Case Analysis Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 9

Analysis - Case Study Example The study of foreign direct investment may take varying directions, but the most important area of study is through evaluation of the historical data of FDI, and trying to understand the reasons behind the pattern of the data. This paper will study direct foreign investment in the UAE and relating data to text evaluations. A study of any concept begins from the definitions, and this is the basis up on which every concept begins to be understood. FDI is not any different, however at the introduction section the concept has been well defined and its meaning properly established. In addition, academic discussions demands that a relook into the writings of the authority in any specific field. FDI is a concept that has been subjected to discussion by a number of writers, and they will prove invaluable to the discussions in this paper. The purpose of this report is to investigate the foreign direct investment to the United Arab Emirates in the last ten years. The economy of the UAE changed tremendously over the last few decades, particularly since the discovery of oil Abu Dhabi and to a lesser degree in Dubai. The rising rate of economic development made the country a magnate to companies that wanted to profit from the cash trappings from the oil boom. The number of American, European, and Asian companies soared and it set UAE towards the path of economic development. However, the Middle East nation is a conservative Islamic nation; as a result, other companies that cannot set foothold in the country, in spite of the heavy profits. Given the data provided by the World Bank in the last two decades, it would important to evaluate the specific FDI that gets into the country. However, Dubai is a fast growing financial capital of the world, and many financial organizations have already set up subsidiaries and branches in the emirate. The data provided only provides half the solution to the problem, however; it may be important to employ a full-blooded

Tornado in Oklahama Essay Example for Free

Tornado in Oklahama Essay Tornadoes are violent rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes are known to cause a lot of destruction depending on how violent it occurs. Tornadoes are more common in the United States than any other country. United States receives more than one thousand two hundred tornadoes annually. Most tornadoes in the United States occur in Tornado Alley; an area including states of Oklahama, Texas, Missouri and Kansas. This piece of work will mainly dwell on comparison of data of tornadoes occurring in states of Oklahama, Arkansas, Kansas and Missouri. METHODS Quantitative Data Analysis This is the method used to correct this piece of work where the various portions of the data where collected from records Time series: the information used to conduct this study was done over a period of time where tornadoes frequency, fatality, injuries and number of deaths are indicated. RESULTS Compared with other states, Oklahama ranks number 2 for frequency to tornadoes, 7 for number of death,9 for injuries and 5 for cost of damages. If we compare this statistics to other states by frequency per square mile, Oklahama ranks number 2 for frequency of tornadoes, number 10 for fatalities, number 15 for injuries per square and number 4 for cost per area. The state of Missouri ranks number 8 for frequency, 12 for number of deaths, 15 for injuries and 9 for cost of damage. Comparing with statistics of other states by frequency per square mile, Missouri ranks number 13 for frequency of tornadoes, 14 for fatalities, 19 for injuries per square and 15 for cost per area. In Kansas we have it ranked 3 for frequency of tornadoes, 8 for number of deaths, 14 for injuries and 3 for cost of damage. In comparison with statistics of other states it ranks number 4 for frequency of tornadoes, 13 for fatalities, 22 for injuries per area and 8 for cost per area. Arkansas is ranked number 16 for frequency of tornadoes, 8 for number of deaths, and 14 for injuries 3 for cost of damage. When compared with statistics of other states by frequency per square mile, Arkansas ranks number 16 for frequency of tornadoes, 5 for fatalities, 7 for injuries per square and 16 per cost per area.

How appropriate is the title to the subject matter of the Novel Essay

How appropriate is the title to the subject matter of the Novel Enduring love? Throughout the novel Enduring Love McEwan opens the reader’s eyes to many different forms of love through the actions and emotions of his characters. He also makes us aware that people are able to have more than one love. The first love we encounter is that between Joe and Clarissa whose relationship up until the day of Logan’s death was â€Å"without a trace of complication†. The fact that the novel starts with something as clichà ©d as a picnic could represent their relationship so far, it not only sets the scene but instantly tells the reader about the kind of relationship Joe and Clarissa have. McEwan takes the opportunity to show us how much Joe is in love with Clarissa by letting us know that her birthday gift from him was the â€Å"most expensive single item† he had ever bought and â€Å"must have cost Joe thousands†. Another example of the strength of Joe and Clarissa’s love is in chapter three when they turn to each other for comfort after Logan’s death. Joe believes that sharing his every thought and feeling with his partner will exorcise his demons (â€Å"I wanted to tell Clarissa†, â€Å"I wanted to tell her I loved her†) and in turn Clarissa reveals her need for Joe’s love in her moment of fear and instability; â€Å"I just want to hold you†. Although Clarissa is in love with Joe, she’s â€Å"also in love with another man†. She is an English academic studying the last letters of Keats and is passionate about her work. McEwan informs the reader of her great love for Keats through her trip to Harvard, USA; as much as she loves Joe, she sacrificed his company for six weeks to search for â€Å"hypothetical letters† and her most prized possession is the â€Å"... ...being that although the Professor and his student â€Å"are in love†, they would rather have â€Å"kept it secret† unlike Luke who is â€Å"leaving his kindly beautiful wife and bonny twin daughters† to live with the actress, presumably causing pain and chaos for his family. With an age gap of thirty years and the original relationship being student-teacher, Bonnie and Professor Reid’s love is unconventional to say the least. Both the Professor and Luke are throwing away their successful professional lives for the love of women. The meaning of the title Enduring Love could mean a love that has to be endured or one that can endure. By the end of the novel Joe and Clarissa’s love endured and for Joe, Parry’s love had to be endured. The title’s significance is that it is neither one nor the other; it is both as it is relevant to each form of love explored in the novel.

