What Are the Disadvantages of Computer Addiction free essay sample

Before discussing options for computer addiction treatment, one point regarding addiction to the computer needs to be made : Computer addiction is not an official psychiatric diagnosis. Despite a growing movement to have obsessive computer and internet use included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), so far this has not happened. In relative terms when disadvantages of computer addiction compared to other addictions such as alcoholism and drug addiction, computer addiction is a very new phenomenon. Most of the disorders included in the DSM have been extensively researched and treated in some form for at least fifty years – and many such as depression have been studied for well over one hundred years. In contrast, the computer itself has only been widely available for twenty or so years. Computer addiction is a relatively new term used to describe a dependency on one’s computer. Computer addiction is not limited to personal computers (PCs). We will write a custom essay sample on What Are the Disadvantages of Computer Addiction? or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page It covers video games and the Internet and has already been given a label by psychologists, namely Internet addiction disorder (IAD). In short, excessive internet use has not been around long enough or sufficiently studied to warrant official disorder status. Still, is there any doubt that some people spend far too much time online and that this can significantly interfere with their functioning in the â€Å"real world†? Computer addiction is a loosely used term for the excessive use of computers to the extent that it interferes with daily life. Excessive use may explain problems in social interaction, mood, personality, work ethic, relationships, thought processes, or sleep deprivation. Whether we call this computer addiction, internet addition, or something is largely irrelevant. Online habits that far exceed what most people would consider â€Å"healthy†. For example ten-plus hours per day, can have serious consequences for the addict. In my opinion, computer addiction, like any addiction, can creep up on a person without one being aware of it. There are a lot of disadvantages of computer addiction. The newly diagnosed computer addiction has gained much press attention recently, as children have also been affected. Talk shows are full of people whose relationships have been torn apart by one partner’s computer addiction. Spending hours chatting online, surfing the web or playing computer games can cause relationships to deteriorate as other parts of a person’s life are neglected. A recent research study showed that some children suffer from computer rage when they are forbidden to play computer games. The results are temper tantrums and behavioral traits similar to those of an addict going cold turkey. So how exactly is computer addiction defined? When does a hobby become an addiction? As with most other dependencies, specific questions can be asked to assess whether or not someone may suffer from computer addiction. These questions include assessing how much time is spent on the PC or playing video games, sometimes relative to how much time is spent interacting with real people. Another way to assess computer addiction is to assess one’s quality of life before and after the computer arrived. Many people have lost jobs due to their computer addiction. Constantly logging onto the Internet at work has caused many people to be dismissed, often after repeated warnings were issued. Money is another factor. Some people have gone into debt and lost great amounts of money using online services and chatrooms. Computer addiction is also sometimes linked to computer gambling. For some people, gambling is reliant on the computer. They cannot have one without the other. Not only do such people spend countless hours playing online poker, but they often lose thousands of dollars while playing. Computer addiction can have a number of physical, social, and psychological effects on a person and it is to be taken as seriously as any other addiction that a person is battling. One common physical effect computer addiction can have on a person are back problems. Sitting for so long can take a toll on a person’s muscles and can result in poor posture. Poor posture can result in chronic back problems that require the services of a chiropractor. Tips on solving disadvantages of computer addiction As with any addiction, steps can be taken to treat computer addiction. Limiting the amount of time spent on the computer or playing video games is a simple step. If your computer is on all the time at home, switch it off. Don’t leave the computer near at hand. In order to prevent things from getting out of control, reassure that you understands that if you buy a computer, you will have to respect some rules regarding its usage. The first and most important rule is establish a schedule for using the computer. Develop a new passion that has nothing to do with computers. The disadvantages of computer addiction in mainly caused by a lack of activities or boredom. Get out of the house, play with friends or encourage to invite your colleagues at home. The more friends you has, the better. The important thing for your child is to interact more with the real world than with the virtual one. More and more people are spending time in cyberspace in a virtual world of their own making. If not treated, this condition can lead to diminished social skills and deterioration in the addict’s quality of life. Take care, the disadvantages of computer addiction is said to be on the increase.

