Organizational Behavior and Communication Essay

Organizational Behavior and Communication is found in every company, organizations, and groups. Organizational behavior and communications are discussed by using Starbucks Coffee Company. The discussion will cover company’s values and mission statement. The mission statement contains the philosophy, vision, and values. Also, some background of the company will be given. There will a discussion on the communication and on what extent this is determine by the Starbucks Coffee Company Culture. Background Starbucks was start in the 1970 in the state of Washington. The name Starbucks was inspire by the novel Moby Dick. In 1987 purchased by a man name Howard Schultz. At the time of the purchase Starbucks had stores only the Pacific Northwest. After the purchase Starbucks was selling coffee in other countries such Europe. In the first vision of Schultz was to fine coffees. Organizational Culture The organizational culture of Starbucks is based on diversity. The formula that they use is Diversity=Inclusion+Equity+Accessibility. The definition is â€Å"Inclusion: human connection & engagement, Equity: fairness & justice, and Accessibility: ease of use & barrier free† (www.starbucks.com, 2013). The company has divided the organizational culture (diversity) in the following parts: 1. Partner/employees: Starbucks wants partners as different as the cities they work in. The proper word could be diverse 2. Customers: Starbuck want their customers to have an extremely nice experience. In order to achieve this Starbucks by giving the customer their preferences. 3. Communities: Starbucks does make investment in local communities as well as worldwide. Starbucks by giving economic opportunities in ways of jobs and other forms of help. 4. Suppliers: Starbucks work with many minority groups of suppliers. Also suppliers that are women. Starbucks support many organizations. Examples of these are Community Service, Youth Groups, and Create Jobs for USA, Also the American Red Cross. The espoused values of Starbucks do agree with the enacted values. Example of this is on July 3, 2012 it was announced that Starbucks will have two openings in Latin America. â€Å"Starbucks Coffee Company reaffirmed its commitment to Latin America with two major openings- its first in Costa Rica, and its firs Farmer Support Center in South America located in Colombia† (China weekly news, 2012). Latin America provides large amount of the coffee that Starbucks us. Another example is that in 2010 Starbucks refuse to raise the prices of the coffee. Most companies raise their prices due the raise of the coffee prices. Starbucks decide not raise the prices for awhile but monitor the prices. The organizational communication of Starbucks is 100% determined by the organizational culture. The communications channels are very clear and easy to use. Starbucks have communication channels that employees can use. These channels are telephone calls, online reporting, e-mail, and written reports. The communication channels for the customers are the Starbucks website. The customer could find the mission statement or locate a store. Also, if a person wants to apply for a job they can do it on the website. Role of Communication â€Å"Starbucks uses a model of communication used generally by smaller group networks, all channel communication† (yahoo.com 2008) The communication plays an extremely important role in the organizational culture of Starbucks. The organizational communication is open to the customer. The customers can talk with an employee then the employees report to the supervisors or department heads. The communication channels are always updated by Starbucks. â€Å"Partners are encouraged to report all types of issues or concerns to the program through their choice of the offered communication channels.† (www.starbucks.com, 2013) Another form of communication is the Standards of Business Conduct booklet. This helps the employees make excellent decision and also how to act with the customers. The communication has no misalignment with the espoused values or enacted values. The organization gives many communication channels for the employees. Another reason is that the company from time to time sees what needs to be change so that the organization can run smoothly. Conflict in group communication Whenever a company or an organization has a group that works together there will be a communication conflict. A solution to any conflict needs to be found before the conflict can come out. While researching Starbucks there was no conflict mention. Starbucks does have a clear image. Starbucks does show press releases on the decision that are being made As for the employees are concern Starbucks does provide communication channels to report any issues. The issue that refers to any communication conflicts in the group communications. On the same website the organization will post any communication about the company. The organization can use the conflict to put an additional person in the group to deal with the conflict and find ways to keep the conflict out of the group. Additional Information Starbucks supports the Earth watch Institute, Save the Children, Mercy Corps, and Plant Green. These are just a few of the organizations that Starbuck is working with. When the employees are making a decision they have standards to rely on. These standards are Standard of Business Conduct. Starbucks has these standards printed in the following languages English, Chinese, French, German, Brazilian Portuguese, Latin American Spanish, and Thai. Conclusion Starbucks is an organization that puts customers and employees first. They have high levels of values, vision, mission, and philosophy. Starbucks do indeed help the communities that have their location. In the pass Starbucks kept their coffee prices down when the prices of the coffee bean were going up. Then Starbucks is opening up business in Latin American and Costa Rica. These businesses will be working hand- in- hand with the local farmers. In addition Starbucks has used the coffee is from the Latin American and Costa Rica. The communication channels are aligning with the mission, philosophy, vision, and values statement. Also Starbucks provide the customers communication channels to report any wrong doing. Starbucks makes extremely high efforts to have a strong company. References About Us. (2013). Retrieved from http://www.starbucks.com Food Weekly News, 145. (2010).; Starbucks Coffee Company; Starbucks Responds to Surging Green Coffee Prices. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/75581576?accountid=35812 Our Mission Statement. (2013). Retrieved from http://www.starbucks.com Seazone, S. (July 18, 2008). Successful Application of Organizational Behavior: Starbucks. Retrieved from http://www.voices.yahoo.com Starbucks Coffee Company. (2013). Business Ethics and Compliance. Retrieved from http://www.starbucks.com Starbucks Coffee Company; Starbucks Broadens Presence in Latin America. (2012). China Weekly News, 192. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1022321948?accountid=35812

Learning A New Language Essay

A countries identity is characterized by many different factors. It may be the culture of the people, the beliefs, the technological advancement or the degree of economic prosperity. It cannot be argued, however, that the single factor which brings all of these characteristics together and allows other people to appreciate and understand a country more is language. All the signs of prosperity are meaningless without language to convey the real meaning. Language is the single factor which allows people to become involved with a country and be able to call it their home. Give this, the relevance of learning a new language lies in the fact that by learning a new language one is able to learn more about other cultures and be accepted by it. It has often been said that one of the most essential parts of encouraging the growth of personal character is social interaction and communication. In order to make this happen, it is important that a person develop language skills because it is one of the primary modes of communication and social interaction. Having to translate everything or not being able to communicate freely is a hindrance to the establishment of working relationships. As such, it is important for people to learn new languages to enable them to reach out to other people, especially if you are a foreigner in their country. In order to develop language skills, it is not important that the person is genuinely interested in the other or what the other has to say since the purpose of communication and listening is indeed to come to a better understanding of another person. The thing that is required in order to develop good listening skills is in being able to know when to simply just â€Å"shut up and listen. † There is a certain timing that is needed in listening because listening may often be confused with boredom or disinterest by certain people. One has to know when to simply just nod one’s head or smile instead of opening one’s mouth to say something. The importance of this is because those who have speech or communication impairments, such as those from a foreign country, actually have a more difficult time reaching out to the world and need all the help and support that they can get. This also allows the person to absorb and understand the nuances of the new language so that the person is able to adapt. This is very important because oftentimes trouble is caused by miscommunication and when one deals with foreign languages it is important to make a person used to the sound of the language and also the way that it is used in speaking. Therefore, the most important thing is to first listen to the person and try to understand what the person is communicating. This is the first process in learning a new language. The second step lies in using the simple words and not being intimidated or afraid to speak. Oftentimes, people are unable to learn a new language because they are afraid of making mistakes. This is a normal thing and people should always remember that practice makes perfect. There is no other way of learning a new language. A person must simply keep writing and speaking in order to get better. Another way this can be improved is by asking a lot of questions. It is hard to imagine a world where nobody actually listened or paid any attention to other people. It would probably be a sad world filled with the endless monologue from the unending conversations of people who have nobody to listen to them. The people of the world would arguably be much sadder too since there would be nobody to listen to their problems or help them vent their frustrations and this is made better by learning a new language because people can talk to each other better. It is also thankfully not hard to become good at this. Just like listening, when learning a new language think, learn and feel first and by doing so listening to what the other has to say. If man had learned this skill earlier, think of all the wars and bloodshed that mankind could have avoided by simply listening to what the other had to say.

Around making life seem like a déjàvu Essay

It is quite remarkable how the sands of time revolve around making life seem like a deja vu. This makes it difficult to draw the line guessing if we are still dreaming or already awake. All eyes are once again drawn to an hour glass being flipped upside down over and over again. However, this time around, the consequences are devastating and the results, catastrophic. And as cliche as it may sound, we hear the question once more, did history repeat itself? Truth be told, we are constantly bombarded with all these alleged justifications for waging the ever controversial war in Iraq. As loquacious and persuasive as the maestros of the war in Iraq may sound, the melody of their symphony is found to be wanting. The sentiment that supports the war in Iraq is simply founded on alleged information that Iraq possesses and are developing weapons of mass destruction. In addition, U. S. officials have claimed that Saddam Hussein is supporting the al-Queda and other terrorist groups (Hayes, 1). With these primary reasons set forth, one reason after another started to pop out like unwanted mushrooms in a garden. The Americans then claimed of human rights abuses made by the Iraqi government. Moreover, the Americans have this illusion that they have the civic and moral duty to promote democracy to this part of the world. And lastly but certainly not the least, there is also the most profitable reason of all, the Iraqi oil reserves which according to the U. S. is being improperly handled by the Iraqi government by destabilising influence to the flow of oil to international markets from the Middle East making this an unacceptable risk. With all these in mind, America then launched their so called pre-emptive strike seizing desperately for every opportunity and ally they could possibly get. From a certain point-of-view, it can be said that they became victorious. They are victorious for â€Å"waging† or â€Å"starting† a war but not victorious in the war itself. This because despite the vastness of the land they have conquered and despite the hundreds of thousands enemies they put down, at the end of the day, in war, nobody is a winner. There is only suffering, destruction and death. People call the invasion a â€Å"fatal mistake† (Gunaratna, 98). The most annoying and irritating truth the people of the world including the Americans realized is that there are no weapons of mass destruction. There is no proof that Saddam Hussein cooperated with the al-Queda or any terrorist groups and the fear of Saddam’s domination is merely speculation (Shuster, 1). There is no proof of the human rights abuses which the U. S. officials accused at the Iraqi government. And the illusion of promulgating democracy to Iraq is in fact still an illusion. Still, there is the issue on the oil reserves mismanagement. However, the truth is that the â€Å"mismanagement† that is alleged here only refers to the refusal to cooperate with U. S. with regard to the trade on the oil reserves. Therefore, this entire war does not seem to hinge upon deadly non-existent biological weapons, nor an issue the war on terrorism, nor that which concerns human rights or democracy. It all came down to a barrel of oil. But for those who find such a truth inconceivable or incomprehensible, just count the how many lives perished regardless of their nationality. How many children were orphaned, family members mourning and homes destroyed. Is a person’s life worth for fighting this meaningless war? Most people in the world know the pain of losing somebody. Well imagine the horrors of losing somebody you care about for something not even consequentially important in the history of humanity. It is hard to even contemplate that the billions and billions of dollars spent to kill countless lives in this war could have spent countless lives from hunger, diseases and poverty. Here once more is war like those before it. However, this time around, the consequences are devastating and the results, catastrophic. And as cliche as it may sound, we hear the question once more, did history repeat itself?Well, we realize that history does not repeat itself, but rather we repeat history. WORKS CITED Gunaratna, Rohan. â€Å"The Post-Madrid Face of Al Qaeda†, Washington Quarterly 27:3 (Summer 2004) p. 98. Hayes, Stephen F. and Joscelyn, Thomas The Mother of All Connections A special report on the new evidence of collaboration between Saddam Hussein’s Iraq and al Qaeda Volume 010, Issue 41 July 18, 2005 Shuster, D. â€Å"Road to war; How the Bush administration sold the Iraq War to American people†. MSNBC, Nov. 8, 2005 Retrieved on November 30, 2006 from, http://www. msnbc. msn. com/id/9962149/

