Creating Age Graded Theory And Anomie Theory - 998 Words

Combining age-graded theory and anomie theory would help explain criminality by using more variables that have been proven reliable. Merton s theory created in the 1930s is ‘incomplete’ (Messner, Rosenfeld, 2006) and life-course may help complete this theory. Anomie factors affect a person in adolescents differently than a person in adulthood, this is why adapting life course with anomie can be helpful. Merton states his view of biological variables, â€Å"It provides no basis for determining the non-biological conditions which induce deviations from predicted pattern of conduct.† (Merton, 1938, p.672). Individual variables like biological factors are important, but they are aspects of criminality. Sampson and Laub s age-graded theory focuses on informal social control to understand crime through the life course. The main ideas they focused on were transitions (life events such as marriage or incarceration), trajectories (pathways of one s life) and turning points (Sampson, Laub, 1993). This theory was able to show why and how involvement in crime peaks during certain periods in one s life, and why many desist at certain times in their life. These ideas can be meshed together with institutional anomie factors like types of adaptations and escape mechanisms that people use. Probability of criminal involvement is higher when individuals have low levels of bonds with society or no bonds at all (Sampson, Laub, 1993). These social bonds are what connects a person toShow MoreRelatedControl Theory15246 Words   |  61 PagesUniversity of Arizona Author of Social Bond Theory Hirschi’s Two Theories and Beyond T ravis Hirschi has dominated control theory for four decades. His influence today is undiminished and likely will continue for years, if not decades, to come (see, e.g., Britt Gottfredson, 2003; Gottfredson, 2006; Kempf, 1993; Pratt Cullen, 2000). Beyond the sheer scholarly talent manifested in his writings, what accounts for Hirschi’s enduring influence on criminological theory? Three interrelated considerationsRead MoreStephen P. Robbins Timothy A. Judge (2011) Organizational Behaviour 15th Edition New Jersey: Prentice Hall393164 Words   |  1573 PagesWorkforce Diversity 18 †¢ Improving Customer Service 18 †¢ Improving People Skills 19 †¢ Stimulating Innovation and Change 20 †¢ Coping with â€Å"Temporariness† 20 †¢ Working in Networked Organizations 20 †¢ Helping Employees Balance Work–Life Conflicts 21 †¢ Creating a Positive Work Environment 22 †¢ Improving Ethical Behavior 22 Coming Attractions: Developing an OB Mo del 23 An Overview 23 †¢ Inputs 24 †¢ Processes 25 †¢ Outcomes 25 Summary and Implications for Managers 30 S A L Self-Assessment Library How

Intermediate Financial Accounting - Accounting scandals Essay

Essays on Intermediate Financial Accounting - Accounting scandals Essay Enron’s accounting scandal Corporate governance is a term used in business organizations to define the overall direction of the enterprise and method of control used by the executives. This involves the use of proper management techniques by the chief executive officers and major shareholders of the company, who must act in the best interests of the company. Failure to follow through with effective governance will automatically lead to the collapse of a vibrant business venture. One such example was the case scenario seen in the collapse of Enron Organization. The company began as an energy providing business in Houston due to a merger of two gas companies and later transformed itself into a major energy trading corporation led by Kenneth Lay, its founder. However, there emerged some corporate problems in the management who seemed to be out of control as they did what pleased them defying company’s interests. Reports were that the entire management team was behaving in a manner that did not blend in well with most of their clients. The latter were described to be out to propagate their own agenda and thus became negligent in providing company affairs. To elaborate, the head of the internal audit committee had her senate husband funded by the organization. In addition, Lord Wakeham who was part of the audit committee had a concurrent consulting firm in the same company. Cases of arrogance were very common in the organization as was bootlicking on the part of senior management. The subordinate staff was very afraid of the Chief Execut ive Officer and adhered to him as though they were enslaved. Records of mismanagement in the accounts records were evident. It began with the falsification of profit gains due to claims of a successful collaboration with Blockbuster Video that never was. To cover up the conspiracy, they had to manipulate their accounts leading to an actual consequential loss of profits of $600 million, and a total loss of all company profit estimated to the figure of $591. This ultimate loss led to an increase in debt figures for the organization in the amount of $628 million as was the case in the year running from 1997 to 2000. This fraud in their accounts records guaranteed them an opportunity to increase its earnings in the share market due to the prevailing pressure of reflecting a high EPS figure. The former was a ratio of total earnings divided by the number of shares of a company (Mitchel Sikka, 2012). The above fraudulent case would have prevented had there been accountability on the part of the internal audit team, who went ahead to provide incorrect figures without giving a second thought to the outcome of their consequences. They acted independently without the knowledge of the major stakeholders of the company as the management set up of the company did not interfere in their affairs. There should have been regulation in the way business was conducted in the organization as all the non-executive heads were left to task in the performance of their duties. They were not held accountable for their actions as they were allowed to independently cater for any shortcomings in the business. Lastly, there should have been an alignment of management goals with those of shareholders to prevent conflict of interests as was the apparent case. Bibliography MITCHELL, A. V., SIKKA, P. 2012.  Dirty business: the unchecked power of major accountancy firms. MONKS, R. A., MINOW, N. 2011.  Corporate governance. Chichester, Wiley FREEMAN, R. E. (2010).  Stakeholder theory: the state of the art. Cambridge, Cambridge University Press. BAVLY, D. A. 1999.  Corporate governance and accountability: what role for the regulator, director, and auditor?  Westport, Conn. [u.a.], Quorum Books. JONES, M. 2011.  Creative accounting, fraud and international accounting scandals. Chichester, West Sussex, England, John Wiley Sons. KAMMERER, M. 2009.  Creative Accounting, the Enron Case and its impact on Corporate Governance. München, GRIN Verlag GmbH.

