Background of the Story Essay

In a much lighter context, Giovanni’s room tries to intricately explain the reasons behind men becoming gays. The matter, discussed through experiential accounts brings the story into a more emotional presentation of the issue thus creating a more attractive environment of understanding for the readers to indulge into. Aside from this, the story written by James Baldwin also aims to reiterate the psychological background of the reasons behind the personality changes that are happening among men and how the situations in their lives particularly affect their decisions and their relationships. The story begins in a narration of the main character, David, as he describes Giovanni’s room. Giovanni is primarily one among the few men whom David had been deeply involved with. The room of Giovanni has been described to have been always dark and less lighted. Perhaps signing about the privacy and the intimacy that the room represents, Giovanni’s room remains to be an ideal depiction of the relationships between men that occurred in that specific place in the story. As the story goes on to, David’s character shows a particular confusion in his gender especially with regards his relationships with both men and women. Basing from his background, it could be observed that he has been rather placed in that particular situation especially based from the past experiences that he has been dealing with as he grew towards his maturity that both involved the relationship of his mother and his father. From the said background, it could be noted that being a gay or being a bisexual, as the story suggests on the main character, could simply be sourced out from having a less guiding father thus making him more vulnerable to life challenges especially with regards gender issues. A Social Connotation of the Story UNTIL 1861 homosexuality was an offense punishable by death in England. In fact, the possibility of imprisonment for homosexual acts was not lifted there until as recently as 1967. Many other Western countries have a similar history. In recent years, however, laws and attitudes have greatly changed. In California, by way of example, a candidate for San Francisco’s office of mayor promised to appoint homosexual to city boards and commissions in proportion to their share of the population, estimated at about 15 percent. As a result, homosexuals gave her their support at the polls. Men and women prominent in public life can now be homosexuals quite openly. Many clergymen are self-confessed â€Å"gays,† freely advocating such a way of life. Homosexuality no longer is viewed by many as having the stigma it used to have. It has achieved a degree of â€Å"respectability. † Since the First World War, the authority of the priests and clergy of Christendom has been challenged. People are no longer willing to accept without question what the churches say. They have demanded greater freedom, especially as far as morality is concerned. Why, then, do people become homosexuals? What is behind the ever-increasing surge in their numbers? There is hardly an issue that has been more hotly contested in recent years. The Roman Catholic report mentioned earlier comments: â€Å"Most young people appear to pass through a phase when the homosexual tendency is dominant; but the emotional growth can be halted at this stage. † Teen-age years are years of stress. Young boys and girls often find it difficult to relate to one another without embarrassment at that time of life. So we often see polarization—groups composed exclusively of boys or of girls. Most are able to make the necessary adjustments and achieve a balance in sexual life. Sadly, however, there are many pitfalls. Commenting on some of these, the secretary of the Responsible Society in England said: â€Å"We are very worried about the strident proselytizing going out to teenagers from militant homosexual campaigners. There is overwhelming evidence in the American Masters and Johnson survey that homosexuality is learned behavior. † High schools and universities are a natural ground for such development. The Little Blue Book passed to Oxford, England, students has this to say: â€Å"Many gays ‘come out’ (i. e. start being open about being gay) when they are at college or university. Leaving home perhaps for the first time, is often an escape from certain pressure and expectations. Furthermore students tend to be more tolerant and open-minded towards homosexuals, at least on a superficial level. † Scotland’s Glasgow University’s free guide to ‘gay sex,’ entitled â€Å"Gay Scene,† offers the following advice: â€Å"If you find that you are sexually attracted to people of the same sex as yourself, the best thing to do is to accept it. † One incensed parent is reported as saying: â€Å"There are many young students who could be corrupted by this sort of material. † In other words—homosexuality can be prevented, just as it can be learned. There is one additional aspect of homosexuality that is often pushed into the background. It concerns the incidence of venereal diseases among homosexuals. How serious is this problem? VD clinics in England get an unexpectedly high rate of homosexuals. Said one health visitor: â€Å"I think that’s because they are more promiscuous, making more casual encounters than other people. † Bearing out this fact as a worldwide problem, in New York city 55 percent of the cases of infectious syphilis in 1977 occurred among homosexual males. Free-lance medical writer Terry Alan Sandholzer reported: â€Å"Syphilis in gay men has been estimated to account for as high as 50 percent of reported cases in large cities and about a third of the cases nationally. † Surely that is a high price to pay for sexual â€Å"liberation. † As homosexuality has come out into the open, so there has been a concerted effort to impart a new image to the practice. The word â€Å"homosexual,† with its accent on â€Å"sex,† has been viewed disapprovingly. Into prominence instead is the term â€Å"gay. † The Concise Oxford Dictionary notes that this word, used in this sense, is a euphemism, a mild word substituted for a harsh or direct one. The same can be said of â€Å"homophilia† and â€Å"homophile,† as sometimes used. If one were going to enter the homosexual world, then it would be wise to face the facts about VD in that world. Certainly, as the story of Giovanni’s room displays the actual life of homosexual, it could not be denied that such course of life has its consequences. Likely, such course of life, even though sourced out from a primary confusion, it could not be denied that it simply cannot be lived without the counteracting results that such acts brings about to the individual involved in the said situation. A Reflection Based on Other Writings Ralph Waldo Emerson’s Self Reliance and Khaleid Housinni’s Kite Runner could be well connected to the social description of the story of Giovanni’s room. At some point, the authors of the said selections choose to show the human society as a primary source of distress that affects the life of most human individuals. Self-reliance particularly notes how people resort to certain acts so as to survive several challenges in life that they face every now and then. In the same way, the story of the Kite Runner notes the fact that people are indeed in direct receiver of the situations that are happening in the society. The way that they are able to face such issues, whether personal or social, is the reflecting element that usually identifies who they are and what they particularly believe in. (Housinni, 2003, 18) Obviously, such idealism in personal development is derived from a rather psychological perspective that identifies social and personal sociology to be particularly connected with each other. How could this idealism be observed in particular? The naturalistic approach in observation could then be further applied. This fundamental research methodology is known to divulge and aid the psychologist in his or her critical analysis of the human behavior and characteristics while in socially acceptable public domain in his or her course of interacting with other individuals in their aspect of addressing their sociological needs. In this aspect of human interaction, psychologist try to significantly analyze the human nature as shown by their actions both involving the verbal and non-verbal communication style and how individuals manifest their motives while adhering to the social values and cultures pertaining to public communication. Naturalistic observation is commonly an actual observation of subjects mainly while they are in their course of social interaction specifically while they are in the public place. In the course of implementing this method, the researcher must also observe social values and cultural manners thus preventing any offensive act during the observation. In addition, the concept of personal privacy and inappropriate intrusion should also be constantly observed while the researcher is observing the subjects. All of these limitations must be implemented while the researcher observed the subjects in an isolated nature keeping his or her presence unnoticed and ideally absent to the personal space of the subject during their interaction. (Houssini, 2003, 18) The only aspect to be focused on in this project is the psychological behavior of the subject as manifested by their very intricate details such as gestures, voice, reaction, facial expression and impression and others. If applied within the situation of David in Giovanni’s room along with the other selections, it could be observed that humans particularly show who they are with the things that they choose to engage in with their daily activities. The people they mingle with also characterizes their personal attributes thus giving a reflection of their past and how they have been particularly molded by the experiences that they have been dealing with at present. Among the most compelling relation of the stories towards each other are the death of the supposed partner [lover; Giovanni and brother; Hassan] characters who for some reason had the chance of living but had to let go to let their counterparts live. Undeniably, the removal of their character within the said stories aim to press on with the possibility of those whom they left to change their ways thus create a much better life for them. However, with either a false or faithful hope that this would happen, the ones that they left to live actually made it through life with lies and pretentious acts still living within the secrets that they once kept back when they still had both Hassan and Giovanni in their lives. The contemporary life of human individuals has indeed caused a much easier process of concealing what they really are inside. Just to be able to secure themselves from all the possible insecurities that the society might imply on them, many among men and women today intend to pretend someone who they are not simply to be accepted by others. The fear of being rejected and bemused by those closest to them makes them fearful of the possible things that may happen of they open up to others the reality of their identity as a person. This indeed is an indication of fear due to social norms. If negatively taken, as seen on both stories, this particular aspect of living with the society would only bring one towards the foolish happiness that is brought about by being falsely accepted by the community that one particularly lives in. A Connection with the Kite Runner The whole theme of the story of â€Å"The Kite Runner† revolved around the lives of two young children who were from different classes of the society. Social prejudice of the economic status of people has been the main reason why the problem of diversity in Afghanistan has risen as portrayed in the story. This factor indeed contributed so much to the story’s complication, which resulted to the guilt driven emotions of the main character Amir, when he was not able to come to the rescue of his friend Hassan. In this story, a clear display of the society’s major problem on prejudice and equality has been shown. Concentrating on the more personally based assessment of the situation as portrayed by Amir, the social problems depicted in the story makes it easier to understand why people take lesser courage in making a change in the present social situation, be guilty later on and then set goals in making a change