Should cell phones be allowed on airplanes Essay - 1

Should cell phones be allowed on airplanes - Essay Example Federal Aviation Administration looked at thousands of flight records and failed to find a single instance in which equipment was affected by a wireless phone. The study was conducted by RTCA Inc., a nonprofit organization that sets industry standards for airplane electronics.†(Airlines ban†¦.) Plane makers Boeing Co. and Airbus Industries have bombarded their aircraft with cell-phone frequencies and discovered no interference with communication, navigation or other systems. One likely reason that no problems were found: cellular phones dont operate on any of the frequencies used by airplane systems. "The airlines are misleading the traveling public," says John Sheehan, who headed the RTCA study and says he has often used his own cell phone in the sky. There is no real connection between cell-phone frequencies and the frequencies of the navigation or communications systems.† (Airlines ban†¦.)These evidences notwithstanding, use of cell phones on private and commercial aircrafts is banned by the FAA and the Federal Communications Commission. The benefit of doubt is given to its potentiality to interfere with ground-to-ground cellular transmission. There are other technical aspects. The electrical charge from the batteries in majority of the handsets is in excess of the standards of the plane makers. In theory, this is a problem. The devise has the potentiality to cause interference with the electrical systems of the airplane. The aspect of economic incentive is not ruled out. The carriers get a part of the revenue earned from the telephones. The charge is about $6 for a one-minute call, and this works out to more than 20 times of the normal cell-phone rates. The in-flight telephones also work on cellular technology. In the meanwhile, the ban is enforced strictly. Neil Whitehouse, a British oil employee, is serving a 12 month’s jail sentence for refusing to switch off his cell phone on a British Airways flight from Spain. Apart from the

AW3 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

AW3 - Essay Example Additionally, the basic intention of this research is to offer a comprehensive overview of the key qualities and indicators of successful global IS, and an explanation of considerations that must be addressed when taking an information system to the global level. Global information systems could be described as information systems intended to gather, process, incorporate, communicate and evaluate the whole â€Å"body of knowledge† concerning to a specific field. Since, this type of information systems is used to support some application necessitating this knowledge in an â€Å"on-demand† mode through ultimate information quality evaluations (Rolland & Monteiro, 2002). According to Ouksel & Sheth (1999), the paradigm of global information system has the similar intentions and operational structure but having a completely different tasks as compared to geographic information systems. In addition, this type of information systems offers the context of worldwide setting, either for its development or utilization procedures. Additionally, these information systems are extremely concerned with distributed computing and distributed systems that can be located at global level. Since, through the current progresses in computer software and hardware technology, it is probable to develop the relational data management systems those can consistently uphold storage of huge amounts of information concerning to a specific field of science. Biehl (2007) stated that the novel interoperable is offering the ways of standardizing data communications that are based on the XML (i.e.: extensible markup language) technologies, advanced production software like that expe rt systems, as well as safe web based networks have produced extraordinary prospects intended for defining and establishing a new model of huge global information systems in science. Thus, the development of the global information systems has improved the scientific discovery procedures, knowledge communication and

Philosophy 100 (4) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Philosophy 100 (4) - Essay Example His theory is contrary to the idea that there is some sort of underlying matter that is responsible for that which we experience. The type of thought that Descartes exemplified stated that we experience things through our senses, and while we might not be able to directly experience the matter that is responsible for being perceived by our senses, we know that it is there because we are in fact able to experience these senses. We know it is there because we perceive that it is there through the experience of our senses, but in the end we can only ever know it is there because of our senses because we have no way of directly experiencing matter. Berkeley’s ideas are so contrary to what a person might initially think because he wants to put our own existence as being dependent upon things that don’t have any direct effect on a person. To think about it as a solid example, Berkeley would state that the person who is walking down the street and is perceiving themselves as existing owes nothing to their own perception of themselves walking down the street and everything to the random person who sees the initial person walking down the street who is perceiving this happening. In other words, reality is not based in one’s own mind but in the minds of everyone else. While a person does not contribute to their own existence by merely being able to perceive their own existence, they are able to contribute to other people’s existence by perceiving other people. However, why is it exactly that a person can do this for another person while being incapable of doing it for themselves? We can observe the reacti ons we have upon other objects when we act upon them. Of course, this begs the question as to how a person continues to exist without being in the presence of other people constantly, but Berkeley uses this trouble in his logic to introduce the idea of God. In order to get to his point that existence depends upon being

Strategic Management of HR 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Strategic Management of HR 2 - Essay Example Furthermore, the relationship between line management and HR departments is also becoming integral and diversified as organizations require more accountability and responsibility on the former’s part, this notion however, poses several implications for the business. The aspect of diversity and inclusivity as well as the ethical dimensions attached with the outcomes of endorsing a culture of inclusiveness suggest that organizations must work towards the establishment of effective frameworks that govern work-life policies that encourage inclusivity and also encourage HR managers to adopt the role of being catalysts of change to promote a multicultural workforce within the organization. Organizational Issues in Strategic Human Resource Management Establishing HR Systems The differentiating aspect of strategic management of human resources in comparison with human resource (HR) approaches implemented on an individual basis is the former’s specific concentration towards the establishment of human resource systems (Lepak et al., 2006) that can aid towards the achievement of organizational aims and objectives. In the organization of today, however, the establishment, development and consequent implementation of these systems faces several challenges that hamper the initiatives taken by the HR department to promote strategic readiness in the organization for the effective management of its workforce through the present business climate. Reichers and Schneider (1990) define climate as the workforce’s observation and opinion of practices, policies and processes in the organization that are formally established or informally applied within the business. Lepak et al. (2006) note that organizational climate is a highly critical variable in creating a suitable fit between the nature of the organization and the job performance of employees. Moreover, organizational climate has also been found to be an imperative factor in contributing towards the effectiv eness of the organization as a whole (Ostroff et al., 2003). HR Policy Challenges Lepak et al. (2006) argue that in enhancing the strategic readiness to manage its people, an organization must implement effective HR systems that are in turn governed by specific HR policies. These policies include: 1. Concentrating on employee expertise such as skills, education and talent 2. Concentrating on the management of worker motivation 3. Concentrating on providing workers with chances for participation within the organization thereby, promoting employee involvement The selection and implementation of the aforementioned HR systems is faced with certain organizational issues, the first of which is concerned with an accurate assessment of the expertise demanded by an organization in its workers, this view is further cemented by the notion that each HR policy sphere requires specific knowledge scales in order to help an organization to achieve its strategic objectives (Lepak et al.,

CRIME AND SOCIAL HISTORY Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

CRIME AND SOCIAL HISTORY - Essay Example Since vigilantism has its focus on the control of crime and other social standards, its manifestation is likely to occur in atmospheres rife with crime problems and social inequities (Dumsday 2009, p. 50). When the public watches as their government fails to sufficiently uphold the values and norms it was designed to protect, they are likely to engage in acts of vigilantism (Dumsday 2009, p. 50). The vigilante group form and function because they understand that some established rules are threatened or could possibly be threatened and transgressed (Dumsday 2009, p. 55). Vigilantism also surfaces after a period of organization, rather than by spontaneous eruption (Dumsday 2009, p. 50). South African vigilantism reflects these descriptions. As Buur (2006) describes, South African vigilantism arose in response to the failure of formal law (p. 735). Paradoxically, the one element the vigilantism was primarily responding to was crime (Buur 2006, p. 736). The public’s view of the law enforcement capabilities of their government was very poor, and so they lacked confidence in the accepted and institutionalized norms. In South Africa, a long history of vigilantism exists, including the formation there of a group of vigilantes that rose up to fight a group of hijackers that wore police uniforms in order to more effectively accomplish their goals (Buur 2006, p. 741). The Irish Republican Army (IRA) organized itself to carry out vigilantism in response to British occupation of Northern Ireland (Pruitt 2007, p. 1521). The people resented British presence there for many years, but didn’t organize vigilantism until 1968, after four decades of tension had built (Pruitt 2007, p. 1521). The people of Ireland who shared this common goal of eliminating British rule and reuniting Northern Ireland with the rest of the country organized at nonviolent demonstrations at that time (Pruitt 2007, p. 1521). When the police responded violently to the demonstrations, chaos ensued

Language Seminar Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 6250 words

Language Seminar - Essay Example We met as partners and decided from the list of skills which one we should focus on and the relevant test samples that we should choose. After negotiation, we agreed to focus on grammar and thus selected grammar parts of three test samples. Before embarking on the task, we did extensive literature review from textbooks and lecture notes which were to guide us inappropriately responding to the task.After this preparation, we answered then critiqued the sample tests based on six qualities of usefulness: practicality, impact, validity, reliability, interactiveness, and authenticity. The arguments were backed by relevant literature earlier identified. This critique guided us in coming up with a performance-based test that aimed at improving on the sample tests. The strengths of the performance-based test over the sample tests were given.We presented each test separately with its critique which made it simple to follow the presentation. Even though taken at the end of the presentation, qu estions were encouraged from the students with both of us responding to them to the best of our knowledge. The summarising table at the end of the presentation was an advantage in the presentation.More so, we had practiced prior to the final presentation which helped us time ourselves appropriately.Instead of each one working on a different part then combine at the end, we did the whole task together, engaging in arguments that led us to present the best-agreed responses.