The Credit Accessibility and the SME Growth in Vietnam

Question: Write aresearch proposal on the topic The credit accessibility and the SME growth in Vietnam. Answer: Introduction The business research proposal is based on the topic The credit accessibility and the SME growth in Vietnam. People all over the world have observed that the economic development of Vietnam is mainly accounted to growth of the small and medium sized enterprises in the country. The small and medium enterprises are a means of creation of employment opportunities, generation of income and reduction of poverty. The SMEs also contribute to the generation of revenue for the government. Though SMEs contribute to a lot of development of the economy, still the performance of this sector is not up to the mark as compared to the other sectors of the economy[1]. Researchers are of the view that the inability to access credit is the main cause of the poor performance of the medium and small sized firms. The researchers claim that the SMEs of Vietnam are unable to access both informal as well as formal financial credit. The scholars have observed that the profit generated by the SMEs in Vietnam has hit the bottom in the past few years[2]. Hence, the SMEs rank very low in the countrys economy as compared to the other industries. To increase the conditions of the business of the SMEs the government of Vietnam needs to look after the credit accessibility of these organizations. Literature review of the topic As discussed above, the SMEs are a promising and uprising sector of the economy of Vietnam. Near about 98% of the business organizations of the country, Vietnam comprises of these medium and small enterprises. The small and medium enterprises contribute to almost 48% of Vietnams Gross Domestic Product. The workforce of the SMEs includes 77% of the employees of the country. Hence, one can observe that the SMEs offer opportunity of employment to more than five hundred thousand people. SMEs play important roles to generate income to the government of Vietnam. Scholars and researchers are of the opinion that the SMEs generate growing rates of tax when they are compared to the other large business enterprises and corporations[3]. Hence, one can observe that the SMEs contribute largely to the social and economic development of the country. Researchers have observed in the recent past that the profit that the SMEs generate have declined to a great extent. MPI has reported that the equity and revenue generated by the SMEs in Vietnam has fallen drastically with corporate organizations. The value of the revenue generated by the SMEs in 2007 was 2.7%, which reduced in 2008 to 2.5%. In 2009, the value of the revenue reached 2.3% only. The data from the GSO also depicted the same picture. The data from GSO stated that the SMEs were able to manage only 43.9% of the total income generated by the enterprise. The SMEs generated only 13.6% of the profit that was not taxed by the government[4]. Most researchers are of the view that the poor accessibility of financial credit is the only cause of the poor returns generated by the SMEs. Studies regarding the performance of the SMEs have reflected on the fact that there is a positive relationship of the growth of SMEs and the financial support that these enterprises receive from the banks of Vietnam. The study also revealed that the SMEs face difficulty in obtaining financial help from the banks of Vietnam. The banks of Vietnam make all their decisions regarding loans depending on the finances of the organizations. The SMEs also face issues regarding the interest rate structures of the banks[5]. The author prepares the research proposal based on some of the issues regarding accessibility of credit of the SMEs. The proposal discusses the methods in which the SMEs can access and maintain funds. The proposal takes into consideration both the informal as well as formal avenues for accessing credit. The proposal also focuses on the following three aspects of availability of credit: obtaining loans from financial organizations, starting the business and the rates of intere sts offered by the banks. Research questions Keeping in mind the above discussion made on the accessibility and availability of funds that the SMEs of Vietnam can utilize and make profit, there are some research questions that the researcher poses can in this regard. The research questions that arise from the above discussion are described below: How does the process of accessing credit affect the progress and development of the SMEs of Vietnam? What are the factors that govern the process of accessing finances for the medium and small entrepreneurs to run their business? What are the factors that regulate the credit access ability of the SMEs to function as a start up enterprise in Vietnam? How do the rates of interests of the financial institution of Vietnam affect the accessibility of credit of the SME[6]? The researcher tries to answer the questions asked above in this research proposal. Research methodology and technique To conduct the research on the above topic the researcher uses the OLS, MNL methods. The researcher also uses the two stage sampling procedure due to Heckman to answer the questions of the research proposal. The Multinomial Logistic regression (MNL) model is a method of analysis of linear regression models. Analysts use the MNL model when the model assumes a nominal dependent variable that possesses more than two levels. The MNL regression is considered to be the extension of the commonly known logistic regression. The analysts use logistic regression to analyze the dependent variables that are dichotomous in nature[7]. The analysts using the SPSS software to analyze the data often resort to using the MNL model. The multinomial regression model is used as a predictive analysis tool. The analysts use the MNL model to describe the dependence of the variable that is nominal in nature to the explanatory variables that are at continuous levels[8]. The researcher decided to use the MNL mod el to throw light on the credit choices that the SMEs of Vietnam would make. The analyst employs the model of the ordinary least squares (OLS) to investigate about the factors that affect the rates of interest that the banks or the financial institutions pose on the loans that the SMEs take from them. The simplest form of regression is the ordinary least squares regression technique. The analysts resort to the ordinary least squares regression when they want to regress the value of a single dependent variable from the values of a number of explanatory variables[9]. The response variable for the OLS model needs to be measured on an interval scale. The technique of using the OLS model is also useful when there are more than one explanatory variable in the model. The OLS model also describes explanatory variables that are obtained from categorical data[10]. The researcher will base his analysis on the Two-Stage procedure due to Heckman to investigate the development of the SMEs by accessing the credit. The Heckman estimation technique assumes that there exists a positive correlation between the error terms of the two models[11]. To gather primary data from the subjects of the research, the researcher takes the help of questionnaires to gather information from the subjects. The researcher conducts surveys by interviewing the subjects involved in the research. Gannt chart The author provides a detailed Gannt chart that describes the time duration that the researcher would need to complete the experiment. The Gaant chart provides the details of the time to be taken to make a literature review of the research topic. The chart also gives a detailed picture of the time that the experimenter would take to collect the required data and to perform the analysis of the data. Finally, the researcher would submit the report consisting the findings of his research on the date mentioned in the gaant chart. Task Start date Duration End date Literature Review 08th June 15 days 23rd June Data Collection 24th June 60 days 24th Aug Data Analysis 25th Aug 55 days 20th Oct Final Report Submission 21st Oct 30 days 21st Nov The bar diagram describes the required milestones of the research process. Description of the research process The first step to progress with the research is to collect primary data from the appropriate sources. To conduct the research, the researcher would ask for the help ten people to conduct the survey. The researcher would assign task to the ten people to distribute the questionnaires to the managers of the medium and small enterprises. The researcher requires the people to distribute the questionnaires to the managers of the SMEs located at different places. The people can provide the questionnaires to managers of at most three SMEs in each street of Vietnam. Before distributing the questionnaires to the managers, the concerned person would need to ask for their consent if they want to participate in the experiment[12]. If the people get a positive response from the respective managers of the SMEs then only they would provide the questionnaire to them. Then the people conducting the survey would clearly explain the procedure that the managers need to follow to answer the questions give n in the questionnaire. The surveyors would inform the managers at what time or on which day they would come collect the questionnaires from them. The people conducting the survey request the managers to complete the task of filling up the questionnaire by the stipulated time. The concerned people would distribute near about 700 questionnaires to the managers of different SMEs. After the previously mentioned time duration to complete the task gets over, the surveyor would expect to get back at least 500 to 550 correctly and completely filled up questionnaires. This would lead to the fact that the surveyor has obtained at least 70% to 75% of completed and error free feedback[13]. After collecting the desired information from the subjects, the next step that the researcher would take is to check the validity of the data. The data so collected may contain some outlier observations or may have some missing values. The managers may not feel to answer all the questions given in the questionnaire. In such a situation, the researcher needs to sort out such questionnaires with incomplete information. The researcher would then modify the information or would reject such questionnaires with inadequate or faulty information. This process is known as the process of cleaning the data. Once the researcher arrives at the appropriate data, he performs the task of data analysis. The analyst would enter the data into an Excel spreadsheet. The analyst would then transfer the data from the Excel sheet to some statistical software namely R, MATLAB or STATA to analyze the data by statistical methods. Description of data collection and data analysis The researcher collected the data for conducting the experiment from the managers of the SMEs that are registered as the small and medium sized organizations under the government of Vietnam[14]. The researcher has chosen Hanoi as the sampling frame for doing the research. The researcher has chosen Hanoi as the sampling frame as it possesses a large number of SMEs that are registered under the government. The researcher recorded that by 2011, the number of small and medium sized organizations in Hanoi reached approximately 59,195[15]. The researchers would primarily focus on the directors and the managers of finance of the SMEs to make them fill up the questionnaires. The questionnaires that the researchers would provide to the managers and directors of the company would consist of questions that would fetch information regarding the accessibility of the credit by the SMEs. The researcher has decided upon the size of the sampling unit to be 385. The researcher would select these sampl ing units from at least 500 medium and small enterprises. The researcher would collect information from at most three SMEs located in each of the streets. This would allow the researcher to perform the experiment at a level of significance of 95%. This means that the results obtained from the research would be more or less 95% accurate[16]. The researcher interviewed the subjects using a questionnaire. The information gathered includes the knowledge of the chances of the small enterprises to obtain funds for setting up the business. The researchers gather information about some of the salient features of the SMEs. The researchers test the questionnaires by employing them on the managers of the SMEs chosen at random by suitable random sampling technique. The data analyst would statistically analyze the data using the suitable statistical software. The analyst would first judge the inflation in variance of all the models described above by employing the Ordinary least squares technique. The analyst uses the Housman test to investigate the assumption of IIA. The next aspect that the person conducting the research takes into consideration is the relationship between the managers of the SMEs and the sources from where the SMEs obtain informal credit[17]. This would help the researcher to understand the effect of the rates of interest on the loans that the SMEs take from the banks. The analyst calculates certain measures of descriptive statistics from the quantitative data. Some of these measures include the quartiles of the distribution, the inter quartile range, the median, mean and standard deviation of the distribution. A data that is dynamic in nature would be helpful for the analyst to judge the development of SMEs in accessing the available funds[18]. The analyst also investigates some other factors that can influence the profit earned by the SMEs and the rate at which they invest money over an interval of time. This analysis would help the researcher to test the ability of the SMEs to avail credit. The expected research outcomes The researcher expects that the research conducted on the topic of credit accessibility of the SMEs in Vietnam would produce some positive results. The researcher states that the first result focuses on the method of credit access by the SMEs to start their business. The researcher arrived at the result by employing the Multinomial Logistic Model (MLN) to the data. The outcome that the researcher expects from this result is that the assistance of the government has an effect on the capability of the SMEs to utilize credits obtained from outward sources[19]. Apart from the expected outcome, the researcher also expects that the age and the experience of the manager of the SMEs play a vital role in enabling the SMEs to obtain loans from other sectors. The researcher also expects another outcome that the rates of interests offered by the banks of Vietnam would also affect the loans that the SMEs take from them. The research proposal anticipates that the SMEs would be inclined to take loans from the private banks of Vietnam who offer higher rates of interests than the public sector banks[20]. Conclusion The research proposal deals with the topic of the issues of the credit accessibility and the growth of the SMEs in Vietnam. By making the business proposal one can easily conclude that the government of Vietnam needs to assist the SMEs in obtaining credit from external sources to foster the growth of the SMEs in the country. The growth and development of this sector would help in the betterment of the economy of Vietnam. References: Nguyen, N. (2014). Credit accessibility and small and medium sized enterprise growth in Vietnam. Statistics Solutions. (2016). Conduct and Interpret a Multinomial Logistic Regression - Statistics Solutions. Vunyale, Narender, Nemi Raja, and Raveesh Krishnankutty. "Does Innovative Financing Increase the Firm Performance? An Empirical Investigation of Indian Manufacturing Firms."Theoretical Economics Letters6, no. 02 (2016): 304. Mateev, Miroslav, Panikkos Poutziouris, and Konstantin Ivanov. "On the determinants of SME capital structure in Central and Eastern Europe: A dynamic panel analysis."Research in International Business and Finance27, no. 1 (2013): 28-51. Nguyen, A.H., 2014. An Analysis of SME Perceptions of Credit Information Reporting in Vietnam.Asia Pacific World,5(2), pp.123-146. Minh, T.T. and Hjorts, C.N., 2015. How Institutions Influence SME Innovation and Networking Practices: The Case of Vietnamese Agribusiness.Journal of Small Business Management,53(S1), pp.209-228. Phan, U.H., Nguyen, P.V., Mai, K.T. and Le, T.P., 2015. Key Determinants of SMEs in Vietnam. Combining Quantitative and Qualitative Studies.Review of European Studies,7(11), p.359. Pham, T.H., 2015.Risk Management of Credit for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs Credit) in Vietnam Technological and Commercial Joint Stock BankThang Long Branch (Techcombank Thang Long)(Doctoral dissertation, Khoa Quc t,  HQGHN). Yildirim, H.S., Akci, Y. and Eksi, I.H., 2013. The effect of firm characteristics in accessing credit for SMEs.Journal of Financial Services Marketing,18(1), pp.40-52. Jostins, L. and McVean, G., 2016. Trinculo: Bayesian and frequentist multinomial logistic regression for genome-wide association studies of multi-category phenotypes.Bioinformatics, p.btw075. Hosmer Jr, D.W., Lemeshow, S. and Sturdivant, R.X., 2013. Logistic Regression Models for Multinomial and Ordinal Outcomes.Applied Logistic Regression, Third Edition, pp.269-311. Subedi, S. and Fox, T.R., 2016. Predicting Loblolly Pine Site Index from Soil Properties Using Partial Least-Squares Regression.Forest Science. Cohen, J., Cohen, P., West, S.G. and Aiken, L.S., 2013.Applied multiple regression/correlation analysis for the behavioral sciences. Routledge. Certo, S.T., Busenbark, J.R., Woo, H.S. and Semadeni, M., 2015. Sample Selection bias and Heckman models in strategic management research.Strategic Management Journal. Bregnbak, D., Thyssen, J.P., Zachariae, C., Menn, T. and Johansen, J.D., 2015. Association between cobalt allergy and dermatitis caused by leather articlesa questionnaire study.Contact dermatitis,72(2), pp.106-114. Barrett, F.S., Bradstreet, M.P., Leoutsakos, J.M.S., Johnson, M.W., MacLean, K.A., Jesse, R. and Griffiths, R.R., 2015. The challenging experience questionnaire: Characterization of acute adverse reactions to psilocybin.Drug Alcohol Dependence,146, p.e218. Trang, T.K., 2015. Key Success Factors of SME Entrepreneurs: Empirical Study in Vietnam.International Journal of Business and Management,11(1), p.136. Tran, H.T.T., 2015. Challenges of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) In Vietnam during the Process of Integration into the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC).International Journal of Accounting and Financial Reporting,5(2), pp.133-143. Lang, T.A. and Altman, D.G., 2013. Basic statistical reporting for articles published in biomedical journals: the Statistical Analyses and Methods in the Published Literature or the SAMPL Guidelines.Handbook, European Association of Science Editors.