Analyze Psychology Aritcles

Analyze Psychology Aritcles Introduction The study of human behavior has been in existence for many centuries but has only gained prominence in recent times. This can mostly be attributed to popularization by the media especially in the West. Psychologists and behavioral profilers have been gathering valuable data pertaining to the reasons behind any behavior exhibited by different people. Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Analyze Psychology Aritcles specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More They have managed to do this by using psychological theories formulated to facilitate further understanding of how the brain works in forming behaviors. As such, psychology can be described as a field of study that studies behavior. In this study, an analysis of five articles shall be provided. An explanation of why the topics of these articles are related to psychology shall also be offered. Article one The article â€Å"Sleep May Be Nature’s Time Management Tool† by Benedict Carey sets out to provide a discussion as to the role that sleep plays in the lives of human beings and animals. The author states that no one really knows why sleep exists therefore setting the context for the article in which she advances the numerous theories that are advanced as to the role that sleep plays. The central theme advanced by the article is that the ultimate role of sleep may indeed be time management. Structure wise, this article is well formatted as the author begins by giving a brief overview on sleep and the ambiguity with which its role is viewed by members of the society thus laying a proper foundation for the main discussion of the paper. The author then proposes the role of sleep and subsequently proceeds to discuss and support the claims that she makes by quoting authoritative figures in sleep research e.g. Dr. Diegel who is a head chief neurobiologist. In this article the author takes care to provide concrete evidence for the clai ms that she makes. For example, when advancing her main argument about sleep being nature’s own time management too, the author reinforces her assertions by presenting the theories of authorities in psychiatry and psychology who also are of the opinion that sleep optimizes animals’ use of time. Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More However, I feel that the author provided only the bare minimum information on the other theories on the role of sleep thus presenting the reader with only to one side of the coin. In my opinion, the paper would have been more informative if it had briefly discussed the other theories so as to enable the reader to critically evaluate their validity for himself Article two In today’s world, television is almost invariably a part of our lives and trying to keep away from this prominent force is for many people an uphill task. The art icle Why We Tuned Out by Karen Springen as appearing in the NewsWeek on November 11, 2002 attempts to illustrate that shielding ones children from television is not only possible but comes along with numerous benefits. The main point advanced by Springen is that shielding children from television results in the children being more physically and mentally active. The author also contends that the children do not risk turning into misfits as a result of abstinence from television programs. I agree with these assertions by the author that television watching is detrimental to the development of children and limiting the same will result in creative and physically active children. In her article, Springen credits the lack of television watching for her daughters inquisitive and energetic nature. She goes on to illustrate that according to research, kids who watch more than 10 hours of TV each week are more likely to be overweight, aggressive and slow to learn in school. From these res earch findings, Springen justifies her imposition of a no television rule to her daughters so as to prevent them from assimilating these negative behaviors which are attributed to exposure to television. Despite these convictions, the author goes on to note that a complete restriction on television watching may result in her children missing out on good educational programming. However, the author proceeds to note that most children who watch television do not engage in the educational programming but rather favor cartoons, adventure stories and other programming which has little educational value if any. As such, Springen affirms that missing out on television all together is better than gambling on the very limited likelihood that children will watch something educational on TV. The second issue that Springen tackles is the alleged likelihood of her children turning into social outcasts as a result of her puritanical approach with regards to television. This is a fear that is acc entuated by one psychiatrist who quips that its awful to be different from the other kids in fourth grade. Springen dispels of this fears by pointing out that her children continue to enjoy products based on TV characters despite their not watching television since there exist other avenues such as books and magazines through which the children can be informed of popular culture. Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Analyze Psychology Aritcles specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The author also highlights the fact that her children do not mention missing out on any of the popular programming even though they do interact with other children at school who undoubtedly mention the shows. As such, it is plausible that Springen’s children are not at a risk of turning into outcasts due to her restriction on their television watching habits. The author goes on to suggest that she may be forced to let them watch some shows w hich have a special meaning to the children. Different articles on stress Article three The article, â€Å"The Physical, Mental, Emotional and Behavioral effects of Stress† by Heather Tripp has as its central idea the expression of various adverse effects of stress not only on the mind but on the body as well. The author goes on to explicitly outline the physical, mental, emotional and behavioral effects that stress can have on a person. She also attributes the escalation of some conditions e.g. blood pressure and heart diseases to stress. The article further focuses on stress reduction and recommends various remedies to deal with stress related disorders. Tripp’s article shows a bias towards the physical manifestation of stress as is expressed through her outline of effects. Article four In the article, â€Å"The Effects of Stress on Mental Health† by Paul Hata, the mental effects that stress can manifest in a person are seen to be the major underpinning for t he article. Hata highlights on the mental breakdown tendencies that are as a result of stress. He goes on to define mental breakdown as the loss in interest or ability to function normally by a person due to mental pressure exerted on them. This can be seen to be the article’s central focus since the author shows a particular bias to the mental effects of the condition while only vaguely alluding to the other effects. Article five The third article entitled â€Å"Stress management† by the mayo clinical staff offers a more educational albeit concise reading on stress. The article has at its core the need for a person to take action thereby gain control over stress in his/her life. The article explains what stress is and goes on to articulate that stress is actually the body’s inbuilt alarm system and not its enemy as most people assume. The article focuses on ways in which one can identify and subsequently cope with stress thus highlighting control over stress as the major concept in the article.Advertising Looking for essay on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The articles by Mayo clinic staff and Tripp attribute the long-term exposure to stress as being disruptive to most of the body’s process. As such many health problems including: high blood pressure, heart attacks, digestive problems and obesity are seen to have as their root cause stress. Both articles therefore emphasis on the need to adopt less stressful lifestyles so as to ensure physical well being of a person. While the articles do not come up with a unified set of strategies as to how to deal with stress, they all agree on the need to deal with stress. The respective authors progress to offer tips and suggestions on how to reduce stress levels. A health diet and proper sleep patterns are common tips agreed on by the three articles. The fostering of relationships is also highlighted as one of the means to deal with or altogether prevent stress. This rationale stems from the fact that man is a social creature and each encounter with others can yield to fruitful results. In cases where the stress is too progressed, professional counseling is seen as the key to offset this state and restore normality to the person. Psychological perspectives in the analyzed articles As mentioned earlier, psychology is a matter of studying behaviors. Therefore, for any issue to qualify as a psychological topic it must contain clear variables (fixed and dependent) and theoretical backing that explains the connection between the variables, as well as how they affect each other. In regards to the first article (Sleep May Be Nature’s Time Management Tool), the author tries to establish the connection that exists between sleep and time management. The second article (Why We Tuned Out), the author explains the effects of television to the physical and psychological development of children. In the last three articles, the authors try to show how stress affects various aspects of our lives. Conclusively, the presence of these attributes in all five articles is what ma kes the issues discussed psychological. Carey, Benedict. Sleep May Be Nature’s Time Management Tool. 2009. Web. nytimes.com/2009/09/01/health/01mind.html?_r=1ref=science Hata, Paul. The Effects of Stress on Mental Health. 2008. Web. articlesbase.com/health-articles/the-effects-of-stress-on-mental-health-542900.html Mayo Clinic Staff. Stress management. 2009. Web. mayoclinic.com/health/stress/SR00001. Springen, Karen. Why We Tuned Out. 11 Nov. 2002. Web. newsweek.com/2002/11/11/why-we-tuned-out.html Tripp, Heather. The Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Behavioral Effects of Stress. 2009. Web. helium.com/items/1480321-the-effects-of-stress

