A Comparison of Gender-Roles in A Dolls House and A...

Gender-Roles in A Dolls House and A Streetcar named Desire The roles of males and females in our society are subjects that entail great criticism, and have been under scrutiny for as long as a `society has existed. In analyzing A Dolls House by Henrick Ibsen and A Streetcar named Desire by Tennessee Williams, the effects that gender-roles have on relationships is an evident aspect in both of the plays. The choice of words used by the authors strongly underscores the themes of supremacy, selfishness, inequality, and unmistakably, the roles of men and women in society. In Act I of A Dolls House, there are many clues that hint at the kind of marriage Nora and Torvald have. It seems that Nora is a doll†¦show more content†¦Noras duties, in general, are restricted to caring for the children, doing housework, and working on her needlepoint. A problem with her responsibilities is that her most important obligation is to please Torvald, making her role similar to that of a slave. The problem in A Dolls House lies not only with Torvald, but also with the entire Victorian society. Females were confined in every way imaginable. When Torvald does not immediately offer to help Nora after Krogstad threatens to expose her, Nora realizes that there is a problem. By waiting until after he discovers that his social status will suffer no harm, Torvald reveals his true feelings, which put appearance, both social and physical, ahead of the wife whom he says he loves. This revelation is what prompts Nora to walk out on Torvald. When Torvald tries to reconcile with Nora, she explains to him how she had been treated like a child all her life; her father had treated her much the same way Torvald does. Both male superiority figures not only denied her the right to think and act the way she wished, but limited her happiness. Nora describes her feelings as always merry, never happy (Ibsen 1015). When Nora finally slams the door and leaves, she is not only slamming it on Torvald, but also on everything else that has happened in her past which curtailed her growth into a mature woman.Show MoreRelatedEssay Prompts4057 Words   |  17 Pageson the Floss The Awakening Moby-Dick Billy Budd Mrs. Dalloway Bleak House Native Son Bless Me,Ultima One Hundred Years of Solitude Catch-22 Othello Crime and Punishment The Scarlet Letter The Crucible Slaughterhouse-Five A Farewell to Arms Song of Solomon Ghosts The Stone Angel The Great Gatsby The Stranger Heart of Darkness A Tale of Two Cities The House of Mirth Their Eyes Were Watching God Jude the Obscure 2003 (Form A): According

Marketing Communications on Brand Development

Question: Discuss about the Marketing Communications on Brand Development. Answer: Introduction: The process of building and maintaining the marketing communications is an important aspect of the growth of the company where in the branding is the key to success and visibility of the company (Aaker, 2009). Australia, in recent times, has emerged as one of the rapidly developing economies in the world owing to the high end industrialization and entry into market sector like manufacturing and production of Automobiles and electronics that had earlier not been explored. This has lent a major competitive edge to the companies who wish to add a cost benefit to the products and services that are being offered to entertain the competition met at a global platform. In order to increase the revenues that are generated, each organization needs to engage in a lengthy and elaborate process of branding and image building (Balmer, 2011). This helps the company in seeking the market space that it needs to first introduce the product and then to define the space to retain. In either case, with the advanced use of Internet and IT, Branding has also been improvised with usage of internet and online tools to enhance the brand value of a company. This paper aims to understand the value of Branding and correlate it with the necessity of the marketing communications to engage in practical and customized branding practices. It also explores the impact of marketing process on branding. Hence, the choice of the research topic is well justified. The choice of Australia as a country can be correlated with the fact that Australia is the fastest emerging economy where in the recent years have seen tremendous change in growth, both in the economic reforms and the response of the international markets to Australian Products where Virgin Australia a popular Airlines Company was selected in the study. Problem Statement Marketing communications are the responsibilities of business towards its customers because they show impact on the success of the business. While considering the business responsibility, business and organizations are paying attention towards achieving a business goal and the brand objectives that are mentioned in a marketing communications plan. The plan is implemented by a business to owing to the activities as these brand agencies and communities make a difference in the business. How does a business achieve success and growth totally depends upon its involvement of brand responsibility and an interest in environmental issues that are trying to reduce. A business is mainly interested to create and produce such goods that are highly in need of the customers and are demanded as per the society. At this end, companies voluntarily engage in the brand activity and environmental concern. But the major problem identified was that most of the organizations are failing themselves in manag ing marketing communications for increasing and maintaining their brand image across global markets. Especially, Virgin Australia is facing huge issues in recent times in maintain their branding using effective marketing communication plans. Due to lack of effective use of marketing communication plans and strategies, Virgin Australia faced issues with its customers and competitors in terms of brand recall. Research Objectives Each research to be conducted has to follow a defined path towards the objectives of the research that has been predefined. This ensures that the research conducted justifies the selected subject and also provides a comprehensive display of research and findings that would be concluded once the data has been assimilated. The primary aim of the study is to identify the impact shown by marketing communications on branding process of the organizations by taking Virgin Australia as Example Company. In order to achieve the aim of the study, the objectives that need to be achieved are: To identify the marketing communication factors that influence the branding process of the organizations integrated with the relative trends of internal and external factors that promote or limit the growth of organizations. To study the role played by marketing communications in maximizing the brand value of the company To study the impact shown by marketing communication strategies upon branding To identify the marketing communication and branding issues seen in Virgin Australia To recommend certain marketing communication strategies and plans to Virgin Australia for overcoming its current branding issues. Research Questions What impact does marketing communications show upon branding process of the companies? Does an effective marketing communication strategy result in increased brand value? What branding and marketing communication issues are seen in Virgin Australia? What strategies should Virgin Australia follow to overcome its current issues? Project Justification The main objective of the research is to stimulate the data and the concern that the marketing communications plans are carried out for increasing organizational brands. This makes a clear understanding that the research methodology is applied and implemented at this end and the main aim is achieved by giving an understanding that marketing communications of the business is very important for any business to strive at the competition that is faced in the market. Even in the companies, where the corporate plans are set, the main and the primary objective of the company is to satisfy the customer and even the employee satisfaction. The research suggests that the marketing communications matter for each industry as customers do impact over the success of the company and they are affected negatively or positively as per the company treats them (Fiorina, 2009). The main objectives and the aim of the research is set to carry the research methodology in such a manner that it is reflected as considering the profitability of the business and even the brand response that is now an integral part for the organization success. Expected Research Outcome As defined, marketing communications is an enlarged concept that were in the companies integrate environmental concerns and the brand issues in a business operation and this may lead to interaction of customers for an existing and a voluntary bias. Marketing communications is actually about managing the change that in a socially responsible manner in some different manner (Kesaprakorn, 2009). This is the prime cause of the dependence between the practical reasoning that can be induced and the relationship a company is able to share with its customers. With the factor that the business is being monitored and scrutinized with the public eye, such a worry has been resolutely decided. In accordance with the work orders that have to be fulfilled there always remains an element where in the brand impact of the different action needs to be identified with respect to the impact