budd 2002; 8). Two therapies which have achieved statutory self-regulation are osteopathy and chiropractors (Walker and Budd 2002: 8). Regulations and Professional Bodies of Aromatherapy Aromatherapy was introduced in the UK during 1960s and is one of the fastest growing complementary therapies with number of registered therapists increase from 2500 to 6000 between 1991 and 2000 (Walkman and Budd 2002: 13). The Aromatherapy Organisation Council (AOC) is an umbrella body represented by members from 13 established professional associations and claims to be the governing body for the aromatherapy profession in UK (AOC 2000). The AOC (2000) have welcomed and supported the findings of the select committee report, even though there is no statement stressing on the need for statutory regulation for aromatherapy but AOC will continue with their process under the Health Act 1999 towards statutory self-regulation to ensure public safety. Regulations and Professional Bodies of Osteopaths and Chiropractors The osteopathic and chiropractic professions have struggled for many years to be recognised as part of mainstream medicine (Walker and Budd 2002; 12). In May 2000, the Osteopathic Act was set up and enforced, making it a criminal offence for those who are not on the General Osteopathic Council register to call them osteopathic (GOsC 1999). On the other hand, Chiropractors Act was enforced in June 2001 and the conditions are the same as Osteopathic Act whereby those failing to join the General Chiropractic Council statutory register are considered as a criminal offense (Copland-Griffths 1999: 5). Regulations and Professional Bodies of Herbalists In 1993, the European Herbal Practitioners Association (EHPA) was formed and the Medicine Control Agency (MCA) and Department of Health have been working with EHPA on legislation aimed at protecting public safety and the rights of herbalists to prescribe herbs (Walker and Budd 2002: 12). Regulations and Professional Bodies of Acupuncturists The main regulatory body of acupuncturists in the UK is the British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) with 2200 members and was formed in 1995 (Walker and Budd 2002: 12). British Acupuncture Accreditation Board (BAAB) was also being set up and well-established for educational standard(Walker and Budd 2002: 12), and Regulation Action Group was set up too to carry out an extension consultation exercise which include regional group meetings and discussing options for regulations (BAcC 1999). WHO USES COMPLEMENTARY THERAPY AND CAM? According to the study carried out by Fox et al. (2010; 95), the prevalence rate for visits to complementary therapies practitioners in UK increased from 20% in 1998 to 27% in 2002. The practitioners most frequently visited in UK (reflexology, aromatherapy, acupuncture, chiropractic and so forth) are similar to other findings done by other researchers (MacLennan et al. 2002; 170). UK complementary therapies and CAM users are more likely to be well educated, affluent, middle-aged and employed especially those suffering from panic, anxiety and depression, and the findings are similar to international findings (Fox et al. 2010; 95). According to Risberg et al. (2004; 532), females showed more positive view towards complementary therapies and CAM than males. Consistent with the above findings of the complementary therapy and CAM, studies have found that a range of non-life threatening but long-term chronic conditions to be the most (Willison and Andrews 2004; 83). Wellman et al. (2001; 18) found that older CAM users typically presented with chronic non-life threatening conditions such as musculoskeletal problems (50%) and emotional problems (10%). Andrews (2002; 360) found that 59% of complementary therapies and CAM users were encountering musculoskeletal problem (including 11.3% for arthritis and 20% for chronic back pain) and 11% for emotional and mental health problems. On the other hand, Fautrel et al. (2002; 2438) were more specific and found use of complementary therapy and CAM on thyroid disease and arthritis. In the research carried out by Williamson et al. (2003; 25), complementary therapy and CAM users were found to use the treatments for moderate pain relief (54.8%) and in terms of general well-being, health fitness improvement purpose (45.2%) and life quality improvement (40.5%). FACTORS OF USING COMPLEMENTARY THERAPYAND CAM In the study carried out by Wellman et al. (2001), he found out that consumerà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s pathway to use complementary therapy had consulted a physician or specialist but subsequently turned to complementary therapy and CAM because the physician or specialist failed to help them. Similarly, Andrews (2002; 361) found dissatisfaction with orthodox medicine lead them opt for complementary therapies and CAM. On the other study, both Wellman et al. (2001) and Andrews (2002; 361) concluded that advice from families members and friends influence both their choice to use CAM and which complementary therapy to select. A study conducted by Lewith et al. (2002; 104) has found that 32% of patients indicated they were currently receiving some form of complementary