Identity of African American Men Essay Example for Free

Identity of African American Men Essay â€Å"No metaphor can capture completely the complexity of ethnic dynamics in the U. S. ‘Melting pot’ ignores the persistence and reconfiguration of the ethnicity over the generations. ‘Mosaic,’ much more apt for pluralistic societies such as Kenya or India, is too static a metaphor; it fails to take in to account the easy penetration of many ethnic boundaries. Nor is ‘salad bowl’ appropriate; the ingredients of a salad bowl are mixed but do not change. ‘Rainbow’ is a tantalizing metaphor, but rainbows disappear. ‘Symphony,’ like ‘rainbow,’ implies near perfect harmony; both fail to take into account the variety and range of ethnic conflict in the United States. The most accurately descriptive metaphor, the one that best explains the dynamics of ethnicity, is ‘kaleidoscope. ’ American ethnicity is kaleidoscopic, i. e. ‘complex and varied, changing form, pattern, color†¦ continually shifting from one set of relations to another; rapidly changing. ’ When a kaleidoscope is in motion, the parts give the appearance of relationships. The viewer sees and endless variety of variegated patterns, just as takes place on the American ethnic landscape. †- Lawrence Fuchs (Literature for Composition 1032) â€Å"Identity in America† was the theme chosen by my English 201 study group. This theme was taken from chapter twenty two of the Literature for composition: Reading and Writing Argument text book. However, I focused the broad theme of â€Å"Identity in America† to the more narrowed theme of â€Å"The Display of African American men in the media. † I chose this theme or topic because I felt that I can relate to it and as a matter of fact, it was also interesting to me. But in order to conduct my research on the particular topic, I came up with the following question, â€Å"How has the identity of African American men been displayed by the media: negatively or positively? † This question was chosen in order to provoke an argument for discussion. I conducted several interviews in order to acquire information about my selected topic. The media’s display of the identity of African American men can be discussed or looked at from two angles: negatively or positively. First, from my experience I can say that the media displays African American men in both lights, negatively and positively. But after conducting interviews with several individuals, my opinion has somewhat changed. I was always aware of the negative images of African/black men in the media. But I was not aware that this display had evolved overtime. My first interview was conducted with April T. Glasgow, a communications major at the University of the Virgin Islands on Wednesday 20th February 2008, at approximately ten o’clock in the morning. We conducted the interview at her dorm’s lobby. I had explained the topic prior to meeting with her, so she already had an idea about what issue the discussion would be addressing. Generally, her opinion was that black men were being exploited and portrayed negatively by the media. She also stated strongly that black men were too often portrayed or given the roles of thugs, gangsters, and pimps in films and magazines. In addition, a suggestion she made on how we could resolve this stereotype was that black people must unite and stand up against these negative portrayals especially those in rap music videos. The second interview was carried out that same day with Professor Alex Randall. His general statements were that the media has changed over the years. â€Å"The negative portrayals of the 1960’s and 1970’s have changed,† Randall stated. Randall felt that in modern times, people of color were treated more fairly and given a more positive portrayal in the media. Randall stated that there were many positive images in the media of African Americans, such as Denzel Washington, Barack Obama, Michael Jordan, and Bill Cosby. In addition, Randall said that in previous years no such image could have been seen in the media. â€Å"We are rational human beings and it’s our choice to choose what part of the spectrum of negative and positive images we would want to emulate,† said Randall. This statement impacted me and slightly changed my opinion on the topic. At that point in conducting my primary research for the paper, my position on the topic has somewhat been altered. After conducting the interviews with April T. Glasgow and Professor Alexander Randall I have become more open minded to the issue. I would admit that I was initially a bit biased and reserved on the topic prior to evaluating the topic from both sides; negatively and positively. In order to decide which position I was going to take I would have to do more secondary research on the topic. Since I started this research paper my observation and assessment of the media have taken a different turn. I now compare and contrast men of other races in the media to African American men. My secondary research was, for the most part, completed using internet sources. The articles that I discovered on the web were very useful and contributed greatly to my research. Three internet articles were analyzed to achieve the secondary data for my paper. The first article I examined was â€Å"The Media’s Bias against black men in America. † The article was basically a discussion of a piece written in the New York Times about the plight of American black men. The author, Armstrong Williams, stated that the New York Times article was another example of major media outlets using negative statistics to consistently cast black men as the scourge of this country. Williams made several strong and interesting statements throughout the article that I thought was beneficial to this research paper. For example, according to Williams, â€Å"The continual coverage of the black mans plight instead of his progress only hinders his growth, holds back our country from true equality, and hides the truth about the opportunities and challenges that we all face†(Williams  ¶4). Williams also suggested that the American public should challenge the lack of coverage of American black progress in this country (Williams  ¶5). â€Å"In the last century black men have literally gone from being slaves to business owners, government leaders, lawyers, doctors, firemen, generals, entertainers, and educators. No other oppressed class of people anywhere else in the world has advanced its standing in a society this quickly† (Williams  ¶6). I was really impressed by the way Armstrong used this statement to present his argument. In addition, Williams stated that the incidence of drug use, crime, scandal, divorce, and other social ills have increased dramatically for white men, but these statistics are not reported as problems about ‘white men in America (Williams  ¶6). â€Å"Approximately 9 out of 10 serial killers are white males between the ages of twenty and thirty five. Yet we never hear these statistics repeated over and over again in the mainstream press, making these crimes synonymous with one particular race as in this case with blacks† (Williams  ¶9). Later in the article Williams explained the image the media is creating internationally. The overseas media continuously places black men in negative positions such as school dropouts, irresponsible fathers, and victims of perpetual racism. The manner in which these stories are constructed and then, displayed to listeners and readers eliminates the possibility of believing that black men do not have positive roles (Williams  ¶10). Therefore, I agree with Williams that the repetitive negative articles can create a vicious cycle of harmful images and low expectations of black men. â€Å"The Black Image in the White Mind† is the title of the second internet article that I examined. The article was useful in constructing my opinion on the topic of how African American men are displayed in the media whether negatively or positively. The article presented some useful statistical data that was quite interesting and yet shocking to me. In this article by Robert M. Entman, he stated that a mug shot of a Black defendant is four times more likely to appear in a local television news report than of a White defendant (Entman  ¶2). He went on to say that the accused is two times more likely to be shown physically restrained in a local television news report than when the accused is a white man (Entman  ¶2). According to Entman, â€Å"The name of the accused is two times more likely to be shown on screen in a local TV news report if the defendant is black, rather than white† (Entman  ¶2). In addition, he stated that while black actors are now more visible in media, it is an open question as to how well they are being represented (Entman  ¶2). The Third article that I examined was â€Å"Black youth and mass media: current research and emerging questions† and I found it to be the most interesting of the three. This article was written by Craig Watkins, an Associate Professor of Sociology and Radio-Television- Film at the University of Texas at Austin. The article was basically an outline of some of the important research findings and emergent issues that examine the changing relationship between black American youth and the mass media industry (Watkins  ¶5). Watkins stated that for most of its history the mass media industry has produced images that distort and misrepresent the complexities of the African American experience (Watkins  ¶9). He stated that contemporary media representations of African Americans can be best described as paradoxical because blacks are simultaneously underrepresented and overrepresented in American media culture (Watkins  ¶9). According to Watkins, â€Å"blacks are underrepresented in many areas of mass media they are over represented in television sports broadcasts and crime and violence related portrayals† (Watkins  ¶13). Watkins said that images of blacks in magazines have increased but they are predominantly portrayed in athletic roles. According to Watkins, African American men are more likely to appear as athletes or musicians (Watkins  ¶14). The strongest statement throughout the article was when Watkins stated that the ‘athleticization’ of the black men in the media reproduces and popularizes long-standing myths about biological and intellectual differences between blacks and whites (Watkins  ¶15). Further analysis of Watkins’ article indicated that when African Americans are portrayed in television news it is generally in aggressive, violent, or criminal roles. Also, a recent analysis of the film industry asserts that blacks tend to be restricted to low budget features that focus disproportionately on crime, violence, and youth delinquency. The repetitious display of blacks in athletic roles creates a limited range of adult and professional role models for young black males being that they are faced with only few media images of successful African American men. The internet articles that I examined clearly showed that there is strong evidence to prove that African American men are negatively and unfairly displayed in the media. After examining these internet articles, I felt that even though they were some positive images of African American men in the media the majority of images are in some way biased or negative. After evaluating and examining my internet sources, I turned back my attention to my English 201 text book, Literature for Composition: Reading and Writing Arguments to get some more insight on the matter. While reading through chapter twenty-three, I came up on a quote from Lawrence Fuchs that I found to be tied in well with my overall all theme of identity in America. I decided to place this quote at the beginning of the research paper a sort of introduction to the overall theme. I chose this quote because it describes the complexity and internal conflicts of identity in America. Speaking of conflicts between identities, Hotel Rwanda is a film that displays such conflict to the extreme. This film was shown in class by my English professor because she said that it was in some way related to our theme and that it could also be used as a part of our secondary research. I did not really understand the connection with our theme until I saw the film. Hotel Rwanda is a historical drama about the hotel manager Paul Rusesabagina played by Don Cheadle during the Rwandan genocide and was directed by Terry George in 2004. The movie is actually based on the Rwandan genocide that occurred in 1994 where almost one million of both Tutsi and Hutu individuals were killed. In the movie which is a reflection of what actually took place, the media was used to instigate conflicts between the Tutsi and Hutu. Throughout the actual conflict the media was used as a tool to falsely display Tutsi’s as the scourge of Rwanda. For example, the radio station, RTLM was used to spread negative and hate messages about the Tutsis such as â€Å"Why do we hate the Tutsis? They are cockroaches†¦Rwanda is Hutu land. †(United Arts. Dir. Terry George. United States, 2004) All in all, it is quite evident from the primary and secondary research that there are both negative and positive displays of African American men in the media. Since the interviews I am more aware that the display of African Americans has changed over time for the better. However, from the Internet articles I have discovered that there are still a lot of negative images of African American men in the media. In addition, I learned that there are still many biases when presenting African American men in media whether on radio, television, or magazines. Overall, the research was very interesting and informative. April T. Glasgow and Professor Alexander Randall were very helpful in making my research paper a success. From carrying out this research paper I was able to conduct some interesting interviews, especially with Professor Randall. I was truly able to critically interpret and analyze the investigation in addition to improving my overall research skills. The research process was a learning experience that I will never forget. Works Cited Barnet, Sylvan, Burto William and Cain E. William. Literature for Composition. New York: Longman, 2007. Entman, Robert and Rojecki, Andrew. â€Å"Media and its Portrayal of Black Americans. † racerelations. about. com. New York. 2008. . Glasgow, April T. Personal Interview. 20 Feb. 2008. Hotel Rwanda. Dir. Terry George. Lions Gate Films and United Artists, 2004. Randall, Alexander. Personal Interview. 20 Feb. 2008. Watkins, S. Craig, â€Å"Black Youth and Mass Media: Current Research and Emerging Questions. † http://www. rcgd. isr. umich. edu/prba/perspectives/winter2000/cwatkins. pdf. Williams, Armstrong. â€Å"The Media’s Bias Against Black Men in America. † 31 March 2006. .