Nanotyrannus - Facts and Figures

Nanotyrannus - Facts and Figures Name: Nanotyrannus (Greek for tiny tyrant); pronounced NAH-no-tih-RAN-us Habitat: Woodlands of North America Historical Period: Late Cretaceous (70 million years ago) Size and Weight: About 17 feet long and half a ton Diet: Meat Distinguishing Characteristics: Small size; forward-facing eyes; sharp teeth About Nanotyrannus When the skull of Nanotyrannus (tiny tyrant) was discovered in 1942, it was identified as belonging to another dinosaur, Albertosaurusbut upon closer study, researchers (including the famous maverick Robert Bakker) speculated that it might have been left by an entirely new genus of tyrannosaur. Today, opinion is divided into two camps: some paleontologists believe Nanotyrannus indeed deserves its own genus, while others insist that its a juvenile of Tyrannosaurus Rex, or some other established tyrannosaur genus. Further complicating matters, its possible that Nanotyrannus wasnt a tyrannosaur at all, but a dromaeosaur (the class of small, carnivorous, bipedal dinosaurs better known to the general public as raptors). Usually, additional fossil specimens help to clarify matters, but no such luck with Nanotyrannus. In 2011, word leaked out about the discovery of a complete Nanotyrannus specimen, unearthed in close proximity to an unidentified ceratopsian (horned, frilled dinosaur). This has led to all kinds of fruitless speculation: did Nanotyrannus hunt in packs to bring down larger prey? Were its unusually long hands (rumored to be even longer than those of the full-grown T. Rex specimen Tyrannosaurus Sue) a unique adaptation to its ecosystem? The trouble is that this putative Nanotyrannus specimen, nicknamed Bloody Mary, remains in private hands, and has not been made available for expert analysis.

Mining group gold Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Mining group gold - Coursework Example When an individual is working on particular situation and parameter, the facilitator is required to work along to develop motivation and passion of his or her team to construct his leadership within that situation and task so that he or she may do adaptation depending on his or her maturity level. Facilitator should guide the process through the following order. Once facts are identified and analyzed then final stage of solution comes. The meeting group is set to conclude some solutions in this stage and select one of those solutions and take decisions to implement it. Team is generally known as people in a group, combining their knowledge, experience and expertise for one particular work and purpose for which it has been formalized. Specific task performed by the team members is termed as â€Å"TEAMWORK†. Importance of teams within an organization is follows like: b. If individuals within the team have proper coordination will have will help to accomplish much more than an individual can achieve the organization objective. This is the important reason for an organization to focus on group work instead of working individually. The mining group gold processes are includes a strong and proven techniques that can help the organization to maintain team environment within the organization and maintain cultural diversity. A good relationship within the team will give better opportunities to the organization for it survival and

Engineering managment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Engineering managment - Essay Example In the first office, the manager seems to be very casual with the employees. She has been running her office informally and she seems to be a populist and she does not like falling apart with her team members. She seems like she has no clearly defined objectives. She also does not like keeping records, especially those of the appraisal. Her rewarding system is based on gut instincts instead of facts. Everybody seems to love the manager. On the other hand, the second office is a complete contrast of the first. The manager is reserved (Sachs and Falcone 45). He is focused so much on the appraisal which is already predetermined defined. He seems to be more of the employees’ flaws and shortcomings. He seems like he rewards the employees depending on their performance and the context, though he appreciates all his team members. There is a need to develop appraisal guidelines to ensure that the appraisal is effective. Firstly, I would ensure that I design a performance standard form that is standard. This would specify the performance dimensions that would be evaluated (Grote 63). Some of these dimensions include job descriptions, and goals among others. I would also ensure I have formulated behavioral checklist would focus on an individual’s performance rather than comparisons. Secondly, there is need to have a performance review after every six months. This would ensure that the employees are reminded about their performance. Thirdly, there is a need to ensure that employees are given their chance to suggest updates to their job description as well as giving a written input on the appraisal. Fourthly, there is need for managers to document their inputs; they should avoid acting like Amanda. In addition, the rewarding system should be defined. It is also good to ensure that the managers are always a ssertive. They should now focus so much on the

