Wednesday, October 30, 2019

Microbiology Exam Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Microbiology Exam - Essay Example Some viruses (animal viruses and bacteriophages) have the capsid encased in an envelope. In addition they are non-membraneous and cannot yield energy. They are also devoid of metabolic enzymes and ribosomes that form the sites for protein biosynthesis.Moreover, they need host cells to replicate. Viruses are transmitted via salivary drops, respiratory fluids, sexual contact, fecal-oral especially in case of contaminated food, animal vectors and via blood. Viroids- Comprise of single-stranded and circular RNA which is noncoding and infect plants. As compared to viruses their genome is much smaller, are protein non-coding, and unlike viruses some possess ribozyme activity. They initiate infection in plants via chloroplast or nuclear replication and they are conveyed in cells via plasmodesmata. Prions- Infectious agents that solely comprise of a protein whose form is misfolded. This is a distinguishing feature as they lack nucleic acids i.e. RNA/DNA. These potent agents means of propagat ion is via inducing folded proteins in healthy organisms to change (misfold) and assume the form of the prion; these have the ability to cause disease. The resultant stable structure causes cell death and tissue damage (Tortora, Funke & Case, 2010). 2. How can viruses lead to cancer? Be sure to use specific examples (e.g. virus name and the cancer it causes) to illustrate your points. Viral transformation mediated via viral genes results to uncontrolled cell growth with contact inhibition loss, tumor formation as well as chromosomal aberrations. In addition viral oncogenes that transform normal cells into malignant cells are transmitted by viruses. Viruses also inactivate the tumor suppressor proteins. The human papilloma virus (HPV) is the causative agent for cervical cancer and it integrates in the host’s genome and suppresses the expression E2 viral gene which represses the expression of viral oncoproteins E7 and E6. E6 has a high binding affinity for p53(tumor suppressor gene) and triggers its degradation and E7 binds to retinoblastoma(Rb). Rb and p53 are tumor suppressor proteins. This results to apoptosis inhibition and dysregulation of cell growth. E6 possesses the ability to trigger telomerase activity as well as immortalizing cells. E7 also triggers abnormal centriole biosynthesis as well as aneuploidy during the initial oncogenic process. Hence, E7 and E6 are synergistic in transforming normal cells to a state of malignancy. However, there is a genetic predisposition to the progression of cervical cancer. Moreover, acute immunosuppression heightens the propensity of cervical dysplasia and subsequent cancer progression (Damania, 2006). 3. You are growing Bacillus subtilis in nine 16,000-liter fermenters to produce enzymes for industrial use. The Bacillus cultures had been growing for 2 days when the cells in one of the fermenters lysed. Explain what happened in this fermenter. This is likely to be a case of bacteriophage contamination. Bacterio phages are a class of viruses that infect bacteria. Upon infecting bacterial cultures, they cause serious problems and this entails complete loss of bioproducts; in this respect enzymes and their subsequent proliferation in the plant (to other fermentors). This results to culture lysis and unless it is contained, the problem is bound to reoccur even after stringent sterilization of equipment. Decontamination is much difficult in such a large scale fermentor. It is has been proven that phage propagation in such a bioreactor can easily spread