in a less complex and fearful way. Yes, in a concise display of events, the author tried to help the reader’s picture out the most important events of the situation that would likely connect the story with the intense effect of social diversity to individuals in the society. The consequences are shown to be much dreadful enough to keep a person from moving on with his own life, because of the fact that the lack of courage that drives a person to ignore the things that are supposed to be done by him in the first place. Certainly, an inner healing is necessary for certain situations such as this. It is normal for a person to feel down from not being able to complete or live up to a certain self-expectation. However, inner healing is not that easy to find. As for the main character of the story, it could be noted that the healing of his conscience mainly came form the fact that he had to come back to Afghanistan to find his find with a plan of making it up to him in any way he could. Although he was not able to do the said task as he has expected things to come along, he was still able to help himself regain his clear conscience through helping the son of his friend Hassan to have a change of life under his care. As it could be noted, the story was plotted to show the deeper individual effects of the social differences among men as well as the effects of war on relationships between people. The existence of such issues has made the characters reflect the actual situation of individuals in the society especially focusing on the Afghanistan society. (Howard, 2003, Internet) One more them of the story, which should be given attention, is the picture of reality portrayed by Amir. His lack of courage in doing things that they know should be done is a problem by many people today. Although they know that something within their power could change several situations in the society, their fear of several elements in the society keeps them from doing any courageous change. This was shown when Amir failed to save his friend Hassan from the hands of the bully, Assef. As a result, his conscience has not made him completely relieved from moving away from Afghanistan ever since. Instead, he was continuously haunted by the past and the things that he was supposed to do for his friend (Kirszner, 2001, 90). At the same picture, several people today find it difficult to forget the past especially the situations that involves them with the things that they were supposed to do and yet they did not have much of the courage that it takes for them to do it. As a way of relieving the pain brought about by the past, people tend to find ways in which they could still change what happened. As for the situation of Amir, he tried to return to Afghanistan to supposedly make it up with Hassan. As it could be noted from the overview of the story, although Amir was not able to make it up to his half brother Hassan, he was able to clear his conscience by taking care of the son of Hassan instead. In the same way, people today find a way to heal their aching hearts through returning back to what has happened in the past and later on try to change things for the people that they were supposed o help before. This way, their conscience is then cleared off from the shortcomings that they incurred against others before. As mentioned earlier, people tend to get hurt from many things. Usually, their experiences of several different situations they have been involved with, brings them the discouragement that they ought to feel after not being able to do what they were supposed to. This then brings them several psychological disturbances that keep them from moving on freely with their lives. The fear of doing what they should have done before might have been governed by several factors in the society that kept them from being able to complete their supposed tasks before (Hill, 2000, Internet). Certainly, because of the said elements, doing what is right might not have been that easy. Aside from this, it is quite easier to understand that the situation is harder to deal with when it is happening at the actual time. The lack of time to think things over makes it harder for a person to realize what should be immediately done to solve some things (Coon, 2001, 54,55). This is naturally what happened to Amir upon seeing the bully beat his friend. Along with fear and panic, he was not able to come up with the possible solution that he was supposed to apply during the said situation. People tend to lack courage when they are faced with the actual crisis. However, after some time of thinking things over, they begin to realize that there could have been better results if they did have the courage to do their ethical responsibilities regarding the situation. What is meant by redemption and healing? Naturally, this means recovery from any possible scourge that has been experienced by one in the past. Being healed, means being able to cure what has been causing one the pain that is felt in an emotional state as for this matter (Coon, 20001, 56). Hence, healing does not only involve mere mind works. It has to involve actions that would help the individual free himself from the guilt that he is feeling from within his conscience. Basing from how the main character tried to resolve his personal issues regarding his past shortcomings against his friend, coming back to the origin of his guilt feelings has helped him realize the possibility for him to clear his conscience from the guilt that has mainly plagued his thoughts for a long time. As for the present situation of the society, to redeem themselves from the psychological and emotional disturbances brought about by the past, people opt to find ways by which they can still change things even though the change may not be done directly to the people they have once failed to help (Coon, 2001, 58). The changes that this certain courageous act by an individual that naturally results to betterment of many or even of a few would then help that individual to regain his clean conscience thus clearing him from all the guilt that has been keeping him from moving on with his life before. Several issues that divide it to several classes govern the society today. Aside from the race, economic status makes it harder for an individual to deal with the society in a fair way. Yes, today, the main reason why people tend to separate themselves from others is the existence of social prejudice. What is prejudice? According to the article entitled, â€Å"They found the solution to the problem of race†: â€Å"Education is the key to ending present condition of prejudice. When this key is missing, prejudice often results. Prejudice is a prejudgment, a judgment arrived at before persons have really examined the evidence regarding the matter involved. Then, because of their prejudice, they are inclined to discriminate against others. (Awake! 1999, 14) Certainly, the social division makes it harder for people to deal with each other in a fair way. In the same way, the governments and the non-government organizations, which are supposed to give answers to the said social issues, have a hard time finding ways by which they would be able solve the disturbances. As a result, they have to deal with the guilt that they gain from not being able to give answers to the most important issues in the human society. To be able to clear their guilt, they tend to solve the issues after several years when the pressure on the issue is already lessened and the attention of the society towards the issue has already been shifted to other problems (Coon, 2001, 60). Prejudice however remains to be the main reason why people are having a hard time dealing with a divided society. Basing from actual accounts in the society, prejudice is a major problem that makes it harder for people to find peace and security in their own communities. As it has been portrayed in the story of the â€Å"Kite Runner†, the divisive culture of people cannot be easily dealt with. As a result, more roots of social issues arise from the very said social illness. It is a responsibility of everyone else in the society to face the challenge of acting against the effects of prejudice. By being completely free from the thoughts of being superior from others should help everyone realize that they have to stand for their fellowmen when they are faced with the oppression of prejudice like that of the situation between Hassan and Amir in the story. For this reason, it would be more possible for people to avoid the guilt of not being able to complete their responsibilities to their fellowmen. Healing and redemption is an essential part of the society’s recovery from the effects of social prejudice. Individuals who have been naturally involved in the deeper effects of the said social issues are the ones who are supposed to find ways by which they could be able to handle their inner distress brought about by social inequalities. Changing how the world views not everyone with differences in an unequal manner may be that easy to deal with, but a single person’s courage of taking the lead to make a change on how people deal with prejudice is a great step towards a fairer society that does not divide society based on several classes of differences. Conclusion The readings featured within this analysis actually note the social issues that are primarily making up the human population today. Naturally, such particular issues have subjected many into a certain situation that caused them to readjust their thoughts with regards the people that they meet with every now and then in their own communities. Considerably, such situation causes many to be subjected to several pretensions that they need to do, just to keep the reality of their personalities. Understandably though, there are some individuals who suffer deeply from this particular situation, some who are less able to adjust themselves to the living that society actually demands of them. For so many reasons, facing these particular situations require that one be most capable of showing who he really is even in the middle of adversaries. Being strongly attached to one’s own personal being and identity actually makes one more susceptible to the different challenges of human living, This would then allow them of becoming the best person that they can even in the middle of hard situations. This is what is being implanted to the thoughts of the readers through the narration of the stories of Amir and David as well as that of the statements of Ralph Waldo Emerson. These writings actually make it certain that people are directly affected by the situations that they are facing everyday. Undeniably, they are given the chance to react considerably in the process pf change in life. This is actually a matter of change and learning. Sometimes though, the learning in this process actually involves other people who are at times subjected into being involved in the lesser state of the relationship among the ones who are facing the dreadful situation of pretension. However, their existence, although lesser is indeed noted of its importance to those whom they shared their lives with. References: Ralph Waldo Emerson: Self-Reliance (1841). http://www. wsu. edu/~wldciv/world_civ_reader/world_civ_reader_2/emerson. html. (June 30, 2008). James Baldwin. (2000). Giovanni’s Room. Delta Publications. Khaled Hosseini. (2003). The Kite Runner. Riverhead Books. Austen, Roger (1977). Playing the Game: The Homosexual Novel in America, 1st ed. , Indianapolis: The Bobbs-Merrill Company. ISBN 978-067252287X. Guidelines for Psychotherapy With Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Clients. http://www. apa. org/practice/glbt. pdf. (July 3, 2008). Why is there war. (2000). Awake! Brooklyn New York. They found the solution to the problem of race. (1999). Awake! Brooklyn New York. Hill, Amelia. The Observer. (Sunday September 7, 2003). An Afghan hounded by his past. http://books. guardian. co. uk/reviews/generalfiction/0,6121,1036891,00. html. (July 3, 2008). Howard, Edward. The Servant. (August 3, 2003). The New York Times. http://query. nytimes. com/gst/fullpage. html? res=9504E0DF123FF930A3575BC0A9659C8B63. (July 3, 2008). Coon, Dennis. (2001). Introduction to Psychology: Gateways to mind and behavior. Thompson Learning Incorporated. Kirszner, Laurie G. (2001) Litterature: reading, reacting and writing. Harcourt College Publishers.