Influencing Practice For Service Improvement In Primary Care Nursing Essay

Influencing Practice For Service Improvement In Primary Care Nursing Essay Innovation and change are currently seen as an integral part of the NHS, and nurses have an increasing responsibility in the delivery of healthcare (DOH 2004). With the introduction of clinical governance many NHS Trusts are examining the standard of care being given and are implementing new initiatives to bring the care up to standard. This essay will aim to discuss and explore the implementation of an initiative to change practice in a clinical area of a primary care setting within an NHS trust. The proposed change is that of an orientation pack for new staff. This change can be linked to one aspect of clinical governance, staff and staff management, as it was felt that this was an area that needed developing. It will explore the reasoning for the change and the leadership style that was utilised for to implement a change. It will analyse the change theory developed by Kurt Lewin (1951) and how it will influence the implementation. Key strategies for effective clinical governance involves effective teamwork, leadership, ownership, openness and, most importantly, communication. The additional recurring theme is that the public and patients need to be involved in all aspects of the planning, organisation and environment of care. Since 1999, it has been at the top of the agenda for the NHS (Sale 2005). Scally and Donaldson (1998) define clinical governance as: A system through which NHS organisations are accountable for continually improving the quality of their services and safeguarding high standards of care by creating an environment in which excellence in clinical care will flourish (p61). There are many key elements in clinical governance these have divided into seven pillars. The pillar that will be focussed on in this particular instance will be pillar 4: Staff and staff managing, it has many crucial elements essential to the structure of a trust, specifically workforce planning. Without planning there will be a lack of staff skills, knowledge and empowerment which could threaten the provision of quality clinical care (Sale 2005). An orientation pack is vital in any organisation setting. It can be overwhelming when starting a new role, and people can experience many emotions therefore there needs to be a structure in place to aid with this transition. Ward (2009) explains an orientation pack may impact retention within the nursing profession as well as increasing self confidence it will also impact staff with greater productivity and sense of direction in the work group. This is due to new employees getting to know the alignment between their role and the organisation expectations of them (Brown 2000). The primary care trust was having difficulty in retaining their staff, and had been experiencing a high turnover; there had also been some difficulties in filling the vacancies. Recruitment is ongoing, and costly the official cost is 32% of nurses annual salary, but including the building up of new staff and productivity deficit in the process it can be four times this (Foster cited by Agnew 2004). He goes on to explain in the first year if the new employee has a sense of belonging by being effectively bonded to the setting then this significantly reduces turnover. Despite these obvious advantages, it was found that there was only a general induction to the trust which every employee has within the first three months of their new employment; however no formal structure had been developed in the specific clinical area. By not having a formal orientation to the clinical area made it makes it difficult to establish the roles of the already existing team. The team is split into clusters; these clusters cover different general practices around the area, however trying to establish which cluster covered which practice was confusing. There was also found to be a lack of clarity when it came to the caseload, it was difficult to identify client groups and information was limited, this in turn was also putting possible risk to patient care. Furthermore there was no opportunity for new staff to ident ity their objectives and how to develop themselves within their role. When an initiative is being introduced to staff, they need to be aware of the reasons for the implementation. To enable successful integration into a new work place there needs to be a structured form of induction to alleviate barriers in communication and to enable a smooth transition. The proposed idea of a staff orientation pack (appendix 1) was the result of planned change. Planned change is a deliberate application of knowledge and skills by a leader, to bring about a change requires the leader to have the skills of problem solving, decision making and interpersonal and communication skills (Marquis and Huston 2006). Warrilow (2009) and Oliver (2006) both recognise that transformational leadership is focussed on, and embraces change, as it involves both the leaders and followers engaging on a common aim. They also recognise the leader to be a key element of successful strategies for managing change. Transformational leadership would be the most appropriate style to utilise when introducing the orientation pack as the underlying goal of transformational leadership is to bring about some type of change (Grimm, 2010, p76). The leaders who use this style are also regarded as change agents. A change agent should be a person skilled in the theory and implementation of planned change to be able to deal appropriately with the very real human emotions, including resistance that planned change can bring about (Marquis and Huston 2006). They can achieve this by using qualities such as charisma to motivate their followers to be able to achieve their goals, share visions and empower them (Grimm 2010). Change can be an intricate process which can have barriers which can threaten a successful implementation (McCrery and Pearce 2002). Sullivan and Decker recognise that Nurse Leaders must initiate the changes they believe are necessary to strengthen nursing practice, provide quality care, and create a better system (2005, p.217). In an organisation, to implement change they would need to follow a change theory.   There are many theorists who have developed processes of change, but Lewins theory is perhaps the one that is most recognised, user friendly and uncomplicated. The aid of a change model can be beneficial in overcoming certain obstacles. His theory of change provides the structure for understanding nurses behaviour during times of change and ways to improve the behaviour when introducing change into the workplace (Bozak 2003 p83). The model encompasses a three strep process this can be found in appendix 2. Lewins normative model of change is based on team participation, including all staff that will be affected by this change. This then increases their approval and implementation of change through a bottom-up method (Murphy 2006), furthermore identifying that achieving durable and efficient change entails the collaboration and involvement of the whole team not isolated individuals. Nevertheless, before any change is considered a plan is required that identifies the need. Baulcomb (2003) suggests guidance from Lewins (1951) force field analysis (FFA) demonstrates the complexities of the change process and how driving and resisting forces were incorporated within the planning and implementation phases'(p275). It is pertinent that the driving and restraining forces must be analyzed before implementing a planned change. Cork (2005) further explains that when implementing any change there are a number of factors that help to achieve change, this would be the driving concept for example the aim to improve orientation to the work place. Conversely, a restraining factor could be unwillingness to change or poor staff morale. Change can then only occur when one force outweighs the other, ideally for positive change the drivers must outweigh the restraining forces. The FFA for the proposed change can be found in appendix 3. The focus of the unfreeze stage is to change the status quo of the existing practice. The change agent needs to prepare the staff by identifying and challenging the need for change. The identification is necessary because changing for the sake of changes sake can cause unnecessary stress and the feel of manipulation (Marquis and Huston 2006). Involvement of colleagues from the very beginning empowers staff and makes them feel more valued. Sale (2005) identifies that staff are empowered when an environment has been created which encourages them to be actively involved in the decision making processes. However it is inevitable that there will be resistance when trying to implement a change especially when involving humans. Emotions can run high and change can be held as threatening. Conflict can also arise as it is making something different to what was (Sullivan and Decker 2005). To be able to start to overcome resistance the change agent needs to start to utilise their qualities as a leader and focus on valuing creativity and innovation form their staff (Marquis and Huston 2006). Informal discussions took place with different members of staff at various levels to explain problem had been identified and that there was a need for change. This allowed for the change agent to find common ground and start having a sense of connection with the staff (Tyrrell 1994). Staff appeared quite unsatisfied with the current status quo, however it was found that time was a resisting factor due to busy workloads. An issue that the change agent could bring to the attention of the staff is that the in the current climate workloads would not improve if there is low retention in staff, which in turn can be caused by not feeling integrated into the team properly. Part of this stage may involve making people feel uncomfortable. Another factor that would need to be considered would be a possible cost implication and who would carry it, management may feel reluctant to participate in fu nding. In the clinical setting the change agent could start to communicate their desired change via email which all staff have access to. This can give the staff the opportunity to convey their opinions on the change, which can then be reinforced with a formal team meeting which will allow the change agent to convey their purpose for change and give the staff a sense of direction, and also allowed for them to be open and honest within the team (Grimm 2010). It can also give the change agent an idea of how change may be perceived by the whole team, and possible resistance. Once the need for change has been perceived by others and the status quo has been