Monday, October 28, 2019

Multinational Perspective Essay Example for Free

Multinational Perspective Essay Multinational corporations originated from the need for substantial capital and limited risks for large industrial or commercial consortiums for overseas trade. The modern concept of multinational corporations came into being during the 17th and 18th centuries and a good example of such a venture is the British East India Company in South Asia and the Dutch East India Company in South East Asia’s Indo-Chinese Peninsula. With the current communications and management technologies available, more companies are able to make the most out of international trade liberalization.   Ã‚   Today, multinational corporations are expanding themselves to increase their markets, increase brand presence and image and benefit from inexpensive raw materials and labor (Chang, 2003). Scenario for Multinational Corporations Currently, there is an estimated 40,000 multinational corporation’s world wide in and approximately 250,000 overseas collaborations running cross-continental operations. Most multinational corporations are from the United States, Western Europe, and Japan. By 1995, the top 200 multinational corporations alone had collective revenues reaching of $7.1 Trillion which is equivalent to 28.3 percent of the gross domestic product globally (Bernal, Kaukab, and Yu, 2005). The operations of multinational corporations are governed by the policies of The World Trade Organization (WTO), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and the World Bank. Though the traditional view of multinational corporations is that of big manufacturers, current trends and developments in technology have also given rise to â€Å"micro-multinationals†[1] as well business process outsourcing (BPO) ventures (Ewing, 2005). Among the countries being targeted for multination expansion, China and India are the current top favorites of multinational companies (McKinsey Global Institute [MGI], 2004). Globalization has allowed access to markets via technology and has reduced distribution, lower internal coordination costs.   It has also allowed for networking of specialized services and products in support of corporate functions through BPO’s whether within the companies internal operations or its external activities (Ewing, 2005). Entry to Developing Markets   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Though the scenario of multinational expansion has changed, the methods of entry remain traditional in most developing countries (Hoos, 2000; Tubbs and Schulz, 2006). Strategies to enter new markets for multinational corporations are by mergers or direct acquisition, sequential market entry and through joint ventures Mergers   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Merger or direct acquisition of existing companies is the forthright entry to a market. This is the strategy usually employed by large multinational corporations. It maximizes the economies of scale advantage to overcome barriers to entry (Ewing, 2005; Multinational Corporations, 2006). Considered as foreign direct investments (FDI), they are subject to not only commercial regulation but are also direct affected by fiscal and investment policies by the host country, and related international trade policies (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development [UNCTAD], 2005). Beginning in 2004, it has been identified as a critical in developing countries and studies have been commissioned to quantify their impact of the economies of developing countries (UNCTAD, 2004). The first ranked for FDI is India and was followed closely by China (Kearney, 2004). Though India has been able to outrank China and Mexico, China actually acquires more FDI significantly either country since 2002 (Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, 2005; MGI, 2004). Sequential Market Entry Sequential market entry involves foreign direct investment and getting hold of a sector if the market related to the parent’s companies core line of business, usually its key product or competency. It is different from a merger that it that the parent company does not bring in all of products, services or operations into a host country (Multinational Corporations, 2006). This method is the preferred by smaller companies and conservative business to begin their multinational operations (Kearney, 2004). Sony, in its initial expansion to the United States first limited its operations to manufacturing televisions but eventually expanded its operations to the production of magnetic tape and eventually to the production of audio in the 1970’s. Today, Sony’s operations in the United States include semiconductors and personal communications. Sony’s United States operation used its expertise and leadership in manufacturing television to establish itself in the industry and its local competition and then used this it as leverage to expand its products in the United States (Multinational Corporations, 2006). Another development in multinational operations is that outsourcing of operations or services to other countries. According to both UNCTAD 2004 and 2005 reports, BPO is one of fastest growing industries globally. Joint Ventures   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Joint ventures are operational or service partnerships with companies already existing or operating in the host country. This method of entry is limits is not as liberal as mergers or sequential market entry but is effective when entering heavily regulated markets. The method has been in particular use in entering the markets of China, the Soviet Union and that of Eastern Europe (Multinational Corporations, 2006). The issue of limited control for parent companies is the usually critique of this method and has raised issues regarding liberalization issues (Bernal, Kaukab, and Yu, 2005). Host countries and venture partners significantly benefit from the transfer of technology and management while parent companies are able to enter otherwise restrictive market. The concern for multinational companies however is the development of conflicts with joint venture partners who can become competitors (Multinational Corporations, 2006). Another concern for most multinational corporations regarding entering into joint ventures is that local policies, which their joint venture partners are subject to, are easily changeable. The creation of stable industry policies that may affect joint ventures and similar partnerships is one of the major focuses of developing countries trying to attract more investments (Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, 2005). This move has been supported by the current agenda of the World Trade Organization (WTO), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank and the United Nations (UNCTAD, 2004). Multinational Corporations in Developing Countries   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Entering into s developing market requires the recognition and creation of strategies to deal with poor economic conditions, low educational levels, technological barriers or lack of existing channels and infrastructures for the distribution of the product and service (UNCTAD, 2005). Globalization and Trade Liberalization   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   A major reason for multinational expansion is accessing a wider market. This coincides with the international agenda of globalization and trade liberalization. The Asian Financial Crisis may still be a haunting scenario for many investors (Bernal, Kaukab, and Yu, 2005), but the current trends in Asia, particularly China and India, is creating renewed interest in expanding to developing countries (MGI, 2004).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The efforts of developing countries to liberalize trade and industries have also been encouraging. Recent trends have allowed the return of Coca-Cola to India (Nayak, 2006), the ranking of Asia as the most attractive FDI region (Kearney, 2006) and the growing success on BPO’s in India and the Philippines (UNCTAD, 2005).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The operations of multinational corporations have been constructive in the development of markets, the introduction of new products and the development of industries as a whole. Investments of these companies have helped stressed local economies space and opportunity to expand. The technology and management knowledge that multinational companies bring in has helped local research and development to improve standard practices and policies.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Multinational companies have been able to benefit from reduced labor, materials or overall operation costs. A significant benefit of going global is establishing brand and product presence. Many companies have also benefited from the variated market that globalization has provided them increasing product efficiency and marketability. Global Trend and Scenario   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Though multinational corporations significantly contribute to international trade and development have not enjoyed acclaim. Their presence and nature if operations is said to be more detrimental to local economies than beneficial (Baitu, 2006; Tubbs and Schulz, 2006, Chang, 2003). Studies have also shown the negative effects of the operation of multinational corporations prompted some governments to take a protectionist approach which ahs deterred not only these corporations but trade liberalization in general (Wysocki, 2006).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   According to the UNCTAD report regarding multinational corporations in least developed countries (UNCTAD, 2002), the â€Å"highly centralized nature of these corporations† is the main apprehension against them. Though multinational corporations contribute significantly to local economies in the form of investment, technology and commerce, there is very little barrier to exit from the local industry in case of a national economic downturn (Hoos, 2000). They have been said to have contributed to the aggravation of labor conditions, environmental degradation, and degeneration of social conditions, declined local industries and livelihood, and raised inflation levels (Tubbs and Schulz, 2006).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Furthermore, the mobility of multinational corporations leaves host countries with less bargaining power and allows them significant leverage over countries that are highly disadvantaged and needy of the jobs and investment they provide (UNCTAD, 2002). Current Issues and Concerns for Multinational Operations   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In an international environment, a company’s concerns will have to consider more external factors. International trade laws, liberalization and globalization are the obvious concerns that emerging multinational have to face. More importantly, companies have to orient themselves to local markets, governments and policies that may they may not be familiar with (Wysocki, 2006). Exploring international markets also increases competition not just with traditional competitors but also for new business developments such as micro-multinationals (Ewing, 2005). The risks and challenges of becoming a multinational company need strategies that consider the company’s goals, international market scenarios and effective local marketing approaches. Recommendations In general, there should be further quantitative and qualitative studies on multinational corporations’ actual impact to host countries from individual to industry levels especially for the least developed countries that host them (UNCTAD, 2002).   Multinational companies nowadays are not just commercial ventures; they also serve as highways of liberalization. Some multinational companies have greater assets than the poorest of developing countries leaving these nations with limited bargaining power. The need to attract investments by multinational companies must not undermine the focus on welfare, health and social life (Baitu, 2006). The following considerations are framed UNDTAD’s World Investment Report for 2004 and 2005, the 2002 Report Multinational Corporations in Least Developed Countries; and Bernal, Kaukab and Yu’s The World Development Report 2005 for the WTO:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Host countries must focus on creating industry competencies that do not just cater to the current needs of multinational companies operating in the country. Developing countries must not become dependent on multinational companies and focus on boosting domestic growth.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Developing countries should be liberally cautious in accepting FDI to the country so as to ensure the survival of its local industries. It should not take a protectionist approach creating false security in its local industries but only to alleviate the pressures of advantage that multinationals have by reasons of economies of scale.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Closer coordination with trade associations and international liberalization agencies will allows for developing countries support and knowledge in dealing with multinational corporations. At the same time, multinational corporations can benefit form the standardization of commerce and industry, decreasing speculation and uncertainty for their ventures.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Consideration of social issues can help multinational companies have a better local feel for the host country’s markets. Pubic relations in smaller countries become crucial in building brand and product awareness, purchase and loyalty. It also allows for the feasibility of introducing product extensions and even non-related ventures.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Involving multinational corporations in the host country’s environment, community, research and development can establish a more meaningful relationship. Multinational corporations can benefit form having greater involvement in factors that affect its operations. Fears of multinational corporations being insensitive to local concerns can also be alleviated. Conclusion   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Multinational expansion is but one of the key indications of globalization. Liberalization signifies a country’s acceptance of globalization. Together, multinational corporations and liberalization act as vehicles for development and cooperation.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   As in all relationships, work must be put in to make it work. Multinationals grow when local economies grow through the development of labor, resources and market expansion. Host countries benefit from the investment, technology transfer and the development of its emerging industries. New multinational companies in particular could prosper and establish themselves well in developing economies where competition may not as stiff and industries not as crowded as they would be in developed countries.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The key is in finding a balance between multinational investment and local industry growth and in creating  Ã‚   a relationship between multinational corporations and host countries that are based on mutual development.          References Baitu, J. (2006) Globalisation for the Common Good and Social Justice in Sub-Saharan Africa [Online]. Available from http://lass.calumet.purdue.edu/cca/jgcg/2006/sp06/jgcg-sp06-baitu.htm [Accessed 12 September 2006]. Bergsten, C. F. (2000) The Global Trading System and the Developing Countries in 2000 [Online]. Working Paper 99-6 Institute for International Economics. Available from http://www.iie.com/publications/wp/wp.cfm?ResearchID=135 [Accessed 12 September 2006]. Bernal, L. E., Kaukab, R. S., and Yu, V. P. B. III (2005).The World Development Report 2005: An Unbalanced Message on Investment Liberalization. WTO Institutional Governance and Dispute Settlement, of the Trade and Development Programme: Geneva, Switzerland. Brown, A. G. and Stern, R. M. (2005) Concepts of Fairness in the Global Trading System. Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy, The University of Michigan: Michigan, USA. Chang, H. (2003) Foreign Investment Regulation in Historical Perspective: Lessons for the Proposed WTO Investment Agreement [Online]. Available from: http://www.globalpolicy.org/socecon/ffd/2003/03historical.htm [Accessed 12 September 2006]. Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (2005) Foreign Direct Investment-Policy Procedures. New Delhi: Government of India. Available from: http://dipp.nic.in/manual/manual_03_05.pdf [Accessed 12 September 2006]. Ewing, R. (2005) The New Multinational: Lilliputian, Not Leviathan [Online]. Speaking Freely Asia Times Online. Available from: http://www.atimes.com/atimes/Global_Economy/HD05Dj01.html [Accessed 12 September 2006]. Hoos, J. (2000) Globalization, Multinational Corporations and Economics. Kiado: Budapest. Kearney, A.T. (2004) China and India Jockey for the Top Most Attractive Foreign Direct Investment Destination Globally While the U.S. Is Challenged by These Rapidly Evolving Economies: Global executives see the best business environment since 2000, yet a return to positive global FDI flows could be complicated by a new mix of operational risks. A.T. Kearney:   London, United Kingdom. Nayak , A. K. J. R. (2006) Globalization of Foreign Direct Investment in India: 1900s–2000 [online]. Available from http://www.bu.edu/historic/06conf_papers/ Nayak.pdf [Accessed 12 September 2006]. McKinsey Global Institute (2004). China and India: The Race to Growth [Online]. McKinsey Quarterly . Available from http://www.mckinseyquarterly.com/article_page.aspx. [Accessed 12 September 2006]. Multinational Corporations (2006) Encyclopedia of Management, Volume Mar-No. Available from http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/management/Mar-No/Multinational-Corporations.html [Accessed 12 September 2006]. Tubbs, S. L. and Schulz, E. (2006) Exploring a Taxonomy of Global Leadership Competencies and Meta-competencies. The Journal of American Academy of Business, Volume 8, Number 2, March   2006, Dissertation Paper presented at the Eastern Michigan University. Eastern Michigan University: Michigan. United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (2002) Multinational Corporations (MNCs) in Least Developed Countries (LDC’s). United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (2004) World Investment Report 2004. United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (2005) World Investment Report 2005. Wysocki, B. Jr.(2006) Symbol Over Substance [Online]. Original Article printed in The Wall Street Journal, September 25, 2000. Available from http://www.enterpriseworks.org/about_news_wsj.asp [Accessed 12 September 2006]. [1] Micro-multinational are companies who have small manpower and overall scale unlike the traditional multinational corporations. An example is Navin Communications who have engineering operations in Mumbai, India and headquarters in Mountain View, California (Multinational Corporations, 2006).

Saturday, October 26, 2019

Depletion Of Forests Essay -- essays research papers fc

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Can you picture our earth without forests? Many of us can’t. Forests cover approximately one fifth of the worlds land surface and play an important role in our everyday lives (Dudley 4). Forests provide us with many products and services from helping maintain erosion to providing jobs for our citizens. Humanity depends on the survival of a healthy ecosystem and deforestation is causing many social, economic and ecological problems. One ecological problem is Global warming witch is caused when carbon is released into the air after the burning of forests. Governments and industries must become more aware of these consequences of their activities and change accordingly. They need to cooperate with forest management and work towards a future that benefits all. Humans need to be educated about the current issues of the forests in order for us to save, preserve or sustain these places that provide us with so much.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Humans depend tremendously on the world’s forests, but yet were the ones destroying them. For humans, the forests have many aesthetic, recreational, economic, and cultural values. Timber and other products of the forests are important economically both locally and as exports. They provide employment for those who harvest the wood or for those who make products from the living forest. Forests also provide us with medical drugs, dyes and fabrics. There are many people who are dependent on forestland for their livelihoods. One third of the world’s people depend on wood for fuel as a significant energy source (Dudley). Not only do the forests provide some people with homes, but also provides a popular setting for ecotourism, which includes hiking, camping, bird watching and other outdoor adventure or nature study activities. All these activities and products the forests provide us are at great risk from deforestation.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Not only do forests provide us with all this but also protect soil from erosion and reduces the risks of landslides and avalanches. Trees help sustain freshwater supplies therefore are an important factor in the availability of one of life’s basic needs. Forests affect the climate and are also a very important source of oxygen. One major factor that the forests carry is that they are the home to over one half of the world’s total species (Dudley). Current... ...humans are going to have to undergo some degree of ideological change. Humans are going to have to live more sustainable lives and become closer with nature. Once the crisis of deforestation has passed, humankind will enjoy a finer existence, and will look forward to a bright future. Bibliography Anderson, Anthony. Alternatives to Deforestation: Steps Toward Sustainable Use of the Amazon Rain Forest. New York: Columbia University Press, 1999. Dudley, Nigel. The Death of Trees. London: Pluto Press Limited, 1985. Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations. The Challenge of Sustainable Forest Management: What Future for the Worldn’t Forest? Rome: FAO, 1993 Hatch, Chris. â€Å"Consuming Canada’s Forests.† Brazil of the North. 1997, pg. 23. Land Slides. Encarta Reference Suite 2000. CD-ROM. 1999 Ness, Bryan. Saving Tropical Forests Profitably. 17 May 1998. 23 Oct. 1999. Shuster, Laurie. â€Å"Senate Votes to Continue Salvage Logging.† Home Improvement Market v 233: p10. 24 Oct. 1999