of the business decisions (Fiorina, 2009). The research study is a very essential study that matters for the company to find out the importance and the results of marketing communications in the company. As it is an integral part, it becomes necessary to survey the results as per the research. The research literature presents an understanding as of why these plans are important and how marketing communication strategies increase product or service brand. There are various elements of a marketing mix where in the companies can apply different modes of branding such as traditional methods of advertising and Classical Marketing mix. Event and sponsorships create a socially responsible image for the company. Internet and marketing have been detrimental to the success of the Branding in case of Organizations in Australia owing to the visibility of the company such that the branding is able to seek its space in the market. It is also imperative to note that a justified use of time and resources along with brand media and internet branding techniques give the company an opportunity to increase the effective communication with the companies and a better opportunity in creating a brand Image. An infographic survey reports that more than half of Twitter and Face Book talk about or majorly promote a product that is associated with the customer on brand media (De Chernatony, 2010). Australia has seen a drastic change in the economy in recent years owing to the different reforms and political initiatives that were taken to liberalize the country in terms of business and exports. In order to meet the competition that surfaces in the global market, an appropriate marketing and Branding strategy is the most imperative factor in determining the success of the organization. Brand management: The marketing communication strategies have been helping Australian organizations improved the way in which the products and services are marketed. The usage of web marketing has increased among various organizations in Australia (Urde, 2012). Delivering competitive advantage: The organization implements IT-dependent programs such as organizational learning, customer intimacy and business process reengineering that proves to be very valuable in achieving business goals and objectives. This delivers the company with long term competitive edge over its rivals. Enhancing customer support as well as satisfaction: A higher level of customer satisfaction cannot be achieved by any organization until and unless it employs a real time effective customer support process. Some of the channels that the organization uses are webinar, brand media, online sellers, smart phone and email. The key marketing strategy was to maintain the customer relationship management (CRM) system to keep a record of valuable data for the purpose of gaining an understanding future trends and customer and if the customers are happy then the brand value increases. Conceptual Framework Figure 1: Conceptual Framework Source: Own Research Methodology There are different kinds of research methodologies used by researchers in different studies; qualitative and quantitative (Creswell, 2013). The research methodology that will be adopted to complete this research is qualitative research method. It will allow the researcher to gain a thorough understanding role played by marketing communications in increasing branding, and also gets to identify and analyse the effect of marketing communications role in increasing branding. This is because the qualitative research method primarily focuses upon determining the nature of the impact of something on affected population. In this case, the selected research methodology will help the researcher minimise the context error by making use of marketing information as part of the primary data collection technique. Qualitative research method requires a small focused sample instead of large random sample sizes (Creswell, 2013). Both primary and secondary data is analysed in most qualitative research papers. The primary data is the first-hand data or the data gathered from information source and has not undergone any examination or analysis previously. Conversely, the secondary data comprises information collected and examined by researcher through sources like media, journals, etc. The qualitative research methods that have been used here include in-depth interviews using open-ended questionnaire, and analysis of secondary data. A combination of diverse and different data types and sources has been used to conduct an effective research. The sources for information on the research topic include both types of data, i.e. primary data and secondary data. The primary data will be collected by means of conducting interviews. The sample size for carrying out the interviews for collecting primary information would comprise a total 50 research participants form Virgin Australia, where 25 are the customers of Virgin Australia and the rest 25 are the employees of Virgin Australia. In order to conduct the interviews, a questionnaire will be developed, which will comprise of open-ended and close-ended questions. The questionnaire will be emailed to employees and customers of Virgin Australia so that they can give their responses at their convenience. The primary data collection is time-consuming and hence data gathered through it is not sufficient to meet the requirements of this study. Hence, secondary research is also conducted to gather information. The secondary data, on the other hand, would comprise media reports, internet materials and published research. The secondary data will be carefully extracted, and thoroughly studied as well as analysed for drawing relevant inferences or conclusions. This research method is quick as compared to primary data collection method. In order to organize the study effectively, an action plan is created, which lists all the activities to be undertaken during the research. There are many activities to be undertaken during the study including finding a topic, seeking its approval, drafting the proposal, data collection, drafting the study and proof-reading it. In order to conduct the research the choice of the tools and methods relies on the subject and the final analysis that has to be derived. In the research topic that has been chosen, the various elements of the research such as type of research, philosophy of the research to be conducted and the methods of data collection need to be identified in accordance with the needs of the research paper. Qualitative research pertains to the process of research that depends on assimilating qualitative data where in the data collected pertain to non-numeric and abstract definitions and explanations of the concept. On the other hand, the other suitable approach would be to conduct a Quantitative analysis where in facts and numbers form the basis of the findings after the numeric and real time data has been evaluated (Creswell, 2013). As per the course of the research that is to be conducted, A Qualitative research will be conducted to analyze the present trends and marketing and branding process of Virgin Australia with an effective explanation of how marketing communication strategies induce the branding and subsequent growth. Data Types and Collection Methods: The data to be assimilated for findings and analysis is of two basic types. Primary data is the first hand data that is collected such that the research entails a process where in the data is assimilated through firsthand experience. This involves choosing a sample of respondents and relent participation in surveys, interviews and groups Discussions such that personal opinions and effects can be captured. On the other hand, secondary data collection is a process where in the research aims to attain the objectives by entailing a further study of the researches that may have been conducted prior. This involves a thorough and in depth study of books, journals, papers and articles that have been published on the same subject. For the chosen research subject, a mixed approach that would include a questionnaire for assimilating primary data and a detailed study of the previous articles, books and journals to complete the secondary research would be used. Population Sampling and Sample Size A Defined set of 50 research participants would be targeted for the survey that would be circulated either through email or in person such that the the present practices in the respective companies can be defined. Also, along with the questionnaire an interview with some of the employees and customers of Virgin Australia will also be conducted to develop case studies to further lend weight age to the study being conducted. Ethical Considerations A research needs to adhere to the ethics associated with the research in order to comply with the basis of the morale associated with the research. It has been ensured that the participation of the respondents was voluntary and not forced upon or leveraged in any circumstance. It has also been ensured that the privacy of the respondents has been maintained. Thirdly, the answers that were assimilated were kept under security in order to curtail and tampering and the details of the respondents have been strictly used in the process of the research and not distributed to any third party per say. Even though the research would be effectively planned and shall adhere to the timelines that have been specified, it might face certain limitations as per the norms and regulations to be followed. Based on Assumptions, some of the research limitations that can be faced