Living in a Morally Corrupt Society

Brandi Smithers 18 October 2012 Professor James Essay #1 Final Draft Living in a Morally Corrupt and Market Driven Society Our society is a corrupt one, without a doubt. Built on morals and ethics that have lost prominence and importance, our society and the people who it is composed of have quickly made our market economy something awful that was never intended. A market economy is essentially a harmless, productive way of organizing activity and trade; unfortunately, society has lost sight of the good intentions and has â€Å"drifted from having a market economy to being a market society (Sandel 10).People have let greed for money and for success consume them. No longer is the market a tool for organization. Instead, it is now a way of life. Having the upper-hand in the market, means one is better off. What caused this change in society? Greed. Market triumphalism became the goal of many when they let greed overpower integrity (Sandel 6). Greed is the devil inside the market. It c reates a moral dilemma by causing people to have a desire from market triumphalism so strong that they are â€Å"led to irresponsible risk taking† as means of obtaining what they long for (Sandal 6).People start to question if the morals instilled in their mind can be stretched farther and farther until they become â€Å"morally vacant† (Sandal 13). The market has put a price on things never meant to be associated with a dollar sign such as time and ultimately, our lives. Historically, the need to â€Å"organize the production and distribution of goods† generated the idea of a market economy; though once widely accepted, â€Å"markets†¦ have come to govern our lives as never before† (Sandal 6).In today’s society the market has a negative impact on a majority of adults and a surprising amount of children. It is becoming more and more common to see adults using incentives to motivate children to the right thing. For example, parents and schools often offer cash incentive for good grades (Sandal 51). Not only is it surprising to some that parents pay their children for a good report card, but â€Å"it never occurred to anyone that the school itself might pay for good grades† (Sandal 51).Though some may argue that money incentive for grades â€Å"transforms the culture of schools and the attitudes of students towards school† (Sandal 54) for the better, the children’s desire for cash replaces the traditional and responsible thought that doing good in school meant that one would not only better themselves, but that they would be a productive member of society. The incentives, or bribes, â€Å"bypass persuasion and substitute and external reason for an intrinsic one† (Sandal 59).This shift in mindset not only instills greedy habits in children, but also creates irrational expectations for incentive given when one did nothing above and beyond what should be expected of any child. In essence, parents a nd adults are manipulating a child’s sense of duty and obligation by putting a price on good behavior. The market and the common use of bribery undermine â€Å"obligation and commitment,† which ultimately are â€Å"ideals that can’t be reduced to monetary terms† (Sandal 50).When one hears the word â€Å"greed,† more often than not, money comes to mind; however, money is not the only asset people seek with greedy minds. The concept of time is one part of people’s everyday lives that the market has dramatically manipulated in such a way that time is more valuable than money. Corporations and franchised businesses have noticed this growing trend and they have taken advantage of people’s greed for time. They have found that adding â€Å"fast-track schemes† to their marketing plans adds to their profit margin and also increases customer satisfaction.They stand firm in the belief that â€Å"letting people par for faster service at a irports, at amusement parks, and on highways improves economic efficiency but letting people put a price on their time† (Sandel 20). It is not surprising that the moral importance of equality is thrown under the table by the same people that saw dollar signs when handling the ultimatum of profit vs. equality. For instance, people with excess money are able to jump to the front of the line at amusement parks and they also have to ability to pay extra to sit First-Class on an airplane (Sandal 17-18).Sure, the convenience for the consumer of the â€Å"fast-track schemes† is considerable, but the schemes are extremely â€Å"unfair to those left languishing† waiting patiently for their turn (Sandal 27). Today’s market society has not only added an extreme factor to inequality amongst citizens of society, but yet again, people are letting their morals of fairness slide in order to gain selfish convenience. The market has driven businesses and consumers alike int o forgetting that one of the key factors to coexistence with one another is equality. The arket has made time, once an element of life considered unchangeable, an easily manipulated tool for profit gain and also another reason why people of our society are so morally vacant. Out of all the ways market has driven the people of our society mad by giving priceless aspects of life monetary value, one aspect of life that should never be a part of market economy, is life itself. Project Prevention, founded by Barbra Harris, is a program that offers drug addicted women $300 cash if they will undergo sterilization or long-term birth control (Sandel 43).Offering drug-addicted women money for sterilization is coercive, thus already making it morally wrong (Sandel 45). Not only does the organization use means of coercion for their gain, but the ultimatum that the drug-addicted women are faced with is one that no woman should ever have to encounter. She has to choose whether she wants to have c hildren in the future, or if she is to take the money to satisfy the â€Å"necessity of her situation† (Sandal 45). When â€Å"a drug-addicted woman agrees to be sterilized for money, she is not acting freely† (45).Project Prevention is a perfect example of how today’s free market has labeled our bodies (and the ones yet to be born) are merely â€Å"possessions that we own and can use and dispose of† (Sandal 47). Since the market has stepped over the moral boundaries of viewing humans as possessions, it is clear that â€Å"we need to rethink the role that markets should play in our society† (Sandal 7). Human life is one of the things that money can’t buy. Market economy is a great tool for organization in the way trade is handled, but a tool is what it should be; unfortunately, the market has consumed our society and it is the very air we all breathe.Children are not only submerged in the ideas of a morally corrupt market, but they are being taught how to follow in the footsteps of the morally corrupted. As they develop, the corrupt ideas intensify, and money becomes air. Functionality is impossible in the absence of market. Intangible aspects of life, such as time, form a monetary value, leaving the once innocent child as a money hungry adult. Despite the morals once instilled in that child’s mind, the child finds the ultimate victim to a morally corrupt society: an unborn child. When will he realize that there are some things that money can’t buy?

