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Group Dynamics and Communication, 2008.
A study of how a nursing staff improved the effectiveness of their team through group dynamics and communication.
1,700 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 5 sources, APA, AU$ 69.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the issue of group dynamics and communication by analyzing how the nursing staff on a head injury unit worked together with a team leader and a psychologist to find ways to reduce the escalating levels of aggression among patients. The paper examines factors that affect team effectiveness such as the team's productivity, quality, and timeliness, the strategies it uses to enhance its ability to work together in the future, and how the group experience contributes to the learning and well-being of team members. The paper also stresses the importance of open communication, group decision-making, cohesion, and motivation. The paper concludes that the nursing staff was able to achieve its goals through the strategies they learned and devised as a team, and most importantly, through their cohesion as a work group and their motivation.
From the Paper
"The team's task needs to correspond to the team's purpose. The team size should be as small as possible, must include members with adequate task and interpersonal skills, and should be marked by diversity. The size of the team was not a problem and there was ample diversity. Diversity means having people who are not too similar or so different that they cannot communicate or coordinate properly with one another (Wageman, 2005). The problem with the team was more based in personality where some members were introverts and others were not inclined to speak out. All groups are based on the idea of cooperative group norms that reflect the team members' shared pursuits, shared objectives, and mutual interests If the group has strong expectations about cooperation, the members expect each other to engage in information sharing (Ng & Van Dyne, 2005). Once again, the team leader needed to act on the discrepancy. The team leader is there to coordinate and motivate, and to build commitment to the group and its task, and to help find innovative ways to accomplish the tasks (Wageman, 2005)."
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Supervised Injection Sites, 2008.
This paper explores the arguments for and against the drug policy of supervised injection sites (SIS).
2,793 words (approx. 11.2 pages), 6 sources, APA, AU$ 104.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses sanctioned supervised injection sites (SIS) in Canada where people may inject intravenous drugs under the supervision of trained medical staff, with clean syringes available for their use. The paper explores the reasoning behind this site and the ongoing arguments for and against its continuing operation. The paper supports the belief that drug use will continue and that at least users can be spared the harm inflicted by sharing non-sterile settings in a non-sanitary setting. The paper therefore concludes that the SIS is a sound, pragmatic drug policy that should be continued and developed further.
From the Paper
"In the case of SIS, the reasoning is that drug addicts are going to inject themselves with illegal drugs anyway, so why not make the actual process safer? Especially given that much of the health damage associated with intravenous drug use derives from factors other than the drugs. For example, non-sterile needles cause death through infection, and shared needles cause diseases and death by passing on Hepatitis C, AIDS, etc. As Ezard (2001) points out, the discovery that HIV transmission is linked to injectable drugs "arguably spearheaded the harm reduction movement for illicit drug use" (p. 208). Moreover, many drug deaths are due to overdoses, and those who accidentally overdose in a SIS will be given medical assistance more promptly, and are thus more likely to survive."
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Bullying Across the Lifespan, 2008.
An analysis of the literature on bullying and its impact on psychosocial development.
2,640 words (approx. 10.6 pages), 11 sources, APA, AU$ 99.95
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Abstract
This paper takes an in-depth look at how and to what extent bullying can negatively impact the bully, the victim, and the social structure in which bullying occurs. The paper reviews literature on bullying that addresses its effects on psychosocial development as well as its long-term effects over the course of a lifetime. The paper also focuses on bullying in school and a curriculum that may help to reduce bullying. The paper concludes by presenting an experimental model, already proven effective in the field, which involved a conflict resolution training program for students, teachers, staff, and community members.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Understanding Bullying
Bullying and Appropriate Psychosocial Development
Curriculum Design and Bullying
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Bullying has historically been recognized as a common outcome when children are allowed to interact in social settings. In 1987, Besag noted that "one of the major difficulties in considering bullying is that it is not a phenomenon which is easily defined and measured" (p. 9). Attempts to define bullying become "cumbersome" and the efforts taken to summarize all forms of behavior that are linked to bullying are so diverse that attaching a specific term to these reduces the applicability of effective measurement (Besag, 1987). Instead, it is best to approach bullying as a "problem to be considered within the context of normal social behavior, where often both the bully and the victim have become enmeshed in a process of maladaptive social functioning" (Besag, 1987). If this maladaptive social functioning is not curtailed through external intervention or through internal resolution, it may "suddenly escalate into crisis" (Besag, 1987). This requires that bullying be identified and responded to as representative of issues found within problematic social interaction between two or more persons."
