Homosexuality in a Sri Lankan Context Essay

â€Å"We struggled against apartheid because we were being blamed and made to suffer for something we could do nothing about. It is the same with homosexuality. The orientation is a given, not a matter of choice. It would be crazy for someone to choose to be gay, given the homophobia that is present.† (Bishop Desmond Tutu). The above quote on homosexuality exemplifies on how homosexuality is a given and not a choice. It also exposes one’s understanding to the detrimental state of social homophobia and imposes a moral social obligation upon the society in whole In approaching our research topic it is important to bear in mind that Sri Lankan society is a diversified social grounding. This society includes people deriving from a multiplicity of backgrounds may it be religious, ethnic or cultural. And it should be established that homosexuals have since a long time come out as a community into this wide social arena of Sri Lanka. The noteworthy aspect of homosexuals in the Sri Lankan social context is that their sexual orientation appears problematic to the local social order; as it challenges the long established norms and perceptions of gender roles. This situation is what leads to the mass society’s understanding of homosexuality as a problem or in other words a threat to the Sri Lankan social order. It is these perceptions and attitudes of people in society that leads to a process of discrimination and labeling, which may adversely affect the minority of homosexuals in society. This phenomenon would be explored initially in this study, to establish the existing social patterns of discrimination on homosexuals. Thereafter as an applied sociological research; this study would focus on the existing socio-legal mechanisms governing homosexuality, in keeping with the problems that continue to occur in general society. The study would ideally attempt to propose the socially demanded changes under the existing socio-legal framework of our country, in order to accept and recognize the minority homosexual communities into the mainstream social order. In terms of analyzing the patterns of social discrimination the research would focus on various social establishments starting from schools, workplaces and local authorities; in order to understand and objectively prove the existence of discriminatory patterns on homosexuals within the social context. The study would also allocate space to look into the impact of discrimination on the homosexual community of our society. This aspect of the study would be dealt through the topic of homophobia, where the psychological implications of these patters would be highlighted. Once the problems concerning the homosexual community of society is dealt with, the research would proceed to study the existing legal framework on homosexuality. The nature and scope of section 365, 365 A of the penal code would be elaborated, in keeping with its effects on the homosexual community. The study would further continue to analyze the status of homosexual laws of other countries of the world and compare and contrast the situation of homosexuality with that of Sri Lanka’s. As with regard to the conclusion of this research, an attempt would be made to propose changes to the existing socio-legal framework of our country concerning homosexuality, in keeping with a view to promote the rights and standards of the homosexual community in Sri Lankan society. Chapter 01: Research Background 1.1 Research Problem In this study there would be two research problems which would be analyzed. The first being the existing patterns of social discrimination on homosexuals within the Sri Lankan social context. The second problem under study would be the incompetence of the existing legal framework to guarantee the equal rights of homosexuals in the society. The very nature of these research questions bases our study on a number of hypotheses. The first hypothesis being that the existing social system orchestrates the patterns of social discrimination on homosexuals. And the second hypothesis based on the idea that the present legal framework is responsible to the deteriorating standards of homosexuals, and that it demands significant alterations. In outlining the first research problem, the research study would focus on the patterns of social discrimination that takes place concerning the homosexual minority of the society. In exploring this topic high emphasis would be given to understand the existing gender expectations of our society and culture. The expected role of a man or the expected role of a female, which is imposed upon individuals by the social order, would be focused in this regard. Upon understanding these social expectations of gender; the status of homosexuals which trespasses these gender norms in the society would be looked into. The research would make an attempt identify the instruments of homosexual discrimination in society; may it be religion, culture, or discriminatory laws. The institutions of homosexual discrimination would be considered in this study starting from the early school environment up to the working organizations of Sri Lankan society. In terms of the second research problem, the centric focus would be on the Sri Lankan legal framework concerning homosexuality. The prime statute of Sri Lanka concerning homosexuality, section 365 of the Penal code would be elaborated from different points of views, in order to prove it’s incompetence to cater the constitutional principle of equality. The research would also concentrate on other laws of the country such as ‘adoption laws’ that appear to be problematic and incomplete to meet the natural needs of the homosexual communities. The argument of decriminalizing homosexuality would be presented in this study; comparing the processes of decriminalizing anti homosexual laws in countries such as India, America and European countries. The focus of the study would aim at providing proposals for legal changes that would safeguard the rights of equality, privacy and liberty of the homosexual communities in Sri Lanka. 1.2 Research Objectives As this research study would be carried out under applied sociological method, it would not be purely concerned on the problems of homosexual lifestyles or the reasons behind their different sexual orientation. Instead this study would be focused on providing suitable socio-legal framework in order to accept and recognize the minority homosexual community in the mainstream society. And in terms of proposing such a framework the researcher would give due consideration to the existing social order and laws; and emphasize on the need of safeguarding the rights and dignities of the homosexual community in such a proposed framework. The objectives of this research could basically be listed out under the following points; * An attempt to understand the deteriorating standards of homosexuals in the Sri Lankan society. * Looking into the existing socio-legal framework of Sri Lanka with regard to Homosexuality; and how it affects the lives of homosexual individuals. * Making recommendations to the existing social order of Sri Lanka; in order to accept and recognize the homosexual community in the mainstream society, thus safeguarding their rights, dignity and liberties. 1.3 Research Methodology and Data Collection As mentioned earlier this would be an applied sociological research in terms of research methodology. An Applied research is concerned with search for ways of using scientific knowledge to solve practical problems. It focuses on analyzing and solving social and real life problems. The findings become basis of framing programs and policies, based on the principles of pure research (Ahuja, 2009) . Thereby as this research would be conducted on an applied research basis, the study would be aiming at finding solutions to the problem of deteriorating homosexual rights in Sri Lankan society. As part of the framework of applied researches an attempt would be made in this study to highlight the problems faced by homosexuals in Sri Lankan society; as consequence to the trends of social discrimination. And upon further examining the current socio- legal realities rooted in our social system; this research would attempt to promote recommendations on improving the standards of homosexuality. These final recommendations would be a basis for framing programs and policies for the promotion of welfare and rights of Sri Lankan homosexuals. In terms of Data Collection methods of this research, the researcher would depend on basically two sampling methods to collect data as; * Purposive/Judgmental Sampling * Snowball Sampling Under the purposive sampling method the researcher purposely chooses persons, who in his judgment about some appropriate characteristics required of the sampling members are thought to be relevant to the research topic and easily available to him (Ahuja, 2009). In terms of this research the researcher would reach out to those who in his opinion are best suited to obtain information pertaining to the contents of this research. Based on this sampling method the researcher would include the sample members representing the LGBT community (referring to homosexuals) and also the sample members representing the general society. Another sample used for the purpose of collecting data would be the ‘Snowball Sampling method’. In this technique, the researcher begins the research with the few respondents who are known and available to him. Subsequently these respondents give other names who meet the criteria of the research who in turn give more new names. This process continues until an adequate number of respondents are discovered (Ahuja, 2009). Based on this sampling technique the researcher would approach available contacts that suit the criteria of the research; and thereafter proceed for others based on the recommendations from the original respondents. This process would be followed in terms of gathering respondents from both the LGBT community as well as the respondents from the general society. The research frame would be based on respondents available to the researcher within the city limits of the Colombo district. The researcher in terms of finding the sample respondents representing the LGBT community approached leading organizations committed to the development of gay rights in Sri Lanka. The researcher in this regard has approached two of such groups; one being the ‘EQUAL GROUND organization’ (names of organizations published with the consent of its representatives) and the other being a peer based support group committed for representing gay rights known as ‘Sakhi Collaborations’ (names published with consent). The research also includes a couple of individuals representing the LGBT community whom were reached separately by the researcher. The researcher also interviewed a leading legal practitioner in order to obtain views and arguments on the present legal framework pertaining to homosexuality. In looking at the tools of data collection of this research, the researcher uses a multiplicity of techniques to collect data in order to fill the content of this research. Accordingly the ‘Key Informant method’ was used to collect information from leading figures representing the two key organizations used in this research. The importance of a key informant method is to gain information on the general status of homosexual rights in many spheres of society, from the point of view of an organization which is involved in activism of promoting homosexual rights in society. The experiences, information of different cases reported, provision of various services to cater the needs of homosexuals are some of the important contributions that can be obtained through this key informant method interview. The researcher also conducted two focus group interviews consisting of respondents representing the LGBT community, with the assistance of organizations representing LGBT rights in Sri Lanka. One focus group interview was held in Thimbirigasyaya Colombo which was organized by Sakhi collaborations; and another focus group interview was held in Kirulapana Colombo organized by EQUAL GROUND. Both these interviews had around 6-8 respondents each representing the LGBT community. The focus group interviews are used to collect data from a group of members belonging to the same category, where the collection of data through an interview is done simultaneously for all members of that group. The focus group interview was carried out as an informal discussion where the respondents were freely allowed to express their views pertaining to the topics provided for them by the researcher. A questionnaire was also distributed amongst the LGBT community in order to further obtain their views on different areas of this research content. In obtaining data from respondents representing the general society the researcher has used a sample which was limited for students receiving higher education within the age group of 18-25. The purpose of restricting the scope of this sample as above was to reflect the views of the future generation with regard to homosexuality. The research also used a number of print material provided by organizations to the researcher, which were of use in terms of understanding various important socio legal dimensions pertaining to homosexuality. The researcher also had access to publications of some organizations, which reports of case studies on homosexuality and other documents containing rights and policy frameworks concerning homosexuality which were used throughout this study. 1.5Research Ethics As the research deals with a sensitive and controversial topic there will be many ethical safeguards adopted throughout this study in order to uphold the principle of Non Harm to the participants of the research as well as the general public. Some of the ethical considerations which would be adopted in this research are pointed out as follows; I. Informed Consent- The researcher would explain the nature, content and scope of the research to the participants and would obtain their Consent before making them a part of the research II. Anonymity safeguarded- The researcher would protect the identity of the participants as per their request and may use pseudonyms in this regard. Furthermore the researcher would not disclose information that may reveal the identity of the respondent based on the sensitivity of such information. However the names of organizations committed for homosexual rights, used as a sample in this research would be used with the prior approval of representatives of such organizations and groups. III. Confidentiality protected- The confidentiality of information provided would be protected at all times. And as per the request of the participant certain information would not be reported in the research. IV. The principle of Non Harm- The entire research would be based on the principle of Non Harm, and thereby would not disclose any such information that would be of detriment either to participants or any particular section of community. V. Providing access of research report before completion- The research report before being completed would be provided to the respondents in order to get their feed back as well as to allow them to see if any sensitive information affecting their interests has been published. Chapter 02:Definition of Concepts In order to proceed with the research report it is important to understand the concepts at use in this study. As this research deals with the topic of homosexuality there are various concepts that need to be pre understood, as homosexuality could be perceived from many perspectives in society. The social perceptions on homosexuality would also be extensively dealt with in this research, thereby the negative social reaction towards homosexuality would be considered in the form of Social Discrimination which too encompasses different dimensions. There would also be a legal analysis in this study which would be elaborated in depth; thereby a number of legal concepts need to be properly defined in order to better understand the direction of this research. 2.1 Sexual Orientation In understanding ‘Sexual Orientation’ it should be borne in mind that this concept has been heavily nurtured by social perceptions and attitudes, thereby it is a concept subjected to much abuse by society. For example in a society, attitudes on a person’s sexual orientation are very subjective, where a simple gesture could be interpreted as overly feminine or masculine and thereby form perceptions on the character of such person. Therefore for the purpose of this study it is important to objectively understand this concept. In order to serve the above purpose, ‘Sexual Orientation’ could be defined in two aspects as; * Emotional- Sexual Attraction of Persons * Emotional- Sexual Conduct of Persons Under the first aspect we look on how a subject person may share emotional or sexual intimacy with others of their opposite sex (heterosexual), others of both sexes (Bi Sexual) or others of one’s own sex (homosexual). However under this aspect it is only the emotional and sexual attraction that would be considered and it does not look into the actual conduct of such people’s relationships (Wintemute, 1995). This would explain a situation where a person who has emotional-sexual attraction to members of his own sex; continues to hide his feelings from society and lives a socially accepted heterosexual lifestyle. However the emotional-sexual conduct of persons goes one more step ahead and covers situations where people who share emotional sexual attraction to others, manifest such attraction by conduct. Once again this refers to all categories of sexual orientation including heterosexual, homosexual or bisexual (Wintemute, 1995). As actual homosexual relationship between two persons that manifest their sexual and emotional attraction to each other through conduct, would be included under this aspect. In understanding sexuality or sexual perceptions in the larger society, it is important to bear in mind these two dimensions of sexual orientation. Upon understanding the concept of sexual orientation, it is important to move on to the main consideration of this research that being ‘homosexuality’. For the purpose of this research the term ‘Homosexuality’ would be used on four categories of sexual orientations as: LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bi Sexual and Transgender). Thereby it is of pivotal importance to define these four types of sexual orientations which would be the subject of this research study. * Lesbian – are referred to women who are emotionally, sexually or spiritually attracted to another woman. The attraction to other women based on the other criteria as well as manifestations of such attractions, could both be construed as Lesbianism (Equal Ground, 2010). In terms of tracing the origins of the term Lesbian it dates back to the Greek era, where inhabitants of an island call ‘Lesbos’ led towards the birth of the term Lesbian. The inhabitants of this island were said to be lesbian in their sexual orientation and there are historical records of love poems written by a Greek poet called Sappho, who describes love and romance between women of this island (Wakkumbura). * Gay – are used to refer to Males who are emotionally, sexually and spiritually attracted or manifest their attraction by conduct of intimate relationships with other men (Equal Ground, 2010). Homosexuality in general usage was much associated with Gay’s or male to male sexual conduct. Many religious interpretations and cultural discourses have articulated on gay sexuality many a time in history. * Bi Sexual- This is a term used on persons who are sexually, emotionally and spiritually attracted to both Men and women (Equal Ground, 2010). And engage in intimate conduct expressing such attraction with both sexes. * Transgender- This is a broad term used to describe people who express their gender differently from the general expected norm of society (Equal Ground, 2010). Many gender groups such as Transsexuals, Cross dressers, Kothi’s or Nachi communities, would fall under the umbrella of Transgender. Transgender basically would refer to a situation where one’s biological sexuality conflicts with their psychological sexuality. Thereby paving way for a situation where one would act differently from the expected gender norms; such as by different gender expressions as wearing opposite gender clothes. In another sense transgender could even include persons that actually are emotionally and sexually related to another same sex person. Even though transgender does not fall within the ambit of the definition homosexuality, for the purpose of this research the term homosexuality would also refer to transgender communities. Even in Sri Lankan society we find these transgender communities such as cross dressers and Nachi’s (a transgender group that expresses their gender differently). As transgender people are making gender expressions against the established social gender norms, such as males wearing female clothing and applying lipsticks and use of other female accessories; they become more prone for social discrimination. Therefore the transgender communities are also included to the scope of this research study.