The Long and the Short and the Tall Essay Example for Free

The Long and the Short and the Tall Essay In the drama The Long and The Short and The Tall, the playwright Willis Hall convincingly uses the characters and their reactions to their situation to effectively reveal the theme of war. The play centres around seven soldiers in the First World War, who have become separated from their platoon and are stuck in the Malayan Jungle with only weapons, a minimal food supply and each other. The first part of the play concentrates on how the soldiers relate to each other in this isolated and pressurising situation, and we find out what kind of people they are. Later on though, they find a Japanese soldier and have to let him live with them in their hut. However, they must decide how to deal with him in the long run and in the end, after many arguments and changes of heart, an example of the harsh reality of war is demonstrated they kill him, surprising themselves as much as anyone. The play finishes unpredictably, with all of the soldiers but one being killed after leaving the hut. This soldier, Johnston, surrenders to the Japanese, and what is going to happen to him is foreseeable. The first important aspect we see which influences the characters and shows the idea of war is the setting. The setting is described to us before any dialogue takes place: A short burst of heavy gunfire is heard in the distance and then silence. A pause and then we hear the chirruping of crickets in the jungle. This would seem a rather strange setting for a war, and an equally strange place for sounds like gunshots to be heard, as it would seem to contrast to the peaceful setting. However, here Hall is conveying the idea that war affects everything, and that the soldiers are in a very isolated, claustrophobic place. Being confined to a small hut in the jungle makes the soldiers feel tense and causes their emotions to be magnified and brought out on each other, resulting in their arguing and mocking. An example of this occurs quite early in the play, where the soldiers are already starting to feel the effects of isolation and two, Bamforth and Evans, are having an argument. Bamforth is mocking Evans: Get back to Wales, you Cardiff creep. Only good for digging coal and singing hymns, you crummy lot. This helps to reveal the theme of war because individuals do not usually mock people unnecessarily and due to the isolated situation he is in Bamforth may be resorting to this to hide his own fear, or even for want of something better to do. The use of escapism is a second indication that the drama is set while a war is taking place. Earlier on in the play, the soldiers spend a while discussing personal matters like their families and houses: Did you do any gardening, Smudge, before you came into the army? enquires Evans of Smith. Smith answers by describing his garden, ending with: I suppose the kids have racked it up. This seems somewhat strange as a garden appears a bit of an odd thing to be worrying about in the middle of a war. It also feels rather odd to the readers, as we know that it is highly unlikely that Smith will ever see his home and family again. Also, it shows that the war has an effect on peoples feelings, making them think more about their homes and families and appreciate them more. Discussing families serves as distraction to the men, who are just ordinary people needing a way to escape from the horror of their state of affairs. Private Evans has a womens magazine, Ladys Companion and Home. Although at first he is teased about this, the soldiers eventually engage in a debate about one of the topics, again helping to take their minds off things. This leads to a further discussion about families; we learn about the soldiers girlfriends, wives and children. It is noticed, however, that Bamforth mentions nothing at all about his personal life, revealing a nature that does not wish to share individual stories, or is possibly jealous. One further example of escapism comes when Whitaker is seen darning his socks for: kit inspection Saturday morning. This is something that is not expected of the men, revealing a soft side not incorporated in the typical image of a soldier. This again reveals the theme of war by showing it meddles with peoples emotions the men unintentionally show their tender sides whilst doing anything to take their minds of the depressing situation that is war. The soldiers reactions to their radio, which is broken and so consequently useless, helps to take the theme of war further. Bamforth refuses to get excited when Whitaker thinks he hears something during his attempts to contact the rest of the platoon: Bamforth: So whats the use. Whitaker: I got something through, Im telling you. Bamforth: Thats your story, boy. You stick to it. Evans is not convinced either, saying: Perhaps you just imagined it, Sammy boy. This shows that war depresses people, and causes them to have negative attitudes, as they do not want to build their hopes up and be let down. However, when Whitaker tries a second time, both Evans and MacLeish think they have heard something as well, though Bamforth again refuses to let it get his hopes up: Bamforth: Ah, so what. Evans: I heard voices, Bammo! Bamforth: So what does that make you? Joan of Arc? Could have been any of the mobs up the jungle. We can see that he does not wish to get excited about something that may turn out to be unimportant, in order not to disappoint himself. However, when he realises that no one is behind him he resorts to taunts and sarcasm to stop him feeling defeated. This comes back to the theme of war in that it brings out pessimism and negative attitudes in people, and that it causes conflict between the soldiers who are suddenly bundled together in a confined space. Whitaker tries the radio a third time, and finds that although he picks up a small amount of sound, the radio fades due to a dead battery. Johnston gets irritated then, thinking that the dead battery could have prevented something important coming through: Damn duff equipment. Whole damn issues duff. It is the fault of the broken radio, which was issued by the British Army, that the