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Mental Stress in the Workplace, 2008.
This paper looks at stress and mental health as they relate to the workplace.
1,176 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 7 sources, APA, AU$ 50.95
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Abstract
This document discusses workplace stress and burnout in the context of the workplace in general as well as directed at the mental health and healthcare industries. The writer notes that these industries in particular suffer from a high degree of stress and burnout related to the workplace stressors most commonly found in the industries in question. The conclusion is that mandated training during industry certification and education related programs should be implemented and this should be followed up with mandated organizational professional development programs aimed at the same topic.
Outline:
Abstract
Literature Review
References
From the Paper
"These universally applicable observations are only aggravated in such industries as the mental health and healthcare industries where workers both generate and receive stress in the workplace. Among some of the largest contributors to workplace stress and burnout in the mental health and healthcare industry are: workloads, inadequate staffing strategies, role ambiguity regarding duties or objectives, poor or non-existent professional support network, extended working hours, as well as the client or patient contributions such as challenging behaviors or illnesses. These are all substantial stressors and many of them, because of the state of these industries themselves, simply cannot be removed at once. The mental health and healthcare industries are notoriously understaffed in some disciplines such as nursing and this factor contributes to high workloads, poor staffing strategies, and long hours. Additionally, some of the associative stress in the workplace of the typical mental health or healthcare employee is often diagnostically tangible."
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Learning and Tolerating the Homeless Culture, 2007.
A discussion of cultural and social differences.
1,804 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 7 sources, APA, AU$ 73.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses a series of conversations the writer recently had with a homeless person. The paper explains how these interactions provided an opportunity for learning about someone else's culture, an opportunity to understand individual as well as cultural differences, an opportunity to enjoy shared experiences, and a chance to grasp the day-to-day exigencies of this individual's life. The paper further explores a number of themes - culture shock, stereotyping and various theoretical concepts. In conclusion, the paper shows that people who are different from ourselves may seem frightening at first glance, but their humanity becomes more and more undeniable the more we allow ourselves to understand and appreciate the cultures within which they operate.
From the Paper
"To begin with, this writer conducted a series of sit-down interviews with a homeless person residing in the local community. Initially, the contact was strictly visual as the writer sought to gain a sense of the man and a sense of what his state of mind was. Not long thereafter, however, a verbal line of communication was opened - largely because I offered to buy him a cup of coffee and because I made it clear to him that his life story was of interest to me. During the course of our conversation at the local Starbucks, I became self-conscious and vaguely uncomfortable - not least of all because a number of people took to staring at the odd couple in their midst."
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Families with an Autistic Child, 2008.
An analysis of some of the issues that face families with an autistic child.
1,298 words (approx. 5.2 pages), 11 sources, APA, AU$ 54.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at some of the challenges that are faced by families with an autistic child. It begins by presenting a case study of a family who struggled to diagnose a child with autism. It also discusses crisis issues within families who have children with autism. The paper then analyzes a study that looks at whether there is a connection between language and theory of mind between autistic children and those with moderate learning difficulties.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Families with Autistic Children and Crisis
Methods
Results
Conclusion
From the Paper
"In another study titled, "The Broader Cognitive Phenotype of Autism in Parents: How Specific is the tendency for local processing and executive dysfunction?" (Bolte, 2006, p. 639) showed parents of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) children performed faster in processing their children with a myriad of interactive tests (Embedded Figures Test, Block Design, Wisconsin Card Sorting Test, Tower of Hanoi, and Trailmaking Test) compared to parents with schizophrenia or mental retardation (640-1). It seems that autistic children need more attention from parents compared to the other children having schizophrenia and mental retardation. As the parents learn to cope with autistic disorder, their children seem to trust and cope with their parents."
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Ethical Practice in Counseling, 2007.
An examination of two specific sections of the American Psychological Association's (APA) code of ethics from a counselor's point of view.
1,353 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 8 sources, APA, AU$ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper examines two sections of the APA's code of ethics: confidentiality and discrimination. It looks at an instance wherein the APA code of ethics offends the writer's personal beliefs and an instance where the code is in accordance with the writer's beliefs. The paper explains how one must never allow personal sensibilities to intrude upon the professional discharge of duties. The paper then discusses the case of a daughter accusing her father of rape, and the ethical obligations of the counselor according to the APA code of ethics. In addition, the writer relates that she values confidentiality, but believes that confidentiality cannot be absolute and something as serious as an allegation of sexual assault must be brought to the attention of the father - as long as reasonable precautions have been undertaken.