Choices in Life Essay

Choices in life can be a very difficult thing. One decision in life can make or break your future. People can benefit from having many choices but having too many choices may also be bad. In the article â€Å"A Logical Choice† by Gary Belsky, he explains â€Å"They don’t realize that you can become paralyzed by too many choices and that increased options mean confusion.† (2) An important matter in life is the choice people have to make on where to attend college, what major you want to go into, and even enjoy the career you choose. Choosing the right college can be a difficult choice in someone’s life. Doing good in school can help someone’s decision on selecting a certain college. Every college is different and making the right choice is an important thing. Belsky states, â€Å"When it comes to choosing people are either maximizers or satisfiers.† (3) Maximizers will spend a lot of effort in searching for the top colleges for them to attend too. Satisfiers will try and find a college that is just good enough for them to do good in. When it comes to making a big decision, like choosing a college, it is always difficult making that decision by yourself. Finding someone to make that choice can always help, but you should always trust your own instincts. Trust your instincts and the right choice will come to you. When you make the decision to go to a certain college, it can help you get a good start in your career. College is the place that can help you start your career in the right direction. The career you choose makes your future the way it is. In order for you to be successful in your career, you need to go to the right college. Colleges have certain specialties they teach and choosing the right place can benefit you. Staying in college for a couple years can you help you be knowledgeable towards your career. College is just a place that helps you to become more successful for you to have a successful future and a stable life.

Cultural Hybridity Details Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Cultural Hybridity Details - Essay Example The paper will examine whether cultural hybridity can be regarded as good. In addition, the paper seeks to explore whether cultural hybridity is disliked but believed to be inevitable. Moreover, the paper will focus on whether cultural purity should be somehow maintained. In the discussion, the paper will include references drawn from art. Is Cultural Hybridity Good? At a time when the world witnesses frequent migration of people, from one continent and country to another, there is, increasingly, interaction between people and a steady growth in cultural hybridity. In my opinion, cultural hybridity is good based on the impact it has on a culture. The process of cultural hybridization plays a crucial role in helping people to understand the process of cultural change. Cultural hybridity also stimulates scholars to have a close examination of the hybridization of the past. In this case, it has helped in the understanding of renaissance, a movement aimed at the revival of antiquity. Thr ough cultural hybridity, Japan borrowed some aspects of art and culture from Europe. For instance, during the 17th Century, most Japanese were converted to Christianity by protestant and Catholic missionaries (Dower 1-84). In addition, cultural hybridity saw the spread of Southern artwork, which had originated from parts of Europe. This included visual imagery such as large folding screens that depicted the harbor at Nagasaki having foreigners with their trade ships. Moreover, cultural hybridity can be regarded as good since it led to the spread of both secular and religious paintings that emanated from European sources. Cultural hybridity can be said to be good since it led to the spread such works of art as drawings. Such drawings included â€Å"Portrait of Perry, A North American.† Cultural hybridity can be regarded as good since it encompasses Transculturation, which is essential in understanding the specificity of a continent. Cultural hybridity leads to new cultural syn thesis, thus becoming a key element of American’s developing imaginary. The realization of cultural identity is also fueled to some extent by cultural hybridity, as it leads to the understanding that identity mostly encompasses the plurality in the cultural uniqueness of a culture. It is through cultural hybridity that people come to the realization of the distinctive features of a culture in terms of politics, ethnicity and social uniqueness (Dower 1-84). A form of artwork such as lithography also spread through cultural hybridity; it emanated from the works of a German by the name Aloys Senefelder, in 1798. People from various places have learnt that this work of art entails a process whereby the top of a surface is used in making a picture. The spread of various art forms can be attributed to cultural hybridity. Through the spread of artwork, cultural hybridity serves to create favourable relations between groups of people who interact while sharing artworks. Thus, the hyb ridization of cultural can be regarded as an essential phenomenon (Dower 1-84). Do you dislike it but believe it is inevitable? I do not dislike cultural hybridity, but it is my belief that it can be termed as inevitable owing to its remarkable impact. Once various cultures interact with one another, it becomes evident that they will exchange some traits between them. For instance, each culture comes to learn the way of doing things,