My media life Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

My media life - Essay Example Cellular phones, iPads, netbooks or any mobile device has afforded me the portability of communications not possible before any of these devices entered the consumer electronics market and makes life fulfilling. The sheer amount of information that is today available out there makes me selective on which media outlets that I visit and patronize. After all, there are only 24 hours in a day so that I have to allocate my time efficiently on what sites to visit and which media outlet to use. A person has to be very discriminating as well with regards to the information available, as it is not possible to regard everything and every bit of information posted on the Internet as very reliable. In other words, there is a pressing need for some form of content curation which will verify whether information is true or not; the rest of information out there may not be much of a worth or anything if it has not been verified or undergone some form of editing. Any person must be very discriminating indeed when it comes to getting information from some sources. I spend a considerable sum on my media access, which can be divided into television on cable and on Internet access with broadband connections. It is vital for me that I get a real moneys worth on what I am paying for but as mentioned before, I have to be very selective in the sites and sources of my information which I access almost on a daily basis. This means I get what I pay for in terms of entertainment, news information, specific knowledge on some topics for my research purposes, whatever this may be, and connecting with my friends and family in far-flung places. This means all my information sources must be reliable to a degree where I can assume everything that I read about is reliable, that information has been vetted. The Information Age has given way to the newer

Working with children,young people and families Essay

Working with children,young people and families - Essay Example decisions and interventions that will determine how safe the children are in their environs and therefore, the children future harm risks are increased. Therefore, structured decision making process and contextual and predictive assessments procedures should be used as strategies that will enhance planning of children, families and young people welfare. To have an overview of how the structured decision making processes and predictive contextual assessment procedures should be used, we will take a look at James Hobbs and Janice Hobbs (parents) family scenarios whereby the parents have placed their two children (Alice Hobbs and Helen Hobbs) at significant harm and are in dire need of help (Davies, McGillivray and Brotherton 2010, 133- 198). Them aim of assessing children who are in potentially harmful situations is to define whether there significant risks involved and determine how the child involved can be assisted. Holland points out that an in-depth case assessment in regard to the children in need and their families is important in order to determine the significance of need of the children involved. This can be done through systematic reviews, policy perspectives and through frameworks. It is evident that Janice Hobbs family needs help. Research indicates that parents who smoke are likely to influence their children to start smoking at teenage. This is because children are likely to follow the ‘do as I do’ element rather than the ‘do as I say’ attitude. This simply implies that both Alice and Helen are likely pick-up their parents smoking habits and start smoking at a tender age; a hazard to the children health. The assessment framework for assessing the children in need and their famili es outlines that children’s perspectives, parental capacity, parents perspectives, child development, environmental factors and the wider community, resilience and protective factors and attachment between parents and their children are crucial aspects to consider

Saving Chinese gaming addicts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Saving Chinese gaming addicts - Essay Example The advancement in technology has led to the development of technological games that tend to be addictive just like drugs are. In the recent times, the trend has been that these games are not played manually at home. The internet, with its vast and ever increasing modifications has provided an online platform from where gamers can compete with other gamers globally. The result has been an increase in addiction in gaming. It is said that statistics do not lie. In this case, the news are filled with stories of gamers here and there who have become addicted to the games they play and have resulted to may be selling their children or have even died while playing these games for long hours. According to Liu, gaming addiction in China has been identified as a psychiactric condition. As a result, some measures have been effected to aid in curbing this disorder. Various measures and means are being utilised. What medium acan be used to save Chinese online gaming addicts? To complicate matters farther, research shows that games are important in improving certain skills such as making of decisions. Moreover, they are said to improve the health of an individual as they involve the usage of several motor skills. However, the sad thing about gaming is that the person becomes absorbed into the game gradually until he or she finds no meaning in other matters concerning life. It can be noted that apart from the rehabilitation centers set up by the Chinese government to curb online game addiction ad save addicts, magazines provide a meaningful means to save online game addicts. The advantages exceed the limitations by far. Furthermore, the target population, adolescents and teenagers is interested in reading magazines while there are several means to avail it to them.

Literature review of five journal articles about The Shortage of Research Paper

Literature review of five journal articles about The Shortage of Qualified Workers - Research Paper Example Increased Demand for Labor: According to Barnow, Trutko and Schede (2010), if demand for labor increases continuously and faster than the supply of labor, there occurs a is equilibrium where some work will not be done. They argue that a special phenomena may occur which would require special skills which making the specialist take time and hence during that period there will be a labor shortage. For instance, after the 2nd World War, a situation occurred where engineers were needed to deal with effect of great shock of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. During that period, the demand for engineers was high than the supply. Rasool and Botha (2010) argued that it is only in time of abruptly that demand of labor supply and demand can cause a labor shortage else people will be there since supply of quality laborers is increasing with population growth. Decreased supply of labor: Hajela (2012) indicates that when bodies entitled to train professionals cannot do so due to lack of the minimum qualification to join the course, there will be a low rate of producing graduates and this will lead to lack of personnel to work on specific positions. If I quote â€Å"Shortage of skills revealed may suggest that the educators do not impart them during training. An implication that would mean that the employees’ lack competences, since they do not have the requisite skills†. This leads to graduates who cannot perform and hence labor shortage. Research by Rasool & Botha, (2011) showed that the literacy rate was 36% and numeracy rate was 35% amongst Grade 3 children. Only 10% of the children scored above 70%. This is a clear show that competent people who get out of school with needed skills are very few. Emigration: According to Rasool & Botha, (2011), emigration is another worrying factor in South Africa for the role it is playing in skills crisis. South Africa is