From the Paper
"To begin with, this writer finds little in the APA Code of Ethics that is cause for concern. In particular, section 3.01 of the APA's 2003 Code of Ethics takes a strong stance on the issue of unfair discrimination, stating that discriminating against any party on the basis of age, gender, race, religious affiliation or sexual orientation - among several others - is abominable and unacceptable. As someone who has long been opposed to discrimination in all its forms, obeying this injunction is something that will cause little trouble for this counselor. On the other hand, my own strong feelings about the need to maintain confidentiality - and my recognition that confidentiality is something which cannot always be maintained - is an area that is sure to cause me some significant angst insofar as my professional obligations run counter to my own personal belief system and my own conviction that confidential disclosures from a young person should not be circulated to other members of the group."
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The Meaning of Suffering, 2008.
This paper explains Margaret Newman's theory of understanding health and illness.
718 words (approx. 2.9 pages), 1 source, APA, AU$ 31.95
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Abstract
The paper explains how Margaret Newman's theory provides a way of answering the question about suffering and meaning. The paper discusses how patients have to understand the meaning in their healing experience by comprehending the patterns and processes that are linked with the larger world. The paper shows how Newman's theory is especially useful with patients who have to come to terms with illnesses such as multiple sclerosis or Spina Bifida.
Outline:
Introduction
Experience
Reflection
Analysis
Conclusion
From the Paper
"I once met a patient who had such painful arthritis that she needed to be set to the psychiatric unit for evaluation. Mrs. B was in so much pain that she was very depressed that the staff members were afraid she would harm herself. She was asking why this was happening to her, and saying that she could not take it anymore. No staff member was capable of responding to her question and comment. The experience made me realize that we see patients suffering all the time. What can be said to Mrs. B or to any patient who is going through enormous physical, emotional or spiritual suffering?"
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The Concept of Grief, 2008.
An analysis of the concept of grief as it applies to the practice of nursing, including model, contrary, related and borderline cases.
3,280 words (approx. 13.1 pages), 15 sources, APA, AU$ 117.95
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Abstract
This paper focuses on the issue of grief as a concept that is significant to the practice of nursing. It explores the intricacies of grief in order to understand the scope of its impact to the field of nursing and health care in general. The paper provides model, contrary, related and borderline cases that relate to grief. It then looks at the social context of grief and then provides an operational definition of the context.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Assumptions
Literature Review
Defining Attributes
Model, Contrary, Related and Borderline Cases
Social Contexts and Values
Theoretical Definition
Operational Definition of the Concept
Empirical Referents
Measurement Tool
Application to Nursing Practice
Application to Nursing Research
From the Paper
"The concept of grief can be applied to nursing practice through an understanding of the individual patient and the time that is taken to comprehend all of the factors that impact the patient's life. The issue of quality care should be considered in relation to the concept of grief because the patient that is undergoing the grief process may not be forthcoming with the information, nor be aware that the physical symptoms that are evident are associated with physical illness. Therefore, the nurse that is capable of taking the necessary time to discover information about the patient in terms of current life situations, events that have impacted his or her living and emotional barriers to good health that may exist, will uncover the potential for grief to be a factor in the health concerns of the patient. When this occurs that patient can then be assisted in a manner that is positive and that will lead to successful outcomes for the individual."
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Article Analysis: Bias and Reliability, 2008.
An analysis of the article "Change in Work Values and Norms among Dutch Young Adults. Ageing or societal trends?" by Mandy E.G. Van der Velde, Jan A. Feij and Hetty Van Emmerik.
1,332 words (approx. 5.3 pages), 1 source, APA, AU$ 55.95
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Abstract
This paper reviews the research methods of a 1998 article appearing in the International Journal of Behavioral Development that explores whether or not work values and norms among young adult Dutch people have changed over time because of societal trends or because of aging/maturation. The paper examines, in addition to the methodology employed, the issues of bias and reliability as they emerge in the work. The paper also looks at the conclusions of the article and whether or not these findings are compromised in any way. In the final analysis, this writer finds that the article carefully controls for all variables, uses a large sample size and contains a strong understanding of previous literature and its relevance to the work at hand. The writer shows, however, how the article is compromised by the fact that traces of bias are found.