Synthesis of Attributes Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Synthesis of Attributes - Essay Example In the past 25 years, worker skills or level of education were a favorable recipe that would earn any bearer of these attributes better and more stable jobs, amounting to job security. However, the trend in the current economy has been manipulated by the emphasized need to lower production expenses and increase profit margins. This aspect has caused many jobs to be offshored to countries such as China and India where the production expenses for jobs pertaining impersonal services are lower. Reportedly, only workers in possession of skills pertaining personal services such as barbers, medical practitioners, and counsellors can have some level of security. This calls for workers to develop leadership and innovative attributes that will facilitate the possession of innovative skills that cannot afford offshoring. According to Carnevale, Cheah, and Strohl, thanks to the U.S Department of Labor, data provided projecting employment projections in every ten years could go a long way in help ing prospective workers in decision making towards a choice of career path. Contrary to the attributes discussed first, possession of higher levels of education is a key attribute to ensure success in the new economy. At the time of the research reporting provided by Carnevale et al. (as cited in Behrens &Rosen, 2013, p. 180), the unemployment rates of Bachelor’s degree holders stand at 8.9%, while those of high school leavers and high school dropouts stood at 22.9% and 31.5% respectively. The risks that high school dropouts or lower educated job seekers faced included the grabbing of job opportunities that did not require high skillsets and education by more educated individuals. An emphasis is, however, put on the career path chosen as Carnevale et al. states: (as cited in Behrens &Rosen, 2013, p. 180) â€Å"not all college degrees are created equally.† The existing data indicated higher absorption rates in some career fields with specific college degrees that other fields. For instance, employment rates in the fields that required Computer Science, Education, and Healthcare competency had a higher absorption that greatly reduced the unemployment rates that then stood at an average of 5.4% compared to absorption in Architecture that left 13.9% unemployment rate. These differences arose due to the dynamic status that various job markets faced due to a variety of aspects such as collapse of housing construction in Architecture. Studies also revealed a higher absorption rate for individuals that contained graduate degrees than those with Bachelor’s (BA). However, the majoring specific was highly relevant as some undergraduate degrees like Computer Science seemed to perform way better than any Graduate degree. Successful workers in the new economy will have to possess a competitive and creative attribute of being creators and not servers. Kessler (as cited in Behrens &Rosen, 2013, p. 203), is quick to dismiss the existence of the two classic al types of workers; white-collar and blue-collar workers, and instead, replaces these categories by two types of workers: creators and servers.

The issue of immigration is complicated in the United States, Essay

The issue of immigration is complicated in the United States, basically because many more people want to come to this country th - Essay Example Others believe that we should extend amnesty and broaden our immigration policy so that many more immigrants can come here, especially as guest workers for a limited time. Opinion polls continually show aen overwhelming opposition to illegal immigration as well as for the idea of amnesty. Amnesty for illegal aliens is simply a reward for law-breakers and encourages even more illegal immigration. Those who want amnesty for illegal aliens do not seem to realize that a crime. Illegal immigrants receive more from public monies than they contribute which lowers the standard of living for legal citizens. Illegal immigrants contribute greatly to the overall population growth and health care, education and employment are the most impacted. Salaries are driven down by illegal immigrants willing to work for much less while their children, illegal and legal, overcrowd the schools. It’s the U.S. taxpayer who is sent the bill for their health care services as well. In addition, the large i nflux of illegal aliens burdens the already inadequate number of units classified as affordable housing and other welfare resources such as energy, water and land usage (â€Å"Illegal Immigration†). Laws should be enacted that bring criminal charges against all those who aid illegal aliens to gain entry into the country and against those employers who hire them.

Economic Geography Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 3

Economic Geography - Essay Example The second map depicts the results of the analysis of the number of immigrants in every state in America, by 2009. An analysis of survey by the census bureau shows that Newark, NY, is among the most populous urban areas in the United States. The state has over twenty million residents and one of the states that have the highest number of foreign people. The high population and immigration in New York result from the diverse economic activities in the state. Newark, NY, has a vast diversity including Canadians, West Europeans, Latin Americans, Russians, Africans and other foreign members. Different counties in New York have high number of foreign-borns. Fulton County has one thousand foreign-borns, for instance (U. S census Bureau 1). The two maps have close relationships since high immigration is a cause of high population in New York. High immigration also emanates from the influence of other pull factors as employment, New York being among the most industrialized states in the

Chronological and Subjective Age in Emerging Adulthood Essay

Chronological and Subjective Age in Emerging Adulthood - Essay Example The relationship between the chronological and subjective age has been a keen area of interest. Researchers have speculated that subjective age may be a motivational facet of identity, associated with a desire to be younger or older (Galambos, Kolaric, Sears,&Maggs, 1999). Subjective age also appears to be influenced by important social and autobiographical reference points (Montepare & Clements, 2001; Zebrowitz & Montepare, 2000) such as behaviours associated In an attempt to establish a relationship between the chronological and subjective age, a research was carried out. A sample of 190 university students (140 females, 50 males) ages 17 to 29 completed questionnaires assessing their subjective age, psychosocial maturity, number of role transitions, financial dependence, economic pressure, and alcohol use. Based on the results of these questionnaire, experts tried to locate the exact crossover point, where the subjective age exceeds the chronological age. It is important to locate the crossover point as it helps to acquire a proper understanding of the characteristics of emerging adulthood, and the changes in self perception accompanying it. As mentioned earlier, the study was conducted on 190 university students, falling between the age group of 17 to 29, the mean age of the sample being 21.87 years. The participants were judged on five different parameters- psychosocial maturity, number of role transitions, financial dependence on parents, economic pressure and alcohol use. Among these parameters, the former two are possible markers of adulthood while the latter two are barriers to its achievement. To have a better understanding of the study, it is imperative to comprehend the five parameters mentioned above. Psychosocial maturity is defined as an individuals' general level of adaptive functioning and socioemotional competence (Galambos & Costigan, 2003). It also takes into account various several other factors such as the ability to function independently, developed communication skills, and the capacity to shoulder social responsibility. Another criterion which was considered in the study was the number of role transition roles. This refers to the ease with which an individual can adapt a particular role according to the need of the hour. But experts believe that this particular feature isn't as important as is psychosocial maturity. While these two factors are representative of emerging adulthood, there are others which serve as barriers to maturity. Dependence on parents for financial assistance is one such factor. (Arnett, 1994). Economic pressure is another such criterion, which is intimately related to the first factor. As the name suggests, economic pressure refers to the difficulty associated with financial stressful conditions. (Conger, Rueter, & Conger, 2000). A higher level of economic pressure suggests that financial independence has not been achieved, which in turn is characteristic of a lower than expected subjective age. The last of

Graduate Employability Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Graduate Employability - Essay Example The Department of Trade also ranked Systems Software among the thirty fastest growing professions; Systems Software will grow by 30.4 percent by the year 2018 (Scott, 2012). Trading activities are going international with the increased rate of globalization. Nowadays, a trader does not have to travel to a foreign country in order to purchase merchandise or personal goods. Online orders and payments are sufficient to do financial transactions and transport goods to the buyer. Cross-border traders, therefore, require system developers and administrators to ensure that the transaction systems are updated. The next decade will be characterised three out of four new science and engineering jobs being in computing. For example, two hundred and ninety-five thousand and two hundred jobs (representing 27 percent of the new STEM jobs) will be in software engineering (Scott, 2012). STEM further projects that the number of jobs in Network Analysis and Administration will exceed the number of vac ancies in traditional engineering by two hundred and thirty-five thousand, and seven hundred (Smeding, 2012). Basic computer literacy such as Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Access and Excel will not enable a prospective employee to secure these jobs. This is because these professional occupations further knowledge and skills gained through the study of Computer Science, Software Engineering and Information Systems. 1.1.1 Computer Science Computer Science will expose the students and job seekers to practical approaches of computation and its applications. Computer Science enables learners of IT/Computing to study the feasibility, mechanization, expression and structure of computer algorithms. The computer algorithms underlie storage, communication, acquisition, representing, and accessing... The primary focus of this essay is to provide insights into the needs and perceptions of graduate employers in the Information Technology/Computing sector. This will be achieved by a close study of the jobs available, the requirements for employment, responsibilities of the employees and their remunerations. The report also covers the necessity of various skills and abilities required by employers, the level of graduate education required to fill the vacant positions, the challenges that companies face in recruiting graduates and views on how graduates can enhance their employability skills. The researcher mentions that the reader of the report will be able to identify the areas that are buoyant or depressed in IT and Computing; the information will be crucial to prospective employees and current students of Information Technology/Computing once they begin searching for jobs. The researcher of this report also focused on the employability skills of people aspiring to pursue courses i n Information Technology/Computing. The esssay considered the general course of computer engineering, and the skills that employers require to hire candidates for computing-related jobs. Information Technology is a broad field of study that encompasses Computer Science, Software Engineering and Information Systems. In conclusion, the researcher also included in this report the descriptions of the occupations, that fall under Computer Science and the salaries that professionals in IT/Computing sector earn.