therapies, suggesting a trend is increasing in usage of complementary therapies over recent years. An earlier survey showed that 70% of National Health Service (NHS) Hospitals in England and Wales were offering one or more complementary therapies in the management of cancer care, with relaxation and aromatherapy being the most commonly available (Scott et al. 2005; 132). AROMATHERAPY Definition Aromatherapy involves the therapeutic use of essential plant oils and has existed for 5000 years (Barclay et al. 2006; 141). It is increasing being used in the cancer care and dermatology settings (Fellowes et al. 2004). Ways of Application Essential oils are applied to the skin by various method, such as ingested or inhaled, and they bring no harm unless it is used incorrectly (Steflitsch and Steflitsch 2008; 76). Aromatherapy massage is the most widely used complementary therapy in nursing practice (Macmillan Cancer Relief 2002). Who Uses It and Effects of Aromatherapy According to Kimber (2002; 22), aromatherapy massage helps to improve self-image during pregnancy and may aid acceptance of physical changes in mother. The relaxation effects generated also extend to the foetus (Diego et al. 2002; 404). Besides that, massage is found to be able to stimulate production of endorphins and decrease blood pressure, through its effect on the parasympathetic nervous system (Casar 2001; 11). Aromatherapy massage facilitates the absorptions of essential oils via the skin (Buckley 2002; 277), and aromatherapy is one of the primary therapy used to treat anxiety (Long et al. 2001; 182). In addition, essential oils are able to stimulate areas associated with smell in the limbic system of the brain and evidence that odours affect emotions and cognition (Alexander 2002; 54). Study conducted by (Steflitsch and Steflitsch 2008; 78) found that cancer patients receiving aromatherapy significantly improved quality of life and anxiety. According to Burns (2000; 84), an analysis of 8058 mothers who had received aromatherapy between 1989 and 1990 indicated that more than 50% of mothers found it helpful to release stress and relaxing. Ballard et al. (2002; 556) conducted a double-blind study involving dementia patients with clinically significant agitation treated with Melissa oil from eight NHS nursing homes in UK and concluded that those treated with Melissa group showed a higher significant improvement in reducing aggression than the control group by the fourth week. Besides that, aromatherapy is believed to have beneficial effect in reducing back pain and periarticular pain and Dolara et al. (2000: 357) had proven that aromatherapy exerts a strong anaesthetic effect that able to block the sodium current and thus reduce pain. Besides that, Friedman et al. (2002; 1555) concluded that essential oils have specific antibiotics and antifungal properties, and have significant beneficial effect on the urinary tract infection. BENEFITS AND OUTCOMES OF OTHER COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES AND CAM The role of complementary therapy and CAM is mainly focusing on imposing the patientà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s quality of life (Roberts et al. 2005; 119) which includes psychological, social, spiritual and practical (Kaasa 2000). In one cancer clinical survey of trial patients carried out by Sparbe et al. (2000; 627), respondents informed that complementary therapies helped to enhance patientsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ quality of life by improving the capability of coping with stress and decreasing the discomfort of treatments. Boon et al. (2000; 2518) found that most of the breast cancer patients use complementary therapy to boost their immune systems. Some patients claimed that complementary therapy is playing an essential role in ameliorating and curing conditions including chronic problems (Luff and Thomas 2000; 256). DRAWBACK IN THE COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES AND CAM Complementary therapies and CAM are progressively being integrated into conventional health care through their provision in the UK NHS and independent hospice movement (Macmillan Cancer Relief 2002). However, there has been little effective evidence to support these developments in UK and this suggests that most complementary therapies and CAM services development over the last 10 years were in creeping developments (Roberts et al. 2005; 117). In conjunction to this matter, there is a need for the initiation of more scientific research to investigate individual complementary therapy and CAM (Wilkinson 2002; 468). In addition, there is also a need to evaluate the effectiveness of the provision of complementary therapy and CAM as an integrated NHS service, across acute and primary care (Roberts et al. 2005; 117). Many researches have been using randomised control trials in the study of the effectiveness of the individual complementary therapy and CAM interventions (House of Lords Select Committee 2000). However, such approach does not allow for a more complex multi-dimensional analysis of the effectiveness of service provision as a whole (Roberts et al. 2005; 118). Besides that, it is also difficult