Mill and Harm Thesis

In this essay I shall argue that John Stuart Mill’s Harm Principle is about justice and truth.   John Stuart Mill’s argues in On Liberty that the use of the harm theory, or harm principle is that a state of government must ensure the quality of liberty just so long as the actions committed in the cause of liberty are not detrimental to the activists.   That is to say that the government may interfere in order to prevent harm.   The following paper will discuss Mill’s harm principle and its application to government in regards to restrictions and controls. Mill argues for the doctrine of liberty.   Mill means to define the role of a person in society and as such the limited amount of coercion consistent in society that should affect that individual, â€Å"No society in which these liberties are not, on the whole, respected, is free, whatever may be its form of government; and none is completely free in which they do exist absolute and unqualified†.   Mill is stating that although these qualities are liberty come at a cost in no society would they be considered free because of the forms of government in which the world adheres. Mill argues that any opinion should be voiced despite its offensive sentiments and unpopularity.   Mill did not right from a perspective in the harm theory to state that speech was not harmful, but despite this subsequent commentary, speech was an ideal freedom.   Mill believed, and stated in the Harm Principle, that the harmfulness of an act is just cause to place social control on that act through legal means.   These means included coercion. Mill advocates a style of liberalism that governs that individuals have basic rights (as is stated in On Liberty) and the apex of these is free speech.   The factors that involve Mill also include a free society in general and specific terms.   Even in this free society there are certain actions that a person in a society may be involved with and then there are counter-actions of the government against those acts.   This is interpreted to mean that such acts were harmful and the government was justifiable in their prevention or retardation of those acts being committed. Such acts by the government or society do not necessary lead to an infringement on that person’s liberty.   There are however points to consider when examining the harms theory; once such interpretation to the theory includes the ubiquitous nature of permissible interference by society or a governing body since any act committed may be a legitimate harmful act upon another person, and thus action in any definition could be interpreted in this sense.   Thus, any action taken by the government with the umbrella statement of harm could be legitimate. Mill however was very stringent on his interpretation of Harm Theory and its application to law.   He did not for one thing want a blanketed reason for any misuse of human liberty; thus, to use the Harm Theory in regards to the prevention of free speech because it can be construed to be harmful is not legitimate according to Mill.   He was not an advocate of preventing expression or opinion.   This is shown in his absolute rejection to consider the efficacy of tolerating any particular inference against that censoring it, â€Å"†¦however positive any one’s persuasion may be, not only of the falsity but of the pernicious consequences-not only of the pernicious consequences, but (to adopt expressions which I altogether condemn) the immorality and impiety of an opinion†.   This is stated in regards to any person or legislation’s opinion that speech could potentially be harmful. Mill helped define in broad termination a tolerant perspective of accepting opinions and/or sentiments, that were made not only in private but also in public places, â€Å"†¦human beings should be free to form opinions, and to express their opinions without reserve†.   Despite this statement Mill had a firm belief in the restrictions of certain acts and believed such free speech was conditional. These exceptions of Mill were specious.   Although Mill’s harm theory does constitute legitimate ground by which to swerve the use of free speech much of On Liberty   deals with the propagating of free speech.   Mill made a distinction between qualified and unqualified liberties.   While Mill guards the use of free speech and free trade it is the former of the two that is unqualified as a liberty.   This is done by stating that free trade is not in accordance to individual rights and liberty but that speech on the other hand is a self-regarding action. This statement of free speech is however debatable.   Free speech may be considered a self-regarding action but in most interpretations of Mill this has been denied.   In this denial can be found the fact that free speech then may very lead to harm.   In this harm, the Harm Theory is cemented as a prevention that the legislating body may act upon.   In the debate of self-regarding Mill states that self-regarding is an action committed in which the outcome has no bearing of positive or negative effects on anyone else. The introduction of harm can be taken to mean either physical harm or otherwise.   In Mill’s introduction of harm the common consensus is that it means the former.   This means that speech must be attributed as becoming harmful or having the potential to become harmful to a larder body.   In the Declaration of Liberty Mill highlights his key points of liberties and the subsequent harm that should be delivered with their abuses, This, then, is the appropriate region of human liberty.   It comprises, first, the inward domain of consciousness; demanding liberty of conscience, in the most comprehensive sense; liberty of thought and feeling; absolute freedom of opinion and sentiment on all subjects, practical or speculative, scientific, moral, or theological.   The liberty of expressing and publishing opinions may seem to fall under a different principle, since it belongs to that part of the conduct of an individual which concerns other people; but, being almost of as much importance as the liberty of thought itself, and resting in great part on the same reasons, is practically inseparable from it. It is clearly stated in the above excerpt in the phrase â€Å"expressing and publishing opinions†¦concerns other people† it is devised that speech as well as the written word fall under the category of liberty which in turn, because it concerns other people is subject to the jurisdiction of Harm Theory and must be regulated by the government. The cost of the obstruction of free speech is to not have anyone commit a harmful act.   Although the thought of censorship in regards to the Harm Theory are prevalent and extensive in scope it must be realized that opinion even in its most innocent form of private discussion lead eventually to action; and these actions are not consistently without destruction. Through speech a person’s opinions are discovered.   These opinions have a domino effect that is not a contained event but becomes widespread especially in the media centered world.   Opinions of speeches are tools by which a revolution may occur or based upon the wrong assumptions of an event or theory speech and opinions that are accepted by the general public become gateways by which hysteria, chaos and harm do occur.   Thus it is behooving to place mandates on certain speeches to ensure that destruction and harm do not occur. In this essay I have argued that although Mill focuses his attention of liberty in a free society he is also a humanist and the concern over a person’s body is the main principle of his On Liberty essay, â€Å"That principle is, that the sole end for which mankind are warranted, individually or collectively, in interfering with the liberty of action of any of their number, is self-protection.   That the only purpose for which power can be rightfully exercised over any member of civilized community, against his will, is to prevent harm to others†.   It may thus be construed that Mill advocated the use of minimal censorship if the reason behind the prevention was to retard harm being done to another person or a group of people. There must however, in Mill’s theory exist a legitimate reason behind the censorship in order for drastic prevention to occur.   Although the Harm Theory suggests that   prevention is the key to stopping a destructive act there must also be extant governing rules that would prohibit the extreme exercise of government power that could turn into autocratic power which was not in the context of Mill’s theory.   The Harm Theory is regulated by the potential for harm and thus, free speech or other liberties may be interpreted and prevented by a government in order specifically to avert harm. Work Cited Bilbija, Ksenija et al.   The Art of Truth –Telling about Authoritarian Rule.   University of Wisconsin Press, 2005. David Riesman. The Lonely Crowd. 1950 Dollard John. Frustration and Agression. 1939 Freud, Sigmund. Civlilization and Its Discontents. 1930 Kessler, Sanford.   â€Å"The Review of Politics†.  Notre Dame:  Spring (64:2).   (2002).   207   31. Konrad, Lorenz. On Aggression. 1963 Laing, R. D. The Politics of Experience. 1967 MacDonald, Ross.   Socrates versus Plato.   Aspects of Education.   P9-22.   1996. Mill, John Stuart.   Utilitarianism.Social Benefit. More, Thomas.   Utopia.   Trans.   Robert Adams.   W.W. Norton and Company, 1991. Stanford Encyclopedia.   John Stuart Mill.   Online.   11 March 2008: http://plato.stanford.edu/entries/mill-moral-political/

Gold’s Gym Essay