men are in this situation in the first place. This shows that the men are at the mercy of those in control, indicating they have been placed there to do duties in a war that is not theirs, but their governments. Johnston and Mitchem smoke to calm themselves this scene shows the fear and frustration that war causes. Meanwhile, Whitaker is still trying to tune into the radio. After four tries, the radio bursts into life at long last, and a Japanese voice is heard. The soldiers react with sarcastic, forced humour: Bring on the Geisha girls! This again shows the topic of war because it demonstrates the soldiers fear the forced humour is their way of dealing with it. As the Japanese army approach, the soldiers reactions to this reveal further the war theme. At first, Evans acts as though he is not concerned because he feels that they are too far away to pose a threat: Its twenty miles at least! However, he could just be trying to convince himself, and signs of worry and anxiety are certainly showing among the other men: Whitaker: It was as clear as a bell! They could be sitting right on top of us! MacLeish: Ive got my brother posted out there! MacLeish continues this worry over his brother further into the play, and his naà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½vety is displayed; he clearly knows nothing about how British prisoners of war are treated, and after they find the Japanese Soldier he goes to question Mitchem on the matter. At the same time he tries to convince himself that his brother will be treated fairly: MacLeish: You hear so many stories you know, on how the Japs treat P.O.Ws. Mitchem: Pretty rough, they reckon. MacLeish: Im not so sure. You hear all kinds of things, as if theyre almostanimals. But this bloke seems a decent sort of bloke. The approach of the Japanese is making him wonder if his brother has been made a prisoner. This shows the theme of war because it shows war makes people think more about their families. Mitchem, rather than comforting MacLeish, adopts a realistic approach and shows good leadership, as he knows his men must be prepared. One further aspect that reveals the theme of war is the soldiers reaction to the Japanese Soldier they have come across. The soldiers struggle to decide whether or not to kill the soldier in a battle of survival versus rules Mitchem reckons the soldier has to be sacrificed in order for them to survive, while the Geneva Convention stands to prevent them doing this. As we can see from the above, MacLeish sympathises with the soldier, and is not hostile towards him, displaying the idea that war is between governments and not individuals (although he changes his opinion later on.) He is kind to the soldier, trying to convince himself that if he treats this one soldier well, the opposing soldiers will be treating his brother well, should he have been made a prisoner of war. However he finds it hard to hold on to his morals this is shown in his changing attitude towards the soldier. When a British cigarette case is found, he thinks again of his brother but in a different way. This quick change of opinion reveals the theme of war by showing that war produces instinctive reactions. Most of the other soldiers react as we would expect from what we know of their personalities Johnston is an aggressive, power-hungry bully who hates the enemy and is eager to kill the soldier, having no doubts from the start: Stick it in! Dont stand there tossing the odds! Just close your eyes and woof it in! He is not really thinking about what he is doing he just sees the soldier as the opposition, not a person, who has to be killed because that is, in his opinion, the way war works. Again this demonstrates the idea that the war is between governments, who tell their soldiers what they expect from them and this has to be carried out. Evans, whom Johnston is addressing at this point, finds himself unable to kill the soldier, which doesnt surprise us because he is quite a soft, kind-hearted person. This highlights the fact that in situations like war ordinary men are put in impossible situations, again helping to reveal this theme. One reaction to the Japanese soldier that comes as a surprise is that of Bamforth. Although he comes across as rather a violent, sarcastic joker without any detectable sensitive side he defends the opposing soldier and is friendly to him, and even goes as far as to make a joke attempt to teach him English: I said, get your fingers up on your head! Like this! See! Flingers on the blonce! All light? At the very end, where all the other soldiers appear to have unanimously decide to kill the soldier Bamforth sticks by him loyally. He raises the question of morality in war, asking himself and the others if it is right to kill someone just because he is wearing the wrong uniform. He sees the soldier as an individual, like them, realising that he too has a family, which would be left without a husband and a father, should he be killed. It sometimes seems that Bamforth does not want to be there, he refusal to kill the soldier may even convey the fact that he is against the war all together. In the end, it is Whitaker the youngest and most vulnerable soldier in the patrol who clumsily shoots the soldier and leads his troop to discovery and death. This is ironic because he has consistently been the most timid member of the group. The incident clearly shows the negative effect of young and badly trained soldiers being placed in horrendous situations like war. The fact that it is Johnston, the most violent member of the patrol, who should survive at the end of the play is also ironic, as after constantly telling his own patrol to kill the enemy that was the opposing soldier, he himself surrenders to the Japanese. In conclusion, I find that Halls message about war is successfully conveyed through the characters. Each character reacts differently to the circumstances, illustrating that war concerns everybody and has many different effects. Through some of the characters, especially Bamforth and his bonding with the Japanese soldier, Hall illustrates one of his most important messages war is between governments, not individuals.

Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart - The Downfall of the Ibo Essay

One of Chinua Achebe’s goals in Things Fall Apart is to portray Ibo culture vividly and honestly. Unlike European perspectives of the Africans – such as Conrad’s Heart of Darkness – Achebe’s representation explains intricate customs, rituals, and laws and develops individual characters. Things Fall Apart shows Ibo society to be fully functioning and full of life. However, Achebe maintains his objectivity and avoids giving the Ibo any undue sympathy, painting some of their customs – such as the mandatory abandonment of infant twins – in a questionable light. While it is easy for us – especially in this age of political correctness and multiculturalism – to place upon the white man all the blame for the downfall of the Ibo, Achebe does not make the situation so simple. In fact, it is the acquiescence of his comrades, not the intrusion of the Europeans, which eventually causes Okonkwo to take his own life. Thus, it is difficult to place the Ibo and the white men into traditional categories of good and evil, for each exhibits positive and negative qualities. Although the Ibo certainly possessed a lively, stable society before the Europeans arrived, their internal struggles contributed to their own demise. DEVELOPED CULTURE Throughout the novel, Achebe offers detailed illustrations of the richness of Ibo culture. Many episodes do not directly advance the plot, but rather serve to provide examples of this culture. One of the most significant signs of the development of Ibo culture is its system of laws and justice. A whole chapter describes the proceedings as egwugwu (important clansmen who dress as village ancestors) determine the verdict in a wife-beating case (87). The villagers are not stupid enough to believe... ...ld do if the missionaries brought military reinforcements. In any case, if Ibo society can be compared to a tragic hero, its irrational beliefs would be its tragic flaw. It was these beliefs which directly alienated members of society, such as Nwoye, Nneka, and the osu, and created a rift within the Ibo. While such beliefs and customs are certainly evidence of the depth of Ibo culture, their irrational basis could not withstand the white man’s defiance of them, as shown by the church’s survival in the Evil Forest. Ironically, it is these beliefs – the presence of a social structure, the development of a religion – which not only show the richness of Ibo culture, but also lead to its downfall. Works Cited Achebe, Chinua. â€Å"An Image of Africa: Racism in Conrad’s Heart of Darkness.† An Introduction to Literature. Terry, Joseph. New York, NY: Longman, 2001.

Motorcycle Helmet Law Essay

Hello, I am here today to talk to you about the Michigan Motorcycle Helmet Law. -This law permits anyone that is 21 years of age or older that has at least 20,000 dollars in heath insurance and has passed a safety course in the past 2 years to ride a motorcycle without a helmet. I am also here to persuade you that this law doesn’t have a person’s safety as the top priority. Just recently I have witnessed a motorcycle crash happen right before my eyes. My stepmother was taking a turn at only 30 mph when she locked up her breaks and crashed over the handle bars.She has been in the hospital for a little over two weeks and it is a miracle that she is in the condition that she is in, recovering from a skull fracture and bruising on the brain, She has been riding for twelve years, no other vehicles were involved, and she was wearing a helmet, if she was not wearing her helmet, I know that we wouldn’t have her with us anymore. We were hoping she would be home for the fo rth of July, but the medical staff still haven’t given us a go home date as of today.Studies from the National Highway administration in 2008 showed that motorcyclists who do not use helmets are three times more likely to suffer a disturbing brain injury in a crash than those who are wearing helmets. The regulations to this law are also very insufficient. 21 years of age is when adults are just allowed to start drinking. Many people that turn 21 haven’t quite learned yet how to handle alcohol or how much is too much when it comes to drinking and driving, or in this case drinking and riding.Also 20,000 dollars worth of health insurance is not nearly enough to cover medical bills caused by accidents with a helmet, let alone to be able to cover the costs of the injuries sustained without a helmet, I can’t help but think this is going to raise everyone’s insurance premiums eventually. Even if you still think not wearing a helmet is cool, take a minute to thin k of this, the only way for over worked understaffed police have to check if you have the proper health insurance coverage is to pull you over, this gives the police probable cause, which in turn takes up your time and the cops time.With this law in effect, death rates and injury rates have skyrocketed up to a new high. The Michigan helmet law is more about ‘freedom’ than about safety. If you want to feel the wind in your hair stand in front of a fan. If you want to get home safe wear a helmet. All in all the Michigan Motorcycle Helmet Law has caused far more bad than good. In the end, I hope that what I have told you today will persuade you to tell a friend, family member, stranger, or even to tell yourself that it is far safer to wear a helmet, than it is to go without one. Please think twice before you decide to ride without a helmet. Guarino, M. (2012, April 13).

