Abstract This paper examines the problem in the U.S. health care policy regarding the lack of definitive attention that is being paid to the health care crisis in America, in general, and child health care, in particular.
Definition of Problem
Assembled Evidence
Construction of Alternatives
Criteria
Project Outcome
Limitations and Tradeoffs
Advocacy Decision
From the Paper "Currently, there is a division in the general healthcare setting between public and private funding. Private funding comes from companies and involves a setting that takes market forces into a bigger consideration, whereas public funding comes from the government and this sort of funding has a more regulatory effect on the general healthcare setting. The balance between public and private funding has been affected by
many factors having to do with children's healthcare availability, including the insurance industry as a factor, as well as the introduction of managed care into the healthcare world, as mentioned above. In this setting, the government acts as a regulatory support, while the private sector is also involved to bring more factors of competition into the market, thus lowering costs for the consumer of healthcare services, but also decreasing the equity of programs aimed at disadvantaged children."
Abstract This paper describes the problem of child labor and looks at the countries where it is most often practiced. The paper describes the horrible working and living conditions that these children are subjected to and looks at how some multinational companies take advantage of the cheap labor provided by child laborers instead of taking a moral stand against the problem.
From the Paper "Child labor is one of the worst social problems that exist in modern society (Yan, 2002). The term child labor brings images of exploited and uncared children. In the many areas that child labor exists, Indonesia is one that has an especially large percentage of children working at a young age. Government statistics reveal that 2.08 million children between the ages of 10-14 works in Indonesia are employed at dangerous places. Among these children, half work full time. The amount of work and hours these children have are the same as adults. Many children work under hazardous conditions as scavengers, garbage pickers and fishing platforms. For obvious reasons, this is one of the greatest labor issues faced by the country."
Abstract This paper argues that the place for religious teaching is at home or in a church setting, not in public schools. The paper presents legal, moral, and ethical reasons why religion should not be taught in public schools and should be left to the domain of religious institutions, families, and private settings.
From the Paper "No subject in the history of this great country has the ability to unite or divide people quite like the subject of religion. The dominant religion in America is Christianity, and so in this country religion is virtually synonymous with God. But consider, for a moment, those in the minority who do not worship the Christian God, along with those who worship no deity at all. For these people, living in America is a difficult undertaking. For these people, the subject of religion in public schools has a different meaning than it has for the majority. For these people, religion in public schools is a frightening concept; a concept that brings about visions of their precious children being taught values that differ greatly from their own, by the very people who are charged with fostering their intellectual growth. Religion in America's public schools should, however, be a frightening concept for all Americans, regardless of faith or lack thereof. To put God or any other deity into the curriculum of public schools does a terrible disservice to children of all faiths and deteriorates the foundation upon which this free nation was built."
Abstract This paper analyzes the increase in the number of children identified as suffering from Attention Deficit (Hyperactivity) Disorder, or AD(H)D. Two pertinent areas are debated in an attempt to provide a logical solution to developing coping strategies for the child, as well as his or her educators and family. One, the writer believes that the escalation of ADD/ADHD cases is, in part, due to inappropriate developmental expectations that cause some learners to be regarded as 'learning disabled' or underachievers. Two, because our schools and culture esteem the highly articulate or logical people in our society, uniform teaching methods in the classroom should be reviewed to also include alternative teaching methods that recognize diverse intelligences, so that individuals with a unique way of thinking and learning are recognized and acknowledged and not marginalized. The paper also includes information on pharmacological treatment and psycho-social therapeutic techniques as relevant treatment for children diagnosed with ADD/ADHD.
Outline
Introduction
Definition of ADD/ADHD
Symptoms
Thesis Statement
Developmental Expectations
Alternative Teaching Philosophy
Treatment
Pharmacological Treatment
Psychosocial Therapeutic Techniques
Conclusion
From the Paper "Sometimes the term 'attention deficit disorder', referred to as ADD, is used as an alternative to describing 'hyperactivity' at the severe end of the spectrum. ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity. This mental condition is under-recognized and includes symptoms such as forgetfulness, poor academic performance, difficulty completing tasks and being easily distracted. Children suffering from ADHD are also fidgety and inclined to interrupt others. "ADHD is also characterized by multiple symptoms of persistent and dysfunctional patterns of over-activity, impulsiveness, inattention, and distractibility". (Behavior Disorders, 2003). Severe hyperactivity is also called hyperkinetic disorder, which is only diagnosed when all three main features - impulsiveness, over-activity and inattention - are present. In addition, the presence of these traits should be consistent at school and at home and have to be placed in the context of the overall development of the child."
Abstract Divorce can have a devastating impact on a family. Children are particularly vulnerable when their parents are divorced. For many years, experts in the field of child psychology have investigated the impact of divorce on children. They have found that children of divorce can have a plethora of problems, including behavioral, emotional, and adjustment difficulties. This paper explores the impact of divorce on children.