Analyze a news paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Analyze a news paper - Essay Example t consider the nature of the audience by asking who the articles are targeted for, what type of information are they offering based on the types of language being used. By examining an issue of a newspaper such as The Chronicle for evidence of the process, the motive and the audience, one can get a better idea of the newspaper’s quality. The process of a newspaper refers to the types of information the issue contains and what this reveals about the paper’s persuasion. A look through the titles of the articles suggests the paper carries a pro-institution persuasion as the main thrust of the issue explores the concept of for-profit college systems as the new wave for the future. Information offered in the most current issue of the newspaper includes titles such as â€Å"For-Profit Colleges Change Higher Education’s Landscape†, â€Å"Private Giving to Colleges Dropped Sharply in 2009†, â€Å"In a Booming California Suburb, Fertile Ground for For-Profit Colleges† and â€Å"In Cutting Programs, Universities Try to Swing the Ax Gently.† In these titles, there is enthusiasm for the for-profit concept and discouraging news for the non-profit sector. The Chronicle of Higher Education makes no attempt to disguise its affiliation with the institutions, however, so this persuasion is no t surprising. In the case of the article about cutting programs, for example, a great deal of information is provided regarding the extreme difficulties college boards are having in trying to tighten the budget while retaining as many programs as possible. This begins to introduce the question of the motive. Why would a newspaper have such a persuasion in their reporting? What are they hoping to achieve in reporting on these issues? Because the newspaper is strongly affiliated with the higher education institutions, it stands to reason that they would take a stance strongly supportive of the institutional viewpoint. Sympathetic to the difficulties being experienced by universities

The Insider Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

The Insider - Movie Review Example Bergman attempts to persuade Wigand to feel free to share the knowledge about the secrets of the tobacco industry. Eventually, Wigand trusts Bergman and Mike Wallace interview him while risking arrest for contempt of court. Wigand has to ensure he maintains his crumbling family life amid glaring lawsuits, as well as, death threats. The CEOs of the Big Tobacco might get away with perjury after compromising Bergman. The Insider is a breathtaking film that elicits feelings of shock as the top management attempt to compromise the secrets of the industry, which have direct effects on the health of the public. The film covers a primary public health issue that relates to the corporate power and tobacco, hazardous product. The film features the critical design and composition of the tobacco that depicts the less concern of the tobacco industry about the harmful elements in the product (Mann). The company is unwilling to recall the product after the tobacco poses a health risk to the public. The investigative journalism has played an enormous role in exposing the threats that the tobacco industry poses to the public by failing to ensure the products are safe for the human consumption. Such a failure is a serious health risk, and tobacco industry should not compromise the standard of the

Prove or conversely disprove the inverse square law Essay Example for Free

Prove or conversely disprove the inverse square law Essay My aim of this experiment is to prove or conversely disprove the inverse square law, which simply states that the intensity of any point source, which spreads its influence equally in all directions without a limit to its range, will decrease in intensity inversely proportional to the square of the distance. Background information Research As first proposed by Isaac Newton when proposing his universal law of gravitation it became clear to him that the intensity of gravity would decrease according to the inverse of the square of the distance. This is the heart of the inverse square, which states for any point source, which spreads its influence equally in all directions without a limit to its range, will obey the inverse square law. Quite simply the inverse square law states that for sources emitted from a point the intensity will be deduced as the inverse of the square of the distance. You double the distance you reduce the intensity by a factor of 1/4. This has applications in electric fields, light, sound, gamma radiation, and gravity. All of these are expressed in the medium of a field. To explain the properties involved in a field it is useful to use the idea of flux. When water flows form a source to a sink it is transferred at a certain rate, or flux. The flux density will be the mass of water per second crossing a unit area perpendicular to the flow. We can think of energy density in a similar way. Energy flux density is normally referred to as intensity. Field strength and energy flux density are related. The strength of a field will fall off proportionally. The idea of flux can be applied to fields in which there is no obvious evidence for anything actually being transferred, such as static electrical fields, gravitational fields and magnetic fields. The mathematics that model flux are the same whatever the field. Generally this can be summed up in a formula which states the intensity at a point on a sphere of influence will be deduced by the source strength divided by 4 times pi times the radius squared, where this is the surface area over which the initial source has spread its influence. I = S / 4? r2 This formula manifests itself in a variety of ways when put into context. When applied to gravity the formula to show the acceleration due to gravity at the surface of a body is, 4? GM = Intensity at the surface of sphere of influence. Where G is the gravitational constant, M the mass of the object, and r the distance from the centre point. By cancelling out the 4? section we are left with the more elegant formula, GM = acceleration due to gravity r2 Where acceleration due to gravity would be equivalent to the intensity of the source. As the distance is doubled, the intensity is reduced by a factor of 4. So theoretically gravity obeys the inverse square law. When applied to sound we get the formula, P = I 4? r2 Where P is the source power, I the intensity at surface of sphere, and r the distance from the source power. So again we see that as we double the distance we reduce the intensity by a factor of 4. The differce here that as sound is not of ethereal nature it is affected by its surroundings and only works without reflections, or reverberations. The behaviour of point charges in an electrostatic field will obey coulombs law, which in turn obeys the inverse square law. The formula here is, Q = E 4 0 r2 Where Q/? 0 is the source strength, E is the strength of the electrostatic field, and r is the distance. So again we see that as the distance is doubled, the intensity of the field is reduced by a factor of four.