Sibling Incest free essay sample

J Fam Viol (2009) 24:531–537 DOI 10. 1007/s10896-009-9251-6 ORIGINAL ARTICLE Sibling Incest: A Model for Group Practice with Adult Female Victims of Brother–Sister Incest Kacie M. Thompson Published online: 5 June 2009 # Springer Science + Business Media, LLC 2009 Abstract Working with groups of people who have been sexually abused introduces mutual experiential themes into the process that can be beneficial and meaningful. This paper discusses brother–sister incestuous sexual abuse with implications for group work. Literature and research is reviewed concerning sexual abuse, incest, family relationships, and theories that aid in explaining incest. Themes covered include: effects of incest, coping methods, blaming, and family of the victim. Common themes are explored and implications for group work are suggested on the basis of length, detail, structure, content, and pre-group contact. Keywords Sibling incest . Group practice . Group therapy Sibling incest is widely believed by researchers and clinicians to the most common type of incest (Carlson et al. We will write a custom essay sample on Sibling Incest or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page 006). Historically, the issue of father–daughter incest has been most often referred to when speaking of incest as a form of sexual abuse; and the concept of sibling incest has been ignored. Despite the high occurrence of sibling incest and its negative effects, attention to this issue by the family, researchers, and professionals has been lacking (Bass et al. 2006). In fact, violence between siblings is much more prevalent than child abuse by parents (Kiselica and MorrillRichards 2007). The purpose of this discussion is to highlight the experience of victims of sibling incest by shedding light on their feelings, thoughts, and mental and emotional issues that are a result of incestuous abuse. Based on the understanding of the sibling relationship and aspects of sibling incest, a model for group therapy is introduced K. M. Thompson (*) University of Montana, Missoula, MT, USA e-mail: [emailprotected] com for adult female victims of brother–sister incest. Aspects, such as sibling elationships, effects of brother sister incest, the family, blaming, coping, and theoretical frameworks, are discussed to inform group work with victims. The Sibling Relationship Incest Siblings share a unique relationship bound by genetics, social class, history, and family connections. The sibling relationship often outlasts many other relationships (Bass et al. 2006). The sibling relationship is unique in longevity and can be one of the most influential relationships in one’s life. Because of this, the impact siblings have on one another should not be underestimated (Kiselica and Morrill-Richards 2007). This unique relationship that siblings share is sometimes the reason why incidences of sibling incest are regarded as â€Å"sexual curiosity†. This view of sexual curiosity is often accepted by family members and the details of that curiosity are not fully understood (McVeigh 2003). Sibling incest is defined as sexual behavior between siblings that is not age appropriate, not transitory, and not motivated by developmentally appropriate curiosity. Sexual abuse between siblings is not limited to intercourse. It has been shown that unwanted sexual advances, sexual leers, and forcing a sibling to view pornographic material can have as much of a psychological impact on the victim as actual intercourse (Kiselica and Morrill-Richards 2007). There are many forms of sexual abuse, but the negative effect incest poses on the victim and the family cannot be ignored. The sibling relationship and the causes of sibling incest have been addressed in several ways. Some authors such as McVeigh (2003), note the importance of the power dynamic between the brother and sister, as that dynamic is caused by age difference and gender expectations. Haskins (2003) 532 J Fam Viol (2009) 24:531–537 states that incest with a younger sibling by an older sibling is motivated largely by urges to satisfy underlying emotional needs for nurture and comfort rather than a need for sexual gratification. The offender’s behavior has sometimes become an outlet to express his unconscious needs. To fully understand the victim and offender’s relationship, family contexts should be examined. Perhaps the victim feels and behaves in similar ways due to the dysfunction in the family environment and the possible need for comfort and acceptance, which will be discussed in relation to family details. Common Experiences: The Effects of Sibling Incest Reactions to incestuous sexual abuse vary from person to person, depending on the severity, duration, and family reaction to the abuse. Victims of sexual abuse experience long-term difficulties including psychological, sexual, and relationship problems (Brand and Alexander 2003). Victims of incest have many feelings, emotions, and issues to deal with in order to cope with the abuse they experienced. Victims of sibling incest exhibit a wide variety of psychological problems. Sexual sibling abuse creates fear, anger, shame, humiliation, and guilt (Kiselica and MorrillRichards 2007). Along with those feelings, victims can also have severe depression and feelings of helplessness (Martens 2007). Sometimes these feelings can lead to suicidal thoughts, and sexual promiscuity; two aspects that are very common in sexually abused women (Rudd and Herzberger 1999). In order to understand the many effects of abuse and the long-term consequences, aspects, such as blaming, coping, and forgiveness, will be addressed under the framework of issues to be addressed during group work with victims of sibling incest. Family of the Victim Family systems theory has been utilized by clinicians to aid in the understanding of sibling abuse. Family systems theory supports the understanding of the sibling relationship within the familial realm by viewing the sibling relationship as just one piece in the family puzzle. The family environment is an interactive, interdependent network in which the behavior of each individual or subsystem modifies the behavior of other individuals or subsystems. This environment is quite intimate, and if the network begins to break down, it often fosters violence. Through this, the family systems outlook shows that sibling abuse and incest cannot be considered an isolated problem but should be seen as a manifestation of family dysfunction (Haskins 2003). The importance of the family should always be examined in cases of sibling incest. Bass et al. (2006) note that each member of the family will hold a unique perspective and position on the issue of incest and sexual abuse; which in turn models how the woman involved in that abuse will react or respond to the abuse and the treatment that may follow. Sibling incest occurs in families with some common characteristics (Phillips-Green 2002). Abusive and incestuous families have high levels of personal, social, and economic stress; substance abuse; and exaggeration of patriarchal norms; and parenting skills are consumed with high levels of frustration, with punitive or harsh childrearing styles (Haskins 2003). Systems theory aids in the understanding that what one person does effects another, which effects another. The family dynamics that housed the sibling abuse can have negative effects on the victim in how she views herself and how she will parent her children based on how she was raised. Whatever the case, sibling incest is painful and damaging, whether the families are relationally connected or distant (Bass et al. 2006). Not only does the family play an important role in examining the bigger picture of the victim’s life, but it also provides insight into the individual and her treatment process. With brother–sister incest, the victim and the perpetrator are both in the family unit, and that unit can be strongly effected by disclosure of abuse. Disclosure can create emotional distress which may lead to the breakdown of the family, disclosure can also cause blaming to occur. It has been shown that blaming is often a large factor in the disclosure process. The parents and teachers often blame the victim for the abuse instead of providing support (McVeigh 2003). The victim has already endured the abuse, the shroud of secrecy, and in the moment she thinks she will begin to overcome this abuse she is often ridiculed and blamed for causing the abuse that was inflicted upon her. Cyr et al. (2002) hypothesize through their research that when blaming from the parents occurs, the mother is placed in a loyalty bind, having to choose between her daughter and her son. Depending on the type of relationship the mother has with each child, the blaming could be greatly influenced. The issue of blaming can be reciprocal, as the victim may then blame herself and her mother. Blaming Just as the victim is often blamed for the abuse she endured, blaming can occur by the use of self-blame or by motherblaming. Blaming the self for events that happened are not only damaging but are often associated with feelings of guilt relative to the abuse (Morrow and Sorell 1989). Women that have experienced brother–sister incest may also feel unsafe, and when she believes that she is the one J Fam Viol (2009) 24:531–537 533 to be held responsible for the wrongdoing, she will turn any feelings of rage and hostility away from the perpetrator or her family and place them on herself (Schlesinger 2006). Self-blame and mother-blaming are common ways to deal with feelings of guilt and anger. Mother blaming is supported by the notion that the mother is in some way responsible for the acts of the victim’s brother. Victims of incest often internalize anger, directing hatred and aggression against themselves. When these feelings become too intense, the victim copes with this by focusing her anger on her mother, which allows the victim to externalize her feelings (Jacobs 1990). Looking at family dynamics as well as the specific relationship the victim has with her mother can be useful in understanding coping methods through blaming. processing for the resolution of the trauma, as well as increase the likelihood for poor day to day adult functioning (Brand and Alexander 2003). With a deeper understanding of coping methods, there may be an enhanced opportunity for educating the individual who exhibits those behaviors, as well as other group members. Group Therapy The use of group therapy can be very effective with a variety of populations, especially those that have experienced incest. Group therapy can provide a unique opportunity for self and interpersonal learning because it allows for members to address effects of interpersonal victimization by identifying with other members who have had similar experiences (Wanlass et al. 2006). Although little is known regarding best practice measures to treat victims of sibling incest, options for treatment have been discussed based on the fact that each victim of sexual abuse will be different in the treatment process (Martens 2007). There are several characteristics of sexual abuse that can affect not only the victim, but the treatment process as well. Aspects such as duration of the abuse and the use of force should be examined. As mentioned earlier, the family dynamic should be looked at as well though the lens of how the victim’s disclosure of abuse was received. The victim will be coping with not only the abuse, but the impacts disclosure may have had on the family and the victim as well. Rudd and Herzberger (1999) note four common characteristics among victims coming to receive treatment: enforced secrecy, interpersonal power differentials, influences on sexual development, and individual aftereffects. These researchers state that abused women often felt that by tolerating the abuse and keeping it a secret was a way to hold the family together. This aspect of secrecy in the incestuous relationship is also connected to power dynamics within the relationship. These characteristics as well as sexual development and individual aftereffects can be examined including other issues discussed earlier. Focusing on building strength and resilience in group therapy has been noted by Wanlass et al. (2006) and Anderson (2006). Both authors contend that working through the abuse during the group process can be seen as â€Å"surviving† the abuse, which is an example of resiliency. The group therapy process can be structured and focused to maximize skills associated with resiliency, leading to improved treatment outcomes (Wanlass et al. 2006). Anderson (2006) discusses a change in perspective of how the victim views herself; from the victim to the survivor; which can aid in the process of forgiveness. The topic of forgiveness may be valuable to group members, depending on where each member is in her process of Coping When considering group therapy with women who have experienced sibling sexual abuse, coping mechanisms should be examined to understand what issues and problems the individuals may have due to their coping skills. The way each individual copes with the abuse can be connected to any diagnosis that they may have been given as a result of the abuse. For example, many victims of trauma, especially sexual related trauma display characteristics of Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome (Banyard and Williams 1996). In these situations, group members may need to be taught coping strategies to manage traumarelated anxiety (Foa et al. 1999). Paying close attention to the possibility of or presence of a disorder will be very helpful in group work. Coping has been examined in many ways to aid in the process of understanding how individuals respond to trauma and stress. Brand and Alexander (2003) state there are two types of coping strategies: emotionfocused coping, and problem-focused active coping. Becoming more aware of both of these style of coping will greatly influence effectiveness of group work. Emotion focused coping is rooted in the individual trying to regulate their emotions in dealing with the abuse, and problem-focused active coping is when individuals engage in behaviors in an attempt to manage the problem situation. An example of problem-focused coping is when an individual tries to manage her stress from the abuse through an eating disorder behavior. While the group facilitator learns more about the group members, behavior such as these may arise in discussion. Other coping methods that have been identified include the coping strategy of avoidance. Previous studies have stated that avoidance may be an initial way to cope with the stress of sexual abuse, but in the long term sense the avoidance strategy may increase future symptoms and cognitive 534 J Fam Viol (2009) 24:531–537 understanding the abuse she experienced. Working on forgiveness with group members may aid in the reduction of feelings that cause depression, fear, and anxiety by channeling those feelings and discussing options for positive coping though forgiveness and resiliency. Theoretical Frameworks Guiding Practice Research and information discussed thus far has roots in theory. These theories could lead to a deeper understanding and an enhanced framework for the discussion of incest as well as aid professionals in group work. Attachment theory, symbolic interaction theory, family systems theory, and feminist theory outline the theoretical framework that guides practice with female victims of incest. As mentioned earlier, much of the discussion of incest has its foundation in family systems theory and the significance of relationships family members have ith one another. Alexander and Anderson (1994) note that the family context associated with the abuse often explains more of the long-term effects than the abuse itself. Attachment theory lends itself to this notion by stating that the parent–child relationship is just as important to the child as eating and sleeping. Based on the child’s â€Å"internal working model† of relationships modeled by the parent–child relationship, that model governs how interpersonal relationships are viewed and experienced (Alexander and Anderson 1994). The goal of incorporating an attachment perspective is one of helping the client increase flexibility of though and views in interpersonal relationships beyond the parent– child relationship. This could be especially useful if there have been negative interactions as well as if blaming is occurring. Symbolic interaction theory aids in the exploration of incest by looking at aspects, such as frequency of abuse, degree of self-blame, and family disruption, in relation to how the victim will manifest her self-concept (Morrow and Sorell 1989). Through this theory, how the individual who experienced the abuse views herself is viewed as a social product constructed and developed by the social interactions around that individual. Once again, family relates to this theory and explanation of factors surrounding incest and sexual abuse, but it also reaches beyond