From the Paper "According to current data, nearly 51% of all marriages in the United States ends in divorce (Love and Murdock 2004). In addition, the divorce rate began to climb in the 1960's. Many factors may have contributed to this increase including a greater independence felt by women and the ability they had to support themselves (Love and Murdock 2004). Along with these factors is the increase in the number of stepfamilies because many who remarry already have children (Love and Murdock 2004). The introduction of the stepfamily into a divorced situation can lead to even greater problems for children of divorce (Love and Murdock 2004)."
Abstract This paper presents the case that peer pressure need not be negative when it comes to alcohol and drug use. It explains that, with the correct education in school and at home, youngsters could be positively influenced by their surroundings regarding choices made about drugs and alcohol.
From the Paper "During adolescence, peers play a large part in a young person's life and typically replace family as the center of a teen's social and leisure activities. But teenagers have various peer relationships, and they interact with many peer groups. Often "peer cultures" have very different values and norms. Thus, the adult perception of peers as a "united front of dangerous influence" is inaccurate. More often than not, peers reinforce family values, but they have the potential to encourage problem behaviors as well. Although the negative influence of peers is over-emphasized, more can be done to help teenagers experience the family and the peer group as mutually constructive environments. To accomplish this, families, communities, churches, schools, 4-H and other youth groups must work together (Haydock 45)."
Abstract This paper discusses several motivation theories from Educational Psychology. It then looks at each factor that affects the probability of a student dropping out of high school. Finally, the motivation theories are used to show what can be done to retain high school students within the educational framework.
From the Paper "Socio-economic status is another factor that helps determine whether a student will drop out. According to a study on GED and diploma attainment of high school dropouts, "socio-economic status was positively associated with degree attainment with a one point increase on the SES scale associated with an increase in the odds of returning of 1.34" (Wayman 2001). Many students from lower income families are not expected to finish high school as their parents or other role models did not; in contrast, they may have no choice but to drop out because they need to earn income for their family. In a student done in Australia, it was found that "family SES has been consistently found to be associated with participation in education, but the size of the effect is smaller than has sometimes been assumed" (Ainley, Foreman & Sheret 1991). Thus, many students may claim that socio-economic status is the reason that they dropped out, but it may have only been one of the influencing factors."
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Abstract This paper critiques an article "Children of Divorce" from the "Journal of the American Board of Family Practice" by Charles L. Bryner, Jr, MD. It uses the case study of a child named Lamar, as well as offering a critique of the methods and research materials used in the article.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Methods
Stages of Divorce
Consequences on Divorce
Children's Responses to Divorce
Treatments and Inventions
Support
Summary
From the Paper "Children go through so much when their parents are divorcing. The parents are busy themselves trying to make new lives for themselves, adjusting their life styles, and dealing with their own problems. Meanwhile, the child is lonely and confused. Normally, family and friends tend to pull back when, during this time, the children need them the most."
Abstract One of the greatest challenges of society today is the necessity of protecting children from child abuse. This paper presents an overview of the subject and discusses the long term effects of this social malady.
Paper Outline:
I. Child Abuse and its Effects
A. Intro
1. Definition
2. Crisis
3. Types of Abuse and Abusers
B. Cause of Abuse
1. Substance Abuse
2. Environmental Factor
3. Family History
C. Effects of Abuse
1. Physical
2. Emotional
3. Behavioral/Relational Problem
II. Prevention
A. Media
B. Programs
C. Awareness
III. Healing
A. Breaking Cycle
IV. Bibliography
From the Paper "Also if the child is exposed to prolonged stress, such as abuse, he or she would likely develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This type of disorder is most common with Vietnam War veterans and victims of torture. But a child exposed to traumatic stress can develop this because their brain will create an automatic fear response and will cause the child to respond anxiously and aggressively. Other symptoms of PTSD are nightmares, flashbacks, amnesia, and multiple-personality disorders (5)."
Abstract This paper discusses juvenile delinquency as well as the gangs formed by youths. The writer provides an overview regarding why the youth form or become members of gangs and the dangers that it can expose them to.
From the Paper "Societies have been plagued with criminals and offenders since the advent of man. While there are adult offenders, there are juvenile offenders as well. There are many causes to juvenile delinquency which need to be addressed by society and the legal system of a nation. Factors like school attendance, graduation rates and academic achievement play an important part in the involvement of youth in the criminal justice system. "Research indicates that the level of education attained can affect opportunities for future employment. Although juveniles often fail to make this association, they do possess monetary ambitions" (Winters 451). Poor academic achievement is a major factor in crime and delinquency. Violence is being experienced by the youth today and they are both the victims and perpetrators. There have been many incidents where the juvenile offender has been sent to adult courts and are incarcerated in adult facilities even after established studies have shown this to bring about negative effects rather than any positive ones. The problem is that a proper system does not exist to control this juvenile behavior to prevent and deter juveniles from indulging in criminal activities."