Gold’s gym has been the authority in fitness since 1965 dating back to the original Gold’s Gym in Venice, California. It was the place for serious fitness. Thereafter, Gold’s Gym quickly became known as â€Å"The Mecca of bodybuilding†. In 1977, Gold’s Gym received international attention when it was featured in the movie ‘Pumping Iron’ that starred Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno. Today, Gold’s Gym has expanded its fitness profile to offer all of the latest equipment and services, including group exercise, personal training, cardiovascular equipment, spinning and yoga, while maintaining its core weight training tradition. With 3.5 million members worldwide, Gold’s Gym continues to change lives by helping people achieve their individual potential. Mission Statement: â€Å"To enhance the quality of life in the communities we serve, through our fitness philosophy, facilities, programs, and products; and to instill in the lives of people everywhere the value of health and fitness.† We are committed to exceeding our members’ fitness goals by utilizing our rich history established over the last 42 years of superior training, information, support and guidance provided by the largest and the best fitness organization in the world. â€Å"Service excellence is our golden rule.† Vision: To inspire, support, and lead every member in their effort toward a healthy, productive, and fun life, and to provide a safe, fun, energetic, rewarding, and fair working environment. We are the inspiration and the leadership that will guide the Wenatchee Valley to be the fittest community in America. We are the Customer Care benchmark. We are passionate about helping others. We are a great company for which to work.   Core Values: Respect – Have regard for others’ beliefs and viewpoints. Candor – Speak openly and honestly. Integrity – Don’t â€Å"act† as though you have values – Be your values. If you really don’t care about other people, PLEASE don’t work here. Learning and Knowledge Sharing – Intellectual capital is our most valuable treasure. Share what you learn and be open to learn from others. Teamwork – This isn’t about you or me. It is about us. Make everyone around you look good. Humility – We are all equally important†¦.and equally unimportant. Accountability – True accountability is the process of constantly asking yourself; â€Å"what else can I do to make things better?† While it may have started out as a humble hard core training gym, Gold’s Gym has grown into a fitness empire. So does big mean bad? Or can corporate gyms still be a good place for independently minded personal trainers? With hundreds of locations across the world, the mega fitness employers of hour fitness, Bally Total Fitness and Gold’s gym are going to be tempting places where personal trainers can get almost guaranteed employment. The Personal Training Job Board is packed with entry level jobs. Gold’s Gym International, Inc. is an international chain of co-ed fitness centers commonly referred to as â€Å"gyms†. Each gym features a wide array of exercise equipment, group exercise classes and personal trainers to assist clients. Its headquarters are in Irving, Texas Today, Gold’s Gym claims to be the largest chain of co-ed gyms in the world, with more than 750 locations in 42 states and 30 countries. Gold’s Gym has a membership of more than three and a half million, split almost equally between male and female patrons. Gold’s Gym locations are equipped with cardiovascular and strength training equipment and offer group exercise classes such as group cycling, Pilates, Latin dance yoga and stretching through the company GGX (Gold’s Group Exercise) program. Many gyms also offer basketball, swimming pools and boxing studios. Gold’s Gym is privately owned. It was acquired from its previous owner, private equity firm Brockway Moran & Partners, by Robert Rowling’s TRT Holdings in 2004 for approximately $158 million. Brockway Moran had acquired the company in 1999. The current chief corporate officers include President and CEO Jim Snow, David Fowler as senior divisional vice president, and Aaron Watkins as senior vice president of finance and accounting. Average Gold’s Gym Salaries: As of May 30, 2012, the average salary for gold’s gym jobs is $41,000 USD. Average gold’s gym salaries can vary greatly due to company, location, industry, experience and benefits. This salary was calculated using the average salary for all jobs with the term â€Å"gold’s gym† anywhere in the job listing. Jobs: Employees must be at least 18 years of age. Gold’s Gym is an equal opportunity employer who recognizes the value of having a diverse workforce. It seeks and encourages qualified applicants regardless of gender, ethnicity, or other cultural or physical characteristics. Fitness Sales Manager Our Sales Managers are responsible for consistent improvement of club sales and operations through effective planning, implementation, use and exercise of independent judgment and discretion in determining how to best maximize profits, contain costs, and hold club employees accountable. Personal Training Sales Manager Personal Training Sales Managers are responsible for selling training packages for our certified personal training staff and holding Personal Training Sales Counselors and Personal Trainers accountable. Fitness Sales Counselor A Membership Sales Counselor will actively pursue enrollment of new members through self-generated and Company-sponsored programs, promotions and referrals. This includes establishing and maintaining lead boxes; calling on new businesses for corporate accounts, obtain leads from existing members, give club tours and membership presentations, utilize computer programs to track appointments and sales. Personal Training Sales Counselor A Personal Training Sales Counselor will actively pursue enrollment of new members into Gold’s Gym Pro Results Personal Training packages by providing introductory training assessments, and utilizing computer programs to track appointments and sales. Operations Manager The job of our Operations Managers is to ensure that our members receive exceptional service from a happy, friendly staff in a clean and well-maintained facility. Operations Managers hire, train, and supervise all fitness, babysitting and janitorial staff, resolve all membership issues, update past due accounts, manage payroll and supplies budget, and uphold company standards Club Staff The job of our club staff is to meet, greet and check-in members and guests of Gold’s Gym, provide excellent customer service and update member’s account information using various computer applications and be assertive, enthusiastic and punctual. Group Fitness (Aerobics) Group Fitness Trainers are enthusiastic, professional, motivated, experienced individuals who enjoy teaching group fitness. They have experience in teaching one or several of the following formats: Cycling, Step, Latin, Hip Hop, light weight dumbbells, Kick box Cardio, Aqua, Mat Pilates and yoga. Personal Trainer The main responsibility of our Personal Trainers is to design and implement programs for our personal training clients. They are expected to treat all clients in a professional and compassionate manner and be prepared to advise clients of what to do during their â€Å"off day† when they are exercising on their own. In general, the trainer position requires you to be a positive fitness role model for all our clients and club members Building Maintenance The Building Maintenance personnel must have experience in at least one of the following specialties: wood floor refinishing, tile work, HVAC, painting, CPO, plumbing, electrical. Janitor The Janitor maintains the cleanliness and beauty of the club by cleaning the locker rooms, mopping floors, emptying trash containers, wiping off counters, cleaning equipment, cleaning mirrors and windows, etc. Equipment Technician The Equipment Technician must have a solid experience troubleshooting electrical, electromechanical and mechanical systems. Job Descriptions Tasks: Operate office machines, such as photocopiers and scanners, voice mail systems, and personal computers. Answer telephones, direct calls, and take messages. Maintain and update filing, inventory, mailing, and database systems, either manually or using a computer. Communicate with customers, employees, and other individuals to answer questions, disseminate or explain information, take orders, and address complaints. Open, sort, and route incoming mail, answer correspondence, and prepare outgoing mail. Compile, copy, sort, and file records of office activities, business transactions, and other activities. Compute, record, and proofread data and other information, such as records or reports. Type, format, proofread, and edit correspondence and other documents, from notes or dictating machines, using computers or typewriters. Complete work schedules, manage calendars, and arrange appointments. Review files, records, and other documents to obtain information to respond to requests . Greets each member and guests promptly, enthusiastically and with a smile to create a friendly positive entrance into the gym. Says â€Å"Hello† to all incoming guests and says â€Å"Good-bye† to all outgoing guests. Provides security and control to the front door area of the facility. Checks each member into the gym using the proper check-in procedures. Monitor check-ins to identify delinquent accounts and notifies Gym Operations Supervisor. Register all guests into the gym using proper registration procedures. Ensures that guests and appointments are directed to the appropriate fitness consultant in a prompt, professional manner. Answers phone by the third ring in a professional and courteous manner and uses proper phone greeting techniques. Addresses callers’ requests and/or takes appropriate messages. Registers all telephone inquiries in the TI register in the Master Production Binder and transfers the call to the appropriate Fitness Consultants. Responsible for following up on telephone inquiries to ensure that the appointment was booked properly. Responds immediately to member requests, inquiries and concerns. Maintain neat appearance and wear proper uniform attire with nametag while on duty. Distributes keys, towels and other materials as needed. Reserves time/makes appointments for tanning, special classes or other activities sponsored by the gym. Tools: Franking or postage machines — Postage machines Photocopiers — Photocopying equipment Scanners — Data input scanners Computers — Laptop and Desktop computer Technology: Accounting software — Billing software; Bookkeeping software; Intuit QuickBooks software Data base user interface and query software — Alpha Software Alpha Five; IBM Check Processing Control System CPSC; Microsoft Access; St. Paul Travelers e-CARMA Document management software — Filing system software; Records management software; Transcription system software Spreadsheet software — Microsoft Excel Word processing software — Microsoft Word Knowledge: Clerical —Word processing, managing files and records, stenography and transcription, designing forms, and other office procedures and terminology. Customer and Personal Service — Providing customer and personal services; including customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction. English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar. Accounting Principles — Understanding of basic accounting principles and cash processing procedures. Skills: Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times. Reading Comprehension — Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents. Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively. Social Perceptiveness — Being aware of others’ reactions and understanding why they react as they do. Time Management — Managing one’s own time and the time of others. Writing — Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience. Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people. Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems. Abilities: Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences. Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand. Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person. Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand. Information Ordering — The ability to arrange things or actions in a certain order or pattern, according to a specific rule or set of rules (e.g., patterns of numbers, letters, words, pictures, mathematical operations). Work Activities: Interacting With Computers — Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information. Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person. Documenting/Recording Information — Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form. Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources. Communicating with Persons Outside Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail. Processing Information — Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data. Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work — Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work. Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time. Requirements: Education This occupation requires a high school diploma. Related Experience Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public. Job Training Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations. Job Zone Examples These occupations often involve using your knowledge and skills to help others. Examples include sheet metal workers, forest fire fighters, customer service representatives, physical therapist aides, salespersons (retail), and tellers. Tasks: Observe participants and inform them of corrective measures necessary for skill improvement. Instruct participants in maintaining exertion levels to maximize benefits from exercise routines. Offer alternatives during classes to accommodate different levels of fitness. Plan routines, choose appropriate music, and choose different movements for each set of muscles, depending on participants’ capabilities and limitations. Teach proper breathing techniques used during physical exertion. Evaluate individuals’ abilities, needs, and physical conditions, and develop suitable training programs to meet any special requirements. Monitor participants’ progress and adapt programs as needed. Explain and enforce safety rules and regulations governing sports, recreational activities, and the use of exercise equipment. Provide students with information and resources regarding nutrition, weight control, and lifestyle issues. Administer emergency first aid, wrap injuries, treat minor chronic disabilities, or refer injured persons to physicians. Tools: Balance beams — Balance boards; Balance disks Exercise balls — Medicine balls; Weighted exercise balls Fitness weights — Fitness jog belts; Free weights; Water ankle weights; Weighted swim vests Microphones Technology: Calendar and scheduling software — Appointment scheduling software; Contemporary Web Plus Appointment-Plus Data base user interface and query software — BioEx Systems Exercise Expert; DietMaster Systems DietMaster Medical software — BioEx Systems Nutrition Maker Plus Project management software — BioEx Systems Fitness Maker; Get Physical! Software Personal Trainer Pro; Natural Fitness Concepts The Trainers Edge; Vesteon Software Personal Trainer-PDA Knowledge: Customer and Personal Service — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. This includes customer needs assessment, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of customer satisfaction. Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects. English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar. Psychology — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders. Skills: Instructing — Teaching others how to do something. Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people. Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively. Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times. Learning Strategies — Selecting and using training/instructional methods. Monitoring — Monitoring individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action. Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others’ actions. Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems. Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one. Abilities: Gross Body Coordination — The ability to coordinate the movement of your arms, legs, and torso together when the whole body is in motion. Stamina — The ability to exert yourself physically over long periods of time without getting winded or out of breath. Trunk Strength — The ability to use your abdominal and lower back muscles to support part of the body repeatedly or continuously over time without ‘giving out’ or fatiguing. Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand. Extent Flexibility — The ability to bend, stretches, twist, or reach with your body, arms, and/or legs. Dynamic Strength — The ability to exert muscle force repeatedly or continuously over time. This involves muscular endurance and resistance to muscle fatigue. Speech Clarity — The ability to speak clearly so others can understand you. Static Strength — The ability to exert maximum muscle force to lift, push, pull, or carry objects. Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences. Work Activities: Performing General Physical Activities — Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials. Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time. Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources. Thinking Creatively — Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions. Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills. Assisting and Caring for Others — Providing personal assistance, medical attention, emotional support, or other personal care to others such as coworkers, customers, or patients. Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person. Training and Teaching Others — Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others. Requirements: Education Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate’s degree. Related Experience Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job. Job Training Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of training involving both on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations. Job Zone Examples These occupations usually involve using communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include food service managers, electricians, agricultural technicians, legal secretaries, interviewers, and insurance sales agents. Sales Manager Tasks: Manage, hire, train and develop sales staff. Generates sales leads through company’s sponsored events while coordinating with the regional marketing function locally. Oversees lead generation for sales team through Company’s sponsored (walk-ins) and employee sponsored (outreach and promotions). Motivate sales staff and monitor their production levels by using the established protocols and sales system programs. Hold daily production meeting with sales team. Establish and maintain the standard company protocol for sales tours and price presentation. Maintain and direct training & development of the gym sales staff. Establish and maintain an active referral system with the sales team. Establish and maintain a lead box/lead bowl system and monitor on a monthly basis. Develop and retain corporate client relationships through the sales team on a monthly basis. Audit sales team on a monthly basis. Maintain acceptable level of personal sales production. Submit monthly game plan for training, promotions and department meetings to General Manager and Area Manager. Create, implement and promote special events for the gym with regional marketing to generate new member sales. Answers phone by the third ring in a professional and courteous manner and uses proper phone greeting techniques. Addresses callers’ requests and/or takes appropriate messages. Registers all telephone inquiries in the TI register in the Master Production Binder and transfers the call to the appropriate Fitness Consultants. Responsible for following up on telephone inquiries to ensure that the appointment was booked properly. Responds immediately to member requests, inquiries and concerns. Maintain neat appearance and wear proper uniform attire with nametag while on duty. Distributes keys, towels and other materials as needed. Technology: Calendar and scheduling software — Contact management software; Scheduling software Customer relationship management CRM software — Eden Sales Manager; FrontRange Solutions Goldmine software; Salesforce.com Salesforce CRM; Vanguard Software Vanguard Sales Manager Data base user interface and query software — Data entry software; Microsoft Access Electronic mail software — Email software; IBM Lotus Notes; Microsoft Outlook Spreadsheet software — Microsoft Excel Knowledge: Sales and Marketing — Knowledge of principles and methods for showing, promoting, and selling products or services. Customer and Personal Service — Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and personal services. Administration and Management — Knowledge of business and management principles involved in strategic planning, resource allocation, human resources modeling, leadership technique, production methods, and coordination of people and resources. English Language — Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar. Personnel and Human Resources — Knowledge of principles and procedures for personnel recruitment, selection, training, compensation and benefits, labor relations and negotiation, and personnel information systems. Economics and Accounting — Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, the financial markets, banking and the analysis and reporting of financial data. Psychology — Knowledge of human behavior