Online Travel Industry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Online Travel Industry - Essay Example In the US and Europe, the leading online travel intermediaries have taken market share from their offline counterparts. At the same time, an increase in direct sales through travel supplier's own websites has also affected the traditional agency business. The need to balance direct and indirect channels, demand for lower cost distribution and the growth in popularity of comparison shopping are all factors driving the business model for travel specific search engines globally. It is interesting to note that the online travel market is divided into two segments: leisure/unmanaged business travel and managed business travel (also known as corporate travel). The online booking behavior of unmanaged business travelers is indistinguishable from leisure travelers. Employees of the millions of small- and medium-sized corporations use the same websites as leisure travelers to book their business travel. Thus these two groups of buyers are treated as one customer segment. Study Method: It is a quantitative research based on online consumer surveys, executive surveys and market forecast models to provide essential analysis of consumer trends and marketing best practices, including customer segmentation and cross-selling strategies. Study Findings: The needs of travelers vary widely from one generation segment to another although many travel marketers are unable to plan for the specific promotional strategies to meet the distinct needs of the different generations. Among the biggest generational differences in online behavior are: Young Travelers are an online agency's best friend: Consumers of age group 18-24 spend more time on agency sites than any other generations and they have attraction for the flashy marketing campaigns of online agencies. 77% of 18-24 year old travelers use more than one agency sites. The average traveler in this age group will visit 1.7 agency sites, the highest of any generational segment. From the above graph we can clearly observe that there is an increasing trend of the younger travelers for visiting online travel agencies than the older ones. Seniors prefer booking directly: Seniors (65+) overwhelmingly favor bookings flights and hotels directly on supplier sites that offer low-rate guarantees and other perks Nearly 80% of the flights booked online by this generation are made at carrier sites, and 68% of hotel bookings are placed directly at chain sites, compared to lows of 72% and 58% for 25-34 years old Baby Boomers have an appetite for content: Baby Boomers (45-64) view the travel contents online for comparison when in-market for a trip. 40% of the content viewed is at online travel agencies, giving aggregators an advantage in influencing this segment as they research online. Study Implication: The travel companies must do the effective market research to improve online strategies to profit from this growing channel and increase the substantial share of the travel revenue. Personal Reflection: Online Travel marketers should develop contents, services, and promotions targeting specific age groups that will be ideally positioned to manage their online distribution strategies

Product and Service Design Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Product and Service Design - Research Paper Example Limitations of the review can be summarized in the following manner; The researcher is reviewing only chapter 4 but through reading of all the chapters is needed in order to provide comprehensive review of the book. Lack of knowledge about all the aspects covered by William J Stevenson might encourage the researcher to take subjective view while reviewing the book. The researcher is reviewing the 11 Edition (Global Edition) of â€Å"Operations Management† written by William J Stevenson while Chapter number 4 named as â€Å"Product and Service Design† is the topic of discussion in the review. In this chapter, Stevenson (2011) has penned down topics like definition of product design, why companies go for product design, human aspects, cultural aspects, environment sustainability factors, design considerations, different phases of design and production and service design. Before going to the main discussion, let us try to understand credential William J Stevenson who is th e author of the book. Name of the Author and Publisher Dr. Stevenson or William J Stevenson wrote the book â€Å"Operations Management† which was published by McGraw-Hill Education. McGraw-Hill Education is not only the publisher of the book but also they hold distribution right of the book. Dr. Stevenson is an associate professor of Decision Sciences in the College of Business at Rochester Institute of Technology (Stevenson, 2011). The author has years of teaching experience in the field of production/operations management, quality concepts, management science and quality applications and Dr. Stevenson wrote many articles in the field of Management Science and Decision Sciences (Stevenson, 2011). Dr. Stevenson earned M.B.A and PhD in the field of production/operations management from University of Syracuse. It is evident from such descriptions that there might be argument regarding the content of the book written by Dr. Stevenson but there should not be any argument exists r egarding academic qualification of Dr. Stevenson. Objectives and Targeted Audience Every book is written taking into consideration of the requirements of target audience. Simple fact is that every book has its own target audience and success of the book is being considered whether the book meets the expectation of its target reader or not? Now, the question is that what is the objective of the book â€Å"Operations Management† written by William J Stevenson? Another important thing is that who are the target audience for the book? Well, to be honest, the book has been primarily written for college students and university students who want to know about product and service design process. In the first place, the book can be considered as the rudiments of product & service designing process but cannot be considered as scholarly source that can be reviewed and criticized by other academic scholars and industry experts (Stevenson, 2011). According to writer of this review, the bo ok has been written for teaching purpose and focus of the book is not to develop a

International business (Discussion Board) Assignment - 1

International business (Discussion Board) - Assignment Example this century, trade and its policies have fundamentally transformed societies that have heavily been stuck on poverty thus making the millennium development goals achievable over time. Trade plays the role of fostering development and holds the power to promote the economic growth of the country and with this; poverty is alleviated with a motive of reaching the development goals of such a country. It is upon countries to embrace and take advantage of trade opportunities in order to reap from its benefits. My fellow proponents have also reached a consensus in agreeing with my view that trade is important in the development of the country. Among their reasons that support this view are in the areas of infrastructure. They believe that when some countries do not have the capacity to acquire infrastructure, they would rather turn to deploying trade with other countries for the products they need. In my opinion, this would improve the economy of these countries since they use this platform to get what they do not produce. They tend to agree that some organizations have been accorded the mandate to work on possible ways of eradicating poverty through trade and WTO is given consideration. I tentatively agree think otherwise. I am tempted to believe that it is within a countries capacity to derive mechanisms to eradicate poverty since they understand their contexts very well. The only capacity they lack is on knowledge of how to and the resources needed to achieve this. WTO would rather act as an overseer in foreseeing that Countries is better equipped to handle their

