Abstract This paper analyses how corporations may maintain employee job satisfaction in an ever-increasing environment of economic, sociological, global and organizational change.
From the Paper ?While the profitability of corporations is typically measured in dollars, overall success can be measured in terms of profitability plus the attainment of organizational goals. This success derives from a synergy of inputs, including the work of employees who are dedicated, skilled and knowledgeable, and a management team that understands how to inspire competent and motivated performance through sensitive and responsive management of a continually changing workplace. The cost of socially-responsible management is an investment: the workplace environment directly impacts the motivation and productivity of the workforce. Simply put: happy, secure workers are productive workers. Companies are responsible for creating and maintaining a positive and supportive workplace environment through ethically responsible policies, fair compensation and proactive management. While not quantifiable as a line item, an attitude of responsibility to workers and to the workplace environment has a noticeable effect on the corporate bottom line. According to Alan Reder in his book In Pursuit of Principle and Profit (1994), responsible policies ensure that every quality of a company will emerge over time and greatly increase a company's chances of long-term success.?
Abstract This paper presents a detailed examination of the prevalence and adverse effects of child exposure to domestic violence. The author looks at the potential risks that expose children to domestic violence such as poverty and single parents. In addition, the author looks at the various effects of domestic violence on children's lives, such as the development of certain phobias. The above is done with the aid of four articles concerning the adverse effects of physical and verbal abuse on children and subsequent developmental problems.
From the Paper "Each year, approximately 3 million children are victims of domestic violence (Osofsky, 1999). Black, Heyman, & Smith Slep (2000) identified potential risks, such as poverty and single parent households, for child physical abuse and parent to child verbal aggression. Verbal and physical aggression were also found to cause the development of specific phobias in children (Magee, 1999). Fantuzzo and Mohr (1999) looked at the prevalence of domestic violence and the adverse effects it produces on children, and Osofsy (1999) examined the effects of violence on children and their development. Each article approaches the issue of domestic violence and children from a different perspective, but they all identify negative effects on the children. More research needs to be done to determine effective ways to prevent domestic violence from happening in the first place, because once a child has witnessed or been a victim of domestic violence, the damage is already done. In collecting and studying all of these articles, it was apparent that there is a direct correlation between domestic violence and negative repercussions on children. By gathering this evidence, it became evident that there needs to be a much greater emphasis on prevention of verbal and physical aggression in the home and that more research must be done in this area in order to establish any effective prevention methods."
Abstract The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss, and analyze conflict in the team environment. Topics covered include: Why conflict occurs, how to manage and resolve it and strategies to avoid it when developing and working with teams.
From the Paper ?Teams are defined by Jon Katzenbach in "The Wisdom of Teams" as "small groups of people with complementary skills committed to a common purpose, approach, and performance goals for which they hold themselves mutually accountable." Team building is extremely popular in business today. According to the Industry Week "1999 Census of Manufacturers," nearly 68% of small-company plants use teams to varying degrees. Teams can add to the productivity and profits of a business, but they can also be extremely stressful for the members involved if they aren't managed correctly.?
Tags: resolution, arbitration, mediation, fight, argue, business, work, together
Abstract This paper defines and clarifies the debate over different types of aging. Starting with the revolutionary work of Havighurst in the late 1960's and incorporating research from the present day, this paper defines the three central components of aging: physiological, psychological (cognitive), and social. Numerous examples of both successful and unsuccessful aging across all three components are described, and backed by empirical research. No clear "recipe" for successful aging can be given, but this paper is a thorough and modern overview of this facet of psychology as it stands today.
From the Paper "In the late 16th century the Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon set out on a quest to discover the fountain of youth. Intruding into uncharted and hostile Indian Territory, de Leon was struck dead by an arrow to his heart, at the age of 47. Today millions of Americans and billions worldwide are experiencing the golden years that evaded De Leon. But does older age necessarily equate to 'golden years'? Since at least the 1960s gerontologists have been developing conceptual frameworks, called schema, to describe ideal outcomes of the aging process. One of the most commonly used terms to describe good old age is "successful aging", often attributed to R.J. Havighurst (1961). This concept lies at the core of the practice of gerontology; the Havighurst article appeared as the first conceptual piece in the first issue of the discipline's prime publication, The Gerontologist. Defining 'successful' aging has been an issue of debate ever since. However, a complete definition must include at least three components: physiological, psychological (or cognitive), and social. It also must be able to be clearly distinguished from the opposite end of the spectrum, namely, 'unsuccessful' aging."
Abstract Alfred Adler developed a theory of personality that describes how social interaction, birth order, life style, and family influences combine to form the personality of a person. Besides these things he also used the terms ?finalism,? which describes a goal or ambition that drives a person, and ?superiority,? which is a persons drive to be perfect. Different studies will are used to verify and expand his original work.