to determine the effect of short-term versus long-term use of complementary and CAM therapies (Jones et al. 2010; 151). Currently there are still a limited numbers of real complementary therapy and CAM professionals (Furnhan 2002; 44). Health professionals such as doctors and nurses also highlighted their lack of knowledge on complementary therapy and CAM consumption (Salmenpera et al. 2003; 360). Physicians have been reported to be indifferent or opposed to complementary therapy and CAM uses (Risberg et al. 2004; 530). This may be due to lack of understanding by clinicians, through a lack of appropriate education and doubts about the benefits offered by complementary therapy (Corbin-Winslow and Shapiro 2002; 1178). The issue of physicianà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s emphasis on scientific evidence and their lack of understanding may contribute to the lack of effective explanation to the patients of the purpose of complementary therapy interventions (Tasaki et al. 2002; 217). CONCLUSION Aromatherapy has shown in various studies to overcome anxiety and panic, back pain, fungal and virus infection, dementia and pregnancy stress. In conjunction with this, the future clinical application of aromatherapy will probably have a place to be integrated in clinical medicine, especially in the hospitals, clinics and health care centres. However, more future research needs to be carried out in order to identify the beneficial aspect and it effects of different essential oils. This is because essential oils exhibit pharmacological, antimicrobial, physiological and psychological properties. It is a waste if there is no much research to explore the vast beneficial potentials hidden in the essential oils in order to determine its clinical potential in healing. The finding indicating physicians expressed more negative attitude towards complementary therapy and CAM compared to other health professionals such as doctors and nurses in UK is essential. This is because from this moment a better training and attitude can be provided to the physicians and other health care professionals so that they can have a better understanding on the importance and potentials of these therapies and medicine. In fact, it might also improve the understanding and cooperation between the health care professionals and the practitioners so that the practitioners can get a better confident, service and treatment from the health care professionals and physicians in the future. Besides that, quantitative and qualitative research on short-term and long-term effects of the therapies and CAM must be emphasised more in order to obtain more accurate and precise data proving the reliability, consistency and accuracy of the research. This is also to allow the public to have a wider choice in selecting the best treatment for their health.

Ecological Models in Psychology: Overview and Application

Ecological Models in Psychology: Overview and Application Ecological models encompass an evolving body of theory and research concerned with the course and conditions that oversee the lifelong course of human development in their actual environment. Following the diagrammatical illustration of Bronfenbrenner’s social ecological theory, is a personal reflection of my childhood as it relates to the five spheres of ecological influence. This is followed by a reflection on the importance of understanding context for training counsellors, ending the paper with an indebt description of what I have learned so far regarding the distinctiveness in the South African context. Bronfenbrenner’s Social Ecological Theory Bronfenbrenner (1979) defines development as the individual’s growing conception of the ecological environment, their relation to it, as well as their evolving capacity to discover, maintain, or amend its properties. According to Bronfenbrenner (1989), development and socialization are subject to five spheres of influence with which a person is in dynamic interface. Microsystem The microsystem comprises the developing persons closest surroundings assembled from three basic factors comprising position, interpersonal relations, and pattern of activities (Bronfenbrenner, 1979). Common microsystems evident in my childhood include: living with my unautocratic mother for the first half of my childhood which provided me with a loving childhood environment; living with my authoritarian father for the second half of my childhood which exposed me to various forms of family conflict, negatively impacting my school performance; and the incredibly hostile relationship with my older sibling which impaired my sense of self-worth and confidence. Mesosystem The mesosystem comprise the connections and processes proceeding between microsystems containing the developing person (Bronfenbrenner, 1979). Common mesosystems evident in my childhood include: my mother cheering for me at sporting events which enhanced my sense of self-efficacy; the frequent communication between my school teachers and parents during their divorce, which insured we received additional attention and care safeguarding against the impact of their divorce; and my father being a member of the patrolling team in the