to include other important social interactions, such as friends, classmates, etc. Understanding the social constructs present in the victim’s life can create a better understanding of what needs to be dealt with and recognized for effective group therapy to occur. The feminist framework of incest and the victim is centralized around gender and oppression, and the roles that males and females play in society. As discussed earlier, Anderson (2006) speaks of the importance of changing the viewpoint of â€Å"surviving† abuse to overcoming and resisting the abuse through resiliency. This idea of becoming resilient by resisting oppression is focused in categories found to represent resiliency in the face of oppression: being powerless, being silenced, and being isolated. Not only do all three of these aspects describe how an incest victim feels, but Anderson (2006) also argues that they correlate with oppressive resiliency. Introducing this idea of not being an incest ‘survivor’, but being a resilient person with qualities to be proud of, seems much more empowering, and is a great representation of an example of how feminist theory can be applied to group work with victims of incest. Moving past sentiments of oppressed within one’s feelings as well as within society due to one’s gender can be helpful for the victim, especially within a group setting. People can often find strength in numbers, and if other members are making the same conclusions about their lives and their experiences, positive progression can occur. Kreidler and England (1990) make an important point: â€Å"Because incest isolates victims and encourages feelings of guilt, incrimination, and shame, group experiences allow survivors to build self esteem and develop relationships in a protected environment†. Through this, the group process fosters autonomy and a sense of control in its members. Group Model Group therapy for adult female victims of sibling abuse can be approached in many ways. Group facilitators must be able to assist their clients in making sense of their trauma and work through negative emotions, as well as to teach group members healthy and adaptive coping strategies (Wanlass et al. 2006). The basics of group work will be rooted in helping group members work through their experiences while processing their emotions. Through this, connections will often be made with other members based on the shared experience of brother–sister incest. Focus should not only be on the present, but the victim should be able to make connections to the abuse and how her life has been affected. Victims of sibling incest have lifelong problems in many areas including marriage, work, and parenting (Phillips-Green 2002). Once group members begin to make those connections, the possibility for positive change may increase. Northen and Kurland (2001) emphasize the importance of thorough and thoughtful planning to the success of group work (p. 109). In order to address the topics and concerns discussed throughout this paper, the intake process should be thorough in detail and always take into account the elements of the brother–sister incest, finding out if force was used, how long the incest occurred, etc. The facilitator in charge of creating the group should be involved in the intake of members, as well as choosing the time and place J Fam Viol (2009) 24:531–537 535 where the group will meet. The length of the group sessions should be considered. Group therapy can be short term or long term, depending on the desired goals of the facilitator and the needs of group members. Sparks and Goldberg (1994) propose a short term group that is centered within re-educating victims about the dynamics of incest. Victims are often unaware of the widespread incidence of sibling incest experiences, and may feel much less alone in their feelings and issues as a result of the abuse. These authors note the sense of empowerment that women feel by telling their story to others who share similar experiences, as vocalizing the abuse sets it â€Å"free† and places it in the open, as well as helps the woman to continually break feelings of secrecy. There can be advantages and disadvantages to short-term and long-term group models. Short-term groups are more effective for creating connections between victims around a shared experience, but due to the severity and seriousness of sibling incest, the author proposes a long-term group specifically for women who have experienced brother– sister incest. Long-term groups offer more of an opportunity to address issues such as sexuality, sexual dysfunction, and other issues such as secrecy, isolation, and suicidal thoughts that victims often carry with them throughout their lives. This long-term group is a 12-week format, with meetings once per week at two hours per session. Depending on the size of the group and the characteristics of members, private individual sessions outside group meetings may also be arranged. Size can vary, but should be limited to 10 women. Northen and Kurland (2001) make the point that the smaller the group, the more demand on members to be fully involved in the group, and then there is more demand for intimacy of relationships (p. 136). Sparks and Goldberg (1994) mention the importance of realizing that many survivors will be suspicious of anyone in the counselor/professional role because they many have felt they experienced further violation and betrayal from any previous treatment. To begin to look at this, it may be helpful to ask women during intake if they have gone to any treatment previously, as well as how they felt about it. The facilitator should be aware of this prior to the first meeting. The facilitator also needs to make group members aware of the time commitment during the intake process, making sure they know that missing sessions is not encouraged. A possible therapy method that can be incorporated in group work is the use of Cognitive Processing Therapy for Sexual Abuse (CPT-SA). This treatment is an adaptation by Chard et al. 1997) of Cognitive Processing Therapy for rape victims and is intended to extend treatments for childhood sexual abuse by addressing sexual abuse responses and aspects of the abuse (Chard 2005). This 17week therapy method combines the use of individual and group therapy to maximize positive results by utilizing the benefits of group work as well as giving group members individual attention throughout the group process. Alt hough this method is not discussed at length in this paper, it may be useful to examine facets of CPT-SA for possible incorporation in group work with incest victims. The goals, strategies, and topics included in treatment will vary from therapist to therapist; and the goals and topics included in therapy typically reflect the therapists’ own assumptions of the impact of child sexual abuse (Beutler et al. 1994). This author suggests topics that should be addressed in the group are: emotions and feelings, sexuality, family history, effects of disclosure, power/feeling of powerlessness, secrecy, relationship with the offender, relationship with family members, current coping skills, and options for positive change for the future. These can be modified week to week. There really is no way to run a group in a step-bystep manner, as the group process is unique in itself as it takes shape and changes course all on its own. Topics can be presented to the group if there seems to be a lack of conversation or comfort with one another, but once the group members get to know one another topics and discussions will take shape and find their way into discussions even if there isn’t a definite â€Å"plan† for the group that day. For the use of an example, a basic proposed model for group may include: Week 1: Learning about each other What brings you here? Tell us about yourself. How do you feel about being here? Activities may be used to â€Å"break the ice†, writing exercises, etc. Week 2 3: The Family and Disclosure What is your relationship with your family like? Discuss dynamics of the family. What happened when you told about your abuse? Blaming may be discussed here. Week 4 5: Relationship with your brother Relationship changes, start and end of abuse, where the perpetrator is, how that makes you feel. Week 6 7: Depression, guilt, anger, sexual promiscuity. What are you dealing with now? How has the abuse effected you long term? How have you changed? Week 8 9: Coping strategies, positive outlets, self esteem, strength, resilience Week 10, 11, 12: Reflection and growth, closure and celebration The topics included in this example will likely blend and flow from week to week, and should not serve as a rigid foundation for group. Through these suggestions, the facilitator can help the abused woman feel that her sense of victimization is valid, she can help the victim remove 536 J Fam Viol (2009) 24:531–537 self blame, and identify change patterns of self-abuse and self-degradation to promote growth and a higher selfesteem (Kiselica and Morrill-Richards 2007). Given the unique relationship that siblings share, this relationship may become a backdrop to the group process, as well as the family relationships that connect within the sibling subgroup. It is likely that these relationships will go through an on-going assessment and re-definition as group members discover more about themselves in regard to their behaviors, feelings, and relationships with others. Although topics outlined in the example could be introduced to the group for discussion, most of these topics will likely come up due to the nature of the experience and the common aspects that are seen frequently in sibling abused women. The author suggests that the group should be allowed to take their session in the direction they want it to go. To exemplify the power of each group member’s story, it is proposed that letting the group decide what they would like to discuss proves most effective. Sparks and Goldberg (1994) state that the group becomes a forum for humor and creativity as members take advantage of the unique opportunity to express what can not be expressed until someone who can appreciate it is willing to hear it. This creativity of the members should not be underestimated, and every moment of that process should be an empowering reminder for the group members. Most of the literature argues that the group facilitator(s) should be female. The possibility for a co-facilitator should be considered, depending on the size of the group. If the group is small, only one facilitator is needed. The facilitator (s) should have some knowledge and/or experience in crisis and group work. Age should also be taken into consideration. Group members should be 18 years of age and older, as this group is restricted to adult female victims. Commonality and shared experience are extremely important to the success of this group process, and grouping members based on age range will be helpful for members to relate to each other on more levels than one. During the intake process, the facilitator should attempt to arrange the groups based on what they conclude to be the most effective combination of members based on what was discussed with members prior to the initial meeting. The option for diversity should not be ignored, but O’Hare and Taylor (1983) make the important point that the group composition should always be considered in relation to making sure one person in the group does not stand out; for example, one African American woman, one lesbian woman, etc. Once again, thoughtful design of the group cannot be ignored. Group closure may include a celebration of connections and alliances made within the group. The format of closure and celebration should largely be decided by group members. Conclusion Group work with victims of sibling incest can be complex and challenging. It is clear that many factors influence the victim’s life other than the actual abuse. Family dynamics and overall relationships at the time of the abuse and disclosure prove to be extremely important in determining the entire picture of the victim. Once the facilitator becomes more educated about the details of incest and what to expect from group members, she will be able to design the group in the most effective manner. With the help of shared experience and shared knowledge, group members will find connections with one another that will maximize their growth and value of the group therapy experience. References Alexander, P. C. , Anderson, C. L. (1994). An attachment approach to psychotherapy with the incest survivor. Psychotherapy (Chicago, Ill. ), 31, 665–674. doi:10. 1037/0033-3204. 31. 4. 665. Anderson, K. M. (2006). Surviving incest: the art of resistance. Families in Society, 87, 409–416. Banyard, V. , Williams, L. (1996). Characteristics of child sexual abuse as correlates of women’s adjustment: a prospective study. Journal of Marriage and the Family, 58, 853–865. doi:10. 2307/353975. Bass, L. A. , Taylor, B. A. , Knudson-Martin, C. , Huenergardt, D. 2006). Making sense of abuse: case studies in sibling incest. Contemporary Family Therapy, 28, 87–109. doi:10. 1007/s10591006-9697-0. Beutler, L. E. , Williams, R. E. , Zetzer, H. A. (1994). Efficacy of treatment for victims of child sexual abuse. The Future of Children, 4, 156–175. doi:10. 2307/1602529. Brand, B. L. , Alexander, P. C. (2003). Coping with incest: the relationship between recollections of childhood coping and adult functioning in female survivors of incest. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 16, 285–292. doi:10. 1023/A:1023704309605. Carlson, B. E. Maciol, K. , Schneider, J. (2006). Sibling incest: reports from forty-one survivors. Journal of Child Sexual Abuse, 15, 19–34. doi:10. 1300/J070v15n04_02. Chard, K. (2005). An evaluation of cognitive processing therapy for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder related to childhood sexual abuse. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 73, 965–971. doi:10. 1037/0022-006X. 73. 5. 965. Chard, K. , Weaver, T. , Resick, P. (1997). Adapting cognitive processing therapy for child sexual abuse survivors. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 4, 31–52. doi:10. 016/S1077-7229(97) 80011-9. Cyr, M. , Wright, J. , McDuff, P. , Perron, A. (2002). Intrafamilial sexual abuse: brother–sister incest does not differ from father– daughter and stepfather–stepdau ghter incest. Child Abuse Neglect, 26, 957–973. doi:10. 1016/S0145-2134(02)00365-4. Foa, E. , Dancu, C. , Hembree, E. , Jaycox, L. , Meadows, E. , Street, G. (1999). A comparison of exposure therapy, stress inoculation training, and their combination for reducing posttraumatic stress disorder in female assault victims. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 67, 194–200. oi:10. 1037/0022-006X. 67. 2. 194. Haskins, C. (2003). Treating sibling incest using a family systems approach. Journal of Mental Health Counseling, 25, 337–350. Jacobs, J. L. (1990). Reassessing mother blame in incest. Journal of Women in Culture and Society, 15, 500–514. doi:10. 1086/494607. J Fam Viol (2009) 24:531–537 Kiselica, M. S. , Morrill-Richards, M. (2007). Sibling maltreatment: the forgotten abuse. Journal of Counseling and Development, 85, 148–161. Kreidler, M. C. , England, D. B. (1990). Empowerment through group support: adult women who are survivor s of incest. Journal of Family Violence, 5, 35–41. doi:10. 1007/BF00979137. Martens, W. H. J. (2007). Optimism therapy: an adapted psychotherapeutic strategy for adult female survivors of childhood sexual abuse. Annals of the American Psychotherapy Association, 10, 30–38. McVeigh, M. J. (2003). ‘But she didn’t say no’: an exploration of sibling sexual abuse. Australian Social Work, 56, 116–126. doi:10. 1046/j. 0312-407X. 2003. 00062. x. Morrow, B. K. , Sorell, G. T. (1989). Factors affecting self-esteem, depression, and negative behaviors in sexually abused female adolescents. Journal of Marriage and the Family, 51, 677–686. doi:10. 2307/352167. Northen, H. , Kurland, R. (2001). Social work with groups. New York: Columbia University Press. 537 O’Hare, J. , Taylor, K. (1983). The reality of incest. Women Therapy, 6, 215–229. doi:10. 1300/J015v02n02_22. Phillips-Green, M. J. (2002). Sibling incest. The Family Journal (Alexandria, Va. ), 10, 195–202. doi:10. 1177/1066480702102009. Rudd, J. M. , Herzberger, S. D. (1999). Brother–sister incest— father–daughter incest: a comparison of characteristics and consequences. Child Abuse Neglect, 23, 915–928. oi:10. 1016/S0145-2134(99)00058-7. Schlesinger, N. J. (2006). Treatment implications of a female incest survivor’s misplaced guilt. Psychoanalytic Social Work, 13, 53– 65. doi:10. 1300/J032v13n02_04. Sparks, A. , Goldberg, J. (1994). A current perspective on short-term groups for incest survivors. Women Therapy, 15, 135–147. doi:10. 1300/J015v15n02_11. Wanlass, J. , Moreno, K. , Thomson, H. M. (2006). Group therapy for abused and neglected youth: therapeutic and child advocacy challenges. Journal for Specialists in Group Work, 31, 311–326. doi:10. 1080/01933920600918808.