and performance; individual differences in ability, personality, and interests; learning and motivation; psychological research methods; and the assessment and treatment of behavioral and affective disorders. Education and Training — Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects. Mathematics — Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications. Skills: Speaking — Talking to others to convey information effectively. Active Listening — Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times. Coordination — Adjusting actions in relation to others’ actions. Critical Thinking — Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems. Monitoring — Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action. Service Orientation — Actively looking for ways to help people. Judgment and Decision Making — Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one. Management of Personnel Resources — Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the job. Abilities: Oral Comprehension — The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences. Oral Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand. Written Expression — The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand. Problem Sensitivity — The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing there is a problem. Speech Recognition — The ability to identify and understand the speech of another person. Deductive Reasoning — The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense. Fluency of Ideas — The ability to come up with a number of ideas about a topic (the number of ideas is important, not their quality, correctness, or creativity). Written Comprehension — The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing. Work Activities: Selling or Influencing Others — Convincing others to buy merchandise/goods or to otherwise change their minds or actions. Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time. Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates — Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person. Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources. Communicating with Persons Outside Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources; in writing, or by telephone or e-mail. Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates — Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance. Developing and Building Teams — Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members. Making Decisions and Solving Problems — Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems. Developing Objectives and Strategies — Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them. Coaching and Developing Others — Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills. Requirements: Education Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor’s degree, but some do not. College degree preferred. High school diploma and some college courses completed is required Fitness certifications. Related Experience A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified. Previous experience in the fitness area as manager or sales head. Job Training Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training. Internal sales training at the fitness center. Job Zone Examples Many of these occupations involve coordinating, supervising, managing, or training others. Examples include accountants, sales managers, database administrators, teachers, chemists, environmental engineers, criminal investigators, and special agents. Job Evaluation – Point Method Analysis Defining Compensable Factors 1. Effort: earnest and conscientious activity intended to do or accomplish something through the exertion of physical or mental power. 2. Skill: ability and capacity acquired through deliberate, systematic, and sustained effort to smoothly and adaptively carryout complex activities or job functions involving ideas (cognitive skills), things (technical skills), and/or people (interpersonal skills) 3. Contact with Others: reaching out to or being in touch with another person, business or entity. For example, a salesperson may contact another person or business for a potential sale. 4. Complexity of Duties: Condition of having many diverse and autonomous but interrelated and interdependent components or parts linked through many dense interconnections. 5. Decision Making: Degree to which judgment is required to address typical problems associated with the position, and the impact that these decisions will have on the business Effort This factor evaluates physical and mental requirements of the job. It considers the amount of detail work, diversity of tasks, deadline pressures, and emergency situations. Degree Description of Characteristics 1 Minimal effort required (e.g., tasks are simple and routine, and use well-defined procedures) 2 Limited effort required (e.g., tasks are simple but varied, with some limitations set by standard practices and procedures) 3 Moderate effort required (e.g., tasks have some variation and complexity,with work governed only by broad instructions and objectives) 4 Substantial effort required (e.g., tasks are highly varied and complex, involving analysis and evaluation of many complex and important factors) 5 Extreme effort required (e.g., tasks are highly varied and extremely complex, involving analysis and evaluation of many complex and important factors) Skills This factor evaluates the ability to exercise cognitive skills, technical skills, and/or interpersonal skills. Degree Description of Characteristics 1 Little skill required (e.g. use of reading and writing, adding and subtracting; following of instructions, computer literacy and proper speech, with basic health and fitness skills) 2 Limited skill required (e.g. use of simple use of formulas and formulation of schedules; operation of equipment and machines; checking of reports, forms, records, and comparable data, with fitness training skills) 3 Moderate skill required (e.g. use of different methods of analysis; interpretation of data, equivalent to 1 to 3 years’ applied training in a particular or specialized occupation with fitness training skills) 4 Substantial skill required (e.g. use of advance methods of analysis and interpretation, all varieties of measuring instruments, equivalent to complete accredited apprenticeship in a recognized occupation; or equivalent to a 2-year health, nutrition or fitness college education and skills) 5 Extreme skill required (e.g. use of higher application of principles and the performance of related practical operations, together with a comprehensive knowledge of the theories and practices, health, fitness, management and other related fields. Equivalent to completing 4 years of health, nutrition or fitness college or university education and skills) Contact with Others This factor evaluates personal interaction with others outside direct reporting relationships (e.g. employees from other departments, customers, vendors/suppliers, the general public, etc.) and the degree to which the employee works with or through other people to achieve organization goals. It includes internal and external contacts and evaluates the frequency of the contact, the nature of the contact (informational vs. influencing), and the degree of impact the contact has on the organization. Degree Description of Characteristics Has little or no interaction with others (less than 20% of work time) and contact is internal, limited to co-workers and the direct supervisor for the purpose of supplying or obtaining information on routine matters. (Seeking and exchanging information, engaging others in conversation, and responding to questions) 2 Has moderate interaction with others (21% to 50% of work time) and contact is internal with other departments and superiors in other areas, for the purpose of supplying or obtaining information, but may require some influencing skills, tact and discretion. (Interpreting and explaining information, outlining alternative actions, and or gaining information from others) 3 Has frequent interaction with others (more than 51% or work time) and contact is both internal and external to the organization, for the purpose of supplying or obtaining information, and may require minimal influencing skills, tact and discretion. (Interpreting and explaining information, outlining alternative actions, and gaining information from others) 4 Contact is both internal and external to the organization, for the purposes of influencing and persuading in order to carry out company policy or goals. Requires communication skills, tact, discretion, persuasion, and an awareness of dynamics and organization goals with respect to external contacts (customers, suppliers, government entities, the community, or others) to gain cooperation. (Convincing other people, resolving disagreements, leading group activities, making presentations, or counselling) 5 Contact is both internal and external to the organization, primarily with top management levels, for the purposes of influencing and persuading in order to carry out company goals. Requires an awareness of strategy and timing. May involve difficult or sensitive negotiations requiring considerable tact, discretion, communication skills, and persuasiveness. (Formal or informal negotiations, resolution of complex situations, formalized debates or presentations) Complexity of Duties This factor evaluates the complexity of duties with regards to the degree of independent action, standardized job duties, exercise of judgement, job decisions, exercise of discretion, resourcefulness, or creativity in devising methods, procedures, services or products. Degree Description of Characteristics Little Judgement: Understands and follows simple instructions. 2 Some Judgement: Follows detailed instructions and standard procedures to perform repetitive or routine duties. 3 Simple Analytical Judgement: Plans and performs varied duties requiring an extensive knowledge of a particular field. Uses a wide range of procedures. 4 Complex Analytical Judgement: Plans and performs a wide variety of duties requiring a broad knowledge of company policies and procedures in addition to extensive knowledge of a particular field. 