neighbourhood created a safer environment for me to grow up in. Exosystem The exosystem refers to the communal setting or organisation beyond the person’s immediate experience, both formal and informal, that influence the developing person (Hook, 2009). Common exosystems evident in my childhood include: my father working overseas for many months at a time which caused considerable conflict within the family; deficient municipality services in my hometown which left us without water and electricity on numerous occasions; and the district police and neighbourhood watch working together to increase the responsiveness to crime and violence in my hometown, which made me feel safe and secure in my neighbourhood. Macrosystem The macrosystem encompass the overarching ideology, principles, laws, policies, and customs of a given culture (Keenan, 2002). Common macrosystems evident in my childhood include: my Christian faith which influenced how I relate and respond to the outside world; the ongoing racism in South Africa which made me feel incredibly unwelcome in my own country; and the culture of violence and crime in South Africa which limited my freedom to move around, making me increasingly distrustful of others. Chronosystem The chronosystem explains that probability, personal choice, and context influence members differently over time, and that lives are linked and families constituted by social interdependence (Elder, 1995). Common chronosystems evident in my childhood include: the divorce of my parents which left me feeling vulnerable and isolated; my father remarrying which caused considerable division and hostility among family members; and my mother emigrating to Australia, which left me feeling isolated, and deprived of the emotional support I needed as a child. Importance of Understanding Context for Training Counsellors The effects of Apartheid impacted all South African citizens; however it did so in very dissimilar ways (Bray et al., 2010). Families classified as African experienced the most pernicious effects, seeing that both physical and psychological integrity of family life were undermined through the Apartheid state policies (Bray et al., 2010). As pointed out by Arredondo (1999), people bring to counselling worldviews and connections that are subjected to these types of experiences, which influences the person’s attitude and belief about both self and others. For this reason, South African counsellors need to work in a counselling modality that makes provision for the acknowledgement and appreciation of Black clients’ common history of White oppression, the resentment this generates, the counsellor’s own response to that antipathy, and the impact this has on the counselling relationship (Spangenberg, 2003). Traditional African custom and belief play a significant role in defining psychological problems (Juma, 2011). The corporal complaints, behavioural symptoms, emotional problems, hallucinations and misfortunes reflect the relation with African worldviews on health and well-being (Juma, 2011). The implication of this conclusion is that a Western based counsellor in a therapeutic relationship with a client whose psychological problems are informed by traditional beliefs and practices, might misinterpret the client’s worldviews and unduly struggle to provide a relevant diagnosis and intervention for the client (Juma, 2011). Important considerations in determining what types of treatment might work best in a given situation entails the client’s context and perspective, as it emanates from their cultural heritage, socio-economic status, and racial assemblage (Austin, 2012). Where the Western perspective relies heavily on talking therapy, the African traditional perspective takes the liability of resolving the problem away from the client by performing rituals, which occasionally involves family members, both alive and deceased (Juma, 2011). One therefore cannot ignore the important role of traditional healing when addressing cross-cultural counselling, as this form of support plays a vital role in traditional African life (Bodibe, 1992; Swartz, 1998). In addition, respecting the client’s culture should embrace aspects such as; making or avoiding eye contact, who should sit, stand, or walk first, and how a woman should converse with a man and vice versa (Du Toit, Grobler Schenck, 1998). It is also important for trained counsellors to examine their own worldviews and cultural biases that have the potential to influence the therapeutic environment, either consciously or unconsciously (Du Toit et al., 2001). In the South African context, a major hindrance in the way of effective counselling is the language difference between counsellor and client (Spangenberg, 2003). According to Maiello (1990), words do not have equal value in African cultures as in verbal communication in Western traditions. In addition, a great deal of communication in African tradition is symbolized through singing, dancing, rituals and ceremonies (Maiello, 1990). One of the implications of this is a possible disruption in communication between the counsellor and client, with the result that the establishment of rapport, being the primary step in building