Thursday, October 24, 2019

The false accusation (story) :: essays research papers

The False accusation Jimmy was a short and a big headed kid. He was very smart and had brown hair. One day, he was walking in the long and narrow hallway between his classes with, his autographed football and work books in his hand, when his friend Sheen approached him. Sheen was Jimmy’s best friend. He was tall and had black hair. Sheen was considered by Jimmy, to be slow in the head. â€Å"Where’s our next class?† Jimmy asked. â€Å"What?† asked sheen. â€Å"Where’s our next class?† Jimmy repeated. â€Å"Oh, why didn’t you say that? It’s over there,† said sheen, pointing down to the class at the end of the hallway. Sheen led them to their class and sat a seat behind from Jimmy. Jimmy sat down and put his ball under his chair. The class was very spacious with 4 rows of 4 individual desks. The desks were all facing a chalkboard that was located in the front of the class. In the back of the class were four computers on individual tables. The chairs near those desks were very low. There was a little space that was dark between the tables. Jimmy looked around. The rest of the class was already seated and ready. Sitting on the right of Jimmy was a fat brown haired kid named Karl. Karl snorted when he laughed and Jimmy thought that to be funny. Karl was Jimmy’s other friend. On the other side of Jimmy, was an enormous and tall kid that always used to pick on Jimmy. He was called Max the bully by the rest of the class. The bell rang, which meant that class was starting. A second after the ringing, walked in the teacher. Her name was Mrs. Polzin. She was short and chubby, and had a low voice. She had short dark brown hair and blue eyes. Jimmy disliked her and believed she was from a different planet. Jimmy had her as a teacher for 3 years; since 3rd grade and had never liked her. Class started by the Mrs. Polzin greeting the students with, what Jimmy thought to be, a fake smile and good morning. She sat down at her desk and asked the pupils to take out their show and tell items. Other students had brought their pictures; others had brought caps and sweatshirts from different countries. Jimmy thought, like the others, his show and tell item was the best.

Wednesday, October 23, 2019

Multiple personality disorder

IntroductionMultiple Personality Disorder (MPD) is one of the dissociative disorders (DD). A dissociative disorder makes a person to experience a transitory adjustment of consciousness. As such, the person has a tendency of diminishing the level of awareness towards the surroundings. Thus, dissociative amnesia and fugue, and depersonalization disorder are the other types of DD. At present, the MPD has been renamed and known in investigative term as the dissociative identity disorder (DID). An MPD or DID shows at least two separate identities of individuality. This as well seizes to manage the persons’ conduct.Richmond (1997) explained that MPD is an abnormal condition in which the personality becomes so fragmented that the various parts cannot even communicate with each other. For the reason that, the personality in MPD is different within the person. This personality can have separate memories, behavior, physical attribution and even gender (http://www.fortea.us/english/psiqu itria/mutiple.htm).Furthermore, the personality is the result of a particular problem of an individual to cope with the environment and the new personality is a mechanism created by the psyche to deal with it. The above notion of Richmond (1997) also suggest that a person develops an alters that is, the different personalities that occur to him. This is observe when the person begins to dissociate in order to create new personality as a way of avoidance to a tremendous situation.Most of the researchers agreed to one notion, that MPD or DID has a significant factor during childhood days. It means that this identity disorder had been developed and can be traced out on past experiences that a person undergone; it can be a traumatic one or an extreme stressful events. In addition, Cherry (n.d.) stressed that this disorder occurs when a child is abused at a young age.As a result, his personality splits into several alters to help himself handle and deal with the stress. Hence, it was arg ued that multiple personality is the result of coping approaches or their means of defense mechanism to keep away from a terrible scenario. Sancar (1994 – 2006) added that these created personalities are then likely to serve as mechanism for coping with situations and events dealing with one particular aspect of the traumatic experience.According to the website (http://www.angelfire.com/nj/Dissociative), DID or MPD is often referred to as a highly creative survival techniques, because it allows an individual to endure hopeless circumstances to preserve some areas of healthy functioning. It serves as the defensive dissociation which becomes reinforced and conditioned. Evidently, dissociative escape is very effective and the patient had already mastered the alters. He may involuntarily use whenever he sense danger or trouble.   This can be concluded that MPD may arise depending on the extent of severe experience and most often referred to as defense mechanism.CausesMore resea rch at present explain the concept of MPD or DID. More likely, researches unified in their investigations in tracing out the origin or causes of this disorder. The cause of the disorder is as yet unknown. However, it has been argued by some researchers that the cause of MPD is due to intense stress, trauma, and even abuses. It was assumed that the on-going trauma of abuse, which happens during childhood, just when personality is developing, somehow causes alternate, distinct personalities to form.   Unlike ego, the alternate personalities can and usually do exist completely out of awareness of the main person or of each other. It is as if the alters live in isolated compartments with no communication among them.This is most often the effect of an early awful scenario. Furthermore, a severe childhood trauma or abuses tend to create a mental split or dissociation as a defense against the traumatic situations.   In this way, they could escape the trauma of abuse, at least temporari ly by creating new personalities to deal with stress. In addition, Frey (n.d.) added that the severe dissociation which characterized by DID is currently understood to result from an innate impulse to dissociate easily, repeated episodes of severe physical or sexual abuse in childhood, lack of a supportive or comforting person to counteract abusive relative(s), and the influence of other relatives with dissociative symptoms or disorder.Moreover, based on studies women are more likely associated with MPD because they are emotional and are commonly sexually abused than men.Some indisputable cases of DID apparently occur as a result of severe, on-going emotional, sexual, or physical abuse. We also know that DID does not seem to happen as an adult response to trauma; say for instance, men who have been tortured for years in prison apparently do not develop DID. Thus, Adult trauma, however, might bring out other personalities if the adult had developed DID in childhood. The process seem to begin only in children. This makes sense, because childhood is the time of life when personality in general develops in all of us.SymptomsThe symptoms (FreeEssays.cc -2003) of an individual with multiple personality disorder are: lack of appropriate emotional response – that is, a person shows an awkward reaction emotionally to a particular events, for example he may project uninterested feeling to a Christmas party or low sense of empathy; memory lose – suggests of forgetting something or not knowing what they have said or done such as lost time or misplacing a thing; feeling dream like; experiencing dissociation which might include dizziness, headaches, numbness in the body; recurrent depression – which tend the person to be sad and despair; anxiety – which the   person felt panic, uneasy, uncomfortable and somehow experiencing phobias;Substance abuse – is a typical scenario were some individuals find it as a substitute or as a defense mecha nism to face their concerns, this is because they have this perception in mind that taking the substance make them feel at peace say for instance, a teenager taking marijuana to forget his family problem; eating disorder such as bulimia, anorexia or compulsive overeating– are another way of coping mechanism of a person in which he averts his attention in taking food excessively instead of facing the problem.In other pole, a person has no appetite to take food regularly due to disturbance of the problem; for example, a girl after a break-up with her boy friend eats too much to divert her attention rather than thinking desperately or a fat lady did after six o’clock meal just to reduce weight; a man suffering stress would probably eat too much to pacify his emotional anxiety or can not eat well; sexual dysfunction – may refer or include addiction and avoidance; has low self-esteem – being not motivated, has no desire or interest to life thus the perception is frail; shame – suggest of being socially anxious or a fear of rejection or of what others might think; sleeping disturbances – which includes insomnia, nightmare and sleepwalking; mood swing – in which a person’s atmosphere changes in present setting.Hence, Sancar (1994) added that the co-occurring symptoms and disorder that associated with DID/MPD had been consistently observed in clinical setting that MPD patients suffered such as from panic, anger, rage, sense of unreality, flashbacks, image trauma, and hyper vigilance. People diagnosed with DID also have a secondary diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).Thus, another significant symptom of MPD is amnesia which can not be explained by ordinary forgetfulness. It is a state which a person cannot remember anything. Generally speaking, it is a condition that the stored information in the brain with his past experiences disappeared that would certainly give him a picture of a tabula raza (Lat in word which means, all is blank and empty). Say for instance, a person with amnesia may loss his memory or any information about his past; he even forgot his name, where he lives, or his family and more forgotten scenario.DID will not be determined if the symptoms will not cause any major disturbances to the person’s life or if they were due to the physiological effects of a substance such as: drugs or alcohol or a general medical condition. This implies that DID/MPD simply be notice when alters ignite in the person’s behavior thus, this is the time were symptoms arises.Therapeutic TreatmentThe treatment for a personality disorder will take considerable time. A few sessions of cognitive-behavioral treatment will likely not have much effect on deeply rooted unconscious conflicts. This will focus on overcoming all of the unhealthy psychological defense mechanisms that have been built up over a lifetime of emotional pain. This will be accomplished primarily through genu ine, honest emotional encounters with the psychologist. In essence, the psychotherapeutic work all depends on the integrity of the psychotherapeutic relationship, through which new, psychologically healthy interpersonal behaviors and healthy boundaries will replace old, unhealthy defense mechanisms (Richmond; 1997-2000).The same as the other personality disorder the MPD or DID is curable. However, it needs to be facilitated or attended with highly qualified practitioner. A thorough and intensive individual psychotherapy or talk therapy. In this case, the session of treatment for psychotherapy is a long-process. It may take a couple of months to a year or more to be concluded. However, a large percentage of people are cured with this method. In this approach, both the person and the therapist must have sense of connection or able to become closer which generate a more trustful companionship.In addition, the other treatment modalities according to Halgins (1997) includes: medication à ¢â‚¬â€œ which some doctors will prescribe antidepressant for DID patient because their alter personalities may have anxiety or mood disorders sometimes patient that are been given medications become psychologically dependent. Hypnotherapy be considered for memory retrieval. The alters may come out and disclose the abusive childhood reminiscences, this is also used for calming and shooting the person during treatment. Is a standard method of treatment with DID patient, because it helps patient recover repressed ideas.It is also an alternative treatment that will help the patient stay clam while pounding out the emotional stresses. Family therapy sessions may also help to end the cycle of abuse. Furthermore, this can be a support group to the client. Because people that are close to him especially his parents and siblings are his nurturing and extending support that would possibly help the patient’s fast recovery.It is as well appropriate to consider the behavioral therapy appr oaching for DID in order to carry out the clients’ natural environment thus able to stress out the current problems and factors influencing them. For the fact that it can create new problem for learning in the assumption that learning can ameliorate problem behavior. Hence, the treatment for DID will last for five to seven year in adults and usually requires several different treatment methods.BIBLIOGRAPHYA. Book  Halgin P. Richard . 1997. Abnormal Psychology: The Human Experience of Psychology Disorders. Usa: Brown and Benchmark PublishersB. Net SourcesSancar Feyza 1994-2006. Exploring Multiple Personality Disorder. Available: http://serendip.brynmawr.edu/bb/neuro/neuro99/web3/Sancar.htmlhttp://www.fortea.us/english/psiquitria/mutiple.htmhttp://www.angelfire.com/nj/Dissociative/