Human resource strategy proposal for bp

Human resource strategy proposal for bp 1.1 Introduction The changes in business and the impact of globalisation on increased competitiveness have pushed organisations to incorporate a strategic approach to human resource management (HRM) to achieve competitive advantage. Strategy is defined by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), (http://books.google.co.uk/books?hl=enlr=id=zXG_lJ8BrMwCoi=fndpg=PR9dq=the+key+to+improved+business+performanceots=GLUULx2eFZsig=I9jHj5YhE5QIBmWYn-o-U0NvDlc#v=onepageqf=false).[Online].(Accessed 05 Mar. 2011) as a plan that integrates the goals, policies and action of an organisation into a cohesive whole. Fundamentally strategy is concerned with achieving a competitive advantage. By adopting a strategic approach to HRM, organisations seek to manage its human resources in a coherent approach that replicate the business strategy. CIPD views strategic HRM from two main perspectives, CIPD, [Online].(http://www.cipd.co.uk/subjects/corpstrtgy/general/strathrm.htm?IsSrchRes=1).(Accessed 05 Mar. 11); The ways in which an organisation achieves its business goals by putting in place activities that support and guide employees behaviour. And the manner in which the human resources and activities are planned to achieve the business goals. Therefore, strategic HRM is an integrated approach that aligns the internal and external context of an organisation for organisational performance, that is, a strategic fit between strategic intent and organisation resources. In order to suggest an appropriate human resource strategy for BPs human resource issues (appendix), this paper shall adopt an integrated approach to the various views of strategic HRM; Best Fit, Resource Based and Best Practices approach. 1.2 Best Fit The best fit view is all about the vertical integration. It is a contingency view in which an organisation links its business strategy (external market) and individual performance (internal environment) to create an effective HR policies and practices and achieve competitive advantage. Beardwell J and Claydon T., Human Resource Management: A contemporary Approach (Prentice Hall, 2010) used the life cycle and competitive advantage model to explain the best fit approach. The life cycle model links the appropriate HR practices to the different stages in the life cycle of a business. This model suggests that the HR policies at start up will differ with those during an organisations growth, mature and decline phase. Drawing evidence from BPs website, a statistical review in June 2010 by then BPs CEO, Tony Howard, BP,(http://www.bp.com/sectiongenericarticle.do?categoryId=9023752contentId=7044473).[Online ].(Accessed 05 Mar.2011), shows a sharp decline on record in global energy consumption and falling energy prices caused by global recession which is likely to continue in the long term. This decline in global energy consumption will affect energy companies especially BP which is a major player in the energy market with its huge global presence. Assuming this trend continues as predicted, this would set BPs business life cycle at its mature or decline phase. This means the HR strategy for BP will be one of downsizing and redundancy of employees but which needs to retain viability and contribute to sustainable competitive advantage. This dual strategy will enable BP to master the present while preparing for the future eventualities. A proposed strategy will be to retain high performance staff, recruit less and train staffs to multi task. On the other hand, the competitive advantage model argues that HR practices work best when adapted to the competitive strategy; Redman T and Wilkinson A., Contemporary Human Resource Management (Prentice Hall, 2009). The model identifies three types of strategic behaviour which can be linked to BPs HR practices: defenders, prospectors and analysers. Defenders operate in small niche market producing high quality products and services backed by high prices. Prospectors are more flexible and use innovative strategy to change product line quite often. Analysers are less innovative but stable and efficient and will only enter the market when it is risk free. Evidence from BPs website, (http://www.bp.com/productlanding.do?categoryId=9025115contentId=7047794).[Online].(Accessed 05 Mar. 2011) shows that innovations and technology and an efficient energy are a priority to tackle the challenges to meet energy demand and environmental concern. Therefore, to gain competitive advantage BP could adopt a dual strategy of make defender and buy prospector to remain both innovative and efficient at a lower operating cost. That is a make strategy that invests in employees to seek efficiency and a buy strategy for new technology to remain innovative in the market. This is a similar dual strategy approach that has been successfully used by the Singapore Airlines (SIA), (http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/sci/wmg/ftmsc/modules/modulelist/pop/articles/singapore_airlines.pdf).[Online].(Accessed 05 Mar. 2011) that adopts a cost reduction strategy while providing premium services. The best fit view has been strongly criticised for its lack of flexibility in a dynamic changing environment. To achieve dynamic fit and given that BP is; an innovative, a high risk taker, results oriented, flexible to change, quality and process focus company, it should develop a human capital pool with these broad range of skills that will promote behavioural flexibility among its employees. This should help solve the problem of flexibility in changing environment. 1.3 Resource Based View (RBV) The resource based view is a paradigm shift from the best fit approach that draws on the internal resources of an organisation. It is particularly applicable in unpredictable external environment and focuses on achieving uniqueness and sustainable competitive advantage through the manipulation of an organisations resources. The VRIO (Value, Rarity, Inimitable, Organisation) framework, Beardwell J. and Claydon T., Human Resource Management: A contemporary Approach (Prentice Hall, 2010), is a useful tool to explain RBV relationship and formulation of a strategy. Value is all about the impact of HR contribution through improved customer service and customer added value. Rarity is simply to exploit rare characteristics of the firms human resources to gain competitive advantage. Inimitability means recognising an organisations unique history and culture to develop unique practices and behaviours that make it difficult for competitors to copy. Organisation is integrating internal resources into a coherent system so that they can capitalise on adding value, rarity and inimitability. The VRIO framework has been successfully used by the Singapore Airlines, (http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/sci/wmg/ftmsc/modules/modulelist/pop/articles/singapore_airlines.pdf).[Online].(Accessed 05 Mar. 2011) to develop a set of unique characteristics such as replacing its fleets more frequently than do its competitors. As a result, its fleet is young and energy efficient and operates at a lower cost. BPs website (http://www.bp.com/sectiongenericarticle.do?categoryId=9025116contentId=7046892) .[Online].(Accessed 05 Mar. 2011) shows that BP is very keen on deep sea exploration, an activity other energy companies are afraid to venture into. Using this approach, BP can make deep sea exploration its unique culture and develop unique practices such as training and developing deep sea specialists to make it difficult for its competitors to copy. Implementing HR policies has been a key issue highlighted with the RBV and BP can overcome this by creating opportunities that will improve the discretionary behaviour of both line managers and employees such as; team working, training and development schemes, long term employment security and better pay structure. 1.4 Best Practice Best practice or high commitment human resource practices are a distinctive set of successful HR practices which firms can adopt irrespective of their setting and which will lead to improvement in performance. Due to the global economic crisis, most organisations are now adopting a policy of negotiating reduced wages to maintain job security and employment commitment. In same way, BP can adopt this best practice and integrate it with others that are specific to its needs. The BPs career webpage; What BP is Looking For, (http://www.bp.com/sectiongenericarticle.do?categoryId=9031574contentId=7057908).[Online].(Accessed 11 Mar. 2011), shows that BP is committed to developing leaders and supporting its employees through continuous improvement. Therefore, the appropriate best practices for BP should focus on enhancing the skill base of employees and this could be achieved through HR activities such as; introducing succession planning scheme to train future leaders, comprehensive training and development opportunities, selective staffing, results based performance and working in teams. 1.5 Recommended Strategy and Main Features The recommended human resource strategy for BP to adopt will be one that integrates all the key features of best fit, RBV and best practice views proposed above and as explained in the table below. Key Strategic Features Explanation Leadership Qualities A Priority Management should introduce comprehensive leadership training and development programmes. A succession planning scheme should be encouraged and practiced. Recruitment process should be selective and make leadership qualities a priority A Deep Sea Organisational Culture Employees should be encouraged to be innovative, take risk, results oriented, flexible to change, quality and process focus. There should be continuous training for specialists and high investment in deep sea exploration. Management should invest in employees to seek efficiency. Combined Organisational and Industrial Best Policy and Practice Retain high performance staff, recruit less and train staff to multi task. Negotiate reduce wages to maintain job security and employment commitment Continuous training programme for all employees to develop a broad range of skills. Team working should be encouraged to improve on discretionary behaviour. 1.6 Conclusion Strategic HRM is a complex process which is constantly evolving. The HRM strategy identified above is unique to BP in terms of the evidence found from its website and its major human resource issues discussed during the module session. The strategy adopts an integrated approach of best fit and resource based incorporating best practice as seen fit. Given that the economy is constantly changing, flexibilities have been imbued in the proposed strategy to make it dynamically feasible. 2.0 STRATEGIC RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION PROCESS 2.1 Introduction The biggest asset in any organisation is its people. In order to remain a high performance company and stay competitive, BP needs to attract and nurture the right people with the right talent and right leadership qualities. Therefore, BPs HR practices and policies will play an important role for managing its people and achieving its business objectives. The challenges faced by BP to manage its people can be categorised as, BP,(http://www.bp.com/sectiongenericarticle.do?categoryId=9031553contentId=7057895).[Online].(Accessed 02 Mar. 2011); Attracting, developing and retaining talent. Shortage of skilled personnel. Developing a true leadership. Developing corporate social responsibility Transferring key knowledge and relationships. Responding to these challenges, BP has introduced a number of initiatives; BP, (http://www.bp.com/subsection.do?categoryId=2319contentId=7060032) [Online].(Accessed 02 Mar. 2011). Though these measures are good, a strategic recruitment and selection process can be adopted to tackle these challenges. 2.2 Strategic Recruitment and Selection Process. According to a survey by CIPD, Annual Survey Report 2007: Recruitment, Retention and Turnover (CIPD, 2007) only 51% of the organisations surveyed in the UK had a resourcing strategy. Given that eight in ten of the employers ranked recruiting as a top priority in resourcing, it becomes imperative for BP to develop a recruiting strategy. To source the right type of employees, BP can select its talents internally, externally, use a combination of both or adopt alternative methods. The internal approach is a traditional method where employees are given priorities for unfilled vacancies before an external source is considered. The advantage with this method is that it motivates employees, improves their morale and provides them with opportunities for career progression. However, internal sourcing is expensive and generally leads to inbreeding and lack of creativity while external recruitment brings in fresh ideas and skills by hiring employees with different backgrounds. Whatever method BP decides to use, it is crucial that BP adopts a strategic approach that will identify the skills required before selecting the most suitable people to meet the human resource needs of an organisation; Boxall P. and Purcell J., Strategy and Human Resource Management, (Palgrave Macmillan, 2003). Furthermore, Beardwell J. and Claydon T., Human Resource Management: A Contemporary Approach (Prentice Hall, 2010) emphasis this need of a strategic approach as a prime source of competitive advantage to ensure the organisation has the right people in the right place at the right time. The strategic recruitment and selection process include techniques that stretch from attracting, selection and induction. 2.2.1 Attracting Talents: BPs Brand Strategy CIPD, (http://www.cipd.co.uk/hr-resources/factsheets/employer-brand.aspx) .[Accessed 03 Mar. 2011) defined employers brand; as a set of attributes and qualities often intangible that makes an organisation distinctive, promises a particular kind of employment experience, and appeals to those people who will thrive and perform best in its culture BPs brand strategy will depend on its brand strength and how it differs from its competitors. A useful strategic approach is that by CIPD: A no-nonsense approach, (http://www.cipd.co.uk/hr-resources/factsheets/employer-brand.aspx).[Online].(Accessed 03 Mar. 2011). In this step-by-step approach, BP will first need to investigate by communicating with top management, the employees, and external talent sources to understand the true perception of its employees experience. Secondly, BP should use the feedbacks from this investigation to create a distinctive Value Propositions (VP); a unique and compelling offer by BP to attract, retain and engage the employees in return for their performance. A suggested unique and compelling VP for BP is shown in fig 1 below; Next BP is to make sure it can deliver on its brand promise. By doing this and thinking about the employees experience not only from the recruitment stage but through induction to actual work life experience, BP will be using its employees to sell itself in a process known as employee branding. Therefore a good employee branding should be reflective of the employee experience as shown in fig 2 below; Finally BP will need to continuously measure, evaluate and review its brand strategy to make sure it is delivering real value.  This will be reflected through increase in application and enquiries, employees going the extra mile, and advocating for BP. 2.2.2 Strategic Recruiting Methods Globalisation and the global economic recession have pushed many employers to search creative employment channels and target a diverse application group. A CIPD report, Annual Survey Report 2007: Recruitment, Retention and Turnover (CIPD, 2007) indicated that local newspaper and corporate website were still favourite routes used by most employers. But due to technological changes and employees preference for a more flexible approach, organisations are now resorting to online recruitment techniques such as social networking sites like Facebook because they are cost effective and faster. BP a strong promoter of diversity, (http://www.bp.com/sectiongenericarticle.do?categoryId=9023446contentId=7058326).[Online].(Accessed 05 Mar. 2011), can win the war on diversity by creating a diverse recruitment policy that is inclusive of both the traditional (newspapers and corporate website) channels plus mainstream recruiting channels. Fig 3 portrays the diversity recruitment process; To use both traditional and mainstream recruiting methods such as; Newspapers, Universities, E-recruitment, social networking sites, career fairs, and iPhone, to develop a heterogeneous group of applicants. Top management to become involved and support line managers in implementation. To provide management with diversity training. To keep altering recruitment practice so as to avoid recruiting every time from same social background and age groups in case it discriminates against certain job seekers. 2.2.3 Strategic Selection Techniques Strategic recruitment is a continuous process and includes adopting the right selection techniques. There are different techniques organisations have used to select potential employees: interviews, integrity test, curriculum vitae, assessment centres and psychometric tests. CIPD, Annual Survey Report 2007: Recruitment, Retention and Turnover (CIPD, 2007) reported that local newspapers and corporate websites were still favourite routes used by most employers though the psychometric and assessment centres have been popular. Whatever method BP chooses, it is important that the method is reliable and valid. Reliability measures the accuracy and consistency of the selection test while validity measures its predictability. The psychometric test has typically been associated with the best practice for employee selection; Redman T and Wilkinson A, Contemporary Human Resource Management (Prentice Hall, 2009). The psychometric tests are designed to accurately measure a candidates knowledge, abilities and personality traits. These tests have become popular with recruiters because they are designed to be reliable and predictable and are effective for handling large volumes of applicants. Assessment centres on the other hand focus on behaviours required for the job and involves candidates completing a number of different tasks as part of the selection process; CIPD, (http://www.cipd.co.uk/hr-resources/factsheets/selection-methods.aspx).[Online].(Accessed 05 Mar. 11). BP website shows its corporate website is the preferred selection route; (http://www.bp.com/sectiongenericarticle.do?categoryId=9031578contentId=7057906) .[Online].(Accessed 05 Mar. 2011). But selection is more than just using a particular technique, BP needs to implement a strategic psychometric approach which takes into account a social framework that includes selection as best fit and as an interactive discussion process; Redman T and Wilkinson A., Contemporary Human Resource Management, (Prentice Hall, 2009). To adopt a best fit approach, BP will need to identity its unique qualities such as values and culture, employment patterns, market segment and use these qualities to differentiate it selection practices from a best practice approach. Furthermore, BP should make its selection process interactive. The HR department should exchange information with other managers that are directly affected. Moreover, negotiation with participants should be a two-way process and designed to be perceived as fair. That is; treating participants with respect and dignity, providing them with information and making them part of the whole process. In addition, it is important that BP should provide adequate training courses for all those involved in assessing candidates at all stages of the selection process and that they are adequately briefed about the jobs. 2.2.4 Induction It is the process whereby employees adjust to their jobs and working environment; CIPD, (http://www.cipd.co.uk/hr-resources/factsheets/induction.aspx).[Online].(Accessed 05 Mar. 11). The purpose, which is to ensure a smooth integration of staff into the organisation. BP can make its induction process more effective by; Making induction a vital part of its recruitment process. Designing a well structured induction programme to ensure that all new recruits receive information consistent with BPs values and culture. Carrying out physical orientation to describe where the facilities are and an organisational orientation to show new employees the important role they play in the overall business strategy. Ensuring a quality welcome because employees develop lasting impressions within their first few weeks of working. In a nutshell, if BP decides to adopt a strategic recruitment and selection approach to tackle challenges in its people management it will be vital that BP differentiates its brand strategy from that of its competitors. Furthermore, BP should be able to determine its core competencies to determine the correct recruiting channel(s). Finally, how it assimilates its new employees speak loud about its culture and values. TOTAL WORD COUNT: 3000