Abstract This paper discusses the need for effective law enforcement policies in the U.S. regarding juvenile gangs rather than the present policies which have arisen out of research that has been sensationalized or misinterpreted to the point that it is meaningless for law enforcement agencies or policymakers to use in formulating effective interventions or other relevant programs. The paper proposes that policies for dealing with juvenile gangs should be guided by questions looking at the reality of the juvenile gang problem in the United States today, the incidence of violence associated with gang memberships and the impact the definition of "juvenile" has on gang members who enter the juvenile justice system in the U.S. Additionally, the paper asserts that development of policies on juvenile gangs must be guided by questions looking at which law enforcement programs and community initiatives have proven effective in reducing the incidence of gang membership and violence in inner cities and whether or not juveniles can be prevented from joining gangs in the first place. The study proposes to use an action research methodology to answer the questions raised in the paper.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Historical Perspective
Statement of the Problem
Proposed Future Direction
Summary
From the Paper "This renewed interest in juvenile justice policy generally and in highly punitive interventive measures specifically has taken place in spite of a growing body of research that indicates the incidence for most types of juvenile offending have remained relatively stable over the past 20 years; in fact, the majority of crimes that are committed by juvenile offenders are property offenses such as theft and vandalism rather than violent personal crimes. According to Wolcott, the rates of property offenses decreased during the period 1974 and 1984, but increased slowly between 1985 and 1991 (these rates still did not reach the 1974 levels, though). This author reports that property crime arrest rates have actually remained constant since 1992, but juveniles were responsible for 20 percent to 25 percent of all property offenses committed in the United States annually between 1981 and 1995 (U.S. Department of Justice, 1996)."
This paper examines the use of steroids in sports, while citing several cases in the areas of professional, college and high school athletics across the U.S.
Abstract This paper explores the issue of steroid use in sports which is not only a problem in the professional circuit, but has crept its way into high schools and colleges across the nation. The writer of this paper focuses on the use of steroids in these areas while examining the various solutions to this growing problem. This writer details the current professional sports climate which does little to help this situation. Kids see athletes as role models and when they see them using steroids, they perceive it as an endorsement. This paper defines steroids as a medicine synthesized to perform like human hormones, mostly testosterone and to a lesser extent human growth hormone. The writer discusses the current punishments for steroid use, which are lenient by expert standards. This paper examines the various efforts to stop the use of steroids in sports. The writer contends that the underlying path to stopping the use of steroids in sports will come when the young athletes are stopped and held accountable for their actions.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Why it is Happening
Conclusion
References
From the Paper "Currently the punishments for steroid use are lenient by expert standards. A professional baseball player has to be caught four times before anything serious happens to him. The first infraction can get a 10 day suspension, while subsequent uses can get up to a quarter of as season on the bench. This sends the message to young sports enthusiasts that the use of illegal steroids is not that big of an issue.
One of the first things that needs to be done to stop the use of steroids is to change the public perception of winning and the importance of doing so. As long as children and adults are being conditioned that winning at all costs is acceptable steroid use is going to be an issue in sports."
This paper examines the increase in gangs and gang related violence in America, as well as the available programs and strategies to combat this growing problem.
Abstract The writer of this informative paper details the growing number of gangs and membership to gangs which have become a public security threat that communities are now recognizing that must be addressed. This paper supplies relevant statistics and data relating to gangs and various acts of gang violence. Approximately half of all youth gang members are 18 years or older and thus more likely to become involved in serious and violent crimes than younger gang members. This paper discusses the spread of gangs across America. While gangs have been a problem in L.A. for years, and account for roughly 50% of the city's murders, gangs are now responsible for 41% of the homicides in Omaha, Nebraska. This paper details the various preventative measures and programs available to curtail this growing problem. The writer contends and explains why preventing adolescents from joining gangs seems to be the most cost-effective long-term strategy. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms has implemented a school-based gang prevention program that has shown positive preliminary results. The writer of this paper stresses the need for communities to organize a collaborative approach to gang problems from the outset rather than beginning with a predominantly suppression strategy.
From the Paper "Since 1980, the United States has witnessed a rapid proliferation of youth gangs. According to a 1998 Juvenile Justice Bulletin, there were roughly 286 gang jurisdictions with some 2,000 gangs and approximately 100,000 gang members in 1980. By 1996, there were some 4,800 jurisdictions with more than 31,000 gangs and an estimated 846,000 gang members. In an eleven-city survey of eighth graders, researchers found than nine percent were currently gang members, while seventeen percent stated they had belonged to a gang at some point in their lives. Other studies show similar percentages and also indicated that gang members were responsible for a large proportion of violent offenses."
Abstract This paper discusses how the context of domestic violence may be preventable from the perspective of the victim or potential victim and what they can do to prevent the problem from occurring or re-occurring. The paper describes the three components of the context of domestic violence, and the behaviors of each stage.
Abstract This paper attempts to understand why the teenage pregnancy rates in the United States are among the highest in the developed world. The paper suggests that sexuality education -- or lack thereof -- in the U.S. may be to blame. The paper shows how health care costs relating to teen pregnancy are exorbitantly high, which the paper says taxes all of society's social and economic resources. To reduce these costs, the paper recommends basic ideological shifts in the approach to sexuality education, and calls for greater access to contraceptives for teenagers.
From the Paper "Teenage pregnancy rates in the United States are among the highest in the developed world. As the nations of Western Europe prove, educational fallacies in the US concerning sexuality education..."
Tags: teenage pregnancy, teenage birth rate, contraception, teenage sexual activity, family planning, planned parenthood