a therapeutic relationship, is greatly affected (Juma, 2011). Juma (2011) warns that the lack of proper understanding of the client’s use of language may lead the counsellor to unduly regard some behaviour or experiences as pathological, and to the incorrect diagnosis of their clients’ condition. There is evidence that a person’s cultural background influences every facet of infirmity experience, from linguistic arrangement and content of delusions (Karno Jenkins, 1993) to the inimitable meaning of expressed emotion (Kleinman, 1988). Therefore, it is crucial to regard the cultural background of individuals as well as their exposure to cultural change, in order to develop accurate inferences of pathology and to recognize existing disorders (Westermeyer Janca, 1997). In the traditional African worldview, Ubuntu constitute an intrinsic part of rural African life (Spangenberg, 2003). Broodryk (1996) defined ubuntu as a communal way of life that believe humanity must be run for the sake of all, requiring collaboration, sharing, and liberality. A client rooted in this approach, seeking the services of a Western based counsellor is likely to be disgruntled when such a counsellor focuses on him/her as a target of intervention instead of focussing on the system (Juma, 2011). Bronfenbrenner (1979) argues that to understand human development one needs to examine multi-person systems of interaction that are not limited to a single setting. Consequently, counsellors must recognise the impact on the whole family system when a member suffers from a mental disease. In these circumstances, responsible members are faced with many challenges including: the implications of the emotional and practical support needed for the client; their own complex emotional reactions to the situation; the impact on interpersonal relations; the financial burden placed on family members; and ultimately the stigma and social discrimination experienced in that given cultural context (Jonker Greef, 2009). Distinctiveness of the South African Context Socio-cultural advances in psychology, as demonstrated by the works of Vygotsky and Bakhtin, provides the necessary tools to critically explore the notion that psychological processes such as self-understanding emanate from the social basis of life (Mkhize, 2004). Vygotsky argued that ontogenesis proceed from social, cultural and historical forms of life (Mkhize, 2004). Therefore, higher mental function are arbitrated by cultural tools, namely, the forms of life that is reflected in activities such as plays, hymns, and cultural narratives, which are ultimately internalised to govern our own actions (Mkhise, 2004). By means of internalisation, the developing child learns to apply with respect to himself the same forms of behaviour that others previously performed with deference to him/her (Mkhize, 2004). This will contribute to the distinctiveness seen in the South African context given that internalisation paves a way for the manifestation of personhood from the collective forms of life (Mkhize, 2004). However one needs to consider that what can be said of a given developmental environment today may not necessarily be true of that environment tomorrow (Hook, 2009). Bakhtin noted a dialogical interaction between national languages in the sense that one language may be used at home, a different one in school, and perhaps even another for religious purpose (Mkhize, 2004). Moreover, Bakhtin observed that within a single national language there might subsist a number of social languages, suggestive of the social placement of the speaker (Mkhize, 2004). Furthermore Bakhtin referred to what he called collective voices, pointing to the opinions, points of view and perceptions that reflect the views of our social and cultural community (Mkhize, 2004). For example, a man who considers himself superior to women is most probably ventriloquating the patriarchal views in his society which he has consolidated into the self, apart from expressing his inimitable point of view. The belief that the self emanates from kinship is consistent with the African conceptions of personhood (Mkhize, 2004). Let us consider the saying: Umuntu ngumuntu ngabatu. This expression points to the belief that the selfhood emerges dialogically, through participation in a community of other human beings (Mkhize, 2004). In addition, selfhood in conventional African thought is conceptualised in space and time, where the person is perpetually in the making, never truly a finished product (Mkhize, 2004). It is through participation in the community of others, which in some cultures include rituals of conversion, that one becomes fully human (Mkhize, 2004). The plurality of selves articulated in African belief is expressed differently, depending on the individuals’ cultural heritage (Mkhize, 2004). For example, most traditional South African communities believe over and above the unique individual self, that people are born with a spiritual being representing their ancestors. The spiritual self is thought to be more pronounced in those called to become traditional diviners and healers i.e. izangoma (Mkhize, 2004). Furthermore, it is recognized that both native and Western