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Fundamentals of guidance and counselling

Fundamentals of guidance and counselling Counseling involves manipulation of the human brain ideologies in order to bring out a clear conviction from an individual. It involves finding solutions to issues that are conflicting in a human’s brain. It sometimes necessitates the counselor to convince the client to change his/her behavior and lifestyle through advice offered.Advertising We will write a custom proposal sample on Fundamentals of guidance and counselling specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It necessitates the counselor to feel his/her client’s emotions through deep concentration on the facts derived from the client. He then derives the problem and its possible solutions, which he instills in his client through advice. Counseling involves advice on diverse sectors that assist human beings to cope with personal problems depicting from abuse, self-esteem, career development or depression (Makinde, 1984). It necessitates the building of policies to govern the counselors. The most prominent policy that has to be input in the counseling institution is privacy to customer information. The entity has to ensure that each customer is a remarkable person and entitles to secrecy on his/her case. The counselors should take an oath of privacy before embarking on employment as a counselor. This ensures that the customer builds trust between the counselor and himself. Counselors should avoid giving details about what his client came to seek advice about to anyone, even close relatives such as spouses or parents without the customer permission. The information should be confidential to the counseling professional and his counterparts. For access to client information, a grant has to be permitted through written and signed evidence to enable filing. Privacy should have exceptions such as an order from the law courts to release information that could display the client’s cause of behavior, or when his/her actions may cause a threat to society, which requires that he should be placed in a protection institution. Information recorded by trainees and students for purposes of learning through tape recordings has to be destroyed. It should not be posted on the SIUE counseling site for master’s and doctorate training. Attendance policies should be put in place for counselors and clients to follow. The client should communicate with the counselor on the preferred date of appointment as well as the counselor’s availability. This ensures that there are no run-on incidences as well as bouncing appointments, which may make the client de-motivated to continue with the counseling sessions. Clients may shy from attending counseling sessions. The counselor should try to make contact with clients who do not show up and encourage them to set up another appointment. However, they should not use coercion to make the client attend the counseling session.Advertising Looking for proposal on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Clients may show the need of treatment through medication in severe cases. This should be assessed through thorough interaction between the client and the counselor. The counselors should then direct them to psychiatric attention from a professional. Psychiatric attention should be provided to clients who go through continuous counseling sessions. This increases the client’s chances of recovering and at faster rates. The institution should communicate with the psychiatrists in order to inform them of their client’s progress during medication. In order to attach a client to a professional psychiatrist, the client should bind the agreement by signing. This ensures that information released to the psychiatrist has authority from the client. The counselor’s notes made from counseling sessions have to be recorded in softcopies so as to ensure safety and backup. The psychiatrist and counselor shou ld create a trustworthy relationship with the client. This requires them to ensure confidentiality at all levels in their line of duty. This can also be emphasized by ensuring that the client deals with a counselor or psychiatrist. This will enable the institution to have a tracking system that is consistent to prevent repeated treatment. The counseling institution should instill a policy that handles client complaints and grievances. Customer complaints are crucial since they assist the counselors to provide quality services to customers. There should be suggestion boxes placed at places where clients can access them at ease (Milne, 2003). The institution can also open a website in which clients drop their complaints through e-mails. They should provide information on those incidences that led to complains within a given period since the incidence occurred. This may regard to lack of satisfaction from services provided by the attendant. The complaints should be directed to the mana gement of the institution and collected from the suggestion boxes every day. The management should then consult with the affected parties so as to provide a satisfactory solution. Significant grievances should be used to address and monitor the professional in question. In extreme situations, counselors should be charged in a court of law for their unethical behavior. This improves service delivery as well as sharpening their skills and expertise.Advertising We will write a custom proposal sample on Fundamentals of guidance and counselling specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The councilors should ensure that they follow ethical standards under laws governing councilors nationwide. They should ensure that mandated counseling only happens when a rightful governing body allows it. These are such as school judicial boards or court orders, which deem it crucial for specified students to undergo counseling. The institution should instill an a udit system which ensures laws and policies use by counselors during counseling sessions. The counselors employed should be from diverse backgrounds and training. This ensures that they can understand the client problem at ease and offer appropriate solutions. References Makinde, O. (1984). Fundamentals of guidance and counselling. London: Macmillan. Milne, A. (2003). Counselling ([New ed.). London: Teach Yourself.

Monday, October 21, 2019

Historical Methodologies

Historical Methodologies The credibility and accuracy of any historically account depends on the type of approach that the historians use in the course of their work. Historians must be conversant with available methodologies and approaches in order for them to handle evidence collection and interpretation in the best way possible (Green, 1999). Historical research and analysis is not an easy task as it seems due to the technicalities involved.Advertising We will write a custom term paper sample on Historical Methodologies specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Historical methodologies and approaches consist of concepts and techniques used by historians to explore and highlight different types of historical events (Green, 1999). Each historical approach tends to challenge previous approaches as it attempts to improve historical research and analysis. This paper will discuss different types of types of historical approaches used by historians and the contribution th at each approach makes to the general field of historical studies. Empiricism is a historical methodology that is based on the theory that human knowledge is gained through knowledge and experience. This approach refutes the argument that human beings possess some innate ideas that can not be imparted through experience (Green, 1999). According to the empiricism approach, history can only be retrieved through sensory perception and scientific experiments. The empiricism historical approach emphasizes the fact that historians must test their theories and hypotheses through physical observation of events and other natural phenomena rather than mere intuition. The empiricism approach is widely used in philosophy and history when conducting a theoretical inquiry. The hypotheses used in this approach must be testable using scientific methods. Empiricism completely opposes rationalism which emphasizes on intuition and reason as definite sources of knowledge. The use of human senses to per ceive and conceive historical knowledge and other types of knowledge is what the empiricism approach focuses on (Green, 1999). The Empiricism approach was widely developed by Aristotle and is among the early historical approaches. Historical materialism is a concept developed by Karl Marx and has become a very important methodological approach in the conception of history. This approach is used in the study of economic history and the general society. The historical materialism approach emphasizes the fact that the economic activities that human beings engage in give rise to the non-economic features of the society (Howell, 2001). Political structures and social classes come as result of economic activity. The original argument of the materialism approach was that human beings have to produce the fundamental necessities of life to guarantee survival.Advertising Looking for term paper on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn Mo re Despite this methodological approach being used to understand historical developments and the society in general, it also emphasizes on the importance of production relations in sustaining economic production. Division of labor is key to maintaining the production network where human beings perform different duties in the production of the various necessities of life (Howell, 2001). The ability to use means of production such as human knowledge and raw materials characterize the success of the Marxist ideology. The materialism approach tries to highlight the modes of production that the society has employed over time. This approach sets to highlight the economic history of the society by examining the modes of production used in the society through time (Howell, 2001). In the course of interacting with nature, human beings are able to produce their material needs in different ways. According to Marx, the productive forces in the society determine the mode of production to be adopted by that society. Some of the modes of production that Marx came up with include communism, feudalism and capitalism as they follow each other in chronological order (Green, 1999). Materialism is a methodological approach that helps historians to fully comprehend the basis of change that constantly takes place in the human society. According to Marx, the human history is coherent in the manner that productive forces and modes of production are inherited from one generation to another as they continue to be improved and developed in tandem with technological advances and changing human needs. The struggle between different social classes for economic resources is what makes history (Green, 1999). The materialism approach is against the idea of human history being perceived as a series of accidents. The materialism approach emphasizes the fact that the present can only be understood by studying the past. Past events and activities shape the present both socially and economi cally. There are various observations through which history can be developed using the Marxist ideologies. To begin with, the social development of a society is entirely dependent on the amount of productive forces that the society has (Green, 1999). Social relationships within the society stem from production relations which human beings have no choice but to get involved. Productive forces determine whether production relationships develop or not. The mode of production plays a critical role in determining the rate at which the production forces develop. According to Marxist beliefs, the society is founded on its relations of production and modes of production. Economic exploitation in the society is brought about by a particular social class that uses the state as an instrument of forming and protecting their production relations (Green, 1999).Advertising We will write a custom term paper sample on Historical Methodologies specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The materialism approach also disputes the fact that the historical process is predetermined. Social classes within the society struggle and in the process form the actual historical process. The society goes through various stages of economic transformation as a natural way of sustaining itself. The social science approach is one of the major methodologies used by sociology historians in an attempt to try and understand the sociological history of a particular society. Social science uses scientific method to analyze and understand the past social life. The field of social science is very wide and handles a lot of disciplines including historical research and analysis of social history (Howell, 2001). This approach does not deal with natural sciences but it employs the same methods used in studying natural science to explain and analyze the social life of a particular society. The social science approach uses both quantitative and qualitative techniques to interpret and come up with a definite historical account of the social life in a particular society. According to this approach, history can just be studied the same way mathematics and other natural sciences are studied. The social science approach was largely influenced by the industrial revolution that emphasized moral philosophy (Howell, 2001). This methodology employs the use of data and theory depending on what discipline the historian intents to study. Empirical observations and logic are the major components of the social science historical methodology. This approach differs with the materialism theory in the sense that the evidence collected is thoroughly studied using scientific methods. The social actions of a particular society are studied using statistical techniques such as open-ended interviews and questionnaires that are administered to a sample population. This approach is very comprehensive compared to the previous methodologies in the sense that it explains and d escribes historical findings rather than just predicting (Howell, 2001). The social science approach tests all hypotheses to establish the truth in them. All the possible explanations of a particular social action are provided by this approach. The study of social and cultural issues of the society has led to the development of new methodologies and approaches in order to increase the chances of coming up with more accurate results (Tosh, 2000). Social history has been replaced by cultural history due to the fact that the culture of the society preserves all the aspects of a particular society. Anthropology is a social science discipline that tends to explain the cultural orientation of different societies. The study of social and cultural histories of a particular community is very vital in the sense that it helps give a particular sense of identity to the community. Anthropology uses scientific and statistical methods to explain how the society is set up socially and culturally.Ad vertising Looking for term paper on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This new approach aims at describing the society in detail since the social science approach only deals with social life. This new approach bases it explanations on real facts rather than predictions and imagination. Social trends in the society are what forms social history which is established by using scientific methods. Social history explores how ordinary people within a society live (Tosh, 2000). Both political and intellectual histories are justified by the findings in the social field. The new social history approach explores the social history of a society in detail including labor history, family history, ethnic history, educational history together with demographic history. The new social approach is extended by the cultural approach that was established recently. The new cultural approach focuses more on cultural traditional customs, arts, languages and cultural interpretation of historical experiences (Tosh, 2000). The new cultural approach challenges the materialism ap proach which only highlights economic changes as a source of history. The cultural approach takes a lot of time because of the many cultural elements explored during research and analysis. Gender history is another type of historical approach that specifically explores the past from the gender perspective. This method tends to focus on the history of women and their changing roles in the society (Tosh, 2000). This type of historical approach has only been in place for a very short time but the impact it has made to the general field of history can not be underestimated. The gender approach faced a lot of challenges in its initial stages as many people were reluctant to accept women history as a historical discipline. This made the proponents of this approach to change its name from women history to gender history. This approach has gained a lot of support because many women are now getting interested in the historical profession. Women historians have been accused of being biased as they tend to highlight feminine issues rather than the general gender issues (Howell, 2001). The gender approach is categorized under supplementary history because women were conspicuously missing in the majority of previous historical recordings. This approach focuses on highlighting and position and role of women in history. Women play a very important role in the history of any community and the fact other historical methodologies do not highlight their contribution; the supporters of the gender approach have always challenged the credibility of previous historical approaches (Howell, 2001). The post modern historical approach includes both post-structural and post-colonial histories. The postmodern historical approach completely challenges all other traditional approaches by stating that there is a very thin line between facts and fiction. Postmodernists perceive all historical accounts as fiction. The postmodern approach encourages historians to use history as a way of promoti ng an ideology (Tosh, 2000). This methodology focuses on revising recorded history with an aim protecting social minorities from oppression. Postmodern history plays a major role in exposing past injustices with an aim of correcting them. The post-modern approach is always criticized for being radical and generalizing all historical events as fiction. Some of the injustices exposed by postmodern history include slavery, colonialism and other forms of oppression. The postmodern approach retells histories so that the oppressed groups in the society are empowered (Tosh, 2000). According to postmodernists, there is no way that the society can correct past mistakes if in the first place the people are not aware of the mistakes that were committed in the past. Postmodern historians argue that it is inevitable to avoid bias in history (Tosh, 2000). In conclusion, historical methodologies help historians a great deal in exploring the past. New historical approaches have been developed in or der too explore the past in detail. The discovery of many historical disciplines has contributed to the changes experienced in historical approaches. Each historical approach has got its theories and ideologies which gives historians the freedom to choose an approach that is relevant to their areas of specialization. Historical methodologies have completely change the way historical studies are conducted and as a result enabling the society to understand its past and at the same time use the historical knowledge to shape the present and the future. References Green, A. (1999). The houses of history: a critical reader in the twentieth century history and theory. Manchester: Manchester University Press. Howell, M. (2001). From reliable sources: an introduction to historical methods. New York, NY: Cornell University Press. Tosh, J. (2000). The pursuit of history: aims, methods and new directions in the study of modern history (5th ed.). London: Longman.