From the Paper
"Research in the fields of psychology and sociology has become increasingly complex in recent decades as advances in multivariate analysis and the development of new conceptual tools have both emerged. Because of this, the standards to which professional publications are held have risen dramatically. Happily, a 1998 release by Mandy E.G. Van der Velde, Jan A. Feij and Hetty van Emerik measures up to the new requirements and offers an interesting look at the question of whether or not work values and norms among young adult Dutch people have changed over time because of societal trends or because of aging/maturation."
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Alcohol and Drug Treatment, 2008.
This paper provides an analysis of Chicago area drug and alcohol addiction programs.
1,962 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 78.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that comparing and contrasting drug and alcohol treatment programs available in the Chicago metro area indicates that the programs offered by New Hope Recovery Center at Lincoln Park Hospital, by Hazelden, and by Haymarket are similar in many ways in terms of the quality of their services, their program focus and treatment approaches. But, the writer points out, these programs also vary. The writer maintains that the primary differences are the degree of emphasis these respective facilities place on the psychological aspects of addiction and recovery, and the economic levels of their respective clients. The writer concludes that although drug and alcohol problems plague men and women at every economic and social level
of society, people at the lowest income levels are more vulnerable to drug or alcohol addiction and are less likely to seek treatment and recover because they simply cannot afford the most effective treatment and counseling.
From the Paper
"Although everyone agrees that drug and alcohol abuse and addiction are harmful, both for American society as a whole and for the individuals and their families who are struggling to deal with addiction and co-dependency, there is much disagreement over what types of treatment are most effective, what factors contribute the most to drug or alcohol abuse, how society should deal with it, what legal measures should be taken, and what can be done in terms of providing effective medical and psychological treatment for those who are addicted."
"Unfortunately, the effectiveness of treatment programs often depends upon the income level of the client. Since addiction has psychological causes, the quality of counseling is a very important factor in determining whether a client can maintain long-term recovery, and the quality of counseling is directly related to the cost of counseling. The best psychiatric therapy is the most expensive, so it is often the case that the clients most able to pay for high quality counseling are the ones most likely to overcome their abuse or addiction problems."
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Action and Inaction in Freud and Foucault, 2008.
An exploration of Sigmund Freud's and Michel Foucault's theoretical models in relation to action and inaction as the core of civilization.
1,813 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 8 sources, MLA, AU$ 73.95
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Abstract
This paper explores how action and inaction with regard to Eros and its control or containment is at the core of civilization and has profoundly shaped Western models of the state and social order. The paper makes reference primarily to the works of Sigmund Freud and Michel Foucault in its discussion. It concludes that action and inaction can be seen as the key issues underlying both Freud's and Foucault's respective theoretical models of human social relations and Western civilization.
From the Paper
"From this perspective, the exploration of aspects of action and inaction in Freud and Foucault lead us to understand how each thinker, although in clearly different ways, conceived of the roles of erotic impulse and its repression as a core element of human civilization. As we have seen, while Freud regarded this collective repression as being analogous to the individual repression of erotic desire and action that leads to neuroses, Foucault extended this to a deeper historical understanding of this apparatus of sexual and social control, and also how this apparatus reveals the possibility of resistance. In this analysis, action and inaction can be seen as the key issues underlying both Freud's and Foucault's respective theoretical models of human social relations and Western civilization."
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Mental Health and Stigma, 2008.
This paper looks at the effects of stigma as it relates to mental illness.
1,513 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 8 sources, APA, AU$ 61.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that the stigma attached to mental illness is found everywhere including the health care system. Stigma can be defined as attitudes, feelings and behaviors that cause a negative view towards individuals or groups. The writer maintains that such attitudes and behaviors are based on stereotyping and false notions such as the view that the mentally ill are always violent. The writer argues that stigma not only destroys self-esteem and limits opportunities for the person with a mental illness such as schizophrenia, but is a major barrier to recovery. The most serious effect of stigma is social isolation; stigma condemns the mentally ill to isolation and feelings of shame. The writer notes that stigma is so prevalent and embedded in society that it is almost impossible to eradicate, but there are strategies that can be effective.