5 Advanced Analytical Judgement: Plans and performs difficult work without set precedent or procedures. Involves highly technical or involved projects that have new or constantly changing problems. Decision Making This factor evaluates the thought process of selecting a logical choice from the available options. When trying to make a good decision, a person must weigh the positives and negatives of each option, and consider all the alternatives. For effective decision-making, a person must be able to forecast the outcome of each option as well, and based on all these items, determine which option is the best for that particular situation. Degree Description of Characteristics Requires few decisions and duties are usually very standardized. 2 Exercises judgement to analyze facts or conditions to determine what action should be taken using standard practices. 3 Requires minor decision making. Requires outstanding judgement and initiative to deal with complex factors not easily evaluated. Makes decisions based on precedent and company policies. 5 Ingenuity and exceptional judgement necessary to deal with not easily evaluated factors and to interpret results. Makes decisions that involve a great deal of responsibility. Job Description for Customer Service Representative/Front Desk Processes orders, prepares correspondence, and fulfills customer needs to ensure customer satisfaction. Requires a high school diploma or equivalent and 0-3 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Customer Service Representative I – U.S. National Averages The median expected salary for a typical Customer Service Representative I in the United States is $30,380. This basic market pricing report was prepared using our Certified Compensation Professionals’ analysis of survey data collected from thousands of HR departments at employers of all sizes, industries and geographies. Additional Information: O’net Source: Median wages (2011) $13.07 hourly, $27,190 annual Job Description for Fitness Instructor Coordinates all fitness programs for a facility. Organizes and instructs exercise classes for all fitness levels. Ensures that all participants are properly trained on the use of the facility’s exercise equipment. Responsible for making sure that the exercise area and equipment are safe and clean. May require a bachelor’s degree in area of specialty and 2-4 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. Works under general supervision. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required. Typically reports to a supervisor. Source: HR Reported data as of June 2012 The median expected salary for a typical Fitness Instructor in the United States is $47,240. This basic market pricing report was prepared using our Certified Compensation Professionals’ analysis of survey data collected from thousands of HR departments at employers of all sizes, industries and geographies. Job Description for Sales Ensures the maximum effectiveness of the sales force by developing and implementing training programs. Designs and delivers training sessions on company products, business practices, and other topics as needed. Monitors and reports on the effectiveness of training programs and may conduct initial needs analysis. Requires a bachelor’s degree in a related area and 0-2 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Has knowledge of commonly-used concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform the functions of the job. Works under immediate supervision. Primary job functions do not typically require exercising independent judgment. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Directs and oversees an organization’s sales policies, objectives, and initiatives. Sets short- and long-term sales strategies and evaluates effectiveness of current sales programs. Relies on extensive experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Conclusion Recent industry compensation surveys state that employees remain in their jobs for 1 year or more. Though employee motivation is strongly derived from an individual’s passion for his or her work, compensation plays a major role in satisfaction and retention. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, fitness instructor’s average salary is $20.25 per hour, while rates for specialty instructors, yoga/Pilates instructors, group fitness instructors and personal trainers range from $23.75 to $30.50 per hour, on average. Knowing how fitness jobs are positioned within the wider employment market can help keep the industry competitive. However, with increasing numbers of career fitness professionals, progressive salary changes within the industry are perhaps equally important. Gold’s Gym follows a lag policy and although it has remained in the industry for the past decades, it is still one of the most criticized gyms in America unfavorable reviews. Reference: http://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/personal-trainer-salary-SRCH_KO0,16.htm http://www.bls.gov/ooh/personal-care-and-service/fitness-trainers-and-instructors.htm http://www.careerbliss.com/salary/golds-gym-salaries-284979/ http://www.bls.gov/ooh/personal-care-and-service/fitness-trainers-and-instructors.htm http://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/43-9061.00#AdditionalInformation http://swb.salary.com/salarywizard http://www.simplyhired.com/a/salary/search/q-gold’s+gym http://www.lafitness.com/pages/employment.aspx http://www1.salary.com/Personal-Trainer-salary.html http://www.glassdoor.com/Salary/LA-Fitness-Salaries-E12445.htm

How Societ Influences Gender Identity Essays

How Societ Influences Gender Identity Essays How Societ Influences Gender Identity Essay How Societ Influences Gender Identity Essay The impact of social and cultural norms on the way an adolescent shapes and perceives identity has come under greater scrutiny in recent years. Although societies differ in the specific nature of the attributes associated with maleness and femaleness, each society attempts to communicate the gender norms to children and adolescents through various mechanisms. Acculturated gender roles have a significant influence on the way parents rear children, which impacts the way the children view themselves. A conflict between the external societal role assigned to an adolescent based on biological gender and the internal gender identity formed by the adolescent can have negative consequences for psychological health. Gender identity involves the fundamental sense of belonging to a gender as defined by societal norms, which may be different from the biological sex of the individual (Vasey Bartlett, 2007). While most adolescents have a gender identity based on their biological sex, many have a strong psychological identification with the opposite biological sex and may desire to become a member of the opposite sex. If the identification with the opposite sex and the desire to become a member of the opposite sex causes significant psychological distress, it is considered a gender identity disorder (GID) based on the criteria in the DSM-IV. In this construct, the identification with the opposite sex is not in itself a disorder, and must be the source of significant distress sufficient to interfere with life activities. Various factors can influence the development of gender identity among children and adolescents, including parental behaviors and norms, peer norms, and the depiction of the gender roles traditional in the society in various types of media. The cognitive perspective of the development of gender identity suggests that information received from external sources contributes to the formation of gender identity. The amount and quality of the information influences the gender schema of the individual, which is the internal cognitive network that organizes and guides individual perceptions about the attributes associated with masculinity and femininity. The schema is influenced by socialization processes and the feedback received from role models in the dolescents environment. In this context, the cognitive processing of information leads adolescents to choose as an organizing principle for their behavior and to interpret the behavior of others. Based on the cognitive perspective of development of gender identity among adolescents, the following research will test three hypotheses. The first hypothesis stated in its alternate form is: Some variations about the conception of sexuality and gender identity are culturally specific . This hypothesis is based on the assumption that some standards of the concept of masculinity and femininity may correlate in all societies, but each society makes adaptations to the standards that are culturally specific. The second hypothesis of the study stated in its alternative form is: Parents influence the development of gender identity through the way they allow children to participate in gender-specific play and the toys they permit the children to use in play. This hypothesis is based on the assumption that parents transmit information to children about socially accepted gender roles, with the adolescent influenced by the information acquired during earlier stages of development. The third hypothesis of the study is: Media has the greatest influence in the transmission of information about social norms related to gender to the individual. The hypothesis is based on the assumption that adolescents are significant consumers of media in various forms. Evidence from research indicates that adolescents draw from popular culture to construct their identities, which includes gender identity (Wright, 2007). As a result, the information embedded in media about gender norms and stereotypes can have a significant influence on the development of gender identity during adolescence by communicating societal values and norms with respect to behavior expected from males and females. Case Study (Person Whom I Know) Samantha, who uses the nickname Sam, is a female aged 14 who is considered a tomboy by her parents and peers. She tends to dress in male clothing and engage in activities that are stereotypically male such as contact sports and playing action video games. She also watches television for two to three hours a day and frequently attends movies, usually alone. While she wears a stereotypically female hair style, it is cut relatively short. She is academically bright and intends to enter college after she completes high school. She is sexually attracted to boys her age, but conceals her feelings because she is concerned about rejection. She is socially ostracized by the females in her peer group and is often the object of negative comments about her behavior and sexuality. As a result, she has engaged in physical fights with some of her female peers. At