Effects of Teenage Smoking

The Effects of Smoking on Adolescent Behavior and Their Ability to Perform Well in School James Grimes Eastern Kentucky University Abstract There is a considerable body of empirical research that has identified adolescent peer relationships as a primary factor involved in adolescent cigarette smoking. Despite this large research base, many questions remain unanswered about the mechanisms by which peers affect youths’ smoking behavior. Understanding these processes of influence is the key to the development of prevention and intervention programs designed to address adolescent smoking as a significant public health concern.In this paper, theoretical frameworks and empirical findings are reviewed critically which inform the current state of knowledge regarding peer influences on teenage smoking. Specifically, social learning theory, primary socialization theory, social identity theory and social network theory are discussed. Empirical findings regarding peer influence and select ion, as well as multiple reference points in adolescent friendships, including best friendships, romantic relationships, peer groups and social crowds, are also reviewed.Review of this work reveals the contribution that peers have in adolescents’ use of tobacco, in some cases promoting use, and in other cases deterring it. The Effects of Smoking on Adolescent Behavior and Their Ability to Perform Well in School Introduction Smoking by adolescents is a social activity and subject to peer pressure. Peers may offer information on where to buy cigarettes and even how to smoke them. Teenagers are often evaluated by the peers as to how cool he or she may be.Popular culture dictates an association between smoking and being a cool kid as much as wearing the right clothes, having a certain haircut, and being friends with the right people. In a since, smoking is a way of reflecting an identity. Knowing this one must ask is smoking by adolescents is really an act they wish to perform. W hether you smoke or not can determine who your friends may be. Kobus (2003) suggests that non smokers tend to befriend non smokers and smokers tend to befriend smokers. Non smokers that do become friends with smokers run a much higher risk at becoming a smoker themselves.Hypothesis In this study, I believe that adolescent who smoke will most likely have friends who smoke. I believe this study will show that 25% of the teenagers polled will be smokers and 80% of them will be friends with other smokers. It will also prove that the non smokers will be less likely to be friends with smokers. Literature Review Kobus (2003) suggests that peer relationships are the primary factor involved in cigarette smoking. Specifically, social learning theory, primary socialization theory, social identity theory and social network theory are discussed.Empirical findings regarding peer influence and selection, as well as multiple reference points in adolescent friendships, including best friendships, ro mantic relationships, peer groups and social crowds, are also reviewed. Patton, Hibbert, Rosier, Carlin, Caust, and Bowes (1996) state that an association of smoking with depression and anxiety has been documented in adult smokers. Subjects reporting high levels of depression and anxiety were twice as likely to be smokers after the potential confounders of year level; sex, alcohol use, and parental smoking were controlled for.Regular smokers were almost twice as likely as occasional smokers to report high levels of depression and anxiety. In trying to determine whether smoking can influence a student's school performance, Te-wei, Zihua, and Keeler (1998) report there’s no direct causation from smoking to school performance, but smoking might have an indirect effect, leading to other delinquency behaviors or drug abuse. These behaviors, in turn, could lead to poor school performance. However, the main argument against this hypothesis is that smoking is a relatively common beha vior relative to other factors that lead to antisocial behaviors.Methodology Population The population I used in this study of sophomore students in Ms. Powell’s math classes at McCreary Central High. I posted a survey to a web site and have asked all that would to take the survey. Instruments I started my survey by asking a yes or no question: â€Å"Do you smoke? † Then I asked all the non smokers the following 5 questions: 1. Are you male or female? 2. Does either of your parents smoke? 3. Do you feel pressure from your friends to smoke? 4. Would you have a best friend that smokes? 5. What is your average grade in school? Then I asked all smokers the following questions: 1.Are you male or female? 2. Does either of your parents smoke? 3. Do you pressure your friends to smoke? 4. Does your best friend smoke? 5. What is your average grade in school? Data Analysis At the time of writing this draft I have not collected any data yet. I will add this on my final draft. Disc ussion At the time I am writing the first draft I haven’t had enough time to collect the data for my paper. I have posted my questions using survey monkey to a web page at McCreary Central High where my wife teaches. She is going to ask student from her class to take the survey. So far I have only had 4 people take the survey.This is hardly enough to come to any conclusions. Conclusions In Conclusion, I plan on collecting the date from my surveys to analyze. Kobus (2003) concludes that adolescent peer relationships contribute to adolescent cigarette smoking. Youth who are friends with smokers have been found to be more likely to smoke themselves than those with only nonsmokers as friends. Best friends, romantic partners, peer groups and social crowds all have been found to contribute to the smoking or non-smoking behavior of teenagers. In some cases, peer influences promote smoking and, in other cases, they deter it.The mechanisms of peer influence appear to be more covert an d subtle than is thought commonly. That is, rather than be the result of direct and coercive pressures, decisions regarding smoking behavior have been found to reflect predetermined choices about fitting in, social approval, popularity and autonomy. Parents and the media have also been found to contribute to the smoking or non-smoking of youth.References Akers, R. L. , Massey, J. , Clarke, W. , ;amp; Lauer, R. M. (1983). Are Self-Reports of Adolescent Deviance Valid? Biochemical Measures, Randomized Response, and the Bogus Pipeline in Smoking Behavior. Social Forces, 62(1), 234-251. Freinkel, S. , Fuerst, M. L. , ;amp; Krieger, E. B. (1999). Teen Smoking: The Longest Drag. Health (Time Inc. Health), 13(6), 18. Kobus, K. (2003). Peers and adolescent smoking. Addiction, 9837-55. doi:10. 1046/j. 1360-0443. 98. s1. 4. x Patton, G. C. , Hibbert, M. , Rosier, M. J. , Carlin, J. B. , Caust, J. , ;amp; Bowes, G. (1996). Is Smoking Associated with Depression and Anxiety in Teenagers?. Americ an Journal Of Public Health, 86(2), 225. Te-wei, H. , Zihua, L. , ;amp; Keeler, T. E. (1998). Teenage Smoking, Attempts to Quit, and School Performance. American Journal Of Public Health, 88(6), 940-943.

Childs Ghost essays

Child's Ghost essays The child inside of todays juveniles is not dead, nor is it a ghost wandering around brutally retaliating against the world. Rather, it is lost, desperately trying to find a home or comfort in something similar. What it finds instead is rage, despair, and violence. The cause of which is the corrupt media and a shabby environment. What is wrong in saying that these young victims are ghosts, however, is that we assume this spirit of childhood is dead; that such allegedly lost souls can not be saved, and can not be once again a happy child. So, where exactly are they finding comfort? In a home where there is no apparent caring parent, the child will find a new sort of family in a group of friends. Depending on the group, children may be joining a gang. This group offers protection, a caring-like environment, often a home, and for the most part a family. As people we all need that feeling of belonging, It is depressing to think of not ever having some one to be there for you, no matter how independent you may be. As surprising as it may seem though, a violent kid may come out of a home of loving parents, yet parents that do not know how to guide or punish their child. It is a little unsettling to walk into a home were the child runs the household, telling the parents what to do and having them oblige every time like servants. We can not blame only the parents though; other factors such as low-income circumstances may drive adolescents to be vicious. Not having money to supply basic needs does make a child sad and ang ry, and still only being children they see nothing wrong in doing what ever it takes to acquire these things. Children are victims of their environment, neglected in some way or the other that has driven them to certain extremes. The very media that bash these children also praise them as heroes. There is virtually no end to the amount bad media that is in, what is now an average of over 900 chan ...