Outline:
Executive Summary
Need
Objectives
Methods
Evaluation
From the Paper
"The mentally ill person is not able to participate like other people in society because stigma results in the mentally ill person having diminished social status. Schumacher, Corrigan and Dejong explain how stigma related to mental illness is based on three main cues consisting of bizarre behavior, poor social skills, and little physical attractiveness. Stigma also results in discrimination on the part of employers and landlords, leaving the mentally ill with few or no opportunities for a normal life. As a result of such discrimination, many of the mentally ill are unemployed and homeless. In contrast to the stigma associated with race or gender, stigma attached to mental illness is based on the cues of labels, bizarre behavior, poor social skills, and physical appearance. Furthermore, the most intense stigma is a reaction to bizarre behavior and perceived strangeness.
"Research studies have indicated that the most effective way to eradicate stigma is through developing contact between healthy individuals and the mentally ill person."
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Freud's Psychology of Ordinary Life, 2008.
This paper examines Sigmund Freud's 1901 book, "The Psychopathology of Everyday Life".
954 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, AU$ 41.95
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Abstract
The paper analyzes Freud's well-known book, "The Psychopathology of Everyday Life", which consists almost exclusively of a series of anecdotes taken from the real lives of a variety of people. The paper discusses Freud's overall theme of the significance of inner mental states, the subconscious, as possessing a deterministic quality over outer manifestations of behavior. The paper points out that Freud's analysis is neither subject to close scientific investigation nor is it logically unimpeachable, but concludes that Freud's pioneering efforts, though flawed, opened the door for further study.
From the Paper
"Freud's 1901 book, The Psychopathology of Everyday Life, is one of the more well-known works of his, perhaps partly due to the fact that unlike many of his studies of psychology, it focuses exclusively on the life of the ordinary individual rather than the neurotic patient. As such, it was likely from the beginning to find wider acceptance among a readership that, then as now, tends to feel a stigma attached to the felt need that one is "abnormal" or in need of psychotherapy. It thus presents itself as an accessible introduction to Freud's thought."
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Racism in the United States and Europe, 2008.
An analysis of racism in the United States and Europe and the legislation that is introduced in an effort to control it.
1,506 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 5 sources, APA, AU$ 61.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the similarities and differences between cultural racism in the United States and Europe. It discusses the strength of racism in both regions and the fact that in many cases it seems to be on the rise. The paper then looks at current efforts to control racism through legislation, but suggests that this will be ineffectual when there is a base cultural support for racisim.
From the Paper
"With such vigilance and fervor against racism, one must ask why it not only persists but seems to be thriving in Europe. In the United States, First Amendment protections allow citizens to organize and talk about nearly anything they'd like, including racist ideology. Combined with tensions over immigration, fear of people of Middle Eastern descent, and a standing racism with African Americans, it is little wonder that the United States not only has a history of racism but also a strong culture of racism. In Europe, however, many believe that legal prohibitions against racism and hate speech should be enough to protect ethnic minorities from racism and create a more egalitarian society. Unfortunately, Europe's record on racism is no better than the United States' (Kudnani, 1998). Tensions over immigration, rising populism, and antagonism toward Jews and Arabs all feed into a healthy subculture of racism. The conclusion we must draw from this is that racism cannot be dealt with on a political or legal level, but must be examined on a cultural level. Racism is rooted in a desire to protect members of one's own culture from outside threats. That this desire to protect manifests as racism is an unfortunate result."
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Decriminalization of Marijuana, 2008.
This paper argues for the decriminalization of marijuana in the United States.
1,017 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 6 sources, MLA, AU$ 44.95
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Abstract
The paper maintains that marijuana laws are costly and ineffective and its decriminalization will allow for a more judicious allocation of funds. The paper argues that decriminalization will undermine the black market and will not precipitate the increased consumption of the narcotic by young people. The paper concludes that the positives of decriminalization certainly outweigh the negatives.
From the Paper
"To begin with, the marijuana laws in America are costly to enforce and inefficacious. For instance, a July 2005 report revealed that federal spending devoted to enforcing criminal sanctions against marijuana use runs to around $4 billion each year - and yet fails to make any perceptible impact upon the country's perception of, or use of, marijuana. What makes the matter more problematic is the fact that the federal government spends more on enforcing marijuana prohibition than it does on policy formulation or on treatment programs (Hemp Information, para.1). Suffice it to say, any laws which are costly and which have little impact upon a perceived problem should be dramatically altered in their scope and application - or struck down entirely."
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