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Being a Good Consumer of Psychological Research, 2008.
This paper looks at the article "New Autism Study Shows Effective Treatment" by Adrienne Murphy published in the Irish Times.
816 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 29.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer critiques an article published in the Irish Times on March 20, 2007. The title of the piece is 'New Autism Study Shows Effective Treatment' and it confidently asserts that applied behavior analysis can help autistic children overcome their condition. This refers specifically to children who receive ABA out-strip in behavior and, in cognitive performance, those who receive "eclectic" treatment.
The writer concludes that the article falls short of what it could be because it is uncritical, short on methodological specifics, and exhibits a general lack of concern about the notion that the individuals cited in its body may be individuals who have a vested interest in seeing ABA given more credit than it warrants. The article itself is appended to the paper.
From the Paper
"To begin with, there are some positives to the manner in which the aforementioned study is described in the article. For one thing, the article is lucidly-written, so novice readers will not find the text inaccessible or confusing. Further, the writer or writers of the report wisely eschew technical terms, thereby allowing the reader to focus his or her attention upon the important thing in the piece, which is that ABA intervention really does work. Finally, the article does a commendable job of capturing at length the sentiments of two scholars - study author and noted professor Bob Remington of the University of Southampton and Dr Geraldine Leader, chairwoman of the Psychological Society of Ireland's division of Behaviour Analysis - who staunchly support the idea that ABA intervention is the approach to take when dealing with autistic children. Unfortunately, this is where the good things to be said about the article draw to a close."
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The Short and Long Term Memory of Infants, 2008.
An analysis of the literature regarding the presence or absence of memory in infants aged 6-12 months.
1,461 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes the literature regarding long term and short term memory in infants, focusing on infants aged 6-12 months. The paper hypothesizes that short and long term memory is evident in infants and that evidence of this will exist in some infants, while it will not exist in others. The paper also looks at the role that environment plays in determining the retention of memory.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Methodology
Literature Review
From the Paper
"Bergman, Mahler and Pine (2000) conducted research in relation to infant memory and have concluded that the events that occur within an infant's life not only can be recalled, but are the basis for personality development throughout life (p. 6). This information is based on a theory of the infant-mother relationship in which Bergman, Mahler and Pine (2000) stipulate serves as the foundation of all memory in infancy and supports cognitive development consistently (p. 6). The researchers have concluded that it is this relationship that will indicate whether or not the person has later psychological issues that must be addressed and this relationship that affects how the person will ultimately function in the world. This research, however, is limited because it only provides for a comparison of theories that are then evaluated to support the research concept and it draws conclusions about infant memory that are not based on actual data from the observation of participants."
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Helping the Mentally Ill Homeless, 2008.
An examination of possible solutions that could help the metnally ill homeless.
1,423 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the problem of homelessness in the United States, particularly with regard to the mentally ill. The paper focuses on how the mentally ill homeless can be helped. It discusses the solution according tothe government, which is to de-institutionalize those who have mental illness and then looks at the problems associated with that solution.
Table of Contents:
Abstract
History of Mental Illness
The Problems of Homelessness
De-institutionalizing the Mentally Ill
A Study of Homelessness, Mental Illness, and Citizenship
From the Paper
"The solution according to the government is to deinstitutionalize those who have mental illness, but in reality many of these patients are released from the institutions and become homeless. The process of deinstitutionalization sounds easy and most professionals believe the mentally ill can adjust to the community (Zissi, 2006). Few people understand the problems of the mentally ill when it comes to social environment factors and living in the community. A major problem with the mentally ill adjusting to the community is the stigma of the labels they receive once they are diagnosed. "The stigma of mental illness remains a serious social problem and critical impediment to treatment seeking among diagnosed individuals" (Teachman, Wilson, and Komarovskaya, 2006, p. 75). People who have mental health problems have trouble adjusting to the community because it is not easy for them to make friends and even for family members to develop close relationships with them. Many homeless people who have mental health issues would rather return to the environment of being homeless because they have friends who are also homeless and they are not treated as abnormal."