Animals Should Not Be Used for Medical Testing Essay Example for Free

Animals Should Not Be Used for Medical Testing Essay Tina Date: 11/29/2011 Animals should not Be Used for Medical Testing Nowadays, animals are used for medical testing which is hurtful and not necessary. Tens of millions of animals are used each year in federally and privately funded experiments. Do animals feel the same pain that human feel? How do we know that other humans feel pain? We all know that we ourselves can feel pain. We know this from the direct experience of stubbing toe on a chair, or having finger slammed in a drawer. So animals are as same as human. They have feelings about hurt, happiness, and pain either. Therefore, animals should not be used for medical testing because animals have the rights to survive, not a prey for vivisection in laboratories, and there are still having so many ineffective of drugs in the world. Pain is a physical event; something that cannot be observed. Pain is something that is felt, and we can only assume that other humans can feel pain from external indications such crying, screaming, or jerking away from something. If we can justify that other humans feel pain, why do human think that animals do not feel pain by continue using animals for testing? Considering that all living beings possess natural rights that any animals with a nervous system have specific rights to survive in the world. All animals are born equal and they have the same rights as human to existence in this planet. Why do not human save animals instead of killing them by many unnecessary testing? When an animal is poked, burned, or stepped on, they will cry, yelp, or jerk away. Since the external indicators are the same, we can assume that animals feel the same pain that we as humans feel. Today the medical term â€Å"vivisection† is used. Vivisection is defined as â€Å"cutting while still alive†; it is more commonly used today that is performed on animals especially. Charles River Breeding Laboratories, a company owned by Bausch and Lomb, provides 40-50% of the animals used in experiments of laboratories (Mercy For Animals). Medicine testing on animals is inaccurate and does not benefit humans at all. Every single day in a year, animals including, but not limited to, dogs, cats, rabbits, mice, rats, hamsters, rhesus monkeys, and cattle are commonly used for vivisection. Animals are innocent! They are organisms that have the rights to existence and to be respected by humans. They are not prey for vivisection in the laboratories. Vivisection is unethical. Furthermore, testing on animals is unreliable. Human rarely think about the opposite side of their experiments. New drugs can pass safety on animals but this does not mean that human can use these drugs safely because animals and humans do not get the same diseases. Animals’ cells are so different from humans’ cells. For example, Opren drug caused 3500 people to suffer serious side effects including damage to skin, eyes, liver, and kidneys (Tachell). Thalidomide caused about 10,000 birth defects worldwide (CAAT), and Clioquinol caused 30,000 cases of blindness and paralysis and thousands of death (CAAT). Conversely, many drugs that are beneficial to humans are dangerous to animals. Penicillin, which is an antibiotic to humans, kills guinea pigs. Aspirin causes birth defects in rats, mice, monkeys, but it does not harm in humans any way. In the last 15-20 years, it has been estimated that animal testing has decreased 30-50% due to the reduction and replacement techniques (Tachell). The most common alternatives that are used today are: in-vitro tests, computer software, and even human â€Å"clinical tests. † Human have to understand that this planet is not only ours, but the animals as well. Albert Einstein once said, â€Å"Our task must be free ourselves†¦By widening our circle of comparison to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty. † (CAAT) The means of living a healthy and fulfilled life is to embrace and respect all life on this planet. The animals cannot tell the scientist that they do not want to be tested on, but we can. http://www.un.org/en/ http://www.mercyforanimals.org/ http://www. animalliberationfront. com/Philosophy/Animal%20Testing/whyanimaltestingisbad. htm.