From the Paper "Alfred Adler, born in 1870, was the second of six children. He had a self-described "bad" childhood. He dealt with illnesses and accidents and he witnessed one of his bothers die (Engler, 1995). His father thought that Adler would amount to a lot. He later went to school where he was only a mediocre student. After coming close to quitting school, he turned his academic career around and became an outstanding student. He then went to medical school and became a neurologist (Engler, 1995)."
Abstract It is estimated that between one and nine million American children have at least one parent who is gay. While most of these children were produced in a heterosexual relationship before the gay parent ?came out,? an increasing number of same-sex partners are becoming parents through adoption or foster parenting. This paper explores research and opinions in favor and against adoption of children by same-sex couples.
From the Paper "However, it must be addressed that, to a large extent, this is an unknown area because the baby boom is still very young. There aren"t enough same-sex adoptions to be a representative sample. While my guess is that having parents who are of the same sex won"t be the major focus in an adolescent's life, it will still subject that individual to teasing and homophobic reactions from his/her peers.(Martin) In addition, while state laws are changing, many states are still being influenced by homophobia. Therefore, legally, same-sex couples can adopt, but many will be denied the opportunity anyway. Only recently has it become more normal for same-sex couples to adopt children and it is impossible to draw accurate conclusions on the long-term effects same-sex adoption will have on children."
Abstract This paper presents a discussion about how divorce affects children and teenagers. The writer takes a sociological path in exploring the long-term affects on the individuals and examines how this impacts on their future relationships in society.
From the Paper "During the last four decades the divorce rate began to climb not only in America but also across the globe. As families began to live in separate houses researchers took on the task of studying the affects of the divorce on children and teenagers (Dunn, 1999). Now, four decades later the results are in and the experts agree divorce has an undeniable negative impact on children and teenagers. This is not to say the negative impact cannot be counterbalanced but it must be recognized as a given for groups of people affected by divorce if the world wants to correct the affects from a sociological point of view(Dunn, 1999)."
Abstract This paper explores the development stages of an adolescent against the backdrop of teen depression. Erickson's and Piaget's theory of child development is used to explain the causes of depressive and suicidal feelings in adolescents.
From the Paper "Approximately five percent of children and adolescents experience depression at some point in their lives (AACAP 1998). Jean Piaget and Erik Erikson studied the development of the adolescents. Their theories will give clearer understanding to why teenagers become depressed and what can be done about the problem. Depression comes from a variety of problems in the adolescent's life. Recognizing depression is important. "Out of 100,000 adolescents, two to three thousand will have mood disorders out of which 8-10 will commit suicide" (Brown 1996). The causes of depression in a teenager can stem from family problems, peer pressure and bullying, and changes in the teen's life."
Abstract This paper discusses the different ways that an individual's life can be either positively or negatively affected by stress. The author defines stress as being both physical and psychological and then breaks down the responses that are associated with these two different factors. According to this paper, the general adaptation syndrome is the means by which the human body deals with stress and this can be broken down into three stages, the alarm stage, the resistance stage and the exhaustion stage. Each of these stages involved has a different impact on a person's health, both physically and emotionally. In addition to examining these negative affects of stress, the author also presents some of the positive affects that stress can have on a person's success in the workplace.
From the Paper "The effect of stress on social life is similar to that on work life. Prolonged or excessive stress can result in major problems such as marital problems, spousal abuse and psychological conditions such as anorexia, depression and compulsion disorders. At the same time, a certain level of stress and change is required, with a consistent social life that offers no challenge rarely satisfying to an individual. A reasonable level of stress allows a person to grow psychologically. This growth can also occur by major stresses. Major stresses may cause an immediate breakdown in an individual. The coping process will see the individual come to terms with the cause of the stress, with the end result being personal growth."
Abstract This paper provides an insight into the psychology of team work and management and how they can be applied in the business environment. It discusses how team accomplishments and goals are the result of synergy or the achievement of an effect which is larger or greater than the output of one person individually. It examines the three known or discussed types of teams: work teams, naturally formed work units doing common operational duties within the organization, task teams, brought together to work on a specific task or project and management teams, drawn from people who direct operational business units . It looks at undesirable outcomes such as social loafing and conflicts and discusses the criteria for team member selections.
From the Paper "Group processes directly impact the choice of team member selection and required result. The desired team outcome is synergy when planning group structure and goals. Unfortunately, social loafing can occur so planning team leadership strategies before the team conducts their first meeting is imperative. Team member strengths and abilities are assessed prior to selection allowing for the correct member selection. Many teams have failed because of lack of support or the inability of the team to carry out their mission."
Abstract Discusses how the emotional bond between children and their primary caregivers impact a child's developing personality. Attachment figure as a model for future relationships. Various attachment styles (secure & insecure) & their psychological consequences. Adult Attachment Classification System. Differences in adult relationships formed by insecure and secure attachment styles. Long-lasting effects of early attachment.