Sunday, October 20, 2019

6 Reasons Youre Having Problems Concentrating

6 Reasons You're Having Problems Concentrating There are many reasons why your mind might wander. Some of the most common factors are non-medical and can be treated by making small changes in your routine. 1. Fatigue Fatigue from sleep deprivation is the most common cause of an inability to concentrate on one topic for a long time. Many studies have shown that people are not getting enough sleep, and sleep deprivation have serious physical, emotional, and cognitive effects. The first step in attempting to solve your concentration problem is finding a way to get at least eight hours of sleep every night. This isnt easy to do. We have busy lives and develop habits that make it difficult to get to sleep early enough. However, if you have a severe concentration problem, you may need to make some sacrifices to find a solution. Try getting plenty of sleep and see if you get results. 2. Anxiety Anxiety can cause the inability to concentrate too. Are you worried about something? If so, you might need to isolate your source of anxiety and confront it head-on. We deal with many pressures from our peers, and this social force can become quite damaging in extremes. Are you dealing with pressure? If so, it may be time to change your life to eliminate some of the stressors. Is your schedule too heavy? Are you involved in a toxic friendship? Is something else bothering you? If you are dealing with some pressure that might lead you down a dangerous path, it might be time to get a second opinion from someone. You can talk to a parent, a doctor, a guidance counselor, a co-worker, or a teacher. Depending on the situation, your emergency contact might be different. Find people you trust and let them know that youre dealing with anxiety and would like some support. 3. Excitement Excitement is related to anxiety, but a little more fun! There are lots of things that come along from time to time that grab our attention and make us daydream. This can be a big problem when weve got to pay attention to something! Make the conscious decision to set aside your daydreams until after class. 4. Love A big distraction is a physical attraction or being in  love. Are you having a difficult time concentrating because you cant get someone out of your head? If so, you need to find a way to discipline yourself. It is sometimes helpful to establish healthy routines in your habits by setting up parameters both inside and outside your head. Outwardly, you can establish a physical space and a concentration time. Inwardly, you can set rules about thoughts that are and are not permissible during concentration time. 5. Diet and Caffeine Your diet and, for those who drink coffee, consumption of caffeine, are other potential problems when it comes to concentration. Your body is just like a machine in some ways. Just like an automobile, a body needs clean fuel to keep it running well. Different people are affected in different ways from foods and chemicals-and sometimes those effects can be unexpected. For example, it may surprise you to know that some studies have linked low-fat diet with symptoms of depression! And depression can affect your concentration. Caffeine is another potential trouble-maker when it comes to diet and moods. Caffeine consumption can cause insomnia, headaches, dizziness, and nervousness. These symptoms are sure to affect your concentration. 6. Boredom Boredom is another big culprit when it comes to staying focused on your studies. Boredom stems from doing something that lacks meaning and motivation. What can you do? Every time you prepare to enter a study environment, take a moment for a reality check. What do you need to accomplish? Why? Concentrate on a goal for the next hour and think of a way to reward yourself for reaching that goal.

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Centralisation and Decentralisation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Centralisation and Decentralisation - Essay Example We dissect a case in which the center is not a solitary individual yet a gathering, a populace. There are, on a fundamental level, a few phases of an org issue where one can present an aggregate control issue: the agreement arranges, the checking stage, the requirement stage. As the first venture in this plan, for the purpose of simplification and similarity with different regions of provision, we cast our examination in a class of models that has turned into the workhorse multi foremost executor structure: the "normal org" model, which concentrates on the contracting stage. One variant of the normal office model, known as inherent regular org, is a great first estimate to the issue of control of policymakers by residents. Aghion and Tirole's (1997) worry is a substantive one: while org-graphs, titles, and formal occupation obligations are effortlessly measured, it is troublesome to concentrate by means of reviews or different means the personalities of the individuals who have subje ctive information. The vague, indescribable, delicate nature of subjective information can result in overview reactions to be problematic and unverifiable, but then this learning is key to firm esteem. Authoritative scholars contend that human co-operation and correspondence channels, for example, gatherings are the essential hierarchical instrument by which the administration chain perceives the vicinity of subjective information and lets the holder of this learning substantively impact the choice.

Friday, October 18, 2019

Werewolves Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Werewolves - Essay Example The werewolves (though referred to differently from a place to another) were among such species of living creatures, which roamed the thick forests as well as within the dark of the nights and which, according to many societies, were very dangerous, and thus required to be avoided by human beings (Regel1-5). Communities and social groups developed legends, which would explain the existence of these werewolves, the manners to fight them and ways to kill them as they were seen to kill people. Many cultures in the past had much ascription to beliefs of existence of these beings (traces that are in existent even in the present day era). Despite the continued existence of these figures of werewolves within the fiction fields in the film industry, there is a real concern of the extinction of these werewolves as they were. Nevertheless, the existence of the Bigfoot, the Yeti as well as the Sasquatch in the 19th century raises concerns of whether this would point to the evolution of the trad itional werewolves; and in case, this would be the explanation to the evolution. The theory of natural selection and evolution as described by Charles Darwin has been pointed to be the most influential among other theoretical frameworks explaining the existence and extinction of living species. With cultural beliefs, cultural changes and superstitions being of important in explaining the cessation of the werewolves biological reality, the Darwinian evolution theory centered on natural selection and was thus equally central in this explanation. Nevertheless, the critics of such theories of evolution (as they are used in explaining the disappearance of these species werewolves) would have it that this theory does not hold essence in explaining the emergence of other scientific legitimate monsters as they are. History has it that the existence of werewolves could be traced quite far back though some