Effects of Low Health Literacy

Effects of Low Health Literacy Imogen Parker This assignment will discuss health literacy, its various influences and the effect of low health literacy levels on individuals and communities. The various methods and strategies that have been devised to alleviate low health literacy will also be examined. Since the World Health Organisation’s Alma Ata Declaration (WHO 1978), primary health care strategies and methods of effective communication have been established to promote health and improve health literacy. This essay will draw on examples of primary health care strategies employed in Australian communities and various methods for improving health literacy that can be actioned by health professionals and the wider health system. The concept of health literacy can be defined as the capacity of individuals to understand, access and apply health related information and services to maintain physical, mental and social wellbeing (WHO, 2009). Health literacy is essential in allowing individuals the ability to comprehend their own wellness or illness, make informed health decisions and seek appropriate and timely care through this comprehension. In 2012, 59% of Australians aged 15-74 years had inadequate levels of health literacy (AIWH 2012). Individuals’ health can be negatively affected in numerous ways and to different degrees by low health literacy levels. For example, individuals with poor literacy comprehension may be unable to complete personal detail or consent forms that are necessary for consultation or treatment by health care professionals. This may lead to the individual abandoning their attempt to access health care due to the embarrassment surrounding poor literacy skills, or for fear of being met with unhelpful condescension by health care professionals. Additionally, individuals with low literacy may be unable to comprehend essential information in mediums such as pamphlets, prescriptions or medication instructions. This lack of comprehension could have dire consequences for the individual; they may choose to take no medication, or incorrectly administer their medication which could result in harmful side effects. These consequences indicate a failure on the part of the health system or the health care provider, as they have either failed to clarify understanding during consultation with patients or have communicated or presented information in a way that is inaccessible for individuals with low literacy levels. Health literacy not only concerns individual health behaviour and lifestyle decisions, but requires an understanding of the wider societal influences on health. Social determinants of health such as income and employment, education and social exclusion (among a myriad of other factors) can affect an individual’s capacity to be health literate and health literacy itself is one of these determinants. (WHO 2009) Lower socioeconomic status has been historically attributed to lower literacy levels, which in turn affects the ability to be health literate. The social gradient is a prominent determinant of health; the lower the individual sits on the social class ladder often correlates with poorer health outcomes. (WHO 2003) It is evident that social, educational and economic inequalities contribute to the commodification of health care; something that the privileged can access and the disadvantaged may struggle to access and utilise. The effect of low health literacy in conjunction with socio-economic background can be observed through examining health status among the population of Australia. Chronic illnesses with high prevalence such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory disease and cancer can be influenced by risk factors such as obesity and tobacco smoking. (Department of Health 2012) Such risk factors can be inextricably linked to the aforementioned illnesses and may also indic ate the socio-economic status and health literacy level of the individuals who are affected. For example, an individual who was unemployed or had little income may be more likely to consume processed food as it is dramatically less expensive and less labour intensive to prepare than fresh, more nutritious ingredients. Inexpensive, processed food is often high in fat and low in nutrition, but can be purchased inexpensively and often in large quantities; making it an economical option. However affordable, regular consumption of these products can lead to individuals becoming over weight and potentially obese, which in turn can lead to subsequent conditions such as Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It is evident that societal and economic structures can influence health status profoundly and present barriers to good health that are fundamentally difficult for individuals to overcome (WHO 2003). The role of the healthcare system, health professionals and greater society must be examined and modified if health literacy is to be ameliorated. â€Å"If achieving health literacy is to be a goal, some rediscovery of the importance of health education needs to occur, together with a significant widening of the content and methods used† (Nutbeam 2006). The Primary Health Care approach aims to minimize health inequality between social classes and encourage good health for everyone. Primary health care ‘reflects and evolves from the economic conditions and sociocultural and political characteristics of the country and its communities’ (WHO 1978). Accordingly, health care providers must facilitate patients’ understanding and ability to self-manage their health by presenting health information that is accessible for individuals of all literacy levels. In direct communication with patients or clients, health professionals can employ the teach-back method to ensure comprehension by the patient. This provides an opportunity for questions to be asked and clarification to be achieved, thus promoting health literacy (Egbert Nanna 2009). The application of primary health care has been demonstrated as essential in addressing low health literacy and poor health status in Indigenous communities throughout Australia. One stra tegy for improving health literacy from a young age is the Family Planning Association of Western Australia (FPWA) Mooditj program: a community based sexual health education program for Indigenous youth in remote and rural areas. The program aims to educate individuals in early adolescence on sexual health and related issues. Mooditj uses informal discussion techniques to encourage participation and openness, and culturally relevant art and role playing activities to address sensitive topics concerning sexual and emotional health. The cultural and social relevance of the program was determined effectively through recognition of the various social determinants and cultural influences occurring throughout the community it served. The development involved extensive consultation with members of the community, parents and Aboriginal Elders regarding relevant health issues, effective methods of information delivery and ensuring that local language and customs were incorporated. Indigenous community members can be trained to deliver the Mooditj course and the sharing of information and experience between Mooditj facilitators and participants is encouraged in order to strengthen the integrity and scope of the program. The Pika Wiya Health Service in Port Augusta, SA provides the chronic disease self-management course, Life Improvements for Everyone (LIFE) to improve health literacy and health status in Indigenous communities. The LIFE program is peer-led and community focused, aiming to bridge health inequalities between the indigenous population and the wider Australian population. The program utilises individual care plans for clients with chronic illnesses (such as diabetes and heart disease) that are culturally appropriate and specific to their personal capabilities, health circumstances and goals. Both Mooditj and LIFE are consistent with the primary health care approach as the programs have been tailored to suit the health needs of the community with respect for culture and social circumstances. Furthermore, such programs can facilitate increased community capacity and engagement in health education, contributing to improving levels of health literacy. The essence of successful health education programs is empowerment; where individuals have greater control and confidence in their ability to manage their own health. Health education that is accessible to all literacy levels, is culturally reflective and developed with consideration of the social determinants of health has great potential to reduce the prevalence of preventable chronic illnesses in both the Indigenous community and the wider Australian population. Efforts to improve health literacy and encourage a healthy population must be holistic in nature and motivated by empowerment and equality across all areas of society. Effective promotion of health literacy among the individuals and communities which the health profession serves will need to reflect on the social determinants of health and how they are interconnected with health literacy and health status. References Australians for Native Title and Reconciliation 2007, Success Stories in Indigenous Health, pp.28-29, September 2007, viewed 1/4/15. https://antar.org.au/sites/default/files/successstories.pdf> Australian Government Department of Health 2011, Discussion of the four key health issues, National Women’s Health Policy, viewed 1/4/15. http://www.health.gov.au/internet/publications/publishing.nsf/Content/womens-health-policy-toc~womens-health-policy-key~womens-health-policy-key-literacy> Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2012, Australia’s Health 2012, Australias health no. 13., Canberra, 2012, viewed 1/4/15. http://www.aihw.gov.au/publication-detail/?id=10737422172> Department of Health and Families 2009, Revision of the Preventable Chronic disease strategy, Background Paper: Preventable Chronic diseases in Aboriginal Populations, Northern Territory, April 2009, viewed 1/4/15. http://health.nt.gov.au/library/scripts/objectifyMedia.aspx?file=pdf/47/68.pdf> Egbert, N., Nanna, K. 2009, ‘Health Literacy: Challenges and Strategies’, The Online Journal of Issues in Nursing, vol. 14, no.3. Family Planning Association of Western Australia2004, The Mooditj manual: a sexual health and life skills program for Aboriginal youth, FPWA, Northbridge, W.A. Nutbeam, D. 2006, ‘Health literacy as a public health goal: a challenge for contemporary health education and communication strategies into the 21st century’, Health Promotion International, vol. 15, no.3, pp.259-267. Sexual and Reproductive Health, WA 2015, Mooditj Leader Training, viewed 1/4/15.  http://www.srhwa.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Mooditj-Leader-Training-2015.pdf> Strobel, NA., Ward, J. 2012, Education programs for Indigenous Australians about sexually transmitted infections and bloodborne viruses, Resource sheet no. 12 for the Closing the Gap Clearinghouse, Canberra: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare Melbourne: Australian Institute of Family Studies. World Health Organisation 1978, Declaration of Alma Ata, International Conference on Primary Health Care,Alma-Ata, USSR,12th of September 1978. World Health Organisation 2003, The Solid Facts, Social Determinants of Health, viewed 1/4/15. http://www.euro.who.int/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/98438/e81384.pdf> World Health Organisation 2009, Track 2: Health literacy and health behaviour, viewed 1/4/15.  http://www.who.int/healthpromotion/conferences/7gchp/track2/en/>