disrupted then the change agent can go on to the next stage in the change model (Marquis and Huston 2006). Marquis and Huston (2006) states that In movement, the change agent identifies, plan and implements appropriate strategies, ensuring that driving forces exceed restraining forces (p173). It also allows for problems to be undertaken and for goals and objectives to be set, and opportunity to scope out for alternative solutions. This stage can take time as there are many factors to take into account. In appendix 2 the FFA for the proposed change identifies that restraining forces appear to have an undercurrent of human behaviour. This can be extremely difficult to overcome especially when nurses have always done something in a particular way and are reluctant to make change. As previously mentioned communication is the key to successful change and the change agent needs to keep an open line of communication when implementing the plan. A transformational leader uses effective communication to increase the motivation, morale and performance of their staff members as opposed to the usual c ommand and control staff supervision style (Lorraine 2010). Trust is also a key issue; it arises from a mutual understanding that the change would not be detrimental to the staff (Hein 1995). Hence the change agent will require the ability to communicate effectively and encourage motivation amongst the staff. According to Clark (2009) a leader needs to develop a high degree of emotional intelligence. This allows for an understanding of the emotions of their staff and manages them in a positive way to achieve the best possible outcome. Hein (2007) then continues and says it enforces the problem solving and decision making skills of the change agent allowing for staff to become more relaxed, less stressed and more open for change. If there is a continuation of motivational struggles and unwillingness to change motivational interviewing would be a preference to over overcome this. This looks at encouraging and supporting people in adopting new behaviours. The change agent would support the staff member whom is struggling with ambivalence about change. Encouragement is used so that there is recognition of the alternatives to the status quo (Bundy 2004). However, Bundy (2004) does go on to say this can be seen as quite challenging and can have elements of being confrontational. This process needs to be executed wisely. For a successful implementation education would also be a key factor. The change agent would need to educate staff on the new pack and clarify the expectations of the staff for the pack to continually be used and developed. Spencer (2001) suggests that this will give staff the confidence that they are doing the right thing and that practice is successful and sustainable. Once the plan has been established and implemented into practice, leaders need to ensure that there is maintained equilibrium. By including staff in the change, the change agent has invited them to become more attached to organisation, which leads to greater commitment, willingness and motivation (Hein 1995). Additionally it is imperative that continual support and guidance is given so that acknowledgments that all staff has embrace and understood it. Nevertheless no change should ever be frozen solid there needs to be scope for re-thawing to allow for continual changes to improve practice, however initially stabilization needs to occur for staff to reap the benefits. Refreezing actions include defining standards, documentation, training, processes and so on. The change agent would need to continue to monitor over a period of time as it can take three to six months for a change to be to be accepted (Marquis and Huston 2006). There will also be the need to make sure that people are no t pulled back to the previous stage. Ways of doing this is removing any method by which people can return, so there is nothing to return to (Straker 2010). The change agent can try to do this is by making it part of everyday practice. Once a norm is developed and there have been significant signs that it has had a positive impact such as greater staff retention then people are more inclined to use it. If the change was found to be successful then a possible scope for development would be to start to look on a wider scale and try to implement the pack into other clinical practices within the PCT. Again there will be barriers to overcome, although from the experience that the change agent had encountered in the clinical area, these barriers could seem less daunting. There would have also been greater development in their leadership skills allowing for the growth of confidence in implementing change. Change is an essential dynamic in positive growth and development; although some may be resistant to it others may embrace it and feel empowered. A recurrent theme that has appeared through the here may change process is that of communication. Excellent communication skills allow those affected by change to have their say, thus allowing barriers and resistance to be overcome. Although it may not be possible to fully eliminate barriers there may be ways to move the barriers to make them a positive. Saver (2009) also states that constant communication helps new and current staff feel valued (p19). In conclusion nurses in the present working climate have to accept necessary changes with an open mind and motivation arms. Not only should they accept changes as they take place, but should also be constantly reviewing working practices and being proactive in implementing changes as and when necessary. Change is not always welcomed, however it will allow for eradication of stagnation within the working environment (Ootim, 1997). References Agnew, T (2004) Support for staff reduces cost of recruitment. Nursing Standard. May 2004 18(35) p7 [online]: Available from Ovid URL [Accessed 11th November 2010]. Baulcomb, J (2003) Management of change through force field analysis. Journal of nursing management. Jul 2003 11(4) 275-80 [online]: Available from: EBSCO URL [Accessed 10th November 2010]. Bozak, M (2003) Using Lewins Force Field Analysis in Implementing a Nursing Information System. CIN: Computers, Informatics, Nursing. 21(2):80-85, Mar-Apr 2003. [online] Available from: Ovid URL [Accessed 30 October 2010] Brown, J. (2000) Employee Orientation: Keeping New Employees on Board. [online] Available from: http://humanresources.about.com/lr/new_employee_orientation/189518/1/. [Accessed on 30th October 2010] Bundy, C. (2004) Changing behaviour: using motivational interviewing techniques. Journal of The Royal Society of Medicine. 97 (44):43-47, 2004. [online] Available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1308798/pdf/15239293.pdf [Accessed 30 October 2010] Clark Chambers, C (2009) Creative nursing leadership and management. London: Jones and Barttlett Publishers International. Cork, A. (2005) A model for successful change management Nursing Standard Mar 2-8 19(25):40-42 [online]: Available from EBSCO URL [Accessed on 30th October 2010]. Department of Health (2004) Standards For a Better Health. London: DOH Grimm, J. (2010) Effective Leadership: Making the Difference. Journal of Emergency Nursing. January 2010 36(1):74-77, [online]. Available from: Ovid URL [Accessed 29 October 2010] Hein, E. (1995) Contemporary leadership behaviour. 5th ed Philadelphia: Lippincott Company. Hein, S. (2007) Emotional Intelligence. [online] Available from: www.http://eqi.org. [Accessed 14th November 2010] Lorraine, C (2010). Nurse Leaders Effective Communication. [online] Available from: Nurse Leaders Effective Communication | eHow.co.uk http://www.ehow.co.uk/about_6677338_nurse-leaders-effective-communication.html#ixzz15Cdizzvg. [Accessed on 14th November 2010] Marquis, B and Huston, C (2006) Leadership roles and management functions in nursing: theory and application. 5th ed. Philadelphia, Lippincott Williams Wilkins. Mullins, J (2007) Management and organisational behaviour. UK: Pearson Education Murphy F (2006) Using change in practice: a case study approach. Nursing Management. May 2006 13(2): 22-25. [online]. Available from: Ovid URL [Accessed on 30th October 2010] Oliver, S (2006) Leadership in health care. Musculoskeletal Care. 2006 4(1): 38-47 [online] Available from: www.interscience.wiley.com. [Accessed on 30th October 2010] Ootim, B (1997) Effective change. Nursing Management. May  1997 4(2):10. [online] Available from: Ovid URL [Accessed on 30th October 2010] Sale, D. (2005) Understanding Clinical Governance and Quality Assurance: making it happen. Basingstoke: Palgrave: Macmillan. Saver, C (2009) Closing the revolving door for OR staff. OR Manager. Mar 2009 25(3):18-19 [online] Available from: EBSCO URL [Accessed on 30th October 2010] Scally G and Donaldson LJ. (1998) Clinical governance and the drive for quality improvement in the new NHS in England. British Medical Journal 317(7150) 4 July pp.61-65 [online]. Available from: Ovid [Accessed 29 October 2010]. Spencer, S, (2001). Education for change, in: Spencer, S, Unsworth, J and Burke, W. (eds) Developing community nursing practice. Buckingham: Open University Press, pp.116-113. Straker, D. (2010). Lewin Push and Pull. [online] Available from http://www.syque.com/quality_tools/tools/Tools54.htm [Accessed 14th November 2010] Sullivan, E Decker, P (2005) Effective leadership management in nursing. 6th ed. New Jersey: Pearson Prentice Hall. Tyrrell, R (1994) Visioning: an important management tool. Nursing economics. Mar-Apr 1994 12(2): 93-94. [online]. Available from: EBSCO URL [Accessed on 10th November 2010] Unsworth, J (2001). Managing the development of practice, in: Spencer, S, Unsworth, J and Burke, W. (eds) Developing community nursing practice. Buckingham: Open University Press, pp. 69-92. Ward, CW (2009) Enhancing orientation and retention: one units success story. Journal of continuing education in nursing. Feb 2009 40(2):87-90 [online]. Available from: EBSCO URL [Accessed on 30th October 2010] Warrilow, S. (2009) Transformational Leadership Theory The 4 Key Components in Leading Change Managing Change. [online] Available from: http://ezinearticles.com/?Transformational-Leadership-TheoryThe-4-Key-Components-in-Leading-Change-and-Managing-Changeid=2755277. [Accessed on 5th November 2010]. Appendix 1 Proposed Induction pack guidelines Appendix 2 Kurt Lewins Change theory Unfreezing reducing those forces which maintain behaviour in its present form, recognition of the need for change and improvement to occur Movement development of new attitudes or behaviour and the implementation of change Refreeze stabilising change at the new level and reinforcement through supporting mechanisms, for example policies, structures or norms Mullins (2007 p736)

