Abstract Discusses challenges confronted by social workers and other counseling professinals who provide intervention and prevention services. Acting-out or delinquent behavior as a feature of adolescent depression disorders. Need for a working alliance between rehabilitation system caregivers, justice system professionals and parents. Theoretical causes of delinquency. Achieving desirable attitudinal change.
From the Paper "Counseling and Juvenile Rehabilitation
Social workers and other counseling professionals are confronted with the myriad challenges of providing effective intervention and prevention services to juvenile delinquents and other adolescents referred to juvenile rehabilitation centers (Miser, 1996). In the mental health literature, acting-out or delinquent behavior is recognized as an associated feature of adolescent depression disorders. These concerns, however, are seldom addressed in the delinquency literature, which tends to position delinquency and acting-out behaviors as independent of other potentially co-morbid conditions or disorders (miser, 1996). For professionals who work with this population, the literature indicates that working alliances between disparate rehabilitation system caregivers, justice system professionals, and parents a ..."
Abstract Proposes a study design to assess impact of childhood abuse on adult adjustment Relationships between early sexual abuse and adult problems (depession, anxiety, drug abuse, attempted suicide, psychiatric disorders. Depression & anxiety in women and men.. Research questions & hypotheses. Methodology. Nonclinical random sample using only self-reports. Data analysis. Review of literature.
From the Paper "EFFECTS OF CHILDHOOD SEXUAL ABUSE ON FEMALE & MALE ADULTS
I. INTRODUCTION
Statement of the Problem
Childhood sexual abuse continues to be prevalent and prevention or intervention efforts are considered a failure ("Child," 1999; Gelles, 1998). Childhood sexual abuse results in effects that continue into adulthood. Relationships between this sexual abuse and adult problems such as depression, anxiety, drug abuse, attempted suicide, and psychiatric disorders, have been found (McCauley, Kern, Kolodner, Dill, Schroeder, DeChant, Ryden, Derogatis, & Bass, 1997). Studies of the effects of childhood sexual abuse on women are more prevalent than those regarding male victims. Those regarding male victims tend to focus on sexual identity issues (Ferren, 1998). Effects of this abuse on ..."
Abstract In human development, the early adulthood stage is the sixth stage of the period of development of humans. This paper looks at a few theorists and their concepts of the type of development that occurs in this stage of life. The writer concludes that in this stage, an individual learns to recognize alternative moral courses and learns to develop a personal moral code.
From the Paper "Under the early adulthood stage, cognitive development of early adults has already reached its formal operational stage, according to Jean Piaget's Theory of Cognitive Development. Under the formal operational stage, the operational thoughts of humans are more ?abstract, idealistic, and logical,? and adults are no longer confined to concrete thoughts, which are the operational thoughts common among children (Santrock 2000 335). Aside from thinking abstractly, early adulthood stage brings about among humans the ability to solve problems and test solutions, which are the characteristics of hypothetical-deductive reasoning. Piaget formally defines hypothetical-deductive reasoning as "the ability to develop hypotheses, or best hunches, about ways to solve problems" (Santrock 2000 335). Piaget notes that the operational thoughts of adults in this stage is no different from adolescents? operational thoughts, but adults in the early adulthood stage have more methods and ways in approaching and solving the problems presented to them or they encounter."
Tags: morality, growth, personality, adolescence, character
Abstract This paper begins by defining and explaining the problem of violence in high schools - ranging from petty bullying to gun battles leaving students dead. Some causes of the increase in violence are discussed such as violent TV shows, social pressure and the easy availability of guns. Social consequences of high school and gang violence is addressed and some solution are suggested. These suggestions include student tasks forces, workshops and a zero-tolerance attitude towards violent incidences by the school authorities.
From the Paper "The more publicly visible and horrifying acts of violence in American high schools, and junior high schools, this past year have just been the tip of the iceberg. Violence in American schools has increased dramatically - often associated with youth gang activity. In looking at some recent figures for the school year 1996-1997, there were 4,000 cases of rape and sexual assault reported. There were also over 11,000 cases of physical assault reported, including assaults with weapons. This seems to be correlated, to some extent, with an increase in youth gang violence which has more than doubled during the past two decades (Owens, 1999)."
Abstract This paper briefly examines how the recent spate of high school shootings, has brought attention to the crisis of violence afflicting the young generations all over the world. It looks at how one of the possible explanations for youth aggression is the exposure of children to violence in the mass media. It shows how with technological advances, children are constantly bombarded by violent images in movies, television programs and video games. It also looks at how the widespread use of walkmans and portable CD players, heavy metal, rock and rap music also play a large part in introducing children to a world of violence and how consequently, impressionable children are encouraged to act aggressively in an effort to emulate their role models.