Lamb to the Slaughter Summary free essay sample

Dahl portrays Mary Maloney as a typical ‘50’s housewife (although that very well may not be the era in which this short story was written); she waits for her husband with his drink prepared, and periodically glances at the clock for his arrival. Little did this six month pregnant wife know, her beloved spouse would be leaving her†¦ So as Patrick Maloney walked through the door she did as any unsuspecting wife would do, and lie her sewing aside and greet him with a kiss, takes his coat and makes his drink. The couple sit for a while silently as Mary accepts that her husband prefers to rest in silence while he has his drink after a long day at work. Shortly after he declares that he has to tell her something, and that he hopes she will not blame him too much. At this point in the story, Dahl does not explain what it is that Patrick Maloney tells his then wife, but makes it very clear in his next paragraph that Patrick Maloney was leaving Mary. We will write a custom essay sample on Lamb to the Slaughter Summary or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Mary then goes into shock and tries to persuade herself that she imagined the entire ordeal. She goes to retrieve something from the basement freezer and prepare dinner. She returns with a frozen leg of lamb to find Patrick standing by a window with his back to her, he hears her coming and tells her that she shouldn’t make dinner as he has decided to eat out. Dahl offers no lead up for what occurs next, Mary walks up to him and brings the leg of lamb down on Mr. Maloney â€Å" as hard as she could† on the back of his head. Patrick falls dead and Mary’s mind cleared instantaneously. She walked into her kitchen and placed the leg of lamb in the oven to cook. She hurried off to the supermarket, telling Sam, the grocer that she needed some vegetables to go along with a nice leg of lamb. She carries on a normal conversation with him and they decide that she will give Patrick cheesecake for afterwards. On her way back home she pretends that all is fine, and believes that she will find her husband waiting for dinner. As she enters the house, she calls his name, and places down her groceries. Feigning surprise she finds Patrick lying on the floor, dead. The shock and pain that she feels is genuine as she remembers the love she felt for her husband. Mary calls the police station at which Patrick worked to report his death. She told the officers that she went to the supermarket during the time of her husband’s death, and this was confirmed by Sam, the grocer. The focus of the investigation was to find the murder weapon, and the detective told Mary that he had been struck by a â€Å"heavy blunt instrument†. Meanwhile, the lamb that Mary had placed in the oven was ready and she persuaded the officers to have dinner, as it is the least she could do for the men that are â€Å"helping to catch the man who killed him† him, meaning her husband. What happens next is the perfect example of dramatic irony. When the policemen are eating the leg of lamb and discussing where the weapon may be, one says that the murder weapon is Probably right under our very noses. This is dramatic irony because the weapon used to kill Mr. Maloney really is right under their very noses. Yet they just keep eating suspecting the leg of lamb could never be the weapon used to kill Patrick Maloney, while Mary Maloney was quietly giggling in the other room. In the beginning of the short story, Dahl describes Mary Maloney as a very weak minded individual that lived solely to take care of her husband, and very soon after, Mary turns into a strong, resourceful and intelligent woman that skillfully got away with the murder of her husband, two polar opposites. Although Mary was deceived, it is very difficult to determine if the murder of her husband is justified or not under the circumstances. Many will argue that Mary Maloney is a vicious murderer and deserves to be put in jail, but others will say that she had experienced psychological trauma, and her reaction to the news of her husband leaving her made her mentally unfit to take responsibility for her actions following. In conclusion, people do not always get what they deserve. Personally I feel that in this case, Patrick Maloney did in deed get what he deserved, considering the fact that he had just informed his highly hormonal pregnant wife he would be leaving her, without any given reason disclosed to the reader.