are: More time should be allotted to the study for better efficacy of the results and findings Hesitation of the respondents in sharing the details of their companies Time constraint to conduct the interviews and surveys owing the dependence of the process on the availability of the respondents Limited access to internal company reports in case of case studies and secondary research Organization of the Study To make the study clear, it is divided into five chapters as Introduction, Literature Review, Research Methodology, Analysis and Discussion and Conclusion. This is the first chapter, which discusses the topic in brief. This chapter lists the research aims and research question that will be required to be addressed in the study. It also introduces the scope of the research and gives a brief of the following chapters This chapter will discuss the topic in detail and is based on the secondary data gathered by referring the peer-reviewed journals and articles. The focus will be on discussing the use of marketing communications in increasing organizational branding. Overall, the use of the effective marketing communications has reduced the barriers to innovation thereby blazing new paths to innovative business models, products and services. The company has used advanced technology to build a positive image in the technology industry. This chapter will provide account of the research method adopted to gather data in the study. Interviews will be conducted among employees and customers of Virgin Australia about their branding process and use of marketing communication strategies to gain brand advantages. Also, secondary research will be gathered in order to establish the research objectives. This chapter will discuss the responses of the employees and customers recorded by interviewing them. It also discusses the secondary data of the literature review. This chapter will conclude the study and provide recommendations for Virgin Australia in order to get branding benefits using marketing communication strategies. Gantt Chart A total time period of 12 weeks has been requested for the research. A periodic breakdown of the work structure can be given as: Action Plan / Time in Months 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 Selecting, Finalising and Justifying the Topic selected for the research Identifying the Research Aim and Objectives Developing the research methodology to be followed Completion of the Secondary research Drafting the Questionnaire Conducting the Surveys Conducting Interviews Assimilation and analysis of data collected Assimilating findings and conclusions Rechecking the document and proofreading Final Submission The Overall Budget The overall budget for the project was around $3000 because the study needs interviews and surveys that involves participants from different areas. Project Justification Overall it can be indicated from the above proposal that this study will be focusing towards a crucial area. The findings of the study can be used in the future to use enable the start-ups determine that how should companies use marketing communication for increasing brand value. Also, it can be indicated from the report that the use of marketing communication strategies by Virgin Australia has opened up many platforms to manufacture new products and cater to the needs of the consumers. The case of Virgin Australia a popular Airlines Company is taken in the proposal. The primary research will gather the opinions of customers and employees of Virgin Australia on their marketing and branding process. It is expected that they have highly benefited from it and also it has helped them cope with the competitive environment effectively. When CSR plans are thought to be implemented, the major objective is to have a good communication and even fulfill social responsibility. Social responsibility towards the suppliers, customers, community, government and colleage have become important because strong financial business is making ways to reach to their customers and give them benefits while communicating their needs and the reviews regarding the products or the services. It becomes a problem for the society when these strategies are not fulfilled because organizations are working for benefit of customers and primarily for Organizations. References Aaker, D.A., 2009.Managing brand equity. simon and schuster. Balmer, J.M., 2011. Corporate identity, corporate branding and corporate marketing-seeing through the fog. European journal of marketing, 35(3/4), pp.248-291. De Chernatony, L., 2010. Creating powerful brands. Routledge. Keller, K.L., 2013. Conceptualizing, measuring, and managing customer-based brand equity. the Journal of Marketing, pp.1-22. Van Riel, A.C., Liljander, V. and Jurriens, P., 2011. Exploring consumer evaluations of e-services: a portal site. International Journal of Service Industry Management, 12(4), pp.359-377. Jo Hatch, M. and Schultz, M., 2012. Relations between organizational culture, identity and image. European Journal of marketing, 31(5/6), pp.356-365. Urde, M., 2012. Brand orientation: A mindset for building brands into strategic resources. Journal of marketing management, 15(1-3), pp.117-133. Creswell, JW (2013). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. Sage publications. Chang, H. H., and Liu, Y. M. (2009). The impact of brand equity on brand preference and purchase intentions in the service industries. The Service Industries Journal, 29(12), pp. 1687-1706. Hart, DM (Ed.). (2003).The emergence of entrepreneurship policy: governance, start-ups, and growth in the US knowledge economy. Cambridge University Press. Juntunen, M., Juntunen, J., and Juga, J. (2009). Corporate brand equity and loyalty in B2B markets: A study among logistics service purchasers. Journal of Brand Management, 18(4-5), pp. 300311. Naud, W, Gries, T, Wood, E, and Meintjies, A (2008). Regional determinants of entrepreneurial start-ups in a developing country. Entrepreneurship and Regional Development, 20(2), pp. 111-124. Tsang, EW (1994). Strategies for transferring technology to Australia. Long Range Planning, 27(3), pp. 98-107.

Biology Of Earth Essays - Astrobiology, Origin Of Life,

Biology Of Earth Sometime during our lives, we've questioned ourselves at one point just how long has the earth existed and how did life begin? Our Biology book written by: Solomon, Berg, and Martin, shows theories that has taught us that earth is approximately 4.6 billion years old, and the earliest pieces of life form found was dated back to approximately 3.8 billion years old. This only leaves a time space of 800 million years between the formation of earth and the creation of life. Since then, new theories have shown that life may have originated earlier then they thought. From Bernstein, Sanford, and Allamandolas' article, "Life's Far-Flung Raw Materials" comes the theory that only about 100 million years after the earliest possible point for earth to support life, evidence shows that organisms were already flourishing. But with the amount of time between this, it almost seems impossible, but not if something were to help the process like space compounds. Christopher Chyba has the leading idea that these space particles did in fact bring in the planet's water and atmospheric gases. These space organisms are thought to be responsible for making our earth habitable by bringing in water and gas molecules which would provide our atmosphere and oceans. Also, that the space debris was needed to build life and could have even started the first cellular processes. These space molecules could have absorbed UV-rays from the sun, helping out the weaker molecules, and converting the light energy made into chemical food, which is essential for photosynthesis. Miller showed that the planets first single celled organisms came from a process of chemical steps which is possible for the building blocks of life. It is stated that everyday, tons of space dust falls to the earth's surface, some found containing 50% organic carbon, bringing in about 30 tons of organic material. So not only do some scientists argue about space particles bringing in water and gases, but they could also bring in "ready-made-organic molecules such as the ones seen today. From the meteorites that hit the earth they were able to find a variety of 70 amino acids, but only 8 are used by living cells to build proteins. These meteorites also show such compounds including: nucleobases, ketones, quinones, carboxylic acids, amines, and amides. Astronomers have seen a variety of these organic compounds in the universe and more abundantly in clouds. An experiment was done in a laboratory by Allamandola, where he developed a cloud containing such compounds seen in meteorites. This provided more evidence towards the theory of the earlier development of earth. With the presence of such extraterrestrial compounds like amino acids, quinones, amphiphilic molecules, and other organics, could have very well made it possible for the development or helping towards the development of such life processes. In conclusion, it is easier for us to believe that extraterrestrial compounds were present during the time of this evolution and that it inhibited the creation of such living organisms. But since this concept is relatively new there is not enough evidence to determine if such compounds had anything to do with the development. Why couldn't one say that the scientists misinterpreted the development of earth and living organisms all together? This assumption could regenerate all new findings as to when and how the earth began.