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Child and Parental Depression, 2008.
A look at the evidence thats suggests a link between child and parental depression.
3,120 words (approx. 12.5 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 90.95
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Abstract
This paper examines to what extent parents who suffer from depression pass this illness onto their children. To put it another way, the paper discusses whether parents that are suffering from depression are ultimately responsible - in a way other environmental factors are not - for the development of depression in their children. The paper concludes that while depression in children cannot be wholly linked to depression in their mothers and fathers it would seem that the confluence of genetic predisposition, parental neglect, and parental actions of the most negative sort (angry outburst, recriminatory behavior) conspire to make these children especially vulnerable to one of the cruelest of all mental illnesses.
Outline:
Introduction
Literature Review
Methodology
Results/Data
Discussion
From the Paper
"A much more recent study confirms the general conclusions of Orvaschel insofar as it illuminates the troubling psychic burdens shouldered by the sons and daughters of clinically depressed parents. To wit, Alpert et al (2003) found that depressed parents suffering from "anger attacks" also tended to produce offspring given over to lower social and school competency scale scores and to higher levels of delinquency, aggressive behavior and attention problems. Additionally, Alpert and his team of researchers found that the children of depressed parents engaging in intermittent angry outbursts were more likely to have an elevated T score - a "global measure" of psychopathology. "
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Serial Killers and Possible Solutions, 2008.
An examination of the sociological and psychological theories behind serial murder and suggestions for possible solutions to the problem.
2,190 words (approx. 8.8 pages), 13 sources, APA, $ 68.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the phenomenon of the serial murderer, considering the definition and the many sociological and psychological theories that have been offered for the fact that such persons kill repeatedly, often in sadistic ways. The paper finds that there are certain common features among serial killers, that is most are male, age 25-35, and have a background that includes trauma and abuse. The paper also finds that there are many exceptions to this rule. In conclusion, the paper recommends continuing coordinated studies to try to track down such persons.
Outline:
Upbringing
Psychological Contributions
Serial Murder and the Social Control Theory
The Neutralization Theory and the Desire to Kill
The Labeling Theory: A Social Cause
From the Paper
"The neutralization theory examines the ways in which people such as serial murderers rationalize their behavior. In order for murderers to rationalize their violent actions, they apply various techniques to mitigate their own guilt. These include denial, denying both the injury and the legitimacy of the victim, condemnation of those who condemn them, and an appeal to higher loyalties. This amounts to dehumanization, common among serial offenders. This theory has been essentially beyond verification because it would require a showing that the murderer neutralized a set of moral beliefs before killing. However, the available data suggest that serial offenders who rationalize their behavior generally do this after the fact, after they have already killed their victims. (Hickey 1991)"
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Communication Systems for Autistic Children, 2008.
An analysis of the methodology of two studies discussing augmentative and alternative communication systems that can assist language development in autistic children.
1,566 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper analyzes two studies that deal with augmentative and alternative communication systems that can assist language development in autistic children. It first reviews "Effects on Communicative Requesting and Speech Development of the Picture Exchange Communication System in Children With Characteristics of Autism," by Jennifer Ganz and Richard Simpson. It then looks at "Effects of a Computer-Based Intervention Program on the Communicative Functions of Children with Autism," by Orit Hetzroni and Juman Tannous.
From the Paper
"Subjects were taught to present a picture of the desired object and later to create picture sentences by placing strings of pictures on a Velcro strip. At first teachers presented students with the pictures, but the goal was for subjects to independently locate the desired items and string them to form sentences. Pictoral sentences were then to be accompanied by the appropriate verbalization. Each subject had his/her own book of pictures, which were expanded to include photographs of desired objects and sentence starters such as "I want" over time. In this way gradually more complex verbalization could be required. While the beginning pictures dealt primarily with objects themselves, gradually comments on qualities of an object or action as well as objections could also be verbalized. Sessions were videotaped, and independently and holistically scored by observers who agreed when a subject met the specified criteria for non-verbal and then verbal communication."
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Ordeal Therapy, 2008.
A review of the process and outcomes of ordeal therapy.