Integration Of Psychology And Christianity

Integration Of Psychology And Christianity The question of Christianity being integrated with psychology is a matter of degrees. Secular psychology and the other sciences would seek to over time remake Christian thought into their own image where Christianity and Christian scholarship is merely philosophical and not a true belief system or an opportunity to actually know God. We as believers need to stay involved so that the Christian population can remain relevant in social, political and educational circles. There are more self-professed Christians here in the United States than any other religion and still more people who believe in something greater than themselves. We must exert our authority and political power as one of the largest groups to ensure the proper counseling and training of Christian families and individuals everywhere to make sure that counseling and therapy meets the needs of our people. Christians should be able to take advantage of both science, psychology and Christian counseling techniques because all truth is Gods truth whether or not it is specified in scripture. My view is that psychology needs to be disseminated through the understanding of and the expressed intents of scripture and the needs of the individual whether or not they are a believer. If that meets the qualification for the integration test then so be it. Is it Possible to Integrate Christianity and Psychology? My initial response to the question is that your belief in God and faith should come first and that the scientific training should follow only if it lines up with scripture. There are basic presuppositions like personal responsibility and the effects of the fall of man that need to be considered against the overriding thought and teaching of secular psychological educators and institutions. First we have to decide what our basis for truth is, and exhaust that until it completely engulfs our way of viewing both the physical and spiritual worlds as well as the behavior of people. Just as we look to mathematics to measure and make judgments on our wealth and physical well-being, we can use scripture to guide us in our search to make good decisions and to honor the Creator. Science and belief in God are not antithetical but, many believe that they are. A good Christian would simply have the ability to go to Godly precepts and principles found in scripture and work from there as a startin g point. The Bible does not to my knowledge force anyone to make any mental jump or incorrect way of thinking as to endanger themselves. Integration is possible and we as Christians need to be involved in both the secular and Christian worlds of science, psychology and therapy. Recent history has shown that the prevailing culture is moving and changing in ways that call out for Gods will and His justice. Hunter states that Pastoral care of believers has been a part of life since the beginnings of the Christian Church whereas psychology has only been around for less than two hundred years and that Christian counselors are increasingly being sought out by those looking for advice on spiritual and religious issues (Hunter, 2009). Furthermore, there has been some scholarly work done in the area of Christian and psychological integration but, it has not been well received and has had little impact on scientific psychology (Bishop, 2009). Most notable was the work of Mary Stewart Van Leeuwen who contributed for over fifteen years without much success. Tarakeshwar argued that religion should be fully integrated into psychological research since religious belief holds a large role in peoples lives regardless of their culture. In addition, religion has been found to be a strong forecaster of important life areas and influences beliefs and religious practice. It also has cross-cultural influence (Tarakeshwar, 2003). In the same vein of thought, Omans article described the connections between religion, spirituality and social empowerment. Religion has been a primary driver of emerging social-movements and their success especially where the reality of good and evil forces are described in a culturally relevant way (Oman, 2003). Tan reported in his article that the best way to teach Christian and psychological integration was to have, authentic, open, caring and meaningful mentoring or personal relationship with a professor, a therapist, or some other significant person in the students life and training, is the most important and crucial factor in learning and developing integration skills. He further stated that, the clinical supervisor is also an example of a person who can be a significant mentor to students in such a way that they learn integration. Christian clinical supervision facilitates learning and the developing of integration and clinical skills and fosters personal growth that is Christ-centered, Bible-based, and Spirit-filled with the end result being more compatible treatment for Christian clients (Tan, 2009). The difficulty in meshing Christianity and Psychology is that there will always be a degree of fealty to one side or another. According to Strelan, many studies have demonstrated that spirituality and religion are closely associated with psychological well-being but, there are also levels of spiritual maturity and an individuals ability to forgive others to contend with. Noted in particular were situations where persons had feelings of disappointment with God that caused more depression. In these instances a deeper understanding of forgiveness and its benefits to the individual were espoused (Strelan, 2009). What could a secular psychologist do to aid a believer in this situation? They would have to avoid the issue altogether or tear down the belief itself. Another area discussed by Carson is the unconverted subconscious which is described as an un-surrendered part of the soul or psyche that often gets left behind during and after becoming a Christian. The unconverted subconscious can play a major role in the spiritual walk of believers. Carsons article states, examples of this can be seen in those who live incongruent and defeated lives, struggle with impulse control and addictive behaviors, experience serious psychological dysfunction and relationship difficulties, fail to heal from experiences of the past, and suffer great emotional pain. This is another place where psychology alone has no answer (Carson, 2009) The Intent of Biblical Counseling Encourage one another, and build up one another, just as you also are doing (1 Thessalonians 5:11 New International Version) Biblical counseling has been described in my studies as the work and action of discipleship. When Jesus assembled his disciples he directed them to follow him so that they could have a relationship with Him. Discipleship is the give and take between individuals as they grow in the knowledge and understanding of God. This could occur between as little as two believers or many as in the typical church or seminary. We are all somewhere in the process of teaching and training others and being taught ourselves. We are all charged with the ability and the necessity to be of assistance to those who are less mature in Christ. Our ultimate goal is to become Christ-like and to show those less mature what Godliness looks like, so that they can see the Creators plan played out in their midst. We are to walk in faith as we communicate to others the truth that God is the answer to every problem. He created us to glorify Himself through our lifes walk but we cannot accomplish this without the Gospel message. It is Christ that allows us to be reconciled back unto God. The godly and holy person is able to be in total command of their behavior unlike the unsaved might expect. The saved person is able to even look beyond his or her own needs when important decisions need to be made. Because of this, godly men and women make brilliant leaders, parents, teachers, and of course helpers. This desire to share our love for Christ allows and even pushes the cycle of discipleship to persist which is the great commission all Christians have been given. And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Amen. (Matthew 28:18-20 New International Version) Gods Role in the Process God is the reason we are here. In the Christian view of life and this world in which we live the problem is sin. Because of sin we are not able to navigate life in a way that truly meets every need. In God we can search out places in our lives where our behaviors and our choices have not lined up with the scriptures. The Holy Bible clearly enough states how we are to conduct ourselves in nearly every facet of life that truly matters. Unlike the vague and transitory nature of medical and psychological theories, God has given us clearly stated standards from which to assess our lives and our behaviors in the scriptures. He has given us the Bible to study, the Holy Spirit to teach and guide us, and of course His Son to save our souls so that we can be redeemed back unto Him. All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 New International Version) Secular or worldly counselors and psychology do not have any kind of stable or consistent measure by which to gage behavior or morality. This leads to issues like moral relativism and flexible standards in societal behaviors. That does not mean that Christian counselors cannot utilize medicine or psychology in helping though. The information just needs to be viewed through the eyes of scripture first. I truly believe that medicine and science are godly pursuits and that God has inspired many of these endeavors for our betterment. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free (John 8:32 New International Version) Responsibility of the Therapist Counselors are responsible to their clients and need to do what is expected and what is suitable in their manner of treatment. It is not enough that we only discuss personal facts and feelings. Counseling is real work and we need to make our clients understand this and commit to the assignments and sessions. Furthermore, Cavanagh states that, The counselor agrees to provide care, knowledge, skills, energy, honesty, strength and hope. We cannot take on the responsibility for clients behavior outside of counseling session. (Cavanagh Levitov, 1982/à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹2002) And according to Jay E. Adams, counselors must also be directive, which means that the counselor must be acquainted with the scriptures and should develop skills in dealing with clients based upon the Word of God. This allows the counselor to deal with clients in a way that shows deep concern and yet guides them in a way that addresses the power and authority of scripture. The helper ideally needs to be immersed in the understanding of the scriptures to the point where their personality and the biblical presuppositions they have learned and lived become one in the same. It is an indistinguishable expectation from what we desire of our pastors and ministers that they understand their place in Gods plan for humanity and their place as sons and daughters of God. If we are successful in this endeavor we will be leading people to Jesus and a new way of life. Never should we place our personal issues or desires before the authority of scripture because scripture leads to sanctification in Christ which is the foundation of our work. (Adams. J, 1973/à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹1986) Adams also points out that there are no problems that are not answered in scripture. He further states, there is a biblical solution to every problem, and Jesus was tested in every way that the rest of us are, yet He remained without sin. God has given us the Word so that we can take part in every good endeavor because we have been pre pared for every possibility. (Adams, 1973/à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹1986) Personality We are responsible for our behavior regardless of our race, socioeconomic background, or any other affiliation that is often brought up as a justification and excuse for poor conduct. Mulhollands Shaped By the Word discusses at length the nature of spiritual formation. He states that it is the process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others. Spiritual formation is a process that takes time and is a progression from simple initial belief and faith to a more complex maturity. This book states stridently that modern people will likely have a problem with undergoing extensive and time consuming sustained efforts in order to change. The author also asserts that spiritual formation is not just for church leadership, but it is to be the primal reality of our existence. By that the author is saying that we are being shaped by our decisions and our experiences either into the image of Christ or into something else. Whether we realize it or not we are undergoing consta nt spiritual transformation. Either we are becoming worldly, or we are becoming more and more like Christ. The natural or sinful person is going to try and control, or to manipulate everything and everyone around them to better meet their desires and needs. It takes a great deal to get someone to allow themselves to be conformed and that is why the Gospel is so important. The author describes this as, a reversal of the negative spiritual formation of our culture. It reverses our role from being the controller of worldly objects to being the object of the loving purposes of God who seeks to guide us into wholeness. We change from a being, of sorts into Gods creation. Scripture is very important in this process of conforming to the image of Christ. Scripture is what shows us and teaches us what the possibilities are in living a Christ-like reality and existence. The Author remarks that one of the more difficult truths in spiritual formation is that it is inseparable from our relationships with others. Our relationship with God cannot be of a personal