Domestic Violence Against Women Essays

Domestic Violence Against Women Essays Domestic Violence Against Women Essay Domestic Violence Against Women Essay Assorted types of relationships exist between work forces and adult females. The position of adult females has endured a changeless alteration ; therefore altering the manner they are perceived by others in relationships. Despite legion healthy relationships experienced. there are those which have negative effects to those involved ; one such relationship is that sing domestic force. The term domestic force harmonizing to Walker and Gavin refers to an confidant relationship between two grownups in which one spouse uses a form of assault and intimidating Acts of the Apostless to asseverate power and control over the other partner ( Walker A ; Gavin. 2011 ) . Within the context of this paper. domestic force will mention to violent relationships between work forces and adult females where it is the adult females who are victimized. The intent of this paper is tri-fold: ( 1 ) to turn to the development of domestic force ; and ( 2 ) to analyze assorted attitudes sing domestic force ; and ( 3 ) to discourse ways in which society is covering with the issue of domestic force. Emergence and Development Harmonizing to womens rightists. strong patriarchal values held within a society are linked with increased hazard of injury towards adult females ( Watto. 2009. p. 561 ) . Patriarchy exists in most societies worldwide ( Watto. 2009. p. 563 ) . The term patriarchate refers to the male parent holding full authorization of his household ( Romito. 2008. p. 30 ) . Within society’s retaining this belief system. the married woman and kids are the father’s belongings ( Romito. 2008. p. 146 ) . Many findings have developed harmonizing to Totten. He found: 1 ) labour divided by sexual division to be normal ; 2 ) work forces are to suppress adult females as sexual objects ; 3 ) opprobrious behaviour is a justified agency for deciding struggle and 4 ) adult females should esteem. obey and depend on work forces ( Totten. 2003. p. ) . Therefore. one can reason that household force is linked to the political orientation of patriarchate ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 1997. p. 123 ) . As good. it is of import to observe that we live in a society which faith is prevailing. the church agrees with patriarchate ( L. Walker. personal communicating. October 3rd. 2011 ) . Duffy A ; Momiov ( 1997 ) province: Their histories are united in the longstanding moral duty of work forces. as commanded by the Church. to guarantee that their married womans and kids behave themselves decently. Male force may be lawfully employed to guarantee such behaviour. It is the patriarch’s Christian responsibility to save their souls ( p. 123 ) . Furthermore. sing society and the church agreed with the political orientation of patriarchate. one can reason that domestic force was a private issue and was unheard or spoken of. The division of labour which has strong historical roots in society contributes to adult females being exploited. During the Industrial Revolution. work forces were seen as responsible for doing the pay to back up the household and the adult females was responsible for her function in the place as housekeeper and female parent ( Hutchings. 1992 ) . Unfortunately. harmonizing to Hutchings ( 1992 ) . a adult male may seek to hold more power by mistreating his married woman if he feels as though he is missing employment in his business. It is the male’s fiscal parts into his place that gives him the chance to mistreat his married woman ( Hutchings. 1992 ) . Lending Factors Leading to Domestic Violence as an Issue Domestic force against adult females would neer hold become an issue if it wasn’t for the development of feminism ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 1997. p. 23 ) . Feminism is divided into different moving ridges. The two moving ridges which had a connexion to the development of an issue of force against adult females were one and two. It was prior to the development of the 2nd moving ridge of feminism. that domestic force against adult females was thought to be a private issue that did non justify a concern from the populace ( Blanchfield. Margesson. A ; Seelke. 2009. pg 1 ) . The first moving ridge occurred in Britain during the old ages of 1870-1930. it was concerned with women’s citizen rights and the right to vote ; this wave lead to adult females deriving these rights ( Charles. 2000. p. 22 ) . Within this moving ridge. adult females were concerned with being granted the ballot ( Crow A ; Gotell. 2009. p. 9 ) . The 2nd moving ridge of feminism emerged in North American and Western Europe during the 1960’s and focused on women’s release ( Charles. 2000. p. 1 ) . During this moving ridge. the womens rightists came to believe that the province had the ability to pulve rize policies which affected adult females therefore allowing them certain rights ( Charles. 2000. p. 5 ) . Goals of the 2nd moving ridge were highlighted by Charles and cover with adult females raising domestic force as an issue. He states: During the 1970s. the motion formulated seven demands. These were for equal wage ; equal instruction and occupation chances ; free contraceptive method and abortion on demand ; free 24-hour urseries ; fiscal and legal independency ; an terminal to all favoritism against tribades and a woman’s right to specify her ain gender ; freedom from bullying by menace or usage of force or sexual coercion. regardless of matrimonial position. and an terminal to all Torahs. premises and establishments which perpetuate male laterality and men’s aggression towards adult females ( Charles. 2000. p. 1 ) . Successs were gained from the development of feminism. Male privilege was partly removed with the success of the womens rightist motions ( Crow A ; Gotell. 2009. p. 59 ) . Women’s chances increased in relation to occupations. benefits. instruction. independency and richness ( Crow A ; Gotell. 2009. p. 173 ) . Due to women’s addition of independency. they raised their outlooks of work forces and were more unwilling to pardon unacceptable male behaviour ( Crow A ; Gotell. 2009. p. 173 ) . With the changing of outlooks held by adult females. domestic assault and colza Torahs were alterations and policies which banned torment in the workplace were created and made common ( Crow A ; Gotell. 2009. p. 59 ) . Addressing the Issue The 1960’s give rise to the battered women’s motion ( Schneider. 1991 ) . Prior to the development of women’s motion. banging of adult females was non recognized ( Schneider. 1991 ) . This motion viewed banging as a consequence of gender dealingss which reflected female subordination and male power ( Schneider. 1991 ) . This motion strived to diminish the silence environing the issue of abused adult females and lessening society’s tolerance of the Acts of the Apostless ( Crow A ; Gotell. 2009. p. 170 ) . Furthermore. this motion has provided public instruction to increase consciousness. services to those involved and constructed legal redresss to turn to and halt the maltreatment ( Schneider. 1991 ) . Due to the increased consciousness of maltreatment against adult females. the Government of Canada has made an attempt to diminish the happening. During May of 1981. the London Police were the first Canadian constabulary section to implement laying charges sing spousal assault ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . Harmonizing to the Department of Justice ( 2009 ) . In May 1982. the House of Commons’ Standing Committee on Health. Welfare and Social Affairs tabled its study. Report on Violence in the Family- Wife Battering. In it. the commission noted that constabulary preparation ( at that clip ) by and large instructed against the apprehension of a batterer unless he was really found hitting the victim or unless the victim had suffered hurts that were severe plenty to necessitate a certain figure of stitches. During July of 1982. the House of Commons suggested that Parliament force all constabulary to put charges for Acts of the Apostless of married woman crushing sing they lay charges for other signifiers of assault ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . It was besides suggested in 1983 by the Federal Provincial Task Force on Justice for Victims of Crime that there be written guidelines developed to direct officers to handle married woman assault as a offense and that the act of prosecution be made without the woman’s consent ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . Guidelines were issued to Crown prosecuting officers and constabularies as to how to cover with spousal maltreatment by 1986 from the Attorneys General and Solicitors General ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . These guidelines required constabularies to register charges if they had sensible evidences to believe the adult females had been assaulted ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . The Government of Canada has been doing accommodations to current measures. Bill C-15 was reintroduced in March of 2001 with the proposal of increasing the sentence of condemnable torment to ten old ages from the old five twelvemonth sentence ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . Bill C-79 had been amended in December of 1999. to ease victim’s engagement every bit good as that of the informants during the procedure of condemnable justness ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . For illustration. before the accused can be released on bond. the safety of the victim must be taken into history ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . Bill C-27 was reformed and enforced in May of 1997 ; it redefined the definition of condemnable torment ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . During a sentencing of the accused. Bill C-27 besides requires that the tribunals take breaching of tribunal orders into consideration ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . Bill C-41 which discusses sentencing was amended in 1996 ; therefore leting adult females to seek compensation for disbursals accumulated from the needing to go forth their house due to the maltreatment. ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . Bill C-42 was reinforced during February of 1995 ; therefore doing it easier for victims to have peace bonds. Persons and the constabularies are now able to bespeak a peace bond on a victim’s behalf who is at hazard of injury ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . The punishment for go againsting a peace bond has been raised from half a twelvemonth to two old ages ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . The concluding measure reformed was Bill C-126 which created a new charge of condemnable torment known as anti-stalking ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . Shelter plans have been a manner of society seeking to assist adult females of domestic force ( Koss. White A ; Kazdin. 2011. p. 185 ) . These plans have advanced a batch since they were introduced. Early shelters were merely able to offer impermanent support in the signifier of beds ( Koss. White A ; Kazdin. 2011. p. 185 ) . Fortunately. shelter plans have advanced to offer more immediate services to the victims. Today. many of the plans offer exigency shelter. support groups. crisis lines which are unfastened 24/7. guidance services. plans for kids and protagonism for the victims ( Koss. White A ; Kazdin. 2011. p. 185 ) . Fortunately. shelters have educated victims on their rights and options. learn them about community resources. shown them extra safety schemes and given them hope for the hereafter ( Sullivan. O’Halloran A ; Lyon. 2008 ) . First response squads are in topographic point to supply safety to exploited adult females. The squad normally consists of societal workers and/or trained advocators who assist police officers during or shortly after domestic force apprehensions occur ( Koss. White A ; Kazdin. 2011. p. 185 ) . These squads promote the message to maltreaters that legal effects result from their harmful behaviour and they besides educate victims about resources and community services available ( Koss. White A ; Kazdin. 2011. p. 185 ) . Discussion There are many ways in which society suffers from domestic force against adult females. Family relationships suffer badly when adult females endure these unhealthy relationships ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 1997. p. 6 ) . Family members are harmed as good ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 19997. p. 6 ) ; for illustration: observant force can impact the perceiver in a physical. mental. and/or emotional mode. Victims of the force may experience humiliated ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 1997. p. 6 ) . One ground a victim may experience humiliated is that the maltreater is a loved one for whom they trust ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 1997. p. 6 ) . The humiliation is normally experienced non merely by the victim but besides the accused but this may happen at differing times ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 1997. p. ) . The victim is likely to see shame due to the belief that they are being attacked ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 1997. p. 6 ) . Sing society doesn’t want to see negative emotions. the victims and/or accusers may seek to avoid the feeling of shame therefore taking to the possibility of them going violent ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 1997. p. 6 ) . The act of force besides affects those who witness it ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 1997. p. 6 ) . Those who have witnessed force and so prosecute in relationships with others are likely to recognize that their relationships are tainted ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 1997. p. ) . Due to these tainted relationships. establishments such as the constabulary. the penal system. societal services and the tribunals get involved with the issue to seek and interrupt the rhythm ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 19997. p. 6 ) . Persons fail to step in in struggles of domestic force due to existing stereotypes. Many people still experience as though the issue is still a private affair. should merely be dealt and discussed within the household and this it is a minor offense ( Berry. 2000. p. 23 ) . Unfortunately. people besides believe they are incapacitated and can non halt it issue from happening ( Berry. 2000. p. 3 ) . Many people still believe that the issue is rare. therefore they may develop them self to believe it isn’t truly happening ( Berry. 2000. p. 22 ) . It is believed by some that adult females are of course inactive and work forces are to be inherently aggressive. hence maltreatment is inevitable and portion of human nature ( Berry. 2000. p. 23 ) . Some believe that the adult females provoke the force through acquiring angry at the adult male. pecking. or talking their heads ; therefore taking to the adult females meriting to be beaten ( Berry. 2000. p. 22 ) . Furthermore others believe it is a job due to increased poorness or emphasis. therefore doing it limited to those of a lower category ( Berry. 2000. 23 ) . Despite the negative effects adult females face in these opprobrious relationships with work forces. some choose to non seek aid. Many adult females may experience as though they are forced to remain in these relationships to avoid going a lone female parent populating a life of poorness ( Crow A ; Gotell. 2009. p. 85 ) . One can understand why adult females may fear going victims of poorness because despite their rewards increasing. they still earn far less than work forces ( Crow A ; Gotell. 20009. p. 5 ) . Walikhanna ( 2009 ) has many ideas of why adult females stay: 1 ) adult females may maintain the issue silent for the interest of their kids 2 ) instruction or preparation may be missing therefore they are dependent on the adult male 3 ) they may believe the maltreatment is portion of their destiny or a manner of life ( p. 72 ) . The adult females may fear the adult male will seek retaliation ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . Victims may populate in stray communities or face communicating. cultural or linguistic communication barriers ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . Furthermore. these are but few of the grounds the issue is still prevailing therefore the governments are unable to step in. Sometimes schemes engaged prove to be uneffective. During the beginning of an opprobrious relationship. the adult females normally employ assorted schemes to decrease the force ( Denmark. Rabinowitz A ; Sechzer. 2005. p. 398 ) . They may name the constabulary. seek the aid of household members or the church. turn to their physicians or seek to alter their features which the adult male criticizes ( Denmark. Rabinowitz A ; Sechzer. 2005. p. 396 ) . Unfortunately. they work forces will happen other ways to knock the adult females. the constabulary may merely spread the present state of affairs. household members and/or the church may rede the adult females to make everything in the relationship to salve their households and physicians may react to the adult females with kiping pills. antidepressants and tranquillizers ( Denmark. Rabinowitz A ; Sechzer. 2005. p. 396 ) . Future Outcome Despite all the alterations society has implemented. more demands to be done to do this issue non-existent. Tonss of instances in which the adult females are abused go unreported to patrol but fortuitously the reported instances have increased ( Department of Justice. 2009 ) . Soon. the stigma one time attached to adult females who admit to being victimized and seek aid has declined ( Berry. p. 22 ) . Fortunately. as more narratives make public consciousness. their attitudes sing the issue their attitudes are altering ; they are going more cognizant of its damaging effects every bit good as the negative effects of non acquiring involved ( Berry 1995 ) . Community implemented plans assailing domestic force has besides seen astonishing consequences ( Berry. 1995. p. 27 ) . The effectivity of all future outreach plans depend on the communities attitudes ( Sen. 1999. p. 37 ) . It has been suggested that all money used to halt domestic force has promoted the victim alternatively supplying societal solutions ( Sen. 1999. p. 37 ) . For Example: the accused are threatened with a gaol sense alternatively of seeking to alter the man’s political orientation which causes to seek power though the usage of force and bullying ( Sen. 1999. p. 37 ) . Futhermore it has been thought that work forces who abuse adult females do non believe they are felons ; one survey found that 80 per centum of those accused has no old contact with the jurisprudence ( Sen. 1999. p. 36 ) . Unfortunately. acknowledging an maltreater is non easy ( Walikhanna. 