728 words (approx. 2.9 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 25.95
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Abstract
This paper describes ordeal therapy which was developed by Jay Haley. More specifically, the paper describes the principles behind the ordeal therapy process and provides examples of how it could be used. The paper also looks at the stages of ordeal therapy and then discusses how a therapist would decide which patients would benefit from this form of therapy.
Table of Contents:
Overview
Stages of Ordeal Therapy
Applying Ordeal Therapy
Which Clients will Benefit from Ordeal Therapy
Families, Children, or Individuals?
Scenario/Exercise using Ordeal Therapy
From the Paper
"In ordeal therapy the therapist begins with the identification of "triangular, intergenerational relationships or "perverse triangles" ("Family", n.d.). When this occurred the patient and therapist could then focus on the "incongruence" of these relationships in relation to communication. Next the client is then directed toward taking control of these relationships, or the individual's participation in them. This is accomplished through the patient being given scenarios in which the individual must respond to that are at a higher level of concern than the issues currently plaguing the relationships. The situation and the response allow the person to understand that if he or she can resolve the higher level issue, then the problem at hand can also be resolved and the person is then empowered to take control over life. Haley believed that in accomplishing this task the individual was involved in the therapeutic process, as well as the therapeutic relationship with the therapist. This is what Haley referred to as the "therapeutic paradox"."
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Film: "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind", 2008.
A look at how the film "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" conforms to traditional attachment theory and is in fact a graphical illustration of that theory.
2,480 words (approx. 9.9 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 75.95
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Abstract
In a discussion and analysis of the film, "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind", this paper explains that this film depicts the human being as a web of emotional attachment that is unconsciously tied back to the parents and interlinked in very complex ways to external objects as well as to multiple areas of the brain. The paper then goes on to examine how "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" not only conforms to attachment theory but combines that theory with cognitive-motivational structure theory.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Rationale for the Film
The Process of Erasing Attachment
Attachment Theory and the Main Characters
Two Patterns of Attachment Theory
Communication Style
Care-seeking at the Infantile Level
Conclusion
From the Paper
"According to Wampler and Riggs (2004), the techniques of the two individuals in seeking comfort and security from one another in their relationship often are similar. This is because they can switch roles. Research indicates that the majority of partners will assume both roles and move back and forth between the roles of support and comfort-seeking during any problem-solving discussion. Clementine is quite aggressive and is the one who suggests having a drink and spending the night at Joel's place. More importantly, she knows hoe to attack his defenses. She describes him as close-mouthed and herself as constantly anxious."
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Gender Bender, 2008.
This paper looks at whether there are scientifically proven differences between the brains of men and women.
1,149 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer argues that there really are scientifically provable differences between the brains of men and women. Specifically, the paper explores how the brains of men and women atrophy over time. The writer then looks at how men and women have different intellectual competencies - differences which, broadly stated, suggest that men are better in the realm of mathematics and mathematical logic while women are better in the realm of language arts and visual memory. Lastly, the writer notes that evidence provided by Doreen Kimura suggests that boys and girls differ in their levels of aggression because they really do have minds shaped by widely divergent hormones. The writer concludes that it is simply not smart to suggest that men and women are exactly the same.
From the Paper
"Simply put, the process by which the brain atrophies in men and women is quite pronounced, can be measured quantitatively, and suggests that men and women experience varying levels of mental acuity and efficacy at different points in their lives. As an addendum, this sort of thing clearly indicates that the differing behavior of men and women in, say, their middle to late 50s is not necessarily predicated upon sociological constructions but upon differential aging of the brain and the changes in behavior this creates.
"There are also cognitive differences between men and women that suggest different patterns of competencies - not necessarily, as ideologues on both sides of the gender debate might like to argue, different intellectual capacities. For instance, a host of studies conducted over many years proves that men perform better than women when it comes to spatial tasks such as those that involve object manipulation and/or envisioning an object moving through space."
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Aggressive Driving, 2007.
A discussion of aggressive driving.