Radiation Definition and Examples

Radiation Definition and Examples Radiation and radioactivity are two misunderstood concepts. Here is the definition of radiation and a look at how it differs from radioactivity. Radiation Definition Radiation is the emission and propagation of energy in the form of waves, rays or particles. There are three main types of radiation: Non-ionizing radiation: This is the release of energy from the lower-energy region of the electromagnetic spectrum. This includes light, radio, microwaves, infrared (heat), and ultraviolet light.Ionizing radiation: This is radiation with sufficient energy to remove an electron from an atomic orbital, forming an ion. Ionizing radiation includes x-ray, gamma rays, alpha particles, and beta particles.Neutrons: Neutrons are particles found in the atomic nucleus. When they break off the nucleus, they have energy and act as radiation. Examples of Radiation Radiation includes emanation of any portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, plus it includes the release of particles. Examples include: A burning candle emits radiation in the form of heat and light.The Sun emits radiation in the form of light, heat, and particles.Uranium-238 decaying into Thorium-234 emits radiation in the form of alpha particles.Electrons dropping from one energy state to a lower state emit radiation in the form of a photon. Difference Between Radiation and Radioactivity Radiation is the release of energy, whether it takes the form of waves or particles. Radioactivity refers to the decay or splitting of an atomic nucleus. A radioactive material releases radiation when it decays. Examples of decay include alpha decay, beta decay, gamma decay, neutron release, and spontaneous fission. All radioactive isotopes release radiation, but not all radiation comes from radioactivity.

Motivation and Management (Argentina Suites) Essay

Motivation and Management (Argentina Suites) - Essay Example ew of the case indicates that the primary cultural and social institutional challenges/problems confronting Argentina Suites is the absence of an organisational culture, as would promote both organisational commitment and ethical behaviors among employees, and a leadership vacuum. Arguing that Argentina Suites’ problem primarily stems from the absence, or nature of its organisational culture, necessitates the definition of the latter and an explanation of its importance. The concept of organizational culture is of singular importance within organizational framework, insofar as it embraces and articulates specific organization’s unique set of ethos. That ethos is the primary force shaping and directing the level of formality operative within an organization; the degree of loyalty employees exhibit towards it; and the ethical standards and behavioural norms that supposedly guide the actions of employees. Indeed, as MacMohan and Harvey (2007) contend, an organization’s culture simultaneously functions as the foundations upon which employees base their behavior and the environment within which organisational commitment and loyalty are born. As such, it is the framework within which an organisation’s social and institutional characteris tics are defined and, accordingly, can function to either motivate organisational success or determine failure (MacMohan and Harvey, 2007). In direct reference to Argentina Suites, the absence of an organisational culture is evident in the behavior of employees. Irrespective of the fact that the majority cannot seem to articulate the requirements and responsibilities of their job, the fact is that they do not even adhere to those responsibilities which they know to be an integral part of their job description. Hence, the front of the hotel is often left unattended and employees regularly leave their posts. Added to that, employee behaviors and decisions have, on occasions, been incontrovertibly unethical and have, as

Israeli and Palestinian Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Israeli and Palestinian - Term Paper Example The government of Israel has become so strict about the publication of news regarding this conflict because it is spelt out in the constitution. In fact, according to the Israeli government, journalists are free to handle any topic rather than those that touch on national security and can be able to compromise it by insisting the people and promoting violence. On the other hand, the media freedom in Palestine is better than that in Israel. The Palestinians are free to cover much information about this conflict and avail to their audience. Although it is a matter of national interest, the government has appreciated that there is a craving demand for news about this war (Vipond, 2000). Hence, unlike in Israel, the Palestinian journalists are not put under strict censorship and restrictions (Jonathon & Karolides, 2009). Thus, they can adequately inform the people about the war without many restrictions. Mass media involve many different media technologies that reach large audience through mass communication. The media technology where communication is effected varies; broadcast media transmit information electronically and they include television, recorded music, film and radio. Print media employs the use of materials to distribute information, and includes books, magazines, newspapers, pamphlets and comics. Outdoor media transmits information through signs, placards and billboards (Lorimer & Patty, 2004). The digital media entails mass mobile and internet communication. Internet media has many services; for example websites, social networks, internet television and radio. Companies that control these media technologies are also referred to as mass media; for example publishing houses, television stations, social networks and radio stations. Glocalization involves adaptation of a given service or product uniquely to a given culture,

Business and Ethics. Which global dimensions of collective existence Essay

Business and Ethics. Which global dimensions of collective existence are more often cited in moral considerations of global busi - Essay Example All moral ethics should be considered while developing the structure of an organization. This is the key to success for firms and it will make them flourish in the international market. â€Å"Indeed there are several factors triggering international convergence of ethical standards and ethical perceptions. A variety of initiatives by MNC’s, non governmental organizations, governments and international organizations have promoted this tendency. These efforts, along with the critical role of information technology in disseminating news and practices around the world, have elevated the forces working towards universal forms† (Yadong Luo, 2007, P. 207). Although due to globalization world now faces many challenges including the migration and condition children. The current process of globalization has impacted on patterns ad processes of transnational labour migration and has more recently led to increase in labour migration. Migration has bought about many opportunities fo r different family members. it is common that older family members finds it difficult to adjust t a new culture living style but children finds experience such a situation differently. Some of them easily cope up with the situation easily but others may find it difficult to adapt to such a situation. The migration can have mixed experiences. A recent survey points out that children of the same area have different experience on migration. But a common fact is that when migration is occurred from normally under developed section to developed area with aim a livelihood, the experience is rough for most of the families especially for children. Such situation ca mainly leads to child labour, rough, long working conditions and under payment. â€Å"The brief survey of the current wave of globalization on children shows just how large are the transformational in so many critical parts of the ordinary life† (Kaufman & Rizzini, 2002, P.16). Line of Argumentation: With the present situa tion of labour and the condition of the migrant labour it is necessary to consider the life of the people who suffers from the worst side of all these. With globalization the purpose of migration is mainly employment and the migrant labour especially children are suffering from the change situation. So it is important consider the moral values behind these process in order to protect the people from all these. â€Å"Under contemporary globalization, international labour mobility has increased, while levels of exploitation and deregulation have accelerated. Lack of legal protection for migrant workers heightens their attractiveness as instruments of 'maintaining competitiveness' because they are obliged to work in situations where decent work conditions are not enforced. Irregular migrants are especially vulnerable because the threat of apprehension and deportation thwarts unionizing and exposure of dangerous working conditions† (Taran & Geronimi, 2003). For an organization to be successful in the global market, internal and external issues regarding the organization as well the migrant labour and their families is to be considered. â€Å"From the perspective of social responsibility, business ethics embodies standards, norms and expectations that reflect a concern of major stake holders including consumers, employees, share holders, suppliers, competitors and the community†