The Continuum from Legitimacy to Fraud Research Paper - 4

The Continuum from Legitimacy to Fraud - Research Paper Example This essay demonstrates that different improvements and various practices should be involved in the process of earnings management. Financial reporting can be influenced by numerous factors and even a personal impact can be very important trigger when fraud occurs. A lack of motivation from the company can lead managers and accountants to fraud. Concealment is one of many possible strategies implemented in the process of auditing. It can be claimed that the following four parties are key determinants of internal and external concept development of legal and fraudulent earnings management: boards of the directors, stakeholders, managers, and auditors. It is possible to describe their mutual relations in the following way: stakeholders make boards of directors write invented figures in their financial statements, managers are subjected to the orders of the company's authorities and auditors are cheated when all these actions are combined. This paper makes a conclusion that thus, financ ial statement looks like Pandora's Box and different vices come out of it by voluntary actions of directors, accountants, and managers. Moreover, the two basic pillars would make earnings management fair and stable: flexibility and inviolability. In addition, It can be also supposed that any modern company can be influenced by changing the environment, politics of the county, national or local influences etc. Thus, ethical issues are integrative elements of legitimate practices in earnings management.... With respect to the study conducted by Levitt in 1998, accountants should develop more flexible practices, but the highest standards of objectivity. Fraud in management practices can be illustrated by numerous examples, such as a famous case of fraud experienced by the Enron Company (Hoffman et al, 1996). Accountants of the company were not afraid of providing their financial statements. The company experienced bankruptcy and a great impact was made on the employees of the company, retired employees and their pensions and many other people, who suffered huge financial losses. The following conditions are the most relevant to the earnings management conduct: â€Å"remaining alert, through observation and making inquiries as necessary, for evidence of noncompliance with relevant ethical  requirements by members of the engagement team, determining the appropriate action if matters come to the engagement partner's attention that indicate that members of the engagement team have not co mplied with relevant ethical  requirements, and forming a conclusion on compliance with independence requirements that apply to the audit engagement† (Statement on Auditing Standards, 2010). The words and word combinations in italics can be considered as triple conditions for fair and successful earnings management. To reveal fraud in earnings management relevant ethical  requirements, the appropriate action and independence requirements should be followed by the auditors. Otherwise auditing will fail and the company will be subjected to a spoiled goodwill, suspicion of stakeholders or even bankruptcy (Statement on Auditing Standards Overall Objectives of the Independent Auditor, 2010). Conclusion Different improvements and various practices should be involved in the process of

Thursday, October 17, 2019

The MacLeod Report (2009) claims that engagement strategies are Essay - 1

The MacLeod Report (2009) claims that engagement strategies are desirable for organisations and employees. With reference to aca - Essay Example 5). Engagement strategies aim at the establishment of mutual respect for what employees can be and what they can do in the organization given the right context that is beneficial for all stakeholders including the organizations, the consumers of services, and the employees themselves. Although engagement strategies are desirable for all organizations, yet they are not desirable for all employees, though for a considerable population of employees, engagement strategies are desirable. Although engagement strategies are generally desirable for the organizations, yet the same cannot be generalized for all employees. These days, many employees keep looking for employment opportunities elsewhere that would offer them better salary and job privileges rather than wanting to stay in the same organization for a very long time particularly when they are not content with their salary and/or job benefits. In the present age, there is scarcity of jobs in many industries in a vast majority of count ries around the world. In such circumstances, employees tend to avail any opportunity that they get irrespective of whether or not they are being offered sufficient salary and meanwhile, keep looking for better employment opportunities. Hence, to say that engagement strategies are desirable for all employees is not logical. According to mspb.gov (2012, p. 2), there are three components of employee engagement for the federal government, namely employees’ discretionary effort to give goal-directed performance, commitment to the organization, and employees’ satisfaction with the organization. The Corporate Leadership Council (2004) defines emotional engagement as â€Å"the extent to which employees derive pride, enjoyment, inspiration, or meaning from something or someone in the organisation. While rational commitment is defined as the extent to which employees feel that someone or something within their organizations provides financial, developmental, or professional re wards that are in their best interests† (Corporate Leadership Council, 2004). This can be stated without doubt that employees’ satisfaction has been and continues to be one of the biggest challenges in front of the management in any organization. Accordingly, the desirability of engagement strategies for the employees is limited. According to Macleod and Clarke (2009, p. 66), there are four main factors that serve as barriers to effective engagement in an organizational context; firstly, leaders either do not know what employee engagement is, what its usefulness for the organization is or they are not aware of its importance. Secondly, leaders may be interested in engagement strategies but may lack the knowledge required to address the issue. Thirdly, leaders and managers may not consent upon the idea of employee engagement. While the leaders might emphasize upon engagement strategies, managers might be ill-equipped to implement them. Consequently, the organizational cu lture cannot deliver effective engagement. Finally, leaders that do emphasize upon engagement strategies vary in their perception of and commitment to it. Many leaders tend to underestimate the potential of employee engag

Analyze opportunity Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Analyze opportunity - Assignment Example such, with the increase in the number of individuals across different cultures preferring to take breakfast away from home, McDonalds is represented with a unique opportunity to increase its entrees in order to accommodate such individuals’ needs. In addition, with the new wave of globalization, McDonalds faces an opportunity to expand to other countries that they have not been able to reach yet (Yuece, 2012). Case in point, expansion into these countries requires the company to expand its entries in order to incorporate the cultural preferences of individuals within the new markets. Moreover, with the struggling global economy, McDonalds can increase the breakfast entrees to accommodate individuals with low income. This would allow the organization to reach out to a wider range of the consumers and increase the market share. Given the opportunities towards which McDonalds is exposed, there are various recommendations that would facilitate the organizations increase of breakfast entries. One of the recommendations is for McDonalds to provide new healthier entrees that would counter the various issues that have arisen concerning the negative impact of its foods on health. In every occasion and market, it is important for McDonalds to target markets using clear personalized positioning, with a detailed understanding of the breakfast needs and preferences of the targeted market. Lastly, through increasing the advertising and promotional techniques, McDonalds would be able to use its large market share and brand loyalty to increase publicity concerning new breakfast entries and thus increase

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

The MacLeod Report (2009) claims that engagement strategies are Essay - 1

The MacLeod Report (2009) claims that engagement strategies are desirable for organisations and employees. With reference to aca - Essay Example 5). Engagement strategies aim at the establishment of mutual respect for what employees can be and what they can do in the organization given the right context that is beneficial for all stakeholders including the organizations, the consumers of services, and the employees themselves. Although engagement strategies are desirable for all organizations, yet they are not desirable for all employees, though for a considerable population of employees, engagement strategies are desirable. Although engagement strategies are generally desirable for the organizations, yet the same cannot be generalized for all employees. These days, many employees keep looking for employment opportunities elsewhere that would offer them better salary and job privileges rather than wanting to stay in the same organization for a very long time particularly when they are not content with their salary and/or job benefits. In the present age, there is scarcity of jobs in many industries in a vast majority of count ries around the world. In such circumstances, employees tend to avail any opportunity that they get irrespective of whether or not they are being offered sufficient salary and meanwhile, keep looking for better employment opportunities. Hence, to say that engagement strategies are desirable for all employees is not logical. According to mspb.gov (2012, p. 2), there are three components of employee engagement for the federal government, namely employees’ discretionary effort to give goal-directed performance, commitment to the organization, and employees’ satisfaction with the organization. The Corporate Leadership Council (2004) defines emotional engagement as â€Å"the extent to which employees derive pride, enjoyment, inspiration, or meaning from something or someone in the organisation. While rational commitment is defined as the extent to which employees feel that someone or something within their organizations provides financial, developmental, or professional re wards that are in their best interests† (Corporate Leadership Council, 2004). This can be stated without doubt that employees’ satisfaction has been and continues to be one of the biggest challenges in front of the management in any organization. Accordingly, the desirability of engagement strategies for the employees is limited. According to Macleod and Clarke (2009, p. 66), there are four main factors that serve as barriers to effective engagement in an organizational context; firstly, leaders either do not know what employee engagement is, what its usefulness for the organization is or they are not aware of its importance. Secondly, leaders may be interested in engagement strategies but may lack the knowledge required to address the issue. Thirdly, leaders and managers may not consent upon the idea of employee engagement. While the leaders might emphasize upon engagement strategies, managers might be ill-equipped to implement them. Consequently, the organizational cu lture cannot deliver effective engagement. Finally, leaders that do emphasize upon engagement strategies vary in their perception of and commitment to it. Many leaders tend to underestimate the potential of employee engag

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Porters Five Forces to Analyze the Competitive Environment in which Essay

Porters Five Forces to Analyze the Competitive Environment in which Ryanair operates Bargaining Power of Suppliers - Essay Example The customers of Ryanair are putting on them a lot of collective pressure so that they can lower the travel expenses and improve the quality of their airline services. The customers associated with Ryanair are enjoying a higher bargaining power since switching to other airlines with better services is very easy with little or no costs. In the case of Ryanair, the substitutes for their transport systems include railways, sea transport, and road transport and any strategy by them poses a threat to Ryanair profitability. However, Ryanair is still able to operate at a lower cost, leading to lower cost of services that attract more customers. The threat of new entrants in this industry is relatively low due to high costs involved in the initial stages of the business set up that many cannot afford. Economics of scale can only be enjoyed by big players like Ryanair and this makes other possible investors be scared away (O’Cuilleannain, Falle, Sobokta, Kleinert, Chassart, Farrell, 2004). There is also difficulty in gaining access to distribution channels that poses a barrier to new entrants. Since the airline industry is highly fragmented, competition is very high leading to low returns. In order to survive, Ryanair is constantly coming up with unique business models in order to outweigh their competitors and make reasonable profits. Ryanair is luck since it is based in Europe whereby European Union is a complete stable political region that provides a good environment for business to thrive. The integration of the European Union has provided an opportunity for this airline industry to expand its operations very swiftly without hurdles (Muller, 2011). The operations of Ryanair are also affected by the OPEC since its an organization that determines the fuel prices that Ryanair operates on.