Impacts of Dehydration on the Body

Impacts of Dehydration on the Body Helen McHugh Why is dehydration and electrolyte imbalance a danger? Dehydration is described as ‘an excessive loss of water from body tissues’ (Mosby Elsevier, 2009) and it also affects an imbalance of electrolytes in the body. It can be very dangerous and even fatal as most of the physiological systems in the body are dependent on water levels and the changes in concentrations of the electrolytes will disturb almost every vital function of the body. (Martini Nath, 2009) How have the functions of the skin been impaired? The body’s first line of defence has been breached, allowing pathogens and bacteria to penetrate the body as well as impairing its ability to regulate temperature, synthesis Vitamin D and loss of some senses i.e. touch, pressure. How will the body try and repair the areas that have been burnt? This will happen in three stages, Inflammation, Reconstruction and Maturation. Inflammation – this stage takes approximately 3 days and happens immediately the wound occurs. The inflammation causes an increased blood flow to surrounding tissues which produces erythema, swelling, heat and discomfort. As a defence response, different types of white blood cells called polymorphonuclear leucocytes arrive at the wound and are involved in the immune response to fight infection. Reconstruction This stage can take from between 2 – 24 days and is a time of cleaning and temporary replacement of tissue. Polymorphs kill the bacteria and phagocytic macrophages digest the dead bacteria and clean the wound. Epidermal cells start to activate, new blood capillaries are developed and granulation tissue is laid down. Epithelial cells move over the granulation from the edges of the wound. When the wound is covered the epithelium thickens to 4-5 layers, forming the epidermis. The wound would then start to contract reducing in size. Maturation – This stage can take between 24 days to 1 year. This is the remodeling stage where collagen cells are reorganized and strengthened. The wound is still at risk during this stage and protection is necessary. (Koutoukidis, et al., 2013) What could impede the body from successfully achieving this? Think of internal and external factors when you answer this. Intrinsic- (Internal) Health Status – Illnesses/Conditions/Diseases can affect healing, i.e. anaemia, immune disorders, cancer, diabetes. Age – Older people take longer to heal due to slower metabolism, thinner skin and less elasticity of skin. Bodybuild – Both Obese and Thin people can have various issues related to healing Lifestyle factors – Smoking, Alcohol can have contraindications to healing Nutritional status Extrinsic (External) Mechanical stress Debris – scabs, necrotic tissue, and excess slough can all impair epithelial migration and supply of nutrient. Also prolongs inflammatory stage. Temperature – Extremes can cause tissue damage Desiccation or maceration – Both dryness and excess moisture can slow healing Infection – Bacteria slows wound healing Chemical stress (Lumsden, 2014) Mary undergoes debridement of the burns. What does this mean? Debridement is the first step in cleansing. It is to remove dirt, foreign objects, damaged tissue and cellular debris from wound/burn which promotes healing and helps prevent infection. (Mosby Elsevier, 2009) The burns were subsequently grafted with a split skin graft. What layers of the skin are used for this graft? A split thickness skin graft is a tissue transplant using both the epidermis and part of the dermis layer. (Mosby Elsevier, 2009) 3.1 Admission Form Acute Pain Observation Chart Observation chart Fluid Balance Chart Medication Chart Neurovascular Chart Intravenous Drug Chart Care Plan Progress Notes 4.2 Define Hypertension and Arteriosclerosis Hypertension – Elevated blood pressure consistently over 140/90 Arteriosclerosis A thickening/ calcification of arterial walls and loss of elasticity in arterial walls. The result of this is reduced blood supply. (Mosby Elsevier, 2009) How are they often related? High blood pressure (hypertension) can cause a build up of the muscular and elastic tissues of the arterial walls – hypertensive arteriosclerosis (Mosby Elsevier, 2009) Why is hypertension called the ‘Silent killer’ Hypertension is called the silent killer because it can often be asymptomatic, i.e. no symptoms are apparent. There is no single cause but there are possible risk factors. (Mosby Elsevier, 2009) Name three changes in your lifestyle that may help prevent cardiovascular disease in old age. Do not smoke, Eat healthy and exercise more. Undesirable clot formation can occur as a result of endothelial damage due to arteriosclerosis. How does the body form undesirable clots within intact blood vessels? If the endothelium of a blood vessel is rough it can encourage clinging of platelets which can be a risk factor for blood clotting (Thrombus) The legs are particularly prone to the formation of blood clots and can be caused by blood pooling in the legs or slowly flowing blood especially in immobilized patients. (Marieb, 2003) 5.2 At handover you are told a patient is cyanotic. What would you expect to observe? Define tissue hypoxia. Three conditions where this could occur. Cyanosis presents as a bluish discolouration of the skin and mucous membranes caused by not enough oxygen in the blood and excess of deoxygenated blood. I would expect to see a bluish colour on the skin of the patient, possibly on lips, nailbeds, tip of the nose, external ear and underside of the tongue. Three conditions where this could occur are Asthma Emphysema Heart failure 5.3 Describe the difference between tracheostomy and endotracheal intubation. An endotracheal intubation is a flexible cuffed tube inserted via the mouth or nostril through the larynx into the trachea, whereas a tracheostomy is a surgical creation of an external opening into the trachea. (Koutoukidis, et al., 2013) 5.4 Why will a patient who is anaemic complain of shortness of breath? Being anaemic means that you do not have enough red blood cells in your body. The red bolos cells carry oxygen around the body and remove carbon dioxide. Fewer less red blood cells equals less oxygen which equals shortness of breath. (Koutoukidis, et al., 2013) 5.5. What type of allergic reaction is suspected? Anaphylaxis is suspected. This condition may be fatal. Why has this caused problems with his breathing? The upper respiratory tract is often involved with nasal congestion or sneezing and tightness in the throat may occur with significant airway obstruction. The patient can have bronchospasm or upper airway swelling (S Shahzad Mustafa, 2013) 6.1 Sever appendicitis, what would be result if left untreated? The appendix can perforate spilling the contents into the abdominal cavity causing peritonitis. (Koutoukidis, et al., 2013) 6.2 Why does a lack of fibre in the diet encourage the formation of diverticula? Faeces usually move along the large bowel with gentle peristalsis; however when there is insufficient fibre in the diet the faeces may become dry and is more difficult to move along with peristalsis. The intestinal muscles then have to perform strong contractions and generate high pressure. This high pressure may cause bulging pouches in the intestinal mucosa and these are called diverticula. (Murtagh, 1995) 6.3 Explain why obstruction in the common bile duct causes interference with the digestion of some foods? An Obstruction would prevent bile from entering the small intestine. The bile is needed to aid digestion and is needed to breakdown large fat globules into small ones. When the food is not digesting properly bile can back up into the gallbladder. It then becomes concentrated by removal of water and the cholesterol it contains may crystallize and form gallstones. Blockage of the common bile duct can also stop bile entering the small intestine and backing up into the liver and bile salts and bile pigments will begin to enter the bloodstream and as this circulates through the body the tissues will become yellow or jaundiced. (Marieb, 2003) 6.4 What nursing observations of their skin, faeces and urine would support the diagnosis of an obstructed bile duct? Where would these observations be recorded? Bilirubin levels will increase in the blood and this can cause yellow, jaundiced skin, dark urine and pale coloured faeces. Itching of the skin may also occur. Recorded in progress notes, fluid balance and bowel chart and observation chart, care plan and urinalysis. (Marieb, 2003) 8.2 Adrenaline affects the sympathetic nervous system. Explain the effect on blood pressure, heart beat, breathing and the liver. Blood Vessels – Constricts blood vessels In viscera and skin, increases blood pressure Heart – Increases rate and force Liver – Causes glucose to be released to blood. All of these effects are part of the fight or flight response. The body alters its normal state to one of optimum performance in order for us to take flight (run faster) the heart beat starts to pound, our breathing gets deeper, driving oxygen around the body and glucose is released into the blood stream to give us energy. (Marieb, 2003) 9.1 Explain why someone who is haemorrhaging, i.e. has falling systemic blood pressure/volume will have a decreased urine output. When there is significant blood loss the blood pressure falls and the blood pressure in the renal artery will also fall. The body tries to raise the blood pressure by preventing further water and electrolyte loss. To do this the kidney secretes the hormone ‘renin’ which stimulates other hormones to cause vasoconstriction (Marieb, 2003) References: Koutoukidis, G., Stainton, K. Hughson, J., 2013. Tabbners nursing Care Theory and Practice. 6th ed. NSW: Elsevier. Lumsden, S., 2014. Wound Management Class Notes. Adelaide: s.n. Marieb, E., 2003. Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology. 7th ed. San Francisco: Pearson Education Ltd. Martini, F. Nath, J. L., 2009. Fundamentals of Anatomy and Physiology. 8th ed. San Francisco: Pearson Education Inc. Mosby Elsevier, 2009. Mosbys Dictionary of Medicine, Nursing and Health Professions. 8th ed. s.l.:Mosby. Murtagh, J., 1995. Diverticular Disease. [Online] Available at: http://www.nevdgp.org.au/info/murtagh/general/Diverticulardisease.htm [Accessed 25th February 2014]. S Shahzad Mustafa, M., 2013. Anaphylaxis Clinical Presentation. [Online] Available at: http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/135065-clinical [Accessed 25th February 2014]. 1

Oppression and Class warfare Exposed in Dr. Howard Zinn’s A People’s Hi

Dr. Howard Zinn’s A People’s History of the United States might be better titled A Proletarian’s History of the United States. In the first three chapters Zinn looks at not only the history of the conquerors, rulers, and leaders; but also the history of the enslaved, the oppressed, and the led. Like any American History book covering the time period of 1492 until the early 1760’s, A People’s History tells the story of the â€Å"discovery† of America, early colonization by European powers, the governing of these colonies, and the rising discontent of the colonists towards their leaders. Zinn, however, stresses the role of a number of groups and ideas that most books neglect or skim over: the plight of the Native Americans that had their numbers reduced by up to 90% by European invasion, the equality of these peoples in many regards to their European counterparts, the importation of slaves into America and their unspeakable travel conditions and treatment, the callous buildup of the agricultural economy around these slaves, the discontented colonists whose plight was ignored by the ruling bourgeoisie, and most importantly, the rising class and racial struggles in America that Zinn correctly credits as being the root of many of the problems that we as a nation have today. It is refreshing to see a book that spends space based proportionately around the people that lived this history. When Columbus arrived on the Island of Haiti, there were 39 men on board his ships compared to the 250,000 Indians on Haiti. If the white race accounts for less than two hundredths of one percent of the island’s population, it is only fair that the natives get more than the two or three sentences that they get in most history books. Zinn cites population figures, first person accounts, and his own interpretation of their effects to create an accurate and fair depiction of the first two and a half centuries of European life on the continent of North America. The core part of any history book is obviously history. In the first three chapters of the book, Zinn presents the major historical facts of the first 250 years of American history starting from when Christopher Columbus’s Nià ±a, Pinta, and Santa Maria landed in the Bahamas on October 12, 1492. It was there that Europeans and Native A... ...form of rhetoric, concessions, and propaganda calling for loyalty to America’s upper classes and rebellion, first quiet and then loud, against England. â€Å"[The bind of loyalty] was the language of liberty and equality, which could unite just enough whites to fight a Revolution against England, without ending either slavery or inequality† (58). Zinn is absolutely correct in seeing the ulterior motives of our founding fathers; they realized that splitting from England would be good for them financially, socially, and politically. What they did was harness the people’s anger against them and used it, quite ironically, for their own advancement. Ultimately, for the first 250 years of America’s history, there was oppression and class warfare on varying scales that are traditionally ignored or unemphasized by traditional history texts, but Zinn masterfully shows the reader are major and influencial parts of American history. To ignore the plight of the conquored and oppressed is to ignore a part of history that cannot be ignored. Work Cited Zinn, Howard, A People’s History of the United States, New York: Harper and Row Publishers, 1980