worldviews can coeval within a single person (Mkhize, 2004). A need to continually shift self perspectives already characterizes the lived experiences of many African people (Mkhize, 2004). For example, an elderly man who works as a sweeper in the mines may be a highly esteemed headman in his rural community. The quality of relationships is maintained in part by reference to and use of cultural norms governing social interaction that have emerged from particular community standards, regulating social interaction that have stemmed from respective community histories (Bray et al., 2010). The isiXhosa word ukuhlonipha, to respect, describe what is considered an essential element of interpersonal relationships, especially between generations, which is widely used by children and adults alike (Bray et al., 2010). Patriarchy and a broadly accepted gendered social division are common aspects of South African communities across the spectrum of wealth, language and tradition, but manifest in rather different ways both across and within different communities (Guma Henda, 2004). There is evidence that patriarchal ideology directly influence behaviour, so much so, that male farm-workers vindicated violence against their partners based on their household headship (Paranzee Smythe 2003; Dawes et al., 2006). With the feminisation of poverty, women find themselves increasingly vulnerable to HIV infection attributable to the intersection of economic and gender power inequalities (Shefer, 2004). Such dynamics play a significant role in South Africa as cultural laws, financial viability, and gender power disparities all intersect to create barriers for women in the negotiation of heterosex (Shefer, 2004). Furthermore, the imperative for women to be involved in sexual relationships for monetary gain have also been demonstrated (Shefer, 2004). Much of this is subject to the cultural construct of male and female sexuality (Shefer, 2004). On another note, Emily Fenichel (2003) has observed that young children are growing up in a greater variety of families than ever before. Newborns enter families through birth, adoption, or fostering; they are conceived through intercourse or assisted reproductive technology; they live in families formed by marriage and remarriage, in cohabiting heterosexual families, in lesbian- and gay-headed families, and in single-parent families. Levels of household income demonstrate a stronger influence on parental residence than race, signifying that the post-apartheid economic landscape wield a stronger influence on family organization than former state policies (Bray et al., 2010). However, Bray et al. (2010) found that African children in low- income households are less likely to reside with one or both parents than coloured children in similar income households, with negligible differences between white and coloured children in households with high income (Bray et al., 2010). It is important to remember that family members have caring responsibilities that extend beyond the care of dependent children and beyond households. Many family members care for aged parents, frail relatives, adult siblings and offspring during times of social and personal emergency and in conditions of chronic illness and disability (Amoateng et al., 2004). Moreover, many children take on parenting roles to fulfil the place of working parents, parents who are ill, and when families are in crisis (Amoateng et al., 2004). On a final note, I believe it is important to acknowledge the contribution that migrants from neighbouring and foreign countries make to the diversity seen in the South Africa context. Throughout this reflective journey I have come to appreciate how each of the five spheres of ecological influence, as captured in Bronfenbrenner’s social ecological theory, have impacted my childhood and consequently development. Upon reflection of the content dealt with in this assignment, the unmistakable importance of understanding the impact of context for training counsellors comes to the light, seeing that a counsellor in a therapeutic relationship with a client whose psychological problems are informed by traditional beliefs and practices, might misinterpret the client’s worldviews and unduly struggle to provide a relevant diagnosis and intervention if they fail to comprehend the client’s unique context. Customer Care Policies: Effectiveness Customer Care Policies: Effectiveness The changes taking place in the world are taking place at a very rapid pace, and inorder to survive and remain fit in the competition it is required by hotel industry to have a good policy that gives quality service and satisfy the needs of the customers. The hotel must identify its commitment to meet the service and satisfying needs of every customer making him feel important and respected. According to Cardiff University (2010) noted that there would be assistance for all the customers in case of any queries against the services provided or services used and the staff employed by the division. Therefore the obligations to meet these are made into different procedures and policies. The main aim of customer care policy in any industry is to handle the grievances of mainly