Entrepreneurial Finance Course Essay Example for Free

Entrepreneurial Finance Course Essay ICampus: download case study + 6 questions (9am to 6pm end) Doyen A015 to A023 : we have the locals: tell him what we want (we have to book the locals) Entrepreneurial finance Different case studies cover the four parts (follow the IPO of Facebook) Project assessment: some toughts on business plan case studies: the knots and cachet tehnologies Introduction All these elements fits together. Business plan has to be written. Not a real predictor for success. People: ask you some questions Deal: as you do for edocs. Introduction Key elements that predict success. * Team : you need good managers Not only a good team but a team that fits with the project * Are you able to defend or create a competitive advantage? Is it special? Are people ready to pay for it? =gt; KEY * You have to know the different steps * How to extract value? You should make money! That’s key. For example: Facebook: out of the market in 5 year? Maybe. Not succeeding on smartphones! Are they ready to make money? Extract money from your customers? * Context * Deals should have the rights incentives. You have to find the right partner who ad value not only funding. * .. People To success you need the right person. For example: cachet technologies: lack of management. Opportunity Market: what is the size of the market? The growth rate? Attractiveness of industry: obvious Customers: Selling price is not a production cost + margin. It’s what your customer is ready to pay. When your able to produce this at a lower cost, you make a margin. What is the cost to acquire a new customer? Important. And how to retain a customer? Difficult or not? Competition: Very good market and customers BUT maybe the competition is very hard. Chance of success will be maybe very low. Pay attention. Graphical tools to understand a business model Sales forecast selling price cost =gt; makes you able to calculate the future cash flow. Usely it is like on the graph. Scenario 1 is what you expect but in real life it’s usely scenario two (more time to make money) or scenario three. When you negotiate you first funding, you know you will need a second round (scenario 2). (Give not to much right in the first round to the funding persons) What’s acceptable? Context * Legality? * Today is not the best market to raise money or to go to an IPO * Today? I believe smartphones is an opportunity. Deals Find the right partner! He may understand what you are doing. Everyone has to understand the terms. * Because you need the right incentives. The two parties have to be comfortable. * .. * .. * The right incentive: the profit of the entrepreneur is in line with the success of the company. He has to share the success of the company. Or to lose all his money in case of not success. * .. Case studies The Knot * We asked us these questions. No one had experience in retail services * Barriers for entry were very low so they need to create a brand. * .. * Internet was a very fast growing market. * 1997: a lot of venture capitalist were very active to spend their money on internet. Today? Two sectors. Biotechnology (here in LLN! ) amp; Green energy? (funding comes more from state etc. ) amp; applications on smart phones. * Basic principle: the source of value is cash flow! What is the capacity of this company to generate cash flow! You cannot value a company when you say we will have 1 million customers. Like Facebook 100 billion Where comes the value from? Not from the cash flow they are making today. They make 1 billion cash flow today You want to pay 100 times this They want to raise 10 billion in their IPO (22-28 â‚ ¬ per share) It could make sense if they will made a cash flow of 15 billion/year. Is Facebook capable? If you want to speculate, cash flow does not matter. But if you want to invest, look at the cash flows. (here, in the course, we think investors) Types of securities: the entrepreneur needs to share to company success. It’s like an option. Preferred convertible. Founder: 100 VC: 100 If lt;100 all the money goes to the VC (they protect themselves) * Or you failed: the VC takes all te money and sell your company Or you succeed and the VC helps you with your IPO. There is not really a situation between the two. Cachet Technologies Main question: do we continue the project? Dilemma: Two options:

Monday, October 14, 2019

Nature Of Online Dating And Relationships Psychology Essay

Nature Of Online Dating And Relationships Psychology Essay Early research on Internet self-efficacy focused on the performance of specific tasks such as entering World-Wide Web addresses, creating folders and bookmarks, mailing pages, using File Transfer Protocol (FTP) and telnet, constructing a hypertext index, and moving bookmarks (Nahl, 1996, 1997). Ren (1999) reported a measure of self-efficacy specific to searching for government information sources. Results were consistent with previous self-efficacy literature, with self-efficacy perceptions positively related to task performance (Nahl, 1996, 1997) and the amount of use (Ren, 1999). The prior studies did not yield a measure of self-efficacy suitable for studying overall Internet usage, and rerpoted no information about reliability and validity. In Nahl (1997), scale items confounded distinct behaviors; a single item asked about e-mail, hypertext mark-up language (HTML) scripting, telnet, and file transfer protocol. Nahls measure referred to specific subsidiary tasks (e.g., creating bookmarks) instead of overall attainments (e.g., obtaining useful information) and thus did not properly reflect the constructive definition of self-efficacy. Ren (1999) operationalized self-efficacy in a manner more consistent with its conceptual definition (e.g., search the Internet by yourself), but a single item measure was employed so its reliability could not be determined. Rens measure applied to a specific behavioral domain (i.e., seeking government information) rather than overall Internet use, limiting its future application. In an effort to further understand psychological aspects of the Digital Divide, the present study builds on past research to develop a new measure of Internet self-efficacy. It assesses reliability and analyzes the construct validity of Internet self-efficacy by comparing it to measures of other constructs thought to be positively related, negative related or unrelated on theoretical grounds (Anastasi, 1988). Nature of online dating and relationships Within the popular press and scholarly literature, online dating is referred to as cyber relationships (Joinson, 2003), online romantic relationships (Anderson,2005; Bonebrake, 2002; Levine, 2000), digital dating (Merkle Richardson, 2000) and Internet relationships (McCown, Fischer, Page Homant, 2001). Other terms include computer-mediated relationships (Scharlott Christ, 1995; Whitty Gavin, 2001), Internet dating (Hardey, 2002), online personals and mixed mode relationships (Ellison, Heino Gibbs, 2006; Gibbs, Ellison Heino, 2006) and personal relationships online (Parks Floyd, 1996). Looking at the myriad of terms referring to online dating or online relationships, it is fundamental to elucidate and define the latter. Traditional social psychological definitions and interpretations ofrelationships may contribute to the current understanding of online relationships. Schlenker (1984) believes that the existence of a relationship is a result of the interrelation of identities. M orespecifically, one develops a specific identity within each relationship with exclusive thought and behavioural patterns, which will, with relationship growth, lead to similarity and closeness. Contemporary research pertaining to online relationships presents several interpretations of online dating. First, online matchmaking defines both online dating and online dating service (Houran, 2006). Second, online dating pertains to relationships of a romantic or friendship nature formed online by using online communication (Whitty Gavin, 2002). Third, online relationships refer to relationships initiated and maintained online (Wright, 2004). Fourth, online relationships refer to mixed mode relationships, therefore online relationships develop and migrate to other environments such as the face-to-face environment (Ellison et al., 2006). Taken together, online dating pertains to an intentional, mediated search, meeting and relationship development with a preferred significant other using computer-mediated communication. Having defined online relationships, the focus of the following section is to consider the background of online dating. As noted earlier, conclusions about online relationships in the popular press and scholarly literature are ambiguous. As such, one can expect the same ambiguity pertaining to the nature of online relationships. This section provides a brief outline of the nature of online relationships rather than a comprehensive discussion. Researchers, theorists and academics are still pondering the nature of online dating. Two opposing schools of thought seem to have emerged: those deeming online relations as superficial, distant, unemotional and unsocial, and others classifying online relations as personal, unconventional, and a new alternative (Parks Floyd, 1996). For example, online dating has been referred to as an audition for a real date (Barnes, 2001) and a relevant platform for relationship formation, although insubstantial for online relations (Civin, 2000; Hardey, 2002; Hills Argyle, 2003; Utz, 2000). It is clear that the significance of online relationships is queried rather than the formation of online relationships. Evidence supporting such claims seems marginal. Opposing such claims, some researchers regard online relationships as interpersonal (Barnes, 2001; Ben-Zeev, 2004; Parks Floyd, 1996; Sherman, 2001; Walther, 1995), more significant (Parks Floyd, 1996; Wallace, 1999; Yum Hara, 2005), excitin g (Gwinnell, 1998) and real (Houran, 2006; Houran Lange, 2004; Yum Hara, 2005). Furthermore, online relationships are described as solid (Sherman, 2001) in which trust and commitment are commonly shared (Anderson Emmers-Sommer, 2006; Whitty Gavin, 2001). Subsequently, one can assume that interpersonal online relationships are interactive and personal relations between two individuals. Focussing on peoples expectations and self-presentation, Gibbs et al. (2006) propose a model of perceived success of online relationships in their investigation of online dating relationships that migrate to face-to-face contexts (figure 1 illustrates this model). Figure 1: Perception of successful online relationships model (Gibbs et al., 2006) This model proposes that the perceived success of online relationships depends on the successful use of certain self-presentation strategies online. Three interacting processes contribute to the success of an online relationship: (a) relationship goals these goals include growth and relationship migration (b) self-disclosure pertains to the quantity, the positive or negative nature thereof, future intention and honesty in revealing personal information, (c) online dating experience describes online dating behaviour in terms of the magnitude of relationships initiated online and learning ability (namely, a persons ability to learn from previous experiences and then draw on this information in future online relations). (d) Perception of success, Successful presentation of the self and strategic success. Thus, successful online relationships that migrate to a face-to-face context may be achieved by fostering long-term goals, deliberately disclosing positive and additional personal information, and learning form previous online dating experiences (Gibbs et al., 2006). Research suggests that online relationships are mostly heterogeneous with a romantic or friendship-like nature (Hardey, 2004; Parks Roberts, 1998; Whitty Gavin, 2002; Wolak, Mitchell Finkelhor, 2002; Yum Hara, 2005). Furthermore, online relationships typically progress to other environments such as telephone and face-to-face contact (McKenna et al., 2002; Parks et al., 1996; Sveningsson, 2002). More recently, Wright (2004)identified two types of online relationships, namely primarily Internet-based relationships, that is relationships that are initiated in a face-to-face setting and maintained online, and exclusively Internet-based relationships, referring to relationships initiated and maintained entirely online. Online relationships may migrate to other environments or remain and develop online. This may be an important consideration in investigating the online persona. Ben-Zeev (2004) explains the nature of online relations as contradictory, firstly because of the geographical distance between those involved versus the immediacy of online communication. Secondly, online communication is rich in meaning because of the high level of self-disclosure, but impoverished in terms of a lack of visual cues. Thirdly, despite the higher level of self-disclosure, participants stay anonymous. Fourthly, online relations are emotionally continuous and discontinuous because communication takes place with intervals at any time. Lastly, the intellectual and emotional input by far surpasses the physical effort. In summary, the broad characteristics of online relations include, but are not necessarily limited to, anonymity, self-disclosure and attraction, which include proximity and similarity. An understanding of these characteristics is needed to comprehend the online persona, which follows later. Because two people disclose and share personal information, build trust and interdependence, and develop emotional closeness prior to physical attraction, these online relationships seem interpersonal. Therefore, in uncovering the online dating persona it is important to consider online relationships, specifically their formation, maintenance and success. Subsequently, the discussion turns its focus to online relationship formation. Theoretical perspectives Face-to-face relationship formation has received a great deal of attention from theorists and researchers. In contrast, online relationship formation lacks empirical enquiry, with investigations into this field being very new and recent. This section reviews traditional and contemporary theories pertaining specifically to the formation of interpersonal relationships. In addition, this section examines contemporary research findings pertaining to online relationship formation compared to face-to-face relationships. To conceptualise the formation of close interpersonal relationships within a face-to-face environment, the approach of Chelune, Robison and Kommor (1984) seems comprehensive. This traditional approach regards close interpersonal relationship formation as a mutual process of development. First, this approach assumes that the increased disclosure of personal information facilitates learning about a significant other. Second, continued interaction permits the mutual sharing of personal information, resulting in an enhanced sense of familiarity between those interacting. Third, the reciprocal interrelation of dependence, support and understanding builds a structure of future dependency. Fourth, with the acceptance and anticipation of the indefinite continuation of the relationship, this structure allows for behaviour alterations and develops to include mutual care, affection and trust (Chelune et al., 1984). This approach assumes the stages of face-to-face relationship formation to be self-disclosure, followed by familiarity, interdependence and closeness. These stages mirror those in the formation of online relationships; however, the developmental sequence differs. The relational theory of development (Parks, 1997) is relevant in examining the formation of online relationships. Based on traditional social psychological theories pertaining to social relationships such as the social exchange theory and uncertainty reduction theory, Parks (1997) developed the relational theory of development. This theory specifically addresses online relationship formation with the premise that online relationships either grow or deteriorate on a continuum ranging from impersonal to personal dimensions (Parks Floyd, 1996). Below is a description of each dimension along this continuum (Parks Floyd, 1996): (a) Dimension 1: Interdependence pertains to the mutual influence that increases with relationship growth, thus building a relationship embedded in mutual trust; (b) Dimension 2: Breadth explicates the increasing frequency of communication and social interaction; (c) Dimension 3: Depth refers to the increasing level of self-disclosure that facilitates familiarity and closeness; (d) Dimension 4: Commitment concerns the future predictions regarding the success or failure of the online relationship in accordance with the individuals goals and attitude; (e) Dimension 5: Predictability and understanding pertains to the mutual agreement and understanding of a unique set of rules of preferred, acceptable and desired behaviour and interaction. (f) Dimension 6: Code change pertains to the development of a unique set of cultural and linguistic codes, referring to how the individuals express themselves and communicate, for example, with the use of emoticons. (g) Dimension 7: Online network convergence refersto the snowball effect of the social circle, whereby the relationship continuously expands to significant others and migrates to other communication channels such as telephonic communication. Evidently, this theory captures the core features of online relational formation as a progressive process from the initial meeting, to maintenance and termination or migration to other contexts. Several studies findings support the relational theory of development (e.g., Anderson, 2005; Gibbs et al., 2006; Soukup, 1999; Whitty Gavin, 2001; Wolak et al., 2002; Wright, 2004). 1. It is easy to be fooled by inaccurate signals online. According to Binazir (2011), there are several pitfalls in online dating. If one thinks of him/herself as beautiful. ? What most people call beauty is actually evolutions very thorough system of broadcasting our suitability as a mate. Clear skin, good posture, broad shoulders, sonorous voice, bright eyes, shiny hair, graceful movements, pleasant aroma, facial symmetry, articulate speech: evolution has engineered features such as these into us to signal health, fertility, strength and intelligence. When one goes online, instead of seeing a person up-close, hearing him speak and watching her move, what one gets is a blurry, postage-stamp size series of static photos which cannot be heard, felt, or smelt. Most important of the missing signals may very well be smell, which some scientists believe underlies most of male-female attraction what literally constitutes sexual chemistry. Studies show that we sense immune compatibility through smell one way in which evolution decides whether two people should have kids together or not. This compatibility is vital to the viability of offspring, so its bypassed at our peril. So when you go online, youre subverting a process that has worked just fine for propagating the human species for the past 3 million years. Add to that the fact that pictures can easily lie about age, complexion and physique, and youve got yourself a lot of inaccurate signals to go on (Binazir, 2011). 2. You can waste a lot of time online chasing what you dont want. Heres the timeline of a typical online courtship for a guy: He sees a profile of a woman he likes. He writes her. A day or two later, he gets a response. An online correspondence ensues. If shes receptive, the conversation moves to email after a few exchanges. Binazir (2011) succinctly put it thus, If her interest continues, they speak on the phone, and begin to plan a meeting. A week or two later, after anywhere from three to 10 or more points of online- and phone contact, they meet in person. And it turns out that she has bad skin (which didnt show in the flatteringly lit photos) or her butt is gigantic (which didnt show in her waist-up photos), or hes 6 inches shorter than advertised or some other insurmountable shortcoming that could have been ascertained in the first 30 milliseconds of an in-person encounter. In an instant, all those hours spent on witty emails, all of that effort to be charming on the phone, learning all about him or impressing her go whoosh! down the toilet. In short, it pays to stop chasing shadows. 3. Deception in online dating In an online dating context, users writing their profiles have competing motivations to present themselves as attractively as possible, in order to draw attention from potential dates, and to present themselves accurately, so that people who would find them attractive partners in real life can identify them as such online. Moreover, Fiore and Donath (2004) suggest that users might consider a certain amount of exaggeration necessary if they perceive, as per the popular conception, that everyone else is exaggerating already then they must exaggerate as well just to remain competitive. Stories of deception in online dating are common the date who turns out to be 20 years older or 30 pounds heavier in person than his picture suggested, or one whose verbal charms in email vanish in a face to face meeting (e.g., Epstein 2007, Mapes 2004). Although these stories might indicate willful deception, they could also reflect disappointment in the offline reality as compared to expectations developed online, where a combination of selective self-presentation i.e., strategic self-enhancement and heightened levels of affinity developed through a mediated channel, which Walthers (1996) theory of hyperpersonal interaction predicts, might lead users to see as a soul-mate someone who in fact would make at best a decent tennis partner. Thats not to say online daters dont tell some outright lies. Hancock and colleagues found that 81 percent of online dating users in their sample lied about their weight, height, or age. But many of these lies were small enough that it would be hard to detect the discrepancy between, e.g., claimed and actual weight face-to-face (Hancock et al. 2007). The participants in this study might have been engaging in strategic self enhancement, but nonetheless they kept their descriptions within a few percentage points of reality. Ellison et al. (2006) offer other explanations for why users feel that others are presenting themselves deceptively online. First, users might be viewing themselves through a foggy mirror that is, failing to perceive themselves accurately. Thus, if they report their own self-perceptions, they are not lying on purpose, even though these perceptions might not coincide with those of an outside observer. Second, users might either deliberately or subconsciously describe their ideal selves who they would like to be rather than their actual selves, making the self-presentation more aspirational than factual. As one interviewee put it: In their profile they write about their dreams as if they are reality (Ellison et al. 2006). Whether this is effective is uncertain, though; McKenna et al. (2002) found that those who were able to share their true selves online were more successful in forming close relationships through computer-mediated communication that carried over to the offline world. 4. Online sites present an unhelpful excess of choice. When one logs into a dating website, the site presents one with several faces of prospective clients seeking being patronized. This is referred to as pot of fish (POF). Schwartz (2003) in his book The Paradox of Choice: Why Less is More explained that more choice does not make us happier. More choice actually makes us more miserable. A typical online dating yields thousand of participants who seem to match our choice. Yet, it is not so easy to choose. One ends up been confused. 5. Irrelevant information presented out of context can pre-empt a good match. Binazir (2011) observed that since we are inundated with floods of people beckoning to us on a dating website with amorous smiles there is great chance that we keep up a dating game with a prospective lover with the readiness to do away such opportunity for another one at any flimsy excuse. 6. People online behave more rudely than they do in person. Have you noticed how much sheer hatred and incivility there is online? Under the mask of e-anonymity, people feel they can behave anyhow because to a great extent they are untouchable. As a result, it becomes easy to dismiss summarily a message that an admirer has invested time, effort and emotion to craft in fervent hopes of gaining your attention. A man who would never be ignored in person can be blown off hundreds of times online. And, as the authors of the book Freakonomics pointed out, over 90 percent of men on dating sites never end up meeting a woman. 7. Strangers with low accountability can get away with antisocial behavior. In his book The Tao of Dating: The Smart Womans Guide to Being Irresistible, Binazir (2011) emphasized that women should only date men who are embedded within their social network a friend of a friend at the very least. That social accountability reduces the chances of their being axe murderers or other ungentlemanly tendencies. When you go online, theres no guarantee of anyone having a back-connection into your social network. Especially in a big city, people will do bizarre, rude things under the cover of unaccountability. Stories abound about the girl who ordered everything on the menu at an expensive restaurant, or the guy who showed up to the date already drunk and proceeded to hit on the waitress or far worse. The statements above are straight from heart as the world is full of mentally deranged individuals who get thrilled with cyber stalking and playing on peoples emotion. There is need to extremely carefully. Even though they make great stories in retrospect, these are not experiences that you need to have even once per lifetime. Going out with people whom you implicitly know and trust keeps you safe and reduces the chances of weird shit happening to you.