the same time, she is not fully accepted by males in her age group as a peer because of their awareness that she is a female. Her parents encourage her to dress in more traditionally female clothing, which she resists. They also attempted to ensure that she had only the toys they deemed appropriate for a girl when she was a child. Although they continuously encourage her to be more feminine, they assume that she will eventually outgrow the behaviors they consider inappropriate for an adolescent girl. As a result, Sam does not discuss her problems with her parents because she believes it will inevitably lead to criticism of her behaviors. Literature Review Behm-Morawitz and Mastro (2008) investigated the influence of teen movies on the development of gender-based beliefs about friendships, social aggression and the roles of women in society. The research was based on Banduras social cognitive theory, which postulates that the media is a significant source for the acquisition of gender-linked knowledge. The social cognitive theory functionally uses a constructivism paradigm by suggesting that individuals cognitively create a self-identity construct based on information obtained from other social actors. In effect, a medium such as film contains information about societal expectations concerning roles and conduct for the genders and standards that individuals use for self-evaluation and the evaluation of others. The study focused on the depiction of the mean girl in teenage film, which involves a teenage female social circle dominated by a girl who is tyrannical and bullying. The social circle emphasizes a caste system, with outsiders the target of the bullying. The research examined the content of 20 teenage films using university students as coders. The findings of Behm-Morawitz and Mastro (2008) determined that female characters in the films were more likely to engage in socially aggressive behavior than male characters. In addition, females were more likely than males to be rewarded for engaging in socially aggressive behaviors. When the films depicted socially cooperative behaviors, however, no differences between the genders existed, with both genders equally rewarded for engaging in these types of behaviors. The findings supported the conclusion that exposure to these messages embedded in the film media could encourage the development of negative beliefs about the value of female friendships and poor attitudes towards women in general. The films also convey the message to adolescents that aggressive behavior is an acceptable method for achieving higher social status and other rewards. Because the article uses the social cognitive theory, it assumes that gender identity is a social construct with adolescents adopting the behaviors they perceive to be the norm based on their gender identity. It does not, however, discuss the implications for the media message for adolescents who do not accept the gender norms. The Behm-Morawitz and Mastro (2008) article has the highest priority in terms of relevance for Sam. Because Sam frequently watches movies and television, she is likely to have encountered the media construct of the mean girl. Sam may find the construct unpleasant because it depicts adolescent females as tyrannical and bullying. To some degree, this may account for her reluctance to engage in the stereotypical behaviors expected of a adolescent girl. To fully adopt the gender identity of a female would require that she participate in the social activities that involve dominance by a mean girl and bullying of other girls not within the social circle. As a result, she pursues male friendships, although these friendships may not meet her full range of needs for peer interactions. She may expect a reward from socially cooperative behavior with males in the form of peer friendships. Another aspect of Sams behavior that may be influenced by the media is physical fighting with other girls when they behave in a derogatory or demeaning manner towards her. Although she does not fully formed a stereotypical female gender identity, she is aware that she is biologically female. In the teen movies, females are rewarded for socially aggressive behavior, which sometimes includes fighting with other females. As a result, she may believe that it the use of aggression toward other females will bring a reward while the use of cooperation with males will bring a reward. Wright (2007) investigated whether adolescents with gender identity uncertainty are attracted to media depictions of individuals who do not conform to traditional gender stereotypes. This research was based on both the essentialism and constructivism paradigms. The research assumed that male-to-female transgendered individuals were biologically influenced to adopt a female gender identity. At the same time, these individuals had to develop a social construct derived from the norms and values of a subculture in which transgendered individuals were accepted. The research relied on interviews with adult transgendered individuals that had been adolescents in the 1960s. The focus of the research was the influence of a female television character in the television show The Avengers on male adolescents of the period that subsequently became trans-women. The female character in this show exhibited qualities that were considered masculine at the time by using physical strength and intelligence as well as rescuing her male partner from danger. The author noted that the role was originally intended for a man, with a woman subsequently cast in the show. Wrights (2007) findings indicated that the subjects used the female character as a role model to construct a gender identity that blended some aspects of male and female stereotypes during adolescence. The subjects of the study were biologically male and had some of the physical strength and intelligence associated with the male stereotypes of the period. The character in the television show demonstrated these male attributes, but also exhibited the stereotypically feminine attributes of attractiveness and sexuality. The findings also indicated that the video tapes of the old television show are used among modern adolescents who are male-to-female transgendered to provide a female role model that has some male attributes. This finding suggests that the attributes of the media character remain relevant for adolescents experiencing difficulty developing a gender identity. The findings also noted that the individual subjects were rejected by their parents for failing to conform to gender norms in the society, which led them to rely on media representations to develop an understanding of their position in society. The research findings imply that adolescents with gender identity conflicts search popular media to find role models that allow them to construct a gender identity that feels appropriate. It also implies that the media sometimes provides social constructs concerning gender roles and attributes that differ substantially from the stereotypical norms. The research conducted by Wright (2007) has the second highest priority of relevance for Sam because it indicates that the media contextualizes the experiences of adolescents. Sam watches an extensive amount of television and attends movies, and presumably has favorite characters or stories that she perceives as relevant for her situation. Many of the modern female media characters outside of teen movies may display non-stereotypical attributes that Sam may find relevant. By seeking out media characters or stories with female characters with blended male and female attributes, she may be validating her gender identity that is neither stereotypically male or female. From this perspective, the media has an influence on her gender identity by confirming that she need not adopt the stereotypical role and attributes of a female to obtain rewards or to be successful. Miller and Sommers (2007) investigated depiction of males and females in video games targeted to the adolescent market. The research was based on the environmentalism paradigm in which the media functions as a social influence by depicting the norms and standards expected by society. The theoretical premise was that the media representation informed adolescents about the attributes that are socially desirable for each gender, with adolescents failing to conform to the representation feeling inadequate. The research method used content analysis of video game magazines to determine the way in which the games portray male and female characters. Video games may have a more significant influence on adolescents than other types of media because of the high degree of engagement when playing the game and the repetitive nature of the activity. In effect, the adolescent player is more susceptible to influences form the embedded messages in the game content such as the appropriate behaviors of males and females. Miller and Sommers (2007) found that male figures are heroic and physically powerful in video games while females are secondary characters that are sexualized through their appearance and attire. In some games with more mature themes, the females are sex objects whose sole function is to provide an objective for the male hero to achieve. Male characters also have a wider range of skills and abilities than female characters in the games, including games in which female characters can behave as leaders or heroes. Although both adolescent males and adolescent females play video games, the industry primarily targets the male market, which may account for the general weakness of the female characters in the games. In the games analyzed in the study, male characters were five times more likely to be included in a game than female characters. The video games appear to endorse the gender stereotypes by creating an unrealistic image of masculinity and femininity, which can influence gender identity if individual adolescents do not believe they conform to the image. The research conducted by Miller and Sommers (2007) has the third priority in relevance to Sams situation. Sam plays video games, primarily with her male companions. At the same time, her parents are not fully aware of her preferences in video games and assume that she only plays games they would consider appropriate for young girls. As a result, she is likely to play games intended for male adolescents in which the male characters are heroic and skillful while the female characters