Poverty in Sudan: Trends and Causes

Poverty in Sudan: Trends and Causes To measure the trends of poverty in a systematic way one needs a continuous flow of household-level data pertaining to income and expenditure. The first household budget survey carried out in Sudan was in 1968 followed by the second one on 1978. In 1992 the ILO funded the migration and labor force survey. Also, in 1992 the Social Solidarity fund funded the poverty line survey. In 1994, Ali adopts a direct approach to assess the impact of the Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs) (1978-1986) on poverty in Sudan. However, and before reviewing poverty in Sudan let us glimpse the factors behind poverty in Sudan. Causes of Poverty The causes of rural poverty in Sudan are to be found in the sustained urban bias of the development strategies adopted since independence. This tended to neglect the traditional agricultural sector where the vast majority of population lives and is the main source of rural livelihood. This has resulted in high rural to urban migration unaccompanied by either increased productivity in the sector or sufficient urban development to generate the necessary urban employment opportunities. Note that the development of the agricultural sector was completely ignored but it was dichotomous in nature in the sense that the Islands of modern irrigated agriculture coexisted side by side with the vast traditional rain –fed agriculture. While the former benefited from modern scale specific technologies and market access, the latter lagged behind in terms of production technologies, finance, management, research, extension, market access and rural roads. As a result of this unbalanced urban/ru ral development structure, the traditional agricultural sector continued to be the major source of limited supply of unskilled labor to urban centers thereby swelling the ranks of the informal labor markets where there is little employment at or near the subsistence wage level. This has also exerting additional pressures on the already limited and over stretched social services and facilities. These trends were further aggravated by those displaced by both natural (rainfall failures leading to famines) and manmade disasters. El Tahir M. Nur (1992). In addition and throughout the period since independence, there has been a clear pro- urban bias in policies adopted by successive governments. These manifested themselves in the provision of a reasonably adequate social and economic infrastructure not matched by similar facilities in the rural areas. These pro- urban biases were further strengthened by the long running policies of subsidizing a variety of goods consumed by urban population. However, such goods were out of reach of many of most of the urban poor particularly, the recent migrants from rural areas who represent the poorest of the urban poor who are manually employed in the marginal jobs in the informal sector. But, it must pointed out that most of these consumption subsidies have been abolished under the recent economic reform programs, though electricity and piped water are still subsidized such that piped water is cheaper in urban than in rural areas. The effects of urban bias were further aggravated by government ma rketing policies for some of the major export crops mostly grown in rural traditional sector, where export monopolies very much along the lines of the old marketing boards, were established for Gum Arabic, oilseeds (abolished in late 1980s) and more recently livestock. This marketing structure has adversely affected farmers’ incomes, their incentives to increase production and their chances to raise their living standards. In the context of poverty alleviation, the current marketing structure for those exports needs radical reform. As discussed above, causes of poverty are more complex. Part of the explanation is certainly the lack of rural focus in the various development efforts since independence. The other part of the explanation relates to the basic characteristics of the traditional sector. In other words, it is vulnerability that constitutes the major cause of impoverishment and deprivation in the traditional sector. The unstable climatic conditions of rural Sudan, with their characteristics of frequent rainfall variability, have from time immemorial altered rural producers to the periodic oscillation from feast to famine situations. A basic strategy of rural producers was and continues to be hoarding of surpluses in good years to transcend the hardships of lean years. Furthermore, conflict in Sudan, as in elsewhere; represent the most devastating factor to nation’s infrastructure and welfare. Therefore, the civil strife took place in various parts of the country since independence, represents one of the most ravaging factors and has a tremendous impact on poverty situation in the country. Thus, southern Sudan was the most severe conflict and has been counted as the most destructive elements of development in the whole country. The war has also resulted in numerous cases of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and returnees whose situation become aggravated after they were but in zero stage of living. The problems of debt and the deterioration in donor community relations have also a tremendous effect on the poverty situation in Sudan. The International Institutions such World Bank and African Development Bank used to finance several sectoral developmental projects that have a direct impact on population welfare. However, the absence of those institutions has resulted in an un-bridged gap in terms of resources availability that reduces employment opportunities. Magnitude and poverty trends It is most important to note that the poverty trends differ very slightly and sometimes vary greatly between groups. In general terms, the number of the poor people in rural areas has increased with a rate nearly equal to the rate of population increase. And the number of the poor urban household has increased at a higher rate than the urban population growth rate. This situation was created due to immigration took place from the rural areas to urban centers responding to the economic incentives consistent with the objectives of maintaining industrial revolution centered in urban sector. However, as we mentioned earlier, the industrial sector was not able to absorb the rural migration. An elaboration of poverty situation will be presented in the sub-periods below depending mainly on studies made by Ali Abdel Gadir: â€Å"Poverty and Structural Adjustment Programs in Sudan†. The trend of head count index in Sudan over this period (1968-1978) had been increasing at an annual rate of 0.5% Annex 4. Over the same period, the number of rural households had been growing at a rate equal to the rural population growth rate while the number of poor urban households had been growing at a rate higher than the urban population growth rate. Over the same period, the poverty gap ratio in the whole country had been decreasing at an annual growth rate of 0.64%. This shows that although poverty had been spreading at an annual rate of 0.5 % over the period, the economic conditions of the poor had improved over the same period. The rural urban poverty structure emerged as a result of a hasty adoption of dual economy development modules that advocate development through the transfer of cheap labor from the rural traditional sector (agriculture) to the urban modern sector (industry). Urban modern wage sector failed to absorb the rural migrants and marginal urban jobs by the rural migrants (the informal sector) proved not to be a stepping stone to the formal wage sector. During the period (1978-1986) the headcount index increased from 54.3% in 1978 to 77.8% in 1986 at an annual rate of increase 4.6% and the rural urban poverty disparity was that the rural headcount index for urban increase from 20.5% in 1978 to 52.9% in 1986. However, the rural incidence of poverty (83.1) remained higher than the incidence of urban poverty (53%). However, the period had witnessed that the incidence of urban poverty had been growing at a higher annual rate 12.6% than the rural (3.3%). Meanwhile, the number of poor families in Sudan increased from 1.7 million in 1978 to 2.7 million in 1986 in an annual rate of 6.2% which is higher than the population growth rate. Up to 1986, the number of the poor rural families exceeded the number of the urban poor families by 2.33 million but growth rate of the poor urban families exceeded that of rural by 9.4% percentage points ( Nur, 2003:5). The observed high pace of the incidence of urban poverty (12.6%) over the period (1978-1986) was attributed to the structural adjustment programs (SAPs) and the urban bias development policies (i.e. the development that overlooks the rural areas without creating enough urban jobs) coupled with urban poverty growing faster than rural poverty. Sudan poverty gap index, over the period (1978-1986) increased from 23.1% in 1978 to 45.4% in 1986 at an annual rate of increase of 8.8%. This implies that, given the incidence of poverty, the income gap ratio increased from 42.6% in 1987 to 58.4% in 1986 at an annual rate of increase of 3.9%. By contrast, during the period (1968-1976) the incidence of poverty has been increasing at an annual rate of 0.5% but poverty and income gap ratio has been decreasing at an annual rates of 0.64% and both 1.2% respectively (improve economic conditions of the poor). Comparing the two periods, we notice that the poverty levels, both in urban and rural, have in creased sharply. Therefore, the situation has become more and more complicated and the existing social safety nets ( Zakat and other social funds) were unable to address the phenomena at that time. During this period, the incidence of poverty has also increasing. The national headcount index increased from 77.8% in 1986 to 91.4% in 1992. The rural and urban headcount indexes increased from 82.1% to 93.2% and from 52.9% to 84.4% respectively. In addition to, the number of poor households increased from 2.71 million, in 1986 to 3.43 million in 1992 at an annual rate of increase of 4% (Nur, 2003:7). The poverty trend is shown below in Annex 4.The national poverty gap index increased at an annual rate of 1.7% over the period (1986-1992). The rural and urban poverty indices increased at an annual rate of 1.4% and 2.9% respectively. The national urban mean income of the poor as a ratio of the poverty line decreased over this period from 0.42 to 0.33, from 0.54 to 0.43, and from 0.38 to 0.22 respectively. This indicates that poverty had been deepened all over the country, particularly in the rural areas. Generally, three main poverty indicators namely, the head count index, the income gap index and poverty gap index, had been increasing at an increasing rate all over the period. It is also revealed that structural rural and urban forms of poverty exist in Sudan since 1986 and continued to exist at higher rates. Again, the continued urban bias characterized development in Sudan, overlooked the agricultural sector, lead to reduction in rural livelihoods. The result is that high rates of rural migration took place without creating sufficient employment opportunities for immigrants, coupled with displacement resulting natural and manmade disasters has worsened the situation. The public spending on social services like health and education was reduced and the poor are obliged to pay for these essential services, putting more pressure on their earnings in the formal sector defected their coping efforts to catch up with the rising cost of living. During this period, there is a serious vacuum in the data about poverty and other human indicators that have direct or indirect relation with surveys. Therefore, this period depend very much on perceptions and nobody dared to come out with results on poverty since no recognized survey oriented research is conducted in this field. However, several attempts were undertaken to tackle the issue. These attempts were not able to cover that huge gap through time (i.e. time series data to cover the period 1994-2003), although, they were able to produce an acceptable results and arguments that could be used as a proxy for the poverty phenomena in Sudan. The most interesting attempt has conducted by Eltahir M. Nur â€Å"Human Poverty in Sudan (2000); Magnitude and Distribution† then updated in 2003. Human Poverty As poverty in the human development perspective manifests itself in the deprivation of lives that people can lead, Tahir Nur methodology identified three main areas of human deprivation that correspond to the three human choices. These areas of deprivation include deprivation in survival, deprivation in knowledge, and deprivation in economic provisioning. Size and distribution in deprivation in Survival Deprivation in survival is all over the country but particularly high in the rural areas. While the rural national averages of means or the probabilities that a person will die before age 40, a child will die before age 5, and an infant will die before his (her) first birthday are 20.2%, 10.5%, and 7.2%, the urban national means of the same poverty indicators are 19.4%, 9.95% and 6.89% respectively for North Sudan where data is available, are 22.77%, 11.73%, and 8.10% respectively. From this comparison, we conclude that in terms of South–North, urban deprivation in the South is higher than that in the North but the differences in poverty indicators are small. Within the North, the rural deprivation in survival is higher than the urban one and again the rural urban differences in poverty indicators are small. Looking at the state rural ranking of poverty, we note that the top five states in rural poverty are the Red Sea, the Blue Nile, Kassala, South Kurdufan, and North Darfur. Their group means of the three poverty indicators (29.66%, 15.52%, and 10.52%) are higher than the national means (23.59%, 12.3%, and 8.334%) of the same poverty indicators. We also note that the states with the least rural deprivation in survival are El Giezira, the northern, the River Nile, North Kordufan, West Kurdufan, and South Darfur– arranged by the order of being the least poor state. The probability that a person will die before age 40 is the largest component of the deprivation survival index throughout the States – a great loss of productive human capital. Size and distribution of the deprivation in knowledge The rural national deprivation is almost double the urban national deprivation in knowledge. While the rural national means of inaccessibility to media, adults illiteracy rate, basic education dropout rate, and secondary education dropout rate are 67.2%, 27.4%, 9.8%, and 53.6%, the urban national means of the same poverty indicators are 42.4%, 15.8%, 26.8%, and 27.4% respectively. Therefore, priority in the re-education of the deprivation in knowledge should go to rural areas. Provision of basic and secondary education service is vital for the reduction in the deprivation in knowledge because education dropout rate is the major component of the deprivation in knowledge index in all the States and across the board of rural and urban location. The rate of inaccessibility to media (radio and T.V) is the largest component of the rural deprivation in knowledge index. Upon raking the states by the basic education dropout rate, the States of the Blue Nile, North Kurdufan, West Darfur, North Darfur, and South Kurdufan come top in the state – level rural profile of the deprivation in knowledge. Their rural group means of inaccessibility to media (75%), adults illiteracy rate (29.3%), basic education dropout rate (69.6%), and secondary education dropout rate (71.1%) are higher than the national rural means (67.2%, 27.4%, 49.8%, and 53.6%) of the same poverty indicators respectively. For the national urban poverty ranking, while the blue Nile and west Darfur states retain their positions among, Wau, and Malakal replaced North Kurdufan north Darfur, as South Kurdufan as top poor urban areas in knowledge. While rural Khartoum is among the middle poor state in knowledge, urban Khartoum is among the least poor states in knowledge. In view of these results, basic, secondary, and adults education services should be extended to the rural areas with emp hasis on the top five poor states. Size and distribution of the deprivation in economic provisioning Rural national deprivation in economic provisioning is higher than the urban national one. The rural national means of the proportion of people with no access to electricity (75.5%), with no access to safe drinking water (46.7%), with poor sanitation (46.5%), dependent on the use of biomass energy (79.6%), below food poverty line (55.9%) are higher than the urban national means except for the head count index (80.9%) and the proportion of people dependent on the use of biomass energy (82.8%) which are higher in the urban areas. However, the rural national mean of the composite poverty index (59%) is higher than urban national mean of the composite poverty index (54%). Therefore, rural areas rank number one in the deprivation of economic provisioning. On average, while the proportion of people who have no access to electricity (75.5%) and that of those who depend on the use of biomass energy (79.6%) are the highest rural poverty indicators the latter (82.8%) and the proportion of thos e who are below food poverty line (80.9%) are the highest urban poverty indicator The experience of the Sudan, however, is unique. Some studies came out with, â€Å"despite the relatively high growth, evidence seems to suggest that its effect did not trickle down considerably to reduce poverty or expand formal employment opportunities†. Ibrahim A. Ibrahim et al (2001:11) While people expecting the poverty levels be reduced as the country’s GDP increased, there is strong allegation that poverty is increasing. In conclusion, while worldwide benefited from the global economic growth, Sudan did get to know that experience and the effect of economic growth on poverty is still very minute in general perception. Although, the prompt reason to think about is the mal-distribution of income, yet, the situation has many other interpretations and this area will further be elaborated in coming paper.