Jonathan Edwards the Great Preacher Essay examples -- Theologians

He was a man whose very words struck fear into the hearts of his listeners. Acknowledged as one of the most powerful religious speakers of the era, he spearheaded the Great Awakening. â€Å"This was a time when the intense fervor of the first Puritans had subsided somewhat† (Heyrmen 1) due to a resurgence of religious zeal (Stein 1) in colonists through faith rather than predestination. Jonathan Edwards however sought to arouse the religious intensity of the colonists (Edwards 1) through his preaching. But how and why was Edwards so successful? What influenced him? How did he use diction and symbolism to persuade his listener, and what was the reaction to his teachings? In order to understand these questions one must look at his life and works to understand how he was successful. In his most influential sermon, â€Å"Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God†, Jonathan Edwards’ persuasive language awakened the religious fervor that lay dormant in colonial Americans a nd made him the most famous puritan minister of the Great Awakening in North America. In order to understand Edwards use of language however, one must look at his early life and formative influences. His family undoubtedly shaped his religious career because â€Å"[H]e was the only son among the eleven children of Rev. Timothy Edwards and Esther Edwards, the daughter of influential puritan clergymen Solomon Stoddard† (Wachal 1). Growing up in a religious family must have influenced his career path. Then â€Å"Edwards attended Yale School of theology at 13 years of age† (Paposian 1). This is important because at Yale, Edwards would create his own â€Å"unique style of preaching† (â€Å"Jonathan Edwards† Dictionary 1). Here â€Å"his theology which soon came to be known as Edwardseanism had developed in hi... ...l, 1989. 68-69. Print. Paposian, Edward M. â€Å"Jonathan Edwards America’s Theologian- Preacher.† In Faith of our Fathers: Scenes from American Church History. Ed. Mark Sidwell. 33-39. Greenville: BJU Press, 1991. Print. â€Å"Revival and Renewal.† American Eras. Vol. 3. The Revolutionary Era, 1754-1783. Detroit: Gale, 1997. 315-321. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Web. 17 May 2012. Stein, Stephen J. â€Å"Edwards, Jonathan.† Encyclopedia of Religion. Ed. Lindsay Jones. Vol. 4. Detroit: Macmillan, 2005. 2698-2701. Gale Virtual Reference Library. Web. 17 May 2012. Tulley, Stephen Richard. â€Å"Awakened to the Holy.† Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God! In Ritualized Context. â€Å"Christianity and Literature.† 57.4(2008): 507+. Literature Resource Center. Web. 17 May 2012. Wachal, Barbara Schwarz. â€Å"Edwards, Jonathan (1703-1758).† Colonial America. Sharpe. Web. 16 May 2012.

My Favorite Movie Essay

My favorite movie is Chinese Super Ninja. The movie has characters who combine fighting with a lot of gymnastics. In the movie the characters demonstrate the precision and skill it takes to use Kung Fu on an opponent. There are many clans in this movie and some have their own fighting style. It is interesting to watch the characters combine fighting with gymnastics. In one scene the fighter did two handsprings and landed in a tree to avoid being hit. Then another fighter tumbled down from the tree striking a fighter with a kick to the chest. see more:favorite movie essay In the movie, characters demonstrate Kung Fu which take a certain skill and precision to work properly. For example, in the movie the fighter must strike the temple to weaken the armor around another fighter in order to kill him. Another example is when the fighters learn to breathe properly so it locks the muscles and the body becomes invincible to blades. If not done properly, the fighter will become vulnerable. The movie also has different clans and fighting styles. There are some small clans such as Lama, Tai Chi, Mings, and Ninja. Another clan is called the Wu Tang Clan and they’re known for using the Lightening Sword Style and the Drunken Monkey. There is also a clan named Shaolin Temple who are known for using the Chinese Finger Jab, Eagle Claw, and the Iron Fist Style. Chinese Super Ninja is my favorite because of the skill of the Martial Arts and knowing the different clans and their fighting styles.

Music and Its Effect on the Human Body

Music stimulates brain growth and productive function. It is instinct to make and enjoy music in homo sapiens, it does not get wiped from memory by diseases like Parkinson’s or Dementia, it was been known to help children with ADHD and ADD pay attention, Charles Darwin and other specialists support the idea that it was used to help us evolve and bond throughout our existence. Music is a way for people to transmit emotions, feelings, ideas, and motivation better than words can do; almost as if it is our innate language.With all these examples, it is impossible to deny the power of music and its positive influence on our mental processes. It is engraved in our biology to be moved by music, powered by its emotional force, and to stimulate our brains in ways that enforce knowledge and facilitate natural mental processes. â€Å"In 2008 archaeologists in Germany discovered the remains of a 35,000-year-old flute. † (Zimmer 1); that discovery is undeniable evidence that music e xisted long before organized civilization. Music is a part of our genealogy, we have used it as a tool to transmit thoughts before modern language was even thought about.Charles Darwin theorized that humans started using music as a way to attract mates, as a peacock shows off its feathers. Other specialists such as Dean Falk of the School for Advanced Research in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Ellen Dissanayake of the University of Washington at Seattle believe that music was used to soothe babies as well. The proper term for this biological process is called, motheresing. Just as mothers today, in all cultures, sing lullabies to soothe their young, primordial humans did the same. The way females motherese are similar in all cultures: a quietly sung song with higher than normal speech, pitch, and slow tempo.These professionals speculate that once the essential elements were laid out and understood, adults began to make music for their own enjoyment as well. Robin Dunbar, a psychologist f rom the University of Oxford holds a third opinion, that music evolved as a way to bond together large groups. Just like primates bond with each other during grooming, primal humans did the same. Eventually, our groups became too large for grooming to remain effective; music offered a practical solution. Large groups could sing together, soothe each other, bond, and vent extra emotions all in one procedure. This practice resembles a modern day concert.It is very reasonable to believe that all of these hypotheses are true because they all exist in evolved forms today. Biologically, music has scientifically proven effects as well. Research suggests that music releases endorphins that work as natural pain-killers. Carl Zimmer states: Dunbar and his colleagues studied people who played music or danced together in church groups, samba classes, drumming circles, and the like. After the performances, the scientists made an indirect measure of the endorphin levels in the performers’ bodies, putting blood pressure cuffs on people’s arms and inflating them until the subjects complained of pain. Since endorphins kill pain, a higher pain threshold indicates elevated levels of the compounds. ) The researchers then repeated the procedure with employees of a musical instrument store who listened passively to constant background music. People who actively moved their bodies to music—dancers, drummers, and so on—had elevated pain thresholds, but no such effect showed up among those who merely listened. (1) This could be another reason that music came into existence, to provide medical help before the days of modern medicine.Today, music therapy is used to help patients with Dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, attention deficit disorders, etc. ; it is used to improve communication, academic abilities, attention span, motor skills, and management of both pain and behavior just to name a few others (Turner 2261-2271). â€Å"The Center fo r InnerChange in the Denver suburb of Greenwood Village, promotes the idea that ‘listening therapy,’ or several sessions of listening to music rich in high and low frequencies, can stimulate the brain enough to eliminate ADHD symptoms† (Samuels 37).The Music for Life project uses the power of music to soothe and repair Dementia sufferers every day. By playing soothing music the patient relaxes, smiles, and in some cases communicates! (Bredin 48). This medication, music, is free of side effects and extremely cost effective. One MP3 player costs less than any prescription of typical medication. Psychically, music therapy has numerous beneficial effects! Judith Turner states in the Gale Encyclopedia on Medicine: Brain function physically changes in response to music.The rhythm can guide the body into breathing in slower, deeper patterns that have a calming effect. Heart rate and blood pressure are also responsive to the types of music that are listened to. The speed of the heartbeat tends to speed or slow depending on the volume and speed of the auditory stimulus. Louder and faster noises tend to raise both heart rate and blood pressure; slower, softer, and more regular tones produce the opposite result. Music can also relieve muscle tension and improve motor skills. It is often used to help rebuild physical patterning skills in rehabilitation clinics.Levels of endorphins, natural pain relievers, are increased while listening to music, and levels of stress hormones are decreased. This latter effect may partially explain the ability of music to improve immune function. A 1993 study at Michigan State University showed that even 15 minutes of exposure to music could increase interleukin-1 levels, a consequence which also heightens immunity. (2261-2271). Without doubt, one can say that music has important physical effects on the body and should be used as a natural supplement for both the healthy and the ill.To reduce anxiety, relax heart rate, and relieve pain through release of endorphins music is a superior choice (in comparison to drugs) to assist in medical endeavors. Mentally, music has numerous benefits as well. It heals the brain through enabling exercise of damaged lobes of the brain and releasing crucial. Autistic patients have shown particularly significant progress when aided with music therapy. Therapy with music is proven to aid in autistic patients communication, relationships with others, and improve their learning skills.Cases with substance abuse, schizophrenia, paranoia, and personality disorders are aided with skills of social interaction, reality orientation, coping skills, stress reduction, and expression of feelings. (Turner 2261-2271). Although the effects of music therapy are countless, the simplicity of therapy is uncanny. Therapists analyze their patients’ conditions then choose a variety of techniques to provide the desired effects, then use musical endeavors such as singing, listening to in strumental music, composition, dancing and guided imagery to help the patient cope with their affliction.Learning to play a musical instrument helps develop motor skills in individuals with developmental delays, brain injuries, or any other motor impairment while also exercising impulse control and group cooperation. Creative movement improves coordination, strengths, and even balance. Improvisation can help anyone learn to express emotion through nonverbal means as well as encouraging socialization and communication of feelings. Singing can develop vocal articulation, rhythm, and breathe control. For troke victims, remembering lyrics and/or melodies is an invaluable technique in healing their amygdala (the part of the brain that deals with memory and perception of auditory stimuli); a healthy amygdala also provides clearer speech and more effective communication. Getting out feelings is easily facilitated with music. Composing lyrics and music assist in persisting through fears and negative feelings. Listening to music can also make people aware of memories or emotions that need to be acknowledged. Singing is also a similar method. Guided Imagery and Music (A.K. A. GIM) is a widely recognized technique developed by music therapist Helen Bonny. This technique utilizes music to invoke emotions, pictures, and symbols from the patient as a bridge to the exploration and expression of (often subliminal) feelings. (2261-2271). Further, Turner explains more of the possibilities of musical therapy in the Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine: Patients with brain damage from stroke, traumatic brain injury, or other neurologic conditions have been shown to exhibit significant improvement as a result of music therapy.This is theorized to be partially the result of entrainment, which is the synchronization of movement with the rhythm of the music. Consistent practice leads to gains in motor skill ability and efficiency. Cognitive processes and language skills often benefit from a ppropriate musical intervention. Pain, anxiety, and depression are major concerns with patients who are terminally ill, whether they are in hospice or not. Music can provide some relief from pain, through release of endorphins and promotion of relaxation.It can also provide an opportunity for the patient to reminisce and talk about the fears that are associated with death and dying. Music may help regulate the rapid breathing of a patient who is anxious, and soothe the mind. The Chalice of Repose project, headquartered at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula, Montana, is one organization that attends and nurtures dying patients through the use of music, in a practice they called music-thanatology by developer Therese Schroeder-Sheker. Practitioners in this program work to relieve suffering through music prescribed for the individual patient. (2261-2271).Without a doubt, music affects the brain in some very dynamic ways. It has roots thousands of years old, evidence as being an important factor in human evolution, and substantial effects on people today. Rhythm and melody can heal the sick, provide aid in medical treatment, increase brain functioning in both the ill and the healthy, and influence mood to a significant degree. In conclusion, no matter what music someone is in to, it has a noteworthy effect on our body and brain. Works Cited Begley, Sharon. â€Å"Music on the Mind: Scientists are finding that the human brain is pre-wired for music.Could this sublime expression of culture be as much about biology as art? † Newsweek 24 July 2000: 50. Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. 19 Sep. 2012. Bredin, Henrietta. â€Å"Communicating through music: Henrietta Bredin on how Music for Life can help overcome the isolation of dementia sufferers. † Spectator 12 Dec. 2009: 48+. Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. 19 Sep. 2012. Dalrymple, Theodore. â€Å"If music be the food of health. † Spectator 10 Nov. 2007: 51+. Opposing Viewpoints In Context. We b. 19 Sep. 2012. Samuels, Christina A. Attention Seekers; Some parents of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder say alternatives such as brain exercises or music therapy are better than medication. † Education Week 27 July 2005: 37. Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. 19 Sep. 2012. Turner, J. (2002). Music Therapy. In D. S. Blanchfield & J. L. Longe (Eds. ), The Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine (2nd ed. , Vol. 3, pp. 2269-2271). Detroit: Gale. Zimmer, Carl. â€Å"The Brain; Is Music for Wooing, Mothering, Bonding–or Is It Just ‘Auditory Cheesecake'? † Discover Dec. 2010: 28+. Opposing Viewpoints In Context. Web. 19 Sep. 2012.