From the Paper "Teenagers? lives are dominated by music, whether via the public airwaves or television. Although teenagers may not understand all the lyrics of their favorite songs, they fill in the gaps by watching music videos. Therefore, the effects of the music and lyrics are now bolstered by graphic images from the videos. Unfortunately, music videos often portray violent and negative behavior, such as sexism and substance abuse. Studies of the content of the music videos reveal that about half of thematic music videos contain violence (Mendelsohn, 1989, p. 313). According to research, teenagers who veer towards heavy metal music demonstrate signs of "alienation, substance abuse, psychiatric disorders, suicide risk, or risk-taking behaviors during adolescence" (Mendelsohn, 1989, p. 312)."
Abstract The word "family" typically conjures up the image of an ideal household of two parents of opposite sex and their children. The paper shows that gay men and lesbians who seek to legalize their relationships in same-sex unions or gain custody of their children often face an uphill battle in their effort to form a family. Although gay men and lesbians merely want to exercise the rights enjoyed by heterosexual couples, conservatives view their effort to legalize same-sex unions as a campaign as a strategy to spread the practice of homosexuality and thus affect public morality. The paper shows that essentially, for the conservatives, the traditional definition of a family that has endured for over 6,000 years is at stake.
From the Paper "Various studies comparing the parenting styles of homosexual and heterosexual parents and the children's development in homosexual and heterosexual households have not been able to validate stereotypical conceptions of homosexual partners as inadequate parents. In fact, the studies frequently show that gay men and lesbians display a greater capacity for parenting (McNeill 3). Furthermore, studies on parent-children relationships have shown that gay fathers are more sensitive towards their children and try harder to be a better parent because of their own experiences (McNeill 7). Ultimately, these studies corroborate the fact that there are many same-sex couples who lead responsible and monogamous lives. The stereotypical perception of gay men and lesbians essentially denies the existence of committed same-sex couples who have formed a "family" for years, like many other heterosexual families."
Abstract In "The Lost Children of Wilder", reporter Nina Bernstein examines the failures, disasters and tragedies that continue to plague New York City's foster care system. The paper shows that to do this, Bernstein tells two stories. The first details the history of New York City's child welfare system, a system that has been ineffective and mired in bureaucracy for the past 100 years. The second story focuses on the lives of Shirley Wilder and her son Lamont, two generations of children who have both been failed by a chaotic foster care system that refuses to reform.
From the Paper "To read The Lost Children of Wilder is an experience in frustration with the seemingly-endless loop of child welfare. The only solution appears to be increasing public funding to the city's shelter system and to mothers like Shirley, so they are in a better position to raise and educate their children. Critics may point out that women like Shirley should not be mothers. However, Bernstein's narrative leads me to believe that rushing children to foster care has much direr consequences, both for Lamont and eventually, the rest of society (who will eventually shoulder an average of $500,000 per child in foster care). After all, it is in everyone's best interests to ensure that all children receive a positive upbringing, with access to education, medical care and physical well being."
Tags: racial, disparities, Justine, Wise, Polier, juvenile, hall, Legal, Aid
Abstract This paper points out that the only consistent approach to the definition of "family" is that, in modern Western culture, family is increasingly being defined not through marriage and biological reproduction but through conscious choice of association. The author stresses that the typology called the Traditional Family Life Cycle, which describes the "five stages" of family life, is open to questions of validity. The paper concludes by discussing TV sitcoms and series that illustrate traditional and alternative family structures.
From the Paper "However, other sources define non-traditional families differently. Blended families are considered examples of non-traditional families. Same-sex couples with children fall either under the single parent or unmarried-couples categories. Extended family is sometimes confined to instances of adult children and grandchildren living with their parents. In reality, extended family situations are often far more complicated, with children shuffled between a wide array of relatives and relatives of all sorts cohabiting with their respective children. Finally, most people considered adoptive families to be somewhat non-traditional; others classify them as traditional. Likewise, foster families seem as if they should be classified as non-traditional families or non-families."
Abstract It was reported that in 2000, there were seven million households with single mothers and children under the age of eighteen, representing approximately ten percent of households in the U.S. This paper examines the problems associated with single parent families, including stress, conflict between the parents and custody problems. The paper looks at the emotional stages which both adults and children involved go through. The paper also discusses several studies done on the subject.