The Psychosis of Emily Grierson in A Rose for Emily by William Faulkner

The Psychosis of Emily Grierson in A Rose for Emily by William Faulkner Through the use of third person point of view and elaborate, repetitive foreshadowing, William Faulkner describes how numerous elements contributed to Miss Emily's deranged behavior in the short story, 'A Rose for Emily.' Not only does Faulkner imply paternal oppression, but there is also a clear indication of insanity that is an inherent pattern in the Grierson family. The shocking conclusion of 'A Rose for Emily' could be the result of a number of circumstances, but is most likely due to the years of isolation and the overbearing upbringing Emily experienced with her father. The first indication Faulkner gives the reader as to Miss Emily?s instability is towards the end of the first section which describes how several members of the Board of Alderman call upon Miss Emily in an effort to collect her taxes. Faulkner points out earlier in the same section that ten years ago in 1894, Colonel Sartoris, the Mayor of Jefferson at the time, remitted Miss Emily?s taxes following the death of her father. The board members are admitted to the Grierson home where, after listening to the reason for their visit, Miss Emily first suggests that they ?. . .gain access to the city records and satisfy yourselves? (89). It is only moments later, after a brief exchange with these city authorities, that Miss Emily further advises them to ?See Colonel Sartoris? (Faulkner 89). The narrator then adds that the colonel has been dead almost ten years, which is Faulkner?s first clue to readers that Miss Emily is perhaps a bit delusional or confused. The second section alludes to the odor of decaying flesh emanating from Miss Emily?s home. The townspeople explain the sm... ... murder of Homer Barron by Miss Emily is the result of her father?s oppression, an inherited tendency toward insanity or a combination of factors is unknown. However, Faulkner succeeds in instilling the smallest trace of pity for Miss Emily, not only by acknowledging her thwarted love life at the hands of her father, but also within the title ?A Rose for Emily.? While her actions were clearly of a psychotic nature, consciously planned out and carried through, by murdering Homer Barron, Miss Emily insured that she would finally have a love that would never leave her. Bibliography: Works Cited Faulkner, William. ?A Rose for Emily.? Literature: Reading, Reacting, Writing. Eds. Laurie G. Kirszner and Stephen R. Mandell. 4th ed. Orlando: Harcourt, Inc. 2001. 87 ? 94. ?Necrophilia.? Funk & Wagnalls: Standard Encyclopedic Dictionary. Ed. 1972. 435.

History of the Ashanti Kingdom

Otumfuo Opoku Ware II from 1970-1999. The Asante kingdom was founded by the great King Osei Tutu in the eighteenth century. His fetish priest was Okomfo Anokye, who unified the Asante states through allegiance to the Golden Stool, which miraculously descended from heaven. Okomfo Anokye planted two trees in the forest and predicted that one tree would live and become the capital of Ashanti. Hence is derived the name Kumasi (the tree lived); the place in which the other tree was planted became Kumawu (the tree died). Although located in the heart of the forest, Asante dominion was extended by military action and political skill towards the European occupied castles on the coast to the south, and also into the dry savannah lands to the north. This led to various wars with Britain. Kumasi was captured by the British Army in 1873 (as a result of which much of the magnificent Asante gold regalia can be seen in Londo n in the British Museum). After a final uprising in 1901, led by the Queen Mother of Ejisu (Yaa Asantewaa) Asante came into British Protection and finally became a region of the Gold Coast colony. In 1957, after a period of internal self-government, the Gold Coast becam e the first African colony to achieve independence under the charismatic leadership of Kwame Nkrumah. Kumasi Getting to the end of the 17th century Anokye Komfuo planted three â€Å"KUM† trees at different places. One at Kwaaman ruled by the Nananomayokofuo , a second one at Apemso-Bankofo ruled by Nananomaduanafuo and a third a village near Fomena and Amoafo called Oboani ruled by Nananomekuonafuo. The Kum tree at Kwaaman flourished and became a very big tree under which the King and his people often sat and so Kwaaman became Kum-ase meaning under Kum. The tree at Oboani was however very tiny and for no apparent reason was relatively short. According to oral tradition this small tree however produced a couple of other trees which were all small in size. The name of the village was changed to Kuma meaning small KUM. The Kum tree at Apemso-Bankofo did not grow at all. After some few weeks the leaves got rotten and the tree fell down and so it was said that the Kum tree has died or the Kum tree was dead and so the village became Kum-awu and this later chnaged to become Kumawu.

5 Environmental Consequences of Oil Spills

5 Environmental Consequences of Oil Spills Oil spills caused by damaged tankers, pipelines, or offshore oil rigs often result in immediate and long-term environmental damage that can last for decades. These are among the most notable areas of environmental damage caused by spills: Beaches, Marshlands, and Fragile Aquatic Ecosystems David McNew  / Stringer  / Getty Images Oil spills coat everything they touch and become unwelcome but long-term parts of every ecosystem they enter. When an oil slick from a large spill reaches a beach, oil coats and clings to every rock and grain of sand. If the oil washes into coastal marshes, mangrove forests, or other wetlands, fibrous plants and grasses absorb oil, which can damage plants and make the area unsuitable as wildlife habitat. When oil eventually stops floating on the waters surface and begins to sink into the marine environment, it can have similar damaging effects on fragile underwater ecosystems, killing or contaminating fish and smaller organisms that are essential links in the global food chain. Despite massive clean-up efforts following the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill, for example, a 2007 study conducted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) found that 26,000 gallons of oil were still trapped in the sand along the Alaska shoreline. Scientists conducting the study determined that residual oil was declining at less than 4 percent annually. Birds Stockbyte​  / Getty Images   Oil-covered birds are a universal symbol of environmental damage wreaked by oil spills. Some species of shore birds might escape by relocating if they sense danger in time, but sea birds that swim and dive for their food are most likely to be covered in oil following a spill. Oil spills also damage nesting grounds, potentially causing serious long-term effects on entire species. The 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon offshore oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, for example, occurred during prime mating and nesting season for many bird and marine species, and long-term environmental consequences of that spill wont be known for years. Oil spills can disrupt migratory patterns by contaminating areas where migrating birds normally stop. Even a small amount of oil can be deadly to a bird. By coating feathers, oil not only makes flying impossible but also destroys birds natural waterproofing and insulation, leaving them vulnerable to hypothermia or overheating. As birds frantically preen their feathers to restore their natural protections, they often swallow oil, which can severely damage their internal organs and lead to death. The Exxon Valdez oil spill killed from 250,000 to 500,000 seabirds, plus shore birds and bald eagles. Marine Mammals Handout  / Getty Images Oil spills frequently kill marine mammals such as whales, dolphins, seals, and sea otters. Oil can clog blowholes of whales and dolphins, making it impossible for them to breathe properly and disrupting their ability to communicate. Oil coats fur of otters and seals, leaving them vulnerable to hypothermia. Even when marine mammals escape the immediate effects, an oil spill can contaminate their food supply. Marine mammals that eat fish or other food exposed to an oil spill may be poisoned by oil and die or experience other problems. The Exxon Valdez oil spill killed thousands of sea otters, hundreds of harbor seals, roughly two dozen killer whales, and a dozen or more river otters. In the years after the Exxon Valdez spill, scientists noted higher death rates among sea otters and other species affected by the spill and stunted growth or other damage among additional species. Fish Vstock LLC  / Getty Images   Oil spills often take a deadly toll on fish, shellfish, and other marine life, particularly if many fish eggs or larvae are exposed to oil. Shrimp and oyster fisheries along the Louisiana coast were among early casualties of the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Similarly, the Exxon Valdez spill destroyed billions of salmon and herring eggs. Years later those fisheries had not recovered. Wildlife Habitat and Breeding Grounds Julie Dermansky  / Contributor  / Getty Images Long-term damage to species and their habitats and nesting or breeding grounds is one of the most far-reaching environmental effects caused by oil spills. Even species that spend most of their lives at sea, such as various species of sea turtles, must come ashore to nest. Sea turtles can be harmed by oil they encounter in the water or on the beach where they lay their eggs, their eggs can be damaged by oil and fail to develop properly, and newly hatched turtles may be oiled as they scurry toward the ocean across an oily beach. Ultimately, the severity of environmental damage caused by an oil spill depends on many factors, including the amount of oil spilled, type and weight of oil, location of the spill, species of wildlife in the area, timing of breeding cycles and seasonal migrations, and even the weather at sea during and after the oil spill.