2009. p. 3 ) . hence one manner of step ining in instances of domestic force is being able to acknowledge the marks. Signs of a adult females being abused include: being dying or afraid to delight their adult male. making everything he says. traveling along with what he does. adult females look intoing in with their spouse frequently to describe their actions. changeless hassling telephone calls or the adult females discoursing her spouse as genitive. covetous or holding a pique ( Smith A ; Segal. 2011 ) . Signs of physical usage include: holding frequent inadvertent hurts. changeless absences without accounts. and have oning vesture which hides Markss ( Smith A ; Segal. 2011 ) . Signs of isolation include: limitations to see friends and household. limited entree to recognition cards. money or a vehicle and seldom being allowed in public without their spouse. Furthermore. another type of maltreatment to detect for is psychological. Signs include: low self-pride. depression. anxiety. being self-destructive and look of drastic personality alterations ( Smith A ; Segal. 2011 ) . Despite assorted marks to detect to place maltreatment. it is of import to observe that these are merely marks. merely because an person is sing a mark does non intend she is a victim of maltreatment. These marks are merely listed to better assist society place victims. Decision This paper discussed the changing of domestic force from that of a private issue to going a public issue. Assorted attitudes. beliefs and intercessions were besides discussed. Feminists believe society’s accent on patriarchal values is linked to adult females being victimized by work forces ( Watto. 2009. p. 561 ) . Victimization of adult females is shown through the division of labor. The outgrowth of feminism lead to domestic force of adult females going recognized as an issue ( Duffy A ; Momirov. 1997. p. 3 ) . Feminism gained successes in relation to assorted issues. One of their great victory’s which had force against adult females recognized as an issue arose from the battered women’s motion in the 1960’s ( Schneider. 1991 ) . Following increased consciousness of the job. the Government of Canada has implemented assorted intercessions to seek and free the state of the job . Not merely are adult females victims in this pattern but so is society as a whole. Stereotypes are still present doing informants non to step in. Some victims choose non to seek aid despite the impact is has on them negatively. Unfortunately. there are victims who try to acquire aid but are unsuccessful. Furthermore. despite all the advancement made which deems this behaviour unacceptable. it will go on to be until more advancement can be reached. In an attempt to free the hereafter of the job. accent needs to concentrate on society’s attitudes and beliefs every bit good as being able to acknowledge possible marks of maltreatment. However. this will hopefully free society of the issue and if non so hopefully do it one that is near non-existent.

Homework Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 10

Homework - Essay Example In addition, through increasing the level of government spending, the government will be capable of providing incentives for production, which will create employment opportunities, reducing the level of unemployment from 8.2%. GDP, income and consumption growth have been positive, but also growing below the expected rates. The economy is expected to have a GDP growth of approximately 2% in 2012 and 2013. Household consumption increased by 2.2% in 2011, a factor that resulted from jobs recovery and fiscal stimuli (Stewart, 2012). Because of the increase in gasoline and oil prices, spending on consumption has risen drastically. In order to compensate, the United States consumer is borrowing again, especially for auto loans; this has made consumer credit grow drastically in 15 of the last 16 months. The government can reduce the rates of borrowing to kindle the economy through affordable consumption. Business investment in equipment and software has posted a remarkable recovery, which is expected to go on in 2012. Growth in the investments can be attributed to availability of the opportunity of borrowing at attractive rates. On the other hand, construction investment suffers immensely from the situation of the housing market. Because of this situation, business bankruptcies have been declining and are expected to decline by 10% in 2012. Because of the increasing external trade deficit, the government can adopt the policy of import substitution in those products, which it has capabilities in producing. Resulting from the drastic increase in gas and oil prices, the economy is facing inflation. A further increase in price of oil could lead to an occurrence of a recession. However, the Federal Reserve Chairman holds the possibility of a 3rd Quantitative Easing (QE3) in case there is such an occurrence, which can trigger QE3. With the current growth in

Biochem unit 9 paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Biochem unit 9 paper - Essay Example Vitamin E works with other molecules such as glutathione, selenium, vitamin C, and vitamin B3 in preventing oxygen from becoming too reactive, thereby preventing oxidative stress (WHFoods: vitamin E, n.d.). Numerous studies indicate that oxidation is the crucial phase in atherogenesis. Oxidized low-density lipoproteins with low density promote the production of inflammatory indicators. They are also implicated in the formation of foam cells, inhibition of vasodilation due to nitric oxide, and inhibition of the motility of tissue macrophages (Saremi & Arora, 2010). Experiments carried out on mouse models reveal that vitamin E plays a significant role in augmenting oxidative resistance in vitro, consequently avoiding the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. In humans, there is reduced risk of coronary heart diseases due to consumption of vitamin E-rich foods especially in middle-aged and older men and women (Saremi & Arora, 2010). However, results from some clinical trials provide conflicting data. According to Blumberg, vitamin E has been implicated as having an unfavourable effect in the therapy of heart disease (n.d.). He further attributes these disparities to the different primary and secondary tests. Primary prevention entails observing large numbers of healthy people and investigating the incidence of new heart disease in the midst of people with diverse intakes of vitamin E. On the contrary, secondary prevention takes place â€Å"over a few years in clinical trials with vitamin E supplements (and placebos) in patients with heart disease to determine whether their conditions worsen, e.g., with a subsequent heart attack† (Blumberg, n.d.). Therefore, vitamin E is more effective in primary prevention by preventing the development of plaque, which usually starts in childhood and continues in adulthood. Nonetheless, a number of studies indicate that vitamin E could

Exploring Cultural Competencies Essay Example for Free

Exploring Cultural Competencies Essay Being culturally competent of a student’s culture is essential for school counselors within a diverse population. In order for a school counselor to be culturally competent, it is essential for them to be aware of three major ideas: know yourself, know the student, and know the technique. Within these three competencies there are common themes that are utilized throughout each. Beliefs and attitudes, knowledge, and skills are all indispensable within the context of school counseling. Throughout the evolution of school counseling, these concepts have been consistent with multicultural counseling. However, based on recent research counselors are developing reason to believe that it is also imperative to explore spirituality as one of the competencies. These multicultural counseling competencies as well as spirituality will all be explored within this paper in regards to how school counselors (and myself, as a school counselor in training) can best counsel and work through the diverse issues of their students. The competencies being addressed can be further explored in Operationalization of the Multicultural Counseling Competencies (Arredondo, et al., 1996). Counselor Awareness of Own Cultural Values and Biases In order for a school counselor to be effective within this role, they must know their own cultural values and biases that they will be carrying with them throughout their professional journey. By self reflecting on their own attitudes and beliefs, knowledge, and skills a school counselor will help a school counselor to become more self aware of what these values and biases are within their life. Self-awareness is crucial when working with a diverse culture of students as a school counselor. Attitudes and beliefs are consistent across all cultures and generations, regardless of where they are at in their life-span development. Therefore, school counselors also carry their own attitudes and