the direct users of service in a timely, reasonable and positive manner. The main aim of this report is to analyse the customer care policy of a particular hotel (RITZ) and its effectiveness. The primary information presented in this report is from the personal visit by the author to the hotel and the secondary resource is taken from various articles and the net source. The RITZ hotel in London established in 1906 by a Swiss hotelier Caesar Ritz. It is a 133 room hotel located in Piccadilly in London. It is a 5 star hotel with many big hoteliers acknowledging it as the worlds greatest hotel .The Ritz hotel was managed by the hotel managed for many years and has been transferred to many hands later on, the latest is David and Fredrick Barclay in 1995 from Trafalgar house for 80 million. The greatest accomplishment by Ritz is being considered as a benchmark through which other hotels were measured (Theritzlondon, 2010). The details of this hotel will be presented at various stages in this report. TYPES OF CUSTOMERS In my personal visit to the Hotel these are the various customers identified frequently visiting the hotel. (1) TOURISTS The tourism industry in U.K is considered to be one of the biggest sectors in U.K.According to Euromonitor (2008) London seems to be major place of tourist attraction and millions of people visiting it round the year. The tourists are those people who move out of their dwelling place to a different location for a more than one or certain number of days but less than a year .The main reason behind this is to do some leisure and recreation activities(Social, cultural etc). RESAON FOR VISIT Hotel Ritz is located on Piccadilly, over the green park and it is in central London. It is evident that central London has much tourist attraction (London eye, Buckingham palace, Big Ben, etc) (Moment of truth).The other reason is the existence of coach and train station nearby (London Victoria) and frequent trains to Gatwick and Heathrow airport. This is the reason to be more preferred by tourists. (2)CORPORATES The term corporate is derived from the word business person referring some in a white collar job. The corporate individuals are particularly top in the rank in hierarchy and work towards the profit maximization in the organization. At certain times it is required by them or the company to conduct certain meetings or a get together with people from different companies and promoting their business. They are needed to be given due importance because they make huge businesses. REASON FOR VISIT Hotel Ritz renders various facilities conference halls, private meeting rooms with high speed broadband (100mb) wireless network, which helps in conducting and executing meetings. The existence of lavish Private and big dining rooms can be suitable for the get together ,in regards to meeting different dignitaries from different countries(Theritzlondon,2010). ARCHITECTURAL VISITORS Architects are those people who play an important role in making a place very attractive and beautiful. These kinds of visitors are always interested in different, unique and rare designs. REASON TO VISIT Hotel Ritz has unique French chateau architecture and Louis XVI furnishings and themes, with the presence of Parisian architectural traditions on the outside. The other reason is the works of great architects like Charles Mewes and Arthur Davis. BIOGRAPHERS These are the people who write on the real life stories of great people in different parts of the world. REASON FOR VISIT Hotel Ritz had housed many famous people like Chalie chaplin,Winston chruchill,King Edward VIII and various other Hollywood actors and celebrities etc(London-traveltrips,2010).This will help biographers to know about certain personal interest of celebrities(For ex. food). TO UNDERSTAND THE IMPORTANCE OF CUSTOMER CARE POLICIES AND ITS IMPORTANCE The purpose to commence any business to create and attract a customer (Drucker, 1998) The formulation of the customer care policies in most of the industries is done by the management in order to suit the current situation and satisfy the needs of the customers. In the hotel industry it is customers acceptance and like for the policies that leads to gaining more customers and making profits. Therefore the policies made must be focused on retaining the old customers as well as attracting new customers. Given below are certain policies followed in the RITZ hotel to attract customers. Creation of positive business environment:- The creation of this positive environment is possible by making the customer feel good about themselves and the company and this finally leads to spending by the customer. The staffs play an important role in this creation, so they must be trained properly to know the required tools and know-how techniques to make the customers stay a memorable one. (For ex) Provision of Cab facilities at cheap rates for new tourists. The existence of a guide to educate customers about various architecture and antiques. Proper handling of grievance or provide a solution:- In situation like the customer coming out with any problem, in that case the staffs are trained to take the role of a parent and make the customers to reduce their