1,354 words (approx. 5.4 pages), 8 sources, MLA, $ 45.95
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Abstract
This paper examines all aspects of aggressive driving. The paper explains that aggressive driving can be defined as driving that fails to consider the safety of others and that aggressive drivers know they may be driving in such a way that could endanger others. The paper then looks at the difference between road rage and aggressive driving. The paper points out that studying the behaviors of aggressive drivers and knowing what to do when someone is driving aggressively is vital in reducing the number of accidents caused by aggressive drivers. The paper then looks at why male drivers are more aggressive than females. The paper concludes with suggestions on how one can protect oneself from aggressive drivers.
Outline:
The Dangers of Aggressive Driving
Understanding Aggressive Driving Behaviors
Male Drivers Are More Aggressive than Females
Protecting Oneself Against Aggressive Drivers
From the Paper
"If a driver intentionally intends to harm another driver or another person, they can be stated to be aggressive drivers. Some people may not intend to be aggressive drivers, but they know they are taking risks that could endanger the lives of others which make them aggressive drivers. Some of the behaviors that aggressive drivers have are tailgating, failure to obey traffic signs, weaving in and out of traffic with no regard to safety, passing on the right, honking, yelling, and facial or hand gestures (Aggressive Driving). Most aggressive drivers have high levels of stress and may be angry at loved ones and/or angry at themselves. Often these drivers may have mental health problems. Three factors are in common and they are "lack of responsible driving behavior, reduced levels of traffic enforcement, and increased congestion and travel in our urban areas" (Aggressive Driving)."
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Short-Term Memory and Aging, 2008.
A discussion of the possible causes for short-term memory loss in old age.
2,550 words (approx. 10.2 pages), 11 sources, APA, $ 77.95
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Abstract
This paper addresses short-term memory loss among the elderly. The paper points out that the habit of viewing difficulties of short-term memory loss as normal in aging is countered by knowledge of the phenomenon as a frequent indication of changes in other memory functions. The paper mentions current models, which address short-term memory in relation to brain connectivity, such that impaired short-term memory may be read as a sign for other alterations in memory or brain function that are more significant. The paper looks into a variety of causes in order to gain a better conceptualization of a condition that is a frequent symptom, rather than a disorder all its own. The paper concludes that symptoms involving cognition and memory indicate something, and are not reducible to old models of steady decline, especially mental decline, in old age.
From the Paper
"An aging North American population and much research attention given to Alzheimer's and dementia have produced considerable knowledge of help in understanding other conditions of brain function including mental and nervous disorder. Grady, Furey Et Al (2001) examined altered brain connectivity and the decline of short-term memory of a sample of Alzheimer's patients and a normal control group. Alzheimer's disorder is increasing defined as a syndrome of dysfunctional connectivity within the brain whose most apparent indication is often much impaired short-term memory. Given the technology available to neurologists and neuro-psychiatrists of today, much more is understood of what happens to the memory of the Alzheimer's patient in addition to knowledge allowing us to know more of the normal or aging person who does not present the condition. Delays in cognitive processing due to Alzheimer's changes affect other aspects of memory. For instance, impairment in the functioning of the prefrontal cortex of means the patient cannot recognize a once familiar face, or the face of a caregiver or other individual that is seen daily."
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Identity Theory vs. Functionalism, 2008.
A comparison between identity theory and functionalism.
960 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper explores functionalist theory and identity theory. Specifically, the paper briefly describes each, outlines their similarities and differences, discusses the relative shortcomings and strengths of each, and briefly advances which one is preferable. The paper concludes that, while it may be argued that functionalism is a more persuasive approach to understanding the human mind than is identity theory, ultimately neither philosophical school is entirely persuasive when it comes to explaining the activities of the human brain.
From the Paper
"At the same time, the computer analogy outlined above is infelicitous in the sense that, suggesting the "high-level" functions of the brain are shaped by the "hardware" of the brain, can raise some confusion in the minds of novice students. To wit, if "the software is a function of the hardware" ("Functionalism: How is functionalism different?" Para.2), then can it not be argued that the software is really more akin to the hardware than functionalists would have people believe? In other words, if there is such a dependency, then the difference between functionalism and identity theory is not very great, indeed; in fact, it may really not exist at all."