Domestic Partnership Essay

The advantages gained by providing benefits to domestic partners can outweigh the costs. This report will define domestic partnerships, outline the various benefits available for dependants, provide analysis related to the cost of providing benefits to dependants of domestic partnerships, discuss various benefit package options and related costs, and provide details related to the value the company stands to gain by offering such benefits. Domestic Partnership Domestic partnerships are generally thought of as a relationship between two members of the same sex. While same sex relationships garner most of the attention, domestic partnerships are not always between members of the same sex. California Family Code Section 297 defines domestic partners as â€Å"two adults who have chosen to share one another’s lives in an intimate and committed relationship of mutual caring. To establish a domestic partnership in California, a couple must file a Declaration of Domestic Partnership with the Secretary of the State, share a common residence, not be married or in a domestic partnership with someone else, not be related by blood, both are over the age of 18, both are the same sex, or opposite sex over the age of 62 and meet the eligibility criteria under the Social Security Act. Legal Issues Currently, 18 states offer domestic partner benefits for same-sex partners of state employees. Several state and local governments that offer health insurance and other benefits to employees’ unmarried domestic partners are currently facing lawsuits. Proponents of the Defense of Marriage Acts (DOMA) claim these constitutional amendments prohibit governments from offering such benefits to any dependent of a relationship that does not fit the state’s constitutional definition of marriage. Both gay-rights advocates and the American Civil Liberties Union dispute such amendments and are currently engaging DOMA proponents in courts across America in attempts to resolve their differences (Gentile, 2006). The costs associated with defending such legal matters can prove to be very cumbersome. Types of Employer Benefits When seeking employment, benefit packages play a major role in attracting and keeping employees. Employer benefits consist of more than the basic medical, dental, and vision plans. A variety of additional benefits being sought after by potential employees include, but are not limited to, retirement plans, life insurance and the family medical leave act. To qualify for domestic partner benefits, employees may be asked to sign a statement or submit an affidavit asserting they live with a domestic partner and are financially interdependent† (Greenwald, 2003). Health Insurance â€Å"For most nonelderly people in the United States, health insurance and access to health care derive from one’s own or a family member’s employment† (Ash and Badgett, 2006). In all fairness, these types of benefits should be offered to these types of families under the cu rrent guidelines of Domestic Partnership. Two levels of benefits are offered by employers, single coverage and family coverage. Single employees are at a disadvantage when it comes to compensation because some employers offer their employees a flexible benefit to assist with costs. These benefits will include all the same privileges that legally recognized families are currently receiving. The entitlement shall consist of doctor’s visits, prescription drug coverage, hospitalization, and eye exams (Briggs, 1994). Dental Benefits Dental care is an essential benefit which should be available to all family members. Preventive dental care could significantly reduce loss of productivity and catch problems before they become chronic or severe† (Gustin, 2003). Dental benefits are very affordable and valuable. One available option is for this company to offer dental as a voluntary option. This would enable the employees and their domestic partner to take advantage of the dental plan at a group rate, but the employee woul d be responsible for the cost (Gustin, 2003). Retirement/401K Retirement Plans and 401K’s are benefits that are only available to employees; however, choosing beneficiaries is a very important detail to these plans. Although domestic partners cannot be given all of the rights of spouses, plans can be structured to provide them with many of the benefits available for spouses† (Davis, 2007). In addition to being named as beneficiary, a hardship withdrawal can be taken based on the need of the domestic partner, and domestic partners will have the right to rollover death benefits (Davis, 2007). Life Insurance Employee life insurance is available at a more affordable rate through employer plans. Adding family members is an optional benefit. Under this plan, domestic partners and children would be entitled to life insurance coverage for just pennies a day. This would incur no expense for the employer and the employee would benefit from a group rate. Cost to Employees and Employers The cost of healthcare is on the rise and no end to this crisis is in sight. Most people believe all employers should offer health insurance to its employees; however, with the cost of healthcare so high companies who offer these benefits are trying to find ways to offset costs. If all employers did offer health, dental, and life insurance, who would cover the cost? A survey administered by the Commonwealth Fund titled The Public’s Views on Healthcare Reform in the 2008 Presidential Election asked that question to 3,500 randomly selected adults. 70% of people surveyed thought the cost should be shared equally between the employer, employees, and the government. 80% of the people surveyed also thought that if an employer did not offer health insurance they should contribute to the cost of coverage (Lubell, 2008). Tax Equity The Tax Equity for Domestic Partner and Health Plan Beneficiaries Act of 2007 was introduced March 29, 2007. The act states employers offering healthcare insurance have to provide healthcare coverage to domestic partners, same-sex or opposite sex. This law has been added to stop federal tax inequalities same-sex couples currently face when receiving healthcare benefits offered by their employers (Postal, 2007). The new law significantly affected employers in the Northeast and Western states because 42% of larger companies in the Northeast, and 38% of companies in the West have same-sex domestic partner healthcare coverage. Only 14% of large companies in the Midwest and 10% of companies in the south have this type of coverage (Cohen, 2004). Dual Coverage Because the cost of healthcare has increased 15% since 2003, some states in the U. S. have prohibited employees from claiming their spouses/domestic partners as dependents; thus, prohibiting dual coverage in the workforce. Banning dual coverage for these employees saves the state tax payers several million dollars per year while the employees and their families have suitable health insurance coverage. Employees rely on dual health insurance coverage to cover out of pocket costs resulting from procedures which are not fully covered by their primary carrier. Dual coverage insurance can save families hundreds, if not thousands of dollars per year, but can potentially cost the employer hundreds or thousands more (Employer-Sponsored, 2004). Annual Cost According to a research study performed by The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation and Health Research and Education Trust in 2006, private employers nationwide spend an average of $4,242 for single coverage and $11,480 for family coverage on employer sponsored health insurance coverage annually (Employer Health, 2006). Whether the employee is a single hetero-sexual or homo-sexual the rate for single coverage remains the same. The same for family coverage, the married hetero-sexual couple and the same-sex or opposite-sex domestic partners family coverage cost also remains the same. Employees are paying an average of $1,860 for single coverage and $4,848 for family coverage annually. These costs are causing employers to raise workers’ insurance premiums or reduce coverage. Some companies perform internal audits to eliminate ineligible dependents, older children, and ex-spouses/ex-domestic partners. If an employer finds dependents on an employees’ insurance that should not have been covered, the employee is required to pay back medical bills and insurance premiums through payroll deductions (Employer-Sponsored, 2004). Using information from these internal audits employers may notice a slight domestic partner enrollment increase: 0. 1%-0. 3% for gay and lesbian partners and 1. 3%-1. 8% for heterosexual partners. The increase in enrollment does not significantly affect the annual cost to the employer for employer-sponsored benefits provided to domestic partners and their families (Ash and Badgett, 2006). Benefits to the Company Healthcare continues to be a concern to both employees and employers. Employers are developing and offering programs and incentives to attract various types of workers, including those in domestic partner relationships, to attract more qualified candidates. Making benefits available to an employee’s domestic partner, a company is likely to hire and retain an employee whose work output is optimal. Employees in a domestic partner relationship appreciate their employer considering their particular need which results in a higher production rate. Davis 2007). Increased Productivity An employee who is healthy and has a healthy family is less likely to call in sick and take unnecessary time off to care for his or her family. In a study conducted by Ipsos-Reid (2004), two main contributors to employee absenteeism are depression and stress. Health benefits made available to an employee and his or her domestic partner can help reduce these factors. Mark Cauthen, benefit manager for the city of Colorado Springs, believes if one’s dependents feel better, the employee is more productive and focused at work (Wojcik, 2007). Preventative Measures Many companies have recognized the importance of helping employees manage their work and personal lives. Some of the more common preventive measure benefits currently being offered to employees, their domestic partners, and other immediate family members residing in the home are: wellness, flu shots, and fitness programs. Offering these various programs help the employee feel the employer cares for the health of his or her family resulting in increased productivity (Meghji 2007). Lower attrition rates An employer must also be concerned with the effect of employee retention. Currently 50% of Fortune 500 companies are providing benefits to employees involved in same sex domestic partnerships and heterosexual partnerships. Conclusion Offering benefits to domestic partners makes good business sense. While providing benefits to domestic partners may slightly increase employer cost, the benefits will prove profitable. As the research has indicated, enrollment will increase slightly which will not pose a financial hardship to any corporation.