From the Paper "Despite the fact that even the term single parenting brings to many people's mind juvenile delinquency and low academic performance, this does not mean that everyone is against single parenting. Societies are becoming more accepting and accommodating of the changing structures of families. In one survey of 248 undergraduate college students, eighty five percent saw single parenting as a viable option and approved of single parenting. The study also revealed that the attitude is no longer that of single mothers as "young poor woman who becomes a single parent because of carelessness, lack of judgment or desire for a government stipend but that of a mature woman who consciously chooses single parenthood". ( Knox et al, 2000)."
Tags: American, Psychological, Association, socio-economic, status
Abstract Teenage pregnancy is a growing problem in America. Why? Many reasons stem to the need for teenagers to feel love and accepted. Often teenagers are abandoned by families and boyfriends when the teenage pregnancy is confirmed. Parents teaching their teenagers values and morals will aid in helping this problem.
Abstract The growing movement of the gay rights movement in the United States, Canada and elsewhere has raised some sensitive issues. Not the least of these is whether gay couples should be allowed to adopt children. This paper explores this problem.
Abstract This paper is an examination of the psychological effects of child abuse upon the victims. It defines abuse, describes the specific effects, and discusses the life-long problems that develop as a result of being abused. It observes that most abusers were abused themselves and that the psychological damage that occurs because of child abuse is profound and, in some cases, nearly irreversible.
Abstract This paper begins with a definition of the rules of street racing. It then examines the sociological aspects of this illegal pastime, especially its appeal to inner-city adolescent boys. The paper then discusses a police report on an event involving street, or drag, racing. Finally, the paper examines the steps taken by law enforcement agencies to curb this dangerous sport.
From the Paper "The problem of illegal street racing is more common in the inner cities, although kids in suburban neighborhoods do also engage in such sport. For the most part, inner city kids are more likely to engage in such activities than other groups. School age children in the inner cities often are unable to find many other activities and services in their neighborhoods. According to studies, "The illegal street racing sport is more prevalent in African American neighborhoods, under a climate of isolation, the underclass youth evolve new attitudes, behaviors and practices which further marginalize their neighborhoods". {Douglas Massey and Nancy Denton. 1994}"
Abstract This paper examines how the history of assignment of custodial responsibility for children when parents separate or divorce has varied more than most people realize. It discusses how American courts, as well as the Anglo system that preceded it, have held various views over the centuries regarding who should take care of children after divorce, with the view that either parent may be the best choice in any individual situation being a relatively new development. By looking at how court rulings have changed, particularly over the last thirty years, it attempts to demonstrate how it is evident that many men can and will do an excellent job of raising their children when called upon to do so.
Outline
History
Current Issues
Fathers? Rights Movements
Examples of Single Fathers
Factors that Help Fathers Win Custody
Joint Custody
Conclusion
From the Paper "Laws have changed to reflect changes in society standards. In 1973, the New York Supreme Court ruled against the automatic assumption that of the two biological parents, the mother is automatically the best parent to receive custody of children in a divorce. They wrote, ?The simple fact of being a mother does not, by itself, indicate a willingness or capacity to render a quality of care different than that which a father can provide.? (Risman, 1985) By 1982 the state of Missouri had acted in a similar way. A Missouri court order from that year states, ??If both parents are employed and equally absent from the home, the mother has no more part in training, nurturing and helping in the child's development; and if everything is equal, the mother has no better claim to child custody.? (Stachewicz, 1993)."
Abstract This paper explains that 81 percent of parents and guardians polled favor sex education programs that teach all aspects of sex and sexuality, which include how to use birth control and how to protect against STDs, instead of the widespread abstinence-only and dangers of sex program. The author stresses that, even with most schools teaching abstinence-only programs, the approach isn?t working very well; teenagers are not abstaining from sex. The paper concludes that teaching teens about the dangers of STDs and the consequences and responsibility that surrounds sexual relationships may actually be reinforcing abstinence as the safest way.
From the Paper ?In 1996, a companion bill was put onto the Welfare Reform Act. This bill budgeted $440 million over the span of five years to support abstinence-only sex education. In order for school districts to receive funding, they are required to tell the kids that "sexual activity outside the context of marriage is likely to have harmful psychological and physical effects" and that ?a mutually faithful monogamous relationship in the context of marriage is the expected standard of human sexual activity.? The kids are not to be told about condoms, birth control, or any other protection methods except to highlight their failure rates. Right now, every state except California accepts this funding. In recent news, the Bush administration is attempting to put forth an initiative to increase the funding for this abstinence-only policy."