Defending Privacy of Personal Information Essay -- Internet Web Comput

Defending Privacy of Personal Information Privacy does not have a single definition and it is a concept that is not easily defined. Information privacy is an individual's claim to control the terms under which personal information is acquired, disclosed, and used [9]. In the context of privacy, personal information includes any information relating to or traceable to an individual person [ 1]. Privacy can be defined as a fundamental human right; thus, privacy protection which involves the establishment of rules governing the collection and handling of personal data can be seen as a boundary line as how far society can intrude into a person's affairs. The Internet offers many benefits but it also creates many threats that undermines our personal privacy. Concerns about loss of privacy are not new. But the computer's ability to gather and sort vast amounts of data and the Internet's ability to distribute it globally magnify those concerns [1]. Privacy concerns on the Internet are centered on improper acquisition, improper use of personal information such as intrusions, manipulation, discrimination, identity theft, and stalking of personal information. Today the Internet stretches our geographic boundaries and force us to deal with global ethic based on moral principles held to be valid across the cultures. Due to the nature of the Internet, our personal information may be transmitted over the internet and that the transfer of personal information may be made to any country in the world, regardless of the extent of any data protection laws and regulations in any of those countries. Protecting privacy on the Internet It has long been believed that information is power. Thus, people collecting personal information in ... ... 2. Privacy and Human Rights 2003 3. Herman T. Tavani, "Privacy Online," Computers and Society, Vol. 29, No. 4, 1999, pp. 11-19. 4. A. Michael Froomkin, "The Death of Privacy ?", Stanford Law Review, May 2000. 5. CPSR: Electronic Privacy Principles 6. Daniel Lin, Michael C. Loui, "Taking the Byte Out of Cookies: Privacy, Consent, and the Web" Computers and Society, June 1998. 7. Herman T. Tavani, James H. Moor "Privacy Protection, Control of Information, and Privacy-Enhancing Technologies", Computers and Society, March 2001 8. FTC: Protecting Privacy and Security of Personal Information in the Global Electronic Marketplace 9. Jerry Kang "Cyberspace Privacy: A Primer and Proposal" Human Rights Magazine, Volume 26, Number 1, Winter 1999. 10. CPSR: Potential Threats to Privacy 11. An International Survey of Privacy Laws and Practice

A Comparison of the Main Approaches to Personality Psychology Essay

A Comparison of the Main Approaches to Personality Psychology Psychology of personality is a difficult concept to define and quantify, therefore most personality theories, however different they may be in other respects, share the basic assumption, that personality is a particular pattern of behaviour and thinking, that prevails across time and situations and differentiates one person from another. Most theories attempting to explain personality represent part of the classic psychological Nature verse Nurture debate. In other words, is personality â€Å"inherited†, or developed through our interactions with the environment. In addition, we shall compare and contrast two of the main approaches to personality psychology by concentrating on Psychoanalytical Theory (Freud) and Social Learning Theory (Bandura). By looking at the Psychodynamic approach, developed by Freud, we can argue that it emphasizes the interplay of unconscious psychological processes in determining human thought, feelings, and behaviours. The basis of this approach is that psychological factors play a major role in determining behaviour and shaping personality. Freud argued that personality is composed of three major systems the id, the ego, and the superego. The id (biological part of personality) is present at birth and consists of inherited instincts and all psychological energies. The id operates according to the pleasure principle, seeking to reduce tension, avoid pain and obtain pleasure. The ego (executive part of personality) is conscious part of the mind, the â€Å"real† us. The function of the ego is to express and satisfy the desires of the id in accordance wit... ...ogist, 33, 344-358t Bandura, A. (1982). Self- efficacy mechanism in human agency. American Psychologist, 33, 334-358 Mischel, W. (1984). Convergence and challenges in the search for consistency. American Psychologist, 39, 351-364 Rotter, J. B. (1966) Social learning and Clinical Psychology. Englewood Cliffs, NJ; Practice Hall Rotter, J.B. (1966) Generalized expectancies for internal verse external control of reinforcement. Psychological Monographs, 80 (1, Whole No. 609) Alfred, A. (1927) The practice and theory of individual Psychology. New York: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich Carlson, R. Neil and Martin, Neil, and Buskit, W. (2004) Psychology (2nd European edition). Essex: Pearson Education Limited Gross, R (1996).Psychology, The Science of mind and behaviour (3rd Ed). London: Hodder & Stoughton

Essay --

Margaret Preston was born on the 29 of April 1875 in Adelaide, South Australia. Margaret was the first of David and Prunice McPherson’s daughters; she took the name Preston later by marriage. Margaret loved creating art from a young age and that just turned out to be what her career was after she had practised for years and years. Whilst young Margaret’s artistic abilities were already noticed and her early formal art education was at the National Gallery School in Melbourne and the Adelaide school of Design, painting and Technical arts. Margaret travelled to Munich in 1904, where she attended the Government Art School for Women. From Germany she moved to Paris to study at the Musee Guimeta. In 1907, she returned to Adelaide for a short amount of time and then went back to Europe. Her father died in 1894 so by her teaching it helped bring in some income as her father brought in most of their money. After World War I, Margaret married a businessman with the name William George Preston and they settled down in Sydney. The marriage gave her some financial stability and travelling overseas became an important part of the Prestons' lives. Since now that Margaret was settled and without children, she was able to put her art first. In October 2003, Cotton died age 92. The Olive Cotton award which is given out annually is dedicated in memory of her role as one of Australia's leading twentieth century photographers. Margaret Preston practiced engraving on Huon pine, but then started to practise on the rough side of Masonite. Also it says that Preston really practised her art and went to many schools and placed to be taught about art and to get more experience. The things that inspired Margaret Preston are artistic and cultural influences ... ...ve with what is in her photos and the light and dark effect and shadow. The ways you can tell that these sites are reliable is the fact that they are produced by the Australian Government. Another reason I know I can trust this site is because it is not covered in advertisements an there are no pop ups. Also it is not trying to sell you anything which means there are no scams involved. By the writer listing the references it shows that the writer has done their homework on that person, and the sites are on that person only or are on artists in that time. Sites like Wikipedia where anyone can change what has been written is not reliable as it can be altered by a random person who has no knowledge on that topic. The Australian Government is going to write the facts as people from many countries including Australia go to these sites and use these sites as fact sheets. Essay -- Margaret Preston was born on the 29 of April 1875 in Adelaide, South Australia. Margaret was the first of David and Prunice McPherson’s daughters; she took the name Preston later by marriage. Margaret loved creating art from a young age and that just turned out to be what her career was after she had practised for years and years. Whilst young Margaret’s artistic abilities were already noticed and her early formal art education was at the National Gallery School in Melbourne and the Adelaide school of Design, painting and Technical arts. Margaret travelled to Munich in 1904, where she attended the Government Art School for Women. From Germany she moved to Paris to study at the Musee Guimeta. In 1907, she returned to Adelaide for a short amount of time and then went back to Europe. Her father died in 1894 so by her teaching it helped bring in some income as her father brought in most of their money. After World War I, Margaret married a businessman with the name William George Preston and they settled down in Sydney. The marriage gave her some financial stability and travelling overseas became an important part of the Prestons' lives. Since now that Margaret was settled and without children, she was able to put her art first. In October 2003, Cotton died age 92. The Olive Cotton award which is given out annually is dedicated in memory of her role as one of Australia's leading twentieth century photographers. Margaret Preston practiced engraving on Huon pine, but then started to practise on the rough side of Masonite. Also it says that Preston really practised her art and went to many schools and placed to be taught about art and to get more experience. The things that inspired Margaret Preston are artistic and cultural influences ... ...ve with what is in her photos and the light and dark effect and shadow. The ways you can tell that these sites are reliable is the fact that they are produced by the Australian Government. Another reason I know I can trust this site is because it is not covered in advertisements an there are no pop ups. Also it is not trying to sell you anything which means there are no scams involved. By the writer listing the references it shows that the writer has done their homework on that person, and the sites are on that person only or are on artists in that time. Sites like Wikipedia where anyone can change what has been written is not reliable as it can be altered by a random person who has no knowledge on that topic. The Australian Government is going to write the facts as people from many countries including Australia go to these sites and use these sites as fact sheets.