beliefs. Since many school counselors work with diverse student populations, they should learn more about their own attitudes and beliefs and how they are expressed in their life. This is an important standard because students’ ethics, thinking, and perspectives are influenced by their own attitudes and beliefs (Wolf, 2004). It’s common for a school counselor to not be bothered when they are working with students who have similar cultural backgrounds of their own. However, a potential challenge presents itself when school counselors assist students from different cultures, ethnicities, and/or spiritualties (Wolf, 2004). A school counselor must be able to acknowledge their own limits of their own multicultural competencies and expertise, as well as understand when they are beginning to feel discomfort with the differences that will come out between themselves and their students. Along with attitudes and beliefs comes the need for a school counselor to retain knowledge about their own culture. There is specific information within the school counselor’s culture and heritage that can both personally and professionally affect their ability and effectiveness throughout the counseling process. A significant challenge is for school counselors to acquire an understanding and knowledge of racial/ethnic identity development with their own cultural history and then apply that knowledge to students issues and concerns (Holcomb-McCoy, 2004). This allows counselors to acknowledge how their own culture has suffered or maybe even benefited from the cultural racisms throughout history. In order for school counselors to continue to practice cultural competency in counseling, they must maintain the skills and education as this multi-cultural world continues to change. It is essential for school counselors to continue to seek consultation, further training and education, as well as refer students to other mental health counselors (outside of the school system) that could better work with their culture. According to the ethical standards for the school counseling profession (ASCA, 2004) counselors need to be proficient in working with students from diverse backgrounds and within a multicultural framework that supports the cultural contexts in which today’s students develop (Moore-Thomas Day-Vines, 2008). Ethically it is essential for counselors to maintain these skills in order to better serve their students. Counselor Awareness of Client’s Worldview School counselors must be aware of negative and positive emotional reactions that are put off towards students, because this is significant towards the counseling relationship with the student. If a counselor chooses to share their own attitudes and beliefs with a student, it is important for the counselor to remember that they are willing to share those beliefs in a non-judgmental and pushy fashion (Wolf, 2004). Culturally skilled counselors must be aware of their own biases and stereotypes that they hold towards other racial and ethnic minority groups. These preconceived notions need to be addressed so that they are not being outwardly communicated (verbally or nonverbally) to a student that could potentially hinder the counselor-student relationship (Curry, 2010). How the client receives a counselors nonverbal social queues can seriously affect the relationship. In order for school counselors to continue to maintain a positive relationship with a student of a different cultural background than their own, they must obtain the knowledge necessary to do so. Part of that knowledge involves possessing specific knowledge that is strongly linked to understanding the minority identity development that is available from different pieces of literature. School counselors need to be prepared to do additional research regarding different cultures in order to better understand the students they are working with. Along with knowledge, school counselors must also have the skills necessary that will enrich the counseling experience for the student. The following question must always be asked, how can counselors become more actively involved outside of the school system within the minority cultures that they are working with? School counselors can play a major role in the empowerment of ethnic minority families and communities by taking a leadership role in developing school-family-community partnerships (Holcomb-McCoy, 2004). School counselors are not only advocates for mental health and education within the school system, but they are also advocates within the community as well, and their community involvement with diverse cultures is a practical way of obtaining the knowledge needed to work with those students. Culturally Appropriate Intervention Strategies While keeping the other two competencies in mind counselors must consider how they can apply those to the different intervention strategies needed within the context of school counseling. Attitudes and beliefs that a school counselor must have in order to be culturally skilled must reflect a level of value and respect for the student. In some situations, when working with clients from a different culture, there might be a language barrier; therefore counselors must value the ability to reach the student with their language needs. If there is a language barrier within a counseling setting, a counselor must be open to either offering a translator (while maintaining confidentiality) or referring the student to a different counselor or mental health practice that can better serve their needs (Holcomb-McCoy, 2004). Culturally competent counselors have a clear and unambiguous understanding of the generic characteristics of counseling and therapy and how they may clash with the diverse values of various backgrounds. School counselors must consider if there are any institutional barriers that might prevent a student from coming to them for help. If there are any circumstance that would hinder a student from seeing a school counselor, then that needs to be addressed by the administration and see that counseling can still be offered within the school system for the student (Ponterotto, Alexander, Grieger, 1995). It is essential that a counselor have the knowledge of the interventions strategies and techniques to use in order to best work with the multicultural students of the school. School counselors must be able to not only have the attitude and knowledge to work with a diverse population, but they also must have the skills. Skilled school counselors are not above seeking the needed additional trainings, education, and guidance that will enable them to better utilize their skills and techniques when working with diverse clients. The use of theories and techniques within school counseling is essential because of how diverse the students may be, and because of the development stage the students will be in (Ponterotto, et al., 1995). Competencies Applied to an African American Adolescent Appropriate counseling for African American adolescents requires the professional school counselor to carefully consider the discussed competencies. While incorporating many of these, the following case study was conducted when working with an 11-year-old African American student; child’s name in this assessment will be Jane Doe (Moore-Thomas Day-Vines, 2008). Jane Doe is in the sixth grade, and has experienced many behavioral difficulties, however she is not considered a special needs student. Throughout the years, all of Jane’s teachers have reported their concerns of her disruptive behavior. Jane’s mother was concerned about her daughter’s behavior and decided to see the school counselor about what the next step might be, so that it won’t begin to interfere with her academic performance. Jane’s mother reported to the counselor that Jane never had disruptive behavior at home or even at any of their church functions, and so she was surprised that this behavior was occurring within the school day. After meeting with Jane’s mother, the counselor reflected on meeting and decided to explore more information about the community that Jane was living in, as well as the church community that her and her mother were involved in. The counselor was not familiar with their church because it was a different cu lture and religious belief than her own. She began her research online, checking out the church website, and then on her way home from school that afternoon she drove through Jane’s neighborhood. The counselor found that the neighborhood was a lower to middle class neighborhood, and the church a protestant-Baptist church that was only about two blocks from Jane’s address. After the counselor’s research, it was decided that the best behavior plan to start with Jane would be to develop a school-home-community intervention plan that recognized the family’s values, and allowed Jane to express those values not only at home and at church but also throughout the school day. Rather than ignoring Jane’s spiritual and cultural identity, the counselor allowed Jane to embrace it as part of her cultural identity as a central key to her cognitive and academic development. In this case study, the counselor illustrates a professional example of how to best incorporate the multicultural counseling competencies within the school system. First the counselor understands the importance of knowing