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Drug Addiction in Professional Nursing, 2008.
This paper explores chemical dependence in nurses and its implications for the nursing profession.
2,008 words (approx. 8.0 pages), 9 sources, APA, $ 63.95
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Abstract
The paper examines the biological and psychosocial prerequisites for substance abuse and subsequent addiction in nurses. The paper then looks at the treatment programs available as well as the preventative measures in place. The paper also discusses the implications of substance use, abuse and subsequent dependency for present and future nursing practice.
Outline:
Introduction
Position
Predisposing Factors
Treatment
Prevention
Implications
From the Paper
"In order to understand fully the pathogenesis of addiction, the biological and psychosocial prerequisites for substance abuse and subsequent addiction will be discussed. The pathogenesis of substance dependence conforms to a general behavioral pattern of cause and effect. An external stimulus such as stress in multiple spheres of an individual's life (e.g. work/school, home, personal) may trigger an initially behavioral response to these stressors. The pleasurable stimulation from intake of these substances, the escapist theme, and the aversiveness of the "reality" of the individual's situation conditions the individual to avoid the aversive stimulus and take in these substances, where their pleasurable effects serve as a reward, a positive reinforcement for substance-seeking behavior. Behaviorally-oriented treatments involve extinction of this reinforcement."
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"28 Days", 2008.
A film review of Betty Thomas' film "28 Days".
725 words (approx. 2.9 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 25.95
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Abstract
This paper is a critical review of Betty Thomas' movie "28 Days", starring Sandra Bullock as the protagonist, Gwen. The movie tells the story of Gwen's struggle with accepting and overcoming an addiction. The paper comments that the movie seems to follow, in a relatively textbook manner, the road from living an addiction to establishing a new and strong, sober life. The paper maintains that the movie is successful in covering the process of coming to sobriety. Also, despite the textbook nature of the movie, the paper admits that the film provides interesting insight into the process of rehabilitation. The paper concludes by recommending that the reader see the movie.
From the Paper
"Gwen's return to her old life in New York is a time of re-evaluation for her. She meets with her boyfriend and realizes that they are no longer working out together. He won't stop talking, and keeps trying to tell her good stories. Gwen says, "I'm tired of stories. I've got enough stories to tell." This is critical, for it shows that rather than continue to live the lifestyle that she has in the past, she is choosing to live a new one. This symbolically is reflected in her ability to get the horse to raise its foot. Before, while she was in rehab, she could not get it to happen, no matter how hard she tried. Now, after coming to a deeper place of peace, is able to do it. At last, after all the pain, her internal thoughts match her external actions. It is with this knowledge that she is able to tell her boyfriend goodbye, and walk away into a new life. She, in this action, does not secure her future, but rather makes one more step forward in the recovery process."
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Anorexia Nervosa, 2008.
An argument that anorexia nervosa is a social construction that maintains balance in gender relations.
1,822 words (approx. 7.3 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 58.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses how anorexia serves the purpose of ensuring that women remain in their proper position in society, with only limited power. The paper explains the beauty myth and how the female body has been socially manipulated as a means to maintain the current system of power relations between the sexes and profit the weight loss industry. The paper discusses how none of this pursuit would be possible without the mass media which defines the ideal body image and gains by exploiting the image of the anorexic. The paper appends a large amount of source material to the paper.
Outline:
Introduction
The Beauty Myth
The Body as Part of Culture
The Mass Media
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Anorexia nervosa is a condition that affects virtually only women and is also an epidemic which has attained similar proportions to AIDS. Far from being a disease on the personal level, anorexia involves the whole society and its structures. The most effective way to approach anorexia is through the structural functionalist perspective because anorexia serves a purpose in maintaining the status quo for the society. Wolf (1997, p. 187) terms the trend the great weight shift which "must be understood as one of the major historical developments of the century, a direct solution to the dangers posed by the women's movement and economic and reproductive freedom"."
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