BlackBerry Company Essay

1. – ABOUT THE COMPANY BlackBerry is a line of Smartphones developed by the Canadian company called â€Å"Research In Motion† (RIM). They integrate mobile email service and typical applications like: address book, calendar, task list, memo pad etc., as well as telephone capabilities on newer models. It is primarily known for its QWERTY keyboard, and for its ability to send and receive e-mails from the same network, making it easier for businesses to communicate constantly with not restraints. The first BlackBerry was released in 1995 in Canada. The best known BlackBerry was released in 2002, which supported push e-mail, mobile telephone, text messaging, Internet faxing, web browsing, and other wireless information services. Currently, the most widely sold is the Blackberry Bold 9700. BlackBerry devices are currently very popular in the commercial market in Latin America. The strategy that Blackberry used was to incorporate to their phones a BlackBerry Messenger that is an instant messaging applicati on exclusively for them. The BBM allows users to chat with their Blackberry contacts and also can create groups among family,  friends, or colleagues to share files, photos, music, messages. Thanks to the connected applications, BBM users can share everything you have on your Smartphone. The BBM provides an opportunity to communicate instantly and can see clearly that the recipient of your message was received, read, and when they are answering. It works via a PIN code and can be customized with a profile picture, add a sentence, or even show the users music. 2 – REASONS WHY BLACKBERRY WAS SUCCESSFUL The success of BlackBerry was for the following reasons: An innovative product with an accessible price Partnerships with brands (BBVA, DIRECTV) Ethical business 2.1. AN INNOVATIVE PRODUCT WITH AN ACCESSIBLE PRICE Blackberry was successful by being an innovative product for many applications that integrates the cell phone. Because of these unusual features, consumers had the opportunity to buy the product with many payment options. 2.2. PARTNERSHIPS WITH BRANDS (BBVA, DIRECTV) BBVA BBVA say: â€Å"Security is a must. We are a bank and the BlackBerry solution is very safe.† Benefits The BlackBerry ® solution has integrated BBVA’s workflows and processes resulting in a 25% reduction in time taken to complete these activities The high level of security has enabled BBVA to justify the mobilization of its processes BlackBerry ® smartphones have been integrated into every aspect of BBVA’s employees working lives, helping them to manage tasks and duties while working remotely DIRECTV â€Å"With the DIRECTV Mà ³vil application, we have more ways for our customers to communicate with us, which means happier customers and it gives us the opportunity to drive our sales.† Benefits: DIRECTV created a custom application called DIRECTVâ„ ¢ Mà ³vil, designed to offer subscribers in Argentina access to DIRECTV services from their smartphones and tablets, including BlackBerry smartphones – with operating system 5.0  and above – and BlackBerry PlayBook tablets. The latest release of DIRECTV Mà ³vil also runs on BlackBerry PlayBook tablets, allowing users to record their favorite TV shows even when away from home, browse through movies and view trailers. 2.3. ETHICAL BUSINESS BlackBerry has programs which present several opportunities to support communities through fundraising drives and volunteering. BlackBerry donated to 294 organizations around the world. 3. REASONS WHY BLACKBERRY DECLINED IN THE MARKET Laying Off employees due to financial problems of the company New Competition Bad Application of marketing 3.1 – EMPLOYEES The Canadian company â€Å"Research In Motion† (RIM), will eliminate 2,000 employees worldwide, which is more than 10% of total workers, to cut costs. RIM has suffered a loss in the market due to competition from Apple and Google’s Android system. Between February and May this year, the BlackBerry market share fell by 24.7% as opposed to Android and iPhone which grew by 5% and 27%. 3.2. COMPETITION: The primary competitors of the BlackBerry are the Android and the Apple iPhone. For a number of years, the BlackBerry was the leading Smartphone in many markets, particularly the United States. The arrival of the Apple iPhone and the Google’s Android platform, caused a slowdown in BlackBerry growth and a decline in sales in some markets, most notably the United States. This has led to negative media and analyst sentiment over the company’s ability to continue as an independent company. BlackBerry has managed to maintain significant positions in many markets, strengthened by a large user base, cost effective phones and plans, and a growing smartphone market globally. 4. SOLUTIONS 4.1 – BLACKBERRY SOLUTION Blackberry 10 is the solution to RIM’s declining market share, turning the company around to once again become a player of significance in the smartphone market. The main characteristics of the BlackBerry 10: You can access everything by means of a swipe. It enables the smooth transitioning between apps, without having to leave an app entirely. BlackBerry Hub displays all of your communication (mails, messages, tweets, linked-in updates, and so on). When you’re in an app, you can access all of the options of that app by moving your hand top to bottom, again starting outside of the screen. 4.2. POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS: They should also consider partnering with other companies Make a better marketing of the new products Motivate employees to internal customer loyalty Enter to the market with a new name and with a better product

“In “Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde” and in “The Fifth Child” Essay

â€Å"In â€Å"Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde† and in â€Å"The Fifth Child† an outsider is progressively released into an existing society destroying peace and goodness as it comes† In â€Å"Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde† by Robert Louis Stevenson the outsider is Mr Hyde. Dr Jekyll is a very clever person who does not like having to be a good, respectable member of society and trying to live up to his reputation all the time. After living his life like this for a while and becoming ever more frustrated by living like this he uses his knowledge of drugs and medicine and Mr Hyde is born as the evil side of Jekylls personality. In â€Å"The Fifth Child† by Doris Lessing the outsider is a boy called Ben the fifth of five children from a couple called David and Harriet. David and Harriet wanted a happy family life with many children and a big house. This dream world was going fine until the outsider Ben is introduced. This essay is going to look at the similarities and differences between the two books and the two outsiders. The reader from the first time they are met views both Ben and Hyde as outsiders. Harriet just after she has given birth to Ben describes him as â€Å"a troll or goblin† This is certainly not the usual reaction a mother gives her new born child or â€Å"creature† as Harriet describes him. Ben was not like other new born babies â€Å"he was muscular, yellowish, long† â€Å"his forehead sloped from his eyebrow to his crown. His hair grew in an unusual pattern from the double crown where started a wedge or triangle that came low on his forehead, the hair laying forward in a thick yellowish stubble.† â€Å"He did not look like a baby at all.† The first time we meet Mr Hyde he is attacking a small child in the street â€Å"trampled calmly over the child’s body† whi ch is not normal practice for the normal man in the street. Stevenson makes this more horrific by saying â€Å"it sounds nothing to hear† but I think it does sound quite nasty to hear â€Å"but it was hellish to see† implying that it is much worse than it sounds. Mr Hyde’s appearance made the doctor who would usually have nothing to hold against Hyde â€Å"turn sick and white with the desire to kill him†. Later in the book Mr Utterson tries to describe Hyde â€Å"there is something wrong with his appearance, something displeasing, something downright detestable. I never saw a man I so disliked and yet I scarce know why. He must be deformed somewhere, he gives a strong feeling of deformity, although I couldn’t specify the point†. All this suggests that Mr Hyde is not normal. Stevenson then goes to describe Hyde through his house and his front door. Mr Hyde’s house lies just past a market that is described as having â€Å"an air of invitation, like rows of smiling sales women†. Mr Hyde’s house is nothing like this being situated in a court and is one of â€Å"a sinister block of buildings† this description immediately makes you imagine a dark house with dark anti-social inhabitants. Stevenson then goes on to say the house â€Å"showed no windows, nothing but a door on a lower story† and â€Å"the door which was equipped with neither bell nor knocker, was blistered and distained† all of this is not actually just describing the house but Hyde as well. It says Hyde is a dark anti-social man that does not like visitors and does not generally fit in. In â€Å"The Fifth Child† there is also an object like Mr Hyde’s door used to describe, but this time peoples feelings and what is going on. This is the big table; it is used to show the state of the family and relationships. The table near the beginning of the book before Ben is born is full of people at Christmas who are all happy and Christmassy but when Ben is born less and less people come around until at the end of the book the table is totally empty apart from Harriet. Harriet is imagining what it used to be like before Ben was born with many people all enjoying themselves and how much better it would have been without him. Mr Hyde and Ben are both violent people. Mr Hyde had trampled over a small child in the street and killed an MP with a walking stick; both of these people were people that someone of Hyde’s age should have been stronger than, an old man and a small child. Ben had sprained his older brothers arm and â€Å"attacked an older girl in the playground†, both of these people should have been able to overpower someone of Ben’s age but Ben seems to be abnormally strong. When Ben was a small baby his mother did not breast-feed him like she did with her others because it hurt too much â€Å"the child looked at her and bit, hard†. This may suggest that Ben is more evil than Hyde in being able to attack people that should be stronger than him. Stevenson describes the event of Hyde trampling a small child in a different way to the way Lessing describes how Ben attacks a girl in the playground. Stevenson tells the story through Mr Enfield who is talking to Mr Utterson but Lessing uses Harriet’s thoughts to tell the story of Ben. Stevenson doesn’t just describe what Hyde did to the girl he goes on and makes the incident more realistic and tries to compare Hyde with other things such as a â€Å"juggernaut† to provoke more feeling in the reader â€Å"it sounds nothing to hear but it was hellish to see†. Lessing on the other hand describes Ben’s actions almost as a series of bullet points, stating what he did and nothing else â€Å"he had pulled her down, bitten her and bent her arm back until it broke†. For this reason, that Stevenson used more description in parts of his book I can find parts of â€Å"Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde† more believable and mare memorable. These parts of the two books also show how far apart they were written. In Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde Stevenson uses the word juggernaut, which then meant a large unstoppable force but in today’s world has become to be associated with large lorries. Also in Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde there are few women and the ones we do hear about are servants or maids but in the Fifth Child there are many women and one of the most important people in the book, Harriet, is a woman. We also do not hear many people called by their first names in Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde but in the Fifth Child last names are seldom used. The title of this essay I agree with most of except for the part that says, â€Å"progressively released†. This part of the statement is true for Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, as Mr Hyde is only really understood at the end of the book â€Å"he is not easy to describe†. In the Fifth Child Ben is thrown into the middle of everything suddenly and can even be different before he was bourn â€Å"David felt a jolt under his hand†. The second part of this statement â€Å"destroying peace and goodness as it comes† I totally agree with. In Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Hyde causes Jekyll so much pain that eventually he commits suicide. In the Fifth Child Ben scares Harriet and David off having any more children and breaks the family apart by making some of Harriet’s other children go to boarding school and by making them go and live with relatives.