temper and then give solutions that satisfy the customer. Even in the cases of no solution is identified, it is the staffs duty to hear them and respect their point of views. It is also the staffs duty to educate and make aware the limitation to the customers. In general, offering free coffee snacks to customers when they wait in the reception for check in or out. Regular checks on the cleanliness and the working of appliances. (Especially for corporate meetings get together). Measuring customer satisfaction and feedback:- The best ways to measure whether the customers are satisfied or no is by getting feedbacks from them on using the service. The implementation of various systems like informal face to face polls, feedbacks, surveys and questionnaires that will help in giving a chance for training the employees, handling the grievances and problems an adapting to current situations. It is also important to be flexible with the staff as they are key role players in delivering good customer service. (For ex) Getting feedback for every staff response on handling the customer calls and service from customers. This part of the chapter deals with the effectiveness involved in the establishment of the customer care policies in the hospitality industry. EFFECTIVENESS OF CUSTOMER CARE POLICY. The battle for repeat business is critical for long-term success in todays intensely competitive marketplace. Customer service is not just a competitive advantage, but it is a competitive advantage in many industries .Service is the new standards by which the customers judge the performance BAND (2002) CEO Coopers and Lybrand Consulting, Toronto The main reason for every organization in the hospitality industry to structure a customer service policy is to satisfy the customers and to reveal the value given to customer from this industry. These customer service policies are similar to Bundling process as explained by Greneir Kini (1991) providing value added advantage around the satisfaction and service the hotel renders. It is natural that the customers come back to the hotel where they are given a bundle of extra services at considerable cost. Certain explanations reveal that the customer service policy plays a major role in giving suggestions or solutions for the various question rose by customers. But Patsula (2004) articulation in his book of successful business planning stating that the customer service policies also helps in other ways such as developing the companys image, creating a positive business environment and building customer loyalty. But according Tschlol Stavig (2002) most of the businesses dont understand the fact that customer service and its policies are really selling, as it is attracting the customer to make many visits. The main reason behind this is that the managers are reluctant to look at it as a marketing strategy, but as an after sales service. Therefore it is necessary by every staff working in the hotel industry to be aware of the customer policies and consider it as a marketing strategy, as it helps in improving the business and realize the benefits from good customer service. Similar explanation by Bill Gates to Business Journal (2010) that every unhappy customer for the business is a great source of learning for the business. The company will be at risk, when the hotel doesnt focus on the quality and consistency of customer experience they offer. But as per Seybold Marshak (2001)articulations the customer have taken control of the companies destinies and are transforming the hotel industry. Therefore it is the duty of staff to render proper service and different ways presented by Patsula (2004) are:- The staff should reveal their interest in serving people Giving the team pride and confidence to do a go job. Building customer loyalty Make the presence of management felt in case of criticism Handling complaints properly. BIBILIOGRAPHY CARDIFFUNIVERISTY.2010.Customer care policy. [WWW]http://www.cardiff.ac.uk/resid/resources/Customer%20Care%20Policy.pdf(2010)(Accessed on 28th April 2010) THERITZLONDON.2010.About company.[WWW]http://www.theritzlondon.com/about/index.asp(Accessed on 29th April 2010) LONDON-TRAVELTIPS.2010. Celebrities interest in RITZ. [WWW]http://www.london-traveltips.com/the-ritz-hotel.htm(Accessed on 30 th April 2010) EUROMONITOR.2008.Londin visitors.[WWW]http://www.euromonitor.com/top_150_city_destinations_london_leads_the_way(Accessed on 29th April 2010) DRUCKER, P.1998. Customer quotes cited in the book of ZEMKE, R WOODS, J.A. 1998. Best practices in customer service, HRD press, Pg 24 GREINER, D KINNI, T.B. 1999.1001 ways to keep customer keep coming back, Prima publishing, Pg 1 TSCHOHL, J STAVIG, V.2002.Acheveing excellence through customer service, Best sellers publishing, Minnesota, Pg 1-10. PATSULA, P.J.2004. Successful business planning ,A step by step guide for writing a business plan and starting your own business,3rd edition, No 51,Patsula media publishers Bill Gates.2010. Bill Gates on applying the best minds to the biggest problems, Puget sound Business journal, Business review, April 19 2010. SEYBOLD, P.B MARSHAK, R.T . 2001. The Customer revolution, Crown business; 1st edition, Pg 2-10.