matter. It should be a major force in ou r day to day lives. (Mulholland, 1985/2000) Assessment Issues Cavanagh, in The Counseling Experience clearly states that an integrated approach to counseling and treatment is more advantageous than just a secularized therapeutic option. The components of our behavior are many and they are multifaceted. There are biological, sociological, cultural and several other drivers of our individual conduct and behavior. He states that whereas in the past clinicians chose a single basis for treatment and assessment that there is so much available to us now that carries merit that it is in the clients best interest to use these more inclusive opportunities to treat them. All options are considered from medical and physical testing, to psychological assessments that could show a need for the administration of medications or further medical treatments. Once this is all attempted it is easier to decide whether counseling could be beneficial to the individual. Cavanagh further states that even helpers that do not treat clients with serious emotional or mental disorders could benefit from learning about the medical model of treatment and multiaxial diagnosis. The counselor is expected to cultivate working professional relationships with physicians, psychologists, psychiatrists and religious leaders among others. Again, this is considered to be a responsible and acceptable way to decide who is going to be referred, or treated, and it allows the counselor to choose a competent professional to send referrals to who is likely a specialist in their field who could assure a positive outcome for the client. (Cavanagh Levitov,1982/2002) It is important to point out for clarifications sake that all treatments need to be such that they correspond with biblical presuppositions and acceptable methods of treatment and the plausibility of a positive outcome and safety for the client involved. That being said, it is difficult to argue with such a comprehensive treatment plan. I know that I would feel very comfortable with this level of collaboration f or myself or even a family member. The Prevalence of Anxiety and its Part in Psychological Disorders Anxiety is a symptom of fearfulness and the antithesis of fear is love. That means that the answer to anxious behavior is often God because He is love. Sometimes fear is based in the discomfort that arises as a result of poor behavior or bad decision making which can be directly related to our Christian walk and worldview. Our actions all have consequences and sometimes the punishments that result from them. The first step in treatment is to decide whether the object of fear is appropriate or not. I enjoy hunting so I always have the thought that I might someday encounter a bear. That is a justifiable fear where I hunt whereas the fear of mice or a typical spider is not legitimate. A large bear could easily overtake a person where the other creatures could not. People with specific phobias experience powerful fear responses to a particular object or situation like spiders, excessive heights, or cramped spaces. The intensity of panic is typically inappropriate to the actual level of d anger and is acknowledged by the client being unreasonable or irrational. This anxiety and fear leads to an inability to manage regular daily living and activities. Excessive levels of fear can lead to the avoidance of common, everyday situations. Simply put, we can live in a state of love towards God and man or, we can live in fear of them because we believe that we are in danger. (Adams, 1973/à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹1986) 26So do not be afraid of them. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. 27What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. 28Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. 30And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. (Matthew 10:26-30 New International Version) Biblical Understanding and Treatment of Mental Illness and Related Issues Gary R. Collins in Christian Counseling explains that the Bible does not explain mental disorders per say but, it does give us a greater understanding about the human condition and mans situation as a created being. In the Bible we can learn about virtue, behavior, and mans sinful nature. What the Bible shows us about sin is readily seen in our society today. We see materialism, power, and the persistent criminal and amoral state of man-made institutions. We also can see that God has made a way for us to avoid the ultimate punishment for sin through the Gospel message and that believers in the Church are to care for those with all manner of illness or need. Scripture does however refer to many emotions that are directly connected to mental and behavioral disorders. Collins lists many emotions and states like, anger, lust, jealousy, envy, ambition, impatience, a lack of self-control, orgies, marital infidelity, gluttony, drunkenness, lying, violence, suicide and several other pertinen t examples. Collins goes on to explain that not all mental disorders are the result of sin or poor behavior. He contrasts the plight of Nebuchadnezzar who became ill because of his uncalled-for refusal to obey Gods commands and Job who was an upright man who was seemingly afflicted for reasons outside of his influence. But it is understood that all mental and physical disorders are the symptoms of this sinful world regardless of ones personal responsibility. (Collins, 2007) The Place of Spiritual Growth in the Healing Process According to Shults and Sandage in, Transforming Spirituality spirituality has two main effects on the person. They are a distinct motivation towards action or, a calming of fear, anxiety, and other emotions. Both the arousal and the soothing as the authors describe are necessary depending on the needs of the client. It is similarly noted that the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer is to teach, guide, convict and comfort depending on the situation. What we are trying to do is teach our clients who God is and who they are in relation to Him. We are in essence engaging in the action of discipleship. We want our patients to understand that in Jesus Christ their sins are forgiven and that the reason that they have not lived fulfilling lives is that they just did not have the correct direction or motivation. Being forgiven is one of the most powerful events we can experience. For a person who has been stuck in a spiral of negative consequences it is of the utmost importance that they know that they can become something different than they have ever been. A thief that no longer steals is not a thief anymore. Neither is the adulterer or the liar who has been forgiven and has been changed through sound teaching and the person and work of the Holy Spirit. What we want is for people to only seek their worth from their personal relationship to God because He does not change like society does. The two effects of spiritual growth mentioned before are so very needed. The hurting individual needs to be made to feel safe and understood before they can really engage in serious work with a counselor or helper. Then as they begin to see and comprehend their own growth they are driven to work out their faith and their understanding in new ways. Truly there is a time to be still but, there is also a time to act on our new insights and the new personality we have acquired. (Shults Sandage, 2006/à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹2007) Scripture Based Counseling Goals, Strategies and Techniques of Change The goal of the Christian counselor is to help clients grow in their ability to love God and those who surround them. We want to enable personal changes in holiness and spiritual depth. This I believe is the way that we can help enable clients to meet the challenges of this life in a way that glorifies God. The Gospel is the answer to the sin problem of mankind and scripture is what we will teach with. Prayer and meditation upon God cements our relationship with Him. We believe that the Bible is able to address every place and problem in life and that the development of a personal relationship with Jesus Christ is the ultimate answer. Using the scriptures we can learn to understand our problems. We can find answers and solutions to the most sinful and difficult situations in our lives. The Bible teaches us to hope which allows us to be changed by our newly formed faith and the workings of the Holt Spirit. Even Christ taught by using scripture in His ministry so we should also use it as our main tool. We also need to keep in mind that there might be a medical issue involved in our clients problems. Because of this we need to work with physicians and other specialists when necessary. Peter the apostle said, His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him Who called us (2 Peter 1 :3 New International Version) Our goal is the Biblical change to our minds which need to be aligned with the Word. These changes in turn can transform the heart of a person which is more beneficial than just altering ones behavior or personal situation. Because of this counseling should give the client a scriptural understanding of their problem. It should create clarity of the scriptures in regards to the problem at hand and its resolution. It should also put forth a godly plan or solution to the problem, and it should end with a plan and goal to better live your life as a Christian. The end result is that we become more like Jesus. He is the goal. Understanding, Responding to and Managing Client Resistance to Biblical Strategies Whether or not a client completely buys into Biblical counseling as an answer to their personal issues is almost immaterial in my view. We can broach the subject with them and if it is rejected we will still counsel from our worldview as Christians. It is not as if the Bible does not contain truth that can be used indirectly. Gods Word is found in many of our founding documents and even in the legal writings of this country. So, the Biblical presuppositions that we work with are still valid whether or not they are wholly accepted by any person or personality. We have to be able to show that we understand the difficulties inherent in a clients asking for help and that we appreciate their individual situations. The client has to work from their own frame of reference and with the mental and emotional abilities that they currently have. Our job is to create an atmosphere where they feel safe and secure in the midst of sometimes overpowering personal feelings, emotions and new realities. All types of resistance are a likely possibility but, once we get to the point where a true therapeutic relationship has been built we can be of more influence and are more likely to incorporate the reading of scripture and discussions about biblical themes more readily. There simply has to come a point where as counselors we are trusted by the clients enough that they allow us to take them where they need to go, which is to the Gospel. (Cavanagh Levitov, 1982/à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â‚¬ ¹2002) The Intent of Psychology Psychology taken on its own merits is a pseudo-science at best and cannot stand alone on its own virtues as other sciences do. Science is founded on theories and laws, with laws being foundational to ongoing work. Psychology does not have any particular laws to check or balance theorists in their work. What does seem to happen is that political and social forces seem to use psychology for their own ends and betterment. The Church and our society are in danger of being overtaken by various societal activist groups that see Christianity and, Judeo-Christian morality as a threat to their future accomplishments. I believe that this work started in our colleges and universities early in the last century. American schools like Harvard and Yale and, Englands Oxford and Cambridge all began as Christian institutions that now teach evolution and atheistic thought specifically. These are leftist leaning political groups that are anti-capitalist, anti-American, and Anti-God. In my own seminary c oursework, I have encountered text book reading involving concepts like social justice which in my opinion have no place in a Christian worldview. Social justice would seek to take by force that which has been earned so that it could be arbitrarily given to someone else. Nowhere in scripture is mentioned any type of forced giving or anything but an individuals redemption through Christ whereas social justice calls for group or wholesale redemption through the redistribution of wealth and opportunity. Why should my family suffer for the deeds of both black and white slave traders and owners and what they did hundreds of years ago? My ancestors did not live here, nor do we currently benefit from our ethnicity so in essence we are being stolen from through supposedly legal means. In my mind that makes us slaves to this new regime. There are other areas of concern like the DSM. It appears that the American Psychiatric Association can with little fanfare change deviant activities into mainstream and acceptable behaviors. This too is an attack on the Church and a society founded on Biblical principles. We do not want or need to completely integrate Christian faith with Psychology but, we dare not stay uninvolved in this area of study or it will be used against us and society will continue to be corrupted. I believe that I have outlined the manner in which positive integration on our own terms could be established which is through Tans description of purposeful mentoring and personal relationships with professors and therapists with significant understanding and spiritual maturity. The extensive and intentional use of Christian clinical supervisors throughout training enables counselors to develop integration and clinical skills that are Christ-centered, Biblical and well-matched to both Christian and non-believing clients.