How to Use the Preposition To

How to Use the Preposition To To is one of the most common prepositions in English. The preposition to also a part of the infinitive form of the verb. For example, these are all infinitives: To doTo playTo sing Infinitives can be combined with other verbs such as hope, arrange, want, etc. I hope to see you next week.Tom arranged to have his sister picked up at the airport.Your sister wants to help you understand mathematics. The preposition to is also used as a preposition of movement or direction. To is sometimes confused with at or in. Both at and in show the place, but to shows movement to this place. For example: I live in Boston. Lets meet Tim at the town center for lunch. BUT I drove to Boston. We walked to the town center for lunch. Here is a summary of the uses of the preposition to. Important prepositional phrases with to are also used as discourse markers beginning sentences to link one sentence to the next. The Preposition To for Movement Use the preposition to when indicating that there is movement from one place to another. In other words, the preposition to with verbs such as drive, walk, go, hike, fly, sail, etc. Were flying to San Francisco on Thursday for a meeting.We thought we should walk to the bakery for breakfast because it is such a beautiful day.The captain sailed to the closest port. It should be noted that the preposition to is never used with the verb arrive even though it indicates movement. Use the preposition at with the verb arrive I arrived at work early in the morning.The children arrived at the park to meet their friends. To as Time Expression The preposition to can also be used to refer to time in the same sense as the time expressions till or until. Meridith worked to (OR until, till) five and then left.Were going to wait another three weeks to the end of the month. From/To Time Expressions When a starting time and a finishing time is mentioned, use the preposition from to express the beginning and to for the end. We usually work from eight in the morning to five oclock.She played the piano from ten to twelve. To in  Phrasal Verbs The preposition to is also used in many phrasal verbs. Here is a short list of some of the most common: look forward to somethingobject to somethingappeal to someoneboil down to somethingget to something I look forward to seeing you soon.Peter objected to the way he acted.That car really appeals to Susan.It boils down to this: You need to work hard.Just a moment, Ill get to that subject soon. To as Infinitive of Purpose   The preposition to is used as an infinitive of purpose to mean in order to. For example: I spent some money (in order) to get some help.Susan hasnt worked so hard (in order) to give up! Linking Phrases With To The preposition to is also used in a number of common phrases to link ideas, often at the beginning of a sentence. To a great extent To a great extent begins or ends sentences expressing that something is mostly true. To a great extent, the students work hard in this schoolI agree with Toms ideas to a great extent. To some extent To some extent is used to express that something is partially true. To some extent, I agree with the ideas introduced in this discussion.The parents are at fault to some extent. To begin/start with To begin/start with is used to introduce the first element in a discussion with many points. To begin with, lets discuss the problems weve been having in the classroom.To start with, Id like to thank you for coming tonight. To sum up To sum up introduces a final review of the key ideas in a discussion. To sum up, we need to invest more money in research and sales.To sum up, you think that its all my fault!. To tell the truth To tell the truth is used to express an honest opinion. To tell you the truth, I think Doug is not doing a very good job.To tell you the truth, Im tired of listening to politicians tell us lies.

Youth Justice Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Youth Justice - Essay Example nstructive and more productive members of the society. However, it also must be noted that Youth justice is currently being viewed in different perspectives than it used to be. Many view the current reforms in youth justice due to modernization of the governments and political systems to accommodate the issues like young justice however there is also another dimension to it also as the emergence of private practice into the youth justice have significantly contributed to this issue also. However one also need to consider the fact that these youth justice practices lack the effective quality assurance systems and procedures in place which can ensure that the practice is being done on more professional as well as ethical footings. This essay will argue the role of quality assurance system to be designed to measure the effective practice in youth justice and will attempt to explore the issue from different perspectives so that a balanced view of the same can emerge.... ion must also have been given to this issue so that a positive critic of the same could have helped provide a better understanding of the problems so that quality assurance of the same could have been attained. Youth Justice has been under the complex influences of various forces working within the society which put extra pressures even on the proceedings of the cases against youth therefore the argument has also been put forward to bring in an approach which requires that those who bring children to the legal proceeding should give it a more holistic and comprehensive view so that children who somehow commit crimes are better represented into the legal system within which they are brought in. This therefore requires that those who conduct their practice into the youth justice must make efforts to bring in more quality in their work. (Geraghty). The historical roots of the practice in youth justice are basically founded on two critical principles of justice and welfare appraoch suggesting a approach which demands that a child must be treated differently than an adult criminal thus ensuring equality into the system based on the pecular nature of the status of children within the society. (Stephenson, Giller and Brown) Youth Justice Practice It is believed that the recent emergence of literature on youth based practice and policy has concentrated on the evidence based effective practice. This evidence based practice has now spread almost all the areas of the youth justice and has been considered as an effective and efficient means of dealing with the issue. However one also need to understand the fact that youth based justice practice and the system largely depend upon the society as it has been argued that the society gets the youth justice system which it deserves as