her own culture and how it is different than Jane’s and therefore, she needs to be sure to not reflect her own biases onto Jane or her mother. The counselor utilized her skills to find a technique that would work best for Jane and Jane’s mother in order to develop change within Jane’s behavior at school. Finally, the counselor worked to conduct research and learned more about Jane’s home, the community she lives in, and specifically her spirituality. Spirituality Spirituality is not a consideration of the multicultural counseling competencies that were addressed in this paper; however after the previous case study and further research it may be culturally incompetent if a counselor does not include a student’s spirituality. In some cultures spirituality plays a vital role in an individual’s culture, values, and beliefs, so to not consider it within counseling could potentially be detrimental to the student’s counseling experience. When considering a student’s spirituality it is essential for a counselor to be aware of not only their own spirituality but also the ethical and legal implications of talking about spirituality within the school system. Ethically, the American School Counselors Association writes in the preamble of the Code of Ethics that school counselors are willing and able to talk to all students regardless of the student’s spiritual beliefs (ASCA, 2010). However, legally the counselor must abide by the First Amendment of the Constitution, the separation of church and state. So, how are school counselors supposed to ethically work with the client’s spiritual needs, but also legal abide by the law that was written to protect the citizens’ freedoms? Very carefully. Spirituality is already a taboo subject within the school system because the first amendment, therefore it is suggested that a school counselor only brings up spirituality if the student approaches the topic first (Wolf, 2004). Working with diverse cultures, spirituality will inevitably come up, either directly or indirectly. However, when they do present themselves within the school counseling setting it is unethical for the school counselor to advocate for their own personal spiritual beliefs. This is not only a constitutional issue, but also a professional and ethical issue (Wolf, 2004). Spirituality is a new found essential when maintaining cultural competencies within counseling. Incorporating spirituality into therapy and interactions with the student will help the student to better focus their own emotional human needs on the spiritual side of their culture. And when this is practiced appropriately, it may help enhance the student-counselor relationship with a foundation built on trust, because of how personal spirituality can be to some cultures. The Importance of Self awareness Self-awareness is the most important aspect that a school counselor (or even mental health counselor, for that matter) can have before entering into the world of counseling, especially within the school system. Without a counselor’s self-awareness of their own cultural background then they will not be able to know when their own personal biases are being expounded upon the student. A counselor needs to know what cultures or groups of people they would have the most difficult time counseling, and why they would have a difficult time counseling those individuals. If there is a specific group of people that the counselor is not comfortable working with, then it would be encouraged that the counselor takes action to work through those biases and develop more competencies with that culture. However, if a counselor is unable to do this, then the counselor should consider referring those students to a different school counselor or even an outside mental health professional. If at any point a student walks through the door of a school counselors office, and the counselor is aware that they are not able to hold their own biases back about the student’s culture, then the counselor needs refer the student to another professional. Otherwise the emotional security and stability of the student’s well-being could potentially be at stake if the counselor helping them is not willing to budge from their own biases. Exploring a Personal Touch in Cultural Competencies Throughout the semester, in this class specifically, I have been able to grasp a better understanding of what cultures I may have a difficult time working with as a school counselor. I did not realize it before, however my self-awareness has helped me to acknowledge that I would have an incredibly difficult time working with the Muslim population. I realize that I feel this way because of some different personal experiences that my family has experienced with this culture, as well as how some Muslim cultures (or countries specifically in the Middle East) treat women. I do not think it’s fair for a woman to be forced into wearing a super black, super thick, and super huge garment that covers their entire body, with the exception of her eyes. I do not think that it’s fair for a woman to be forced into a marriage with a man she doesn’t love, and then lose all of her rights, making her ability to leave the marriage not an option at all. In some Muslim countries woman have been forced into oppression. My mother’s sister (Aunt Julie) was a missionary for several years in different countries of the Middle East. At one point in her mission she was placed in Bahrain for a six-month commitment. While she was there it was Bahrain law for all woman to dress in garments and cloth that would cover their entire body, with the exception of their eyes. At one point in Aunt Julie’s mission, a body part (that wasn’t her eyes) was exposed in public accidently, and she was taken into custody for what would be considered indecent exposure here in the United States. She was in prison for several months, and eventually the United States Embassy of Bahrain was able to rescue her from the persecution, and she came home. That experience really shook up my family, and I believe that it’s because of that situation that I am not completely comfortable about Muslim men in particular. Therefore, I think I would have a really difficult time counseling with that population, because I would not be able to completely apply all of the cultural competencies. Out of all the competencies, I believe that my strength would certainly fall into the realm of knowledge, and desire to learn more about specific cultures that I will be working with. I have a strong passion and desire to learn, especially when it comes to how I can better communicate and relate to people. However, a weakness that I would be forced to work through amongst all of the competencies would be techniques to use. At this time, I feel this way because I don’t feel like I have enough practice and experience using the techniques I have already learned. I also think that I consider this a weakness, because I’m not sure what techniques work best with different cultures. With time and experience I hope to have a better understanding of how different techniques work better with some cultures than others. I think that the most important thing I have learned beyond the facts in the text and theoretical research would certainly be what I have learned through class discussion this semester, the importance of self-awareness. Self-awareness for a counselor is not something you can read about in a book or a journal. You can’t discover your self-awareness by visiting the library or getting on EBSCO-host. You have to learn it through getting to know yourself. Self-awareness can be discovered through talking to classmates about their beliefs, your beliefs, what culture says about the different things in this world, and searching our hearts to see what we believe. The only way we can become completely competent for who we can counsel is by allowing ourselves to discover the self-awareness we have inside of us; by not avoiding any issues or biases we may have, but instead working through those, and allowing our hearts to be transformed to accept and work with all people, however diverse t hey may be. References American School Counselor Association. (2010). Ethical standards for school counselors. Retrieved November 19, 2011, from http://www.schoolcounselor.org/files/ethical Arrendondo, P., Toporek, M. S., Brown, S., Jones, J., Locke, D. C., Sanchez, J., Stadler, H. (1996). Operationalization of the Multicultural Counseling Competencies. AMCD: Alexandria, Virginia. Curry, J.R. (2010). Addressing the spiritual needs of african american students: Implications for school counselors. The Journal of Negro Education, 79 (3), 405-415. Holcomb-McCoy, C. (2004). Assessing the multicultural competence of school counselors: A checklist. Professional School Counseling, 7(3), 178-183. Moore-Thomas, C., Day-Vines, N.L. (2008). Culturally competent counseling for religious and spiritual african american adolescents. Professional School Counseling, 11, 159-165. Ponterotto, J. G., Alexander, C. M., Grieger, I. (1995). A multicultural competency checklist for counseling training programs. Journal of Multi cultural Counseling Development, 23(1), 11-20. Wolf, J.T. (2004). Teach, but don’t preach: Practical guidelines for addressing spiritual concerns of students. Professional School Counseling, 7 (5), 363-366.