From the Paper "Attachment theory is a well-formulated psychological theory acknowledging the importance and the long-term consequences of the type of emotional bond that develops between children and their primary caregivers (Genuis, 1995). In attachment theory, early attachment relationships in a child=s life are predicted to impact the child=s developing personality because they become models for future relationships (Bowlby, 1969; sdstate, 2001). The knowledge that an attachment figure is available and responsive provides a strong feeling of security and encourages the person to value the relationship. All human infants without significant biological abnormalities, however treated, form an attachment to the persons who care for them (Bowlby, 1982). The quality of the attachment relationship varies depending on the quality of care experienced, and if these experiences are..."
Abstract Examines whether pay/wages is a useful method of improving employee motivation. Links the concept of money to motivation theory & link with job satisfaction. Discusses causal models; hierarchy of needs model; Expectancy theory; goal setting; Management-By-Objectives (MBO). Assessment of money as the prime motivator. Performance-based compensation system. Concludes that compensation is not the only motivator.
From the Paper "MONEY AS A MOTIVATOR: A REVIEW
Introduction
This review focuses on the following question: How useful is pay as a method of improving employee motivation? In the review, the concept of money as a motivator is linked to motivation theory.
Defining Motivation and Motivation Theory
Motivation is the process of persuading individuals to act in a desired way. Within most organizational environments, motivation is the process of persuading members of the organization to perform in a productive manner. The need to motivate members of an organization to perform in a productive manner is a well-accepted premise. Disagreement exists, however, in relation to the best means of motivating individuals within organization ..."
Abstract "Couch potato (cp)" behavior is operationally defined as sitting and watching TV. The goal of the program presented in this paper is to modify this behavior towards participation in an exercise program. A self-observation log demonstrates "couch potato" behavioral antecedents, an operational definition of the target behavior and behavioral consequences. Cognitive-behavioral modification is discussed and the program is stated. Effectiveness of the intervention is then discussed.
From the Paper "Week one would consist of new thoughts such as "TV is not the only way to relax, this is a lie, the truth is that TV is contributing to my fatigue." Positive affirmations were to be employed as immediate and continuous reinforcements, such as "I'm feeling better each day with my new activities. I'm doing a great job." TV watching was to be cut down to half hour periods per week day and two hour periods for weekend days. Stimulus control was employed and junk foods were to be removed from the premises to avoid visual cues leading to poor eating behaviors. New foods were to be purchased, such as fruit juice in place of alcoholic beverages, nuts and fruits in place of chips; actual changes in meals would be dealt with later. Lifestyle changes for the first week would include using the stairs at work and school instead of the elevator, since walking up stairs is found to burn twice the calories of jogging behavior and it would serve as an aerobic exercise activity."
Abstract Many factors have been linked to domestic violence, including family modeling, culture and substance abuse. This paper provides an overview of several of these factors. It shows how alcohol and substance abuse are directly linked to spousal and child abuse and how this problem is carried to the next generation. The paper also examines the social learning theory which contends that boys who witnessed violence towards their mothers by their fathers are more likely to beat their own partners. Finally, the paper looks at the link between ethnic groups and domestic violence.
From the Paper "One of the factors that has often been cited as leading to a propensity toward domestic violence as an adult is being the victim of violence as a child. The research on this seems to be ambiguous, however, with some studies showing a clear association and other studies indicated limited support for that theory. For example, Simons et al. (1995) explored four different sets of data in a study of Midwestern families and found only limited support for the idea that children who were subject to severe physical discipline were likely to be violent toward their spouses and children. On the other hand, Doumas et al. (1994) found association between both early child abuse and witnessing marital aggression and later adult domestic violence."
Abstract This paper introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of legalizing marijuana. Specifically, it discusses the current United States' policies, the uses of marijuana, and the arguments for and against legalizing marijuana. Includes an outline.
Legalization of Marijuana
I. Current U.S. Policy regarding legalization of Marijuana
a. State law overview
b. Penalties
c. Pending legislation
II. Uses
a. Medical
b. Recreational
c. Environmental
III. Arguments
a. Pro legalization
b. Against legalization
c. National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws
From the Paper "The legalization of marijuana is one of the most controversial and volatile topics facing Americans today. In 2001, 34 percent of adult Americans believed marijuana should be legalized, the largest percentage since 1969, and up to 70 percent of adults approve of the use of medicinal marijuana (Cauchon, 2001, 01A). However, in November 2002, voters in Nevada turned down a measure to make the drug more readily available in the Silver State. Opposition is strongest among conservative Americans, while younger adults favor decriminalization. "The USA TODAY/CNN/Gallup Poll found that support for legalization is highest among 18- to 49-year-olds, people in the West and independent voters. Opposition was greatest among the elderly, regular churchgoers and Republicans" (Cauchon, 2001, p. 01A)."