are passive and sexualized. During the process of play, she receives the embedded information about the stereotypical behavior of males and females, and considers the male role as more attractive than the female role. The play of the video game may influence her to adopt a male role in the game, which reinforces her gender identity ambivalence. Vasey and Bartlett (2007) conducted research among Samoans to determine whether the criteria for GID was valid in non-Western societies. Samoan culture has a high degree of social tolerance for feminine males known as faafafine. The purpose of the research was to determine whether the identification with the opposite biological sex and engaging in behaviors associated with the opposite sex inherently cause psychological distress. The research was based on an environmentalism perspective in which social influences contribute to the formation of gender identity by either encouraging or discouraging the behaviors that the society deems appropriate or inappropriate for the gender of the individual. The methodology used by Vasey and Bartlett (2007)involved interviewing adult faafafine to determine if they experienced cross-gender identification in childhood and adolescence, and if they experienced distress because of their gender identification. The findings indicated that the subjects did not experience distress concerning their gender identity because their more feminine attributes were considered acceptable in Samoan society. The findings also determined that parents did not discourage the subjects from adopting the gender identity of the faafafine, and therefore were not a source of psychological distress because of the failure of the individual to meet parental expectations of appropriate behavior based on biological sex. The findings also suggested that the Samoan culture considered females more nurturing and males more protective, which may be cross-cultural gender attributes. The conclusions reached by the authors was that the GID diagnosis should be removed from the DSM-IV because the psychological distress related to gender identity is created by the societal norms and expectations in Western culture and is not inherent to gender identity. While the article examined social influences leading to psychological distress, it did not explore the reasons why the faafafine males identified with the female gender. The Vasey and Bartlett (2007) article has the third highest priority for Sams situation. The findings and conclusion of the article suggest that the individual selects a gender identity with the degree of distress resulting from the selection dependent on the gender norms and stereotypes of the society. Sam is experiencing some psychological distress because of her gender identity that has attributes associated with both males and females in Western society. She has difficulty forming friendships with males and females in her peer group. Although the distress does not appear to be affecting her academic achievement, it appears to be interfering with her social development. Her parents express disapproval of her behavior and attire based on their concepts of behavior and attire appropriate for the female gender. The parents, however, have not been effective in influencing Sam to adopt the stereotypical behavior associated with a young female. This suggests that factors other parental role modeling and influences affect the development of gender identity among adolescents. Conclusion The research provides support for accepting the first hypothesis of the study in its alternative form: Some variations about the conception of sexuality and gender identity are culturally specific. Vesey and Bartlett (2007) determined that the concept of the feminine male is more socially acceptable in Samoan culture than in Western cultures. In addition, psychological distress created by gender identity that differs from norms is not considered a disorder in Samoan culture. This suggests that aspects of the concepts about sexuality and gender are culturally specific constructs that can vary significant in different societies. The research provides some support for accepting the second hypothesis of the study in its alternative form: Parents influence the development of gender identity through the way they allow children to participate in gender-specific play and the toys they permit the children to use in play. The research conducted by Behm-Morawitz and Mastro (2008) as well as Miller and Sommers (2007) suggests that parents cannot fully control the media selection choices of their children. The inability to control play is particularly apparent in adolescence when the child has greater autonomy in the selection of media and video games, which are analogous to toys. The findings provide support for accepting the third hypothesis of the study in its alternative form: Media has the greatest influence in the transmission of information about social norms related to gender to the individual. The findings of Behm-Morawitz and Mastro (2008), Miller and Sommers (2007), and Wright (2007) indicate that media has a significant influence on the formation of gender identity among adolescents. Media conveys information about gender stereotypes and the norm expectation of society, which adolescents compare to their actual experience. Media also has a significant influence on adolescents because they are significant consumers of media products and have not yet developed the ability to discriminate among different types of media messages. As a result, media plays a substantial role in the development of gender identity in adolescence. Bibliography Behm-Morawitz, E. Mastro, D. E. (2008). Mean girls? The influence of gender portrayals in teen movies on emerging adults gender-based attitudes and beliefs. Journalism and Mass Communications Quarterly, 85(1), 131-146. The research discussed in this article used a social cognitive theory framework to examine the effect of gender portrayals in teen movies on beliefs among adolescents about friendships, aggression, and the role of women in society. The findings of the study indicated that the content of the films has a significant influence on the beliefs of adolescents about the societal norms associated with gender. The findings also indicated that the films depicted women as achieving success in the female social world only through the use of duplicitous methods. If female adolescents form their social constructs about feminine behavior from teen movies, they are more likely to engage in aggressive social behavior. Miller, M. Sommers, A. (2007). Gender differences in video game characters roles, appearances and attire as portrayed in video game magazines. Sex Roles, 57, 733-742. This article describes research by the authors investigating the portrayal of male and female roles in video game magazines, which are a significant social influence on adolescents. The research adopted an environmentalism perspective by assuming that media is a significant influence on adolescents in developmental processes by communicating the societal expectations of gender roles. In the video game context, males were heroes, physically powerful and capable of using weapons. In contrast, females were secondary characters that were sexual yet innocent, and were portrayed as wearing more revealing clothing. Wright, R. (2007). Learning empowerment, resistance and female identity development from popular television: Trans-women tell stories of trans-formation. In Servage, L. Fenwick, T. (Eds. ) Learning in community: Proceedings of the joint international conference of the Adult Education Research Conference. Halifax: Mount Saint Vincent University. This article adopts a constructivist perspective for research examining the use of a female character in a television show as a role model by male-to-female transgendered individuals. The television show aired when the individuals were adolescents, with the female character blending stereotypical male and female attributes. Although the television show was aired forty years ago, it continues to be viewed by male adolescents with gender identity issues. Vasey, P. L. Bartlett, N. H. (2007). What can the Samoan Faafafine teach us about the Western concept of gender identity disorder in childhood? Perspectives in biology and Medicine, 50(4), 481-490. This article adopted a constructivism perspective for an investigation of whether the DSM-IV gender identity disorder in childhood constitutes a mental disorder when the criteria are applied to individuals in non-Western cultures. The research investigated the high degree of social tolerance towards feminine males in Samoan culture known as faafafine. The findings of the research indicated that gender-atypical identity and behavior do not inherently lead to distress when controlling for societal intolerance toward these individuals. The findings also indicated that parental discouragement of gender atypical behaviors increases the distress of the individual because of the conflict it creates between the individuals inclinations and the expectations of parents.

Is Larkin entirely cynical about the possibilities Essays

Is Larkin entirely cynical about the possibilities Essays Is Larkin entirely cynical about the possibilities Paper Is Larkin entirely cynical about the possibilities Paper In the poem Talking in Bed, Larkin displays a rather bleak and cynical view of lasting love. In the first stanza, Larkin uses a pun in the second sentence. Lying together there goes back so far The word lying can be looked at as physically lying, or the act of lying. Larkin shows his cynical side here as he talks of deceit in the relationship that goes back so far. I believe that Larkin means they are lying about their love for each other, that they dont really love each other but feel they have to because they have been together for so long. An emblem of two people being honest. This sentence follows on from the next in the way that they believe they are being honest by staying together, but really they know they dont love each other. Both are trying to convince themselves that they are doing the right thing by staying together. This pun is also used in An Arundel tomb in the first stanza. Side by side their faces blurred, The count and countess lie in stone. Here Larkin uses the pun to suggest whether or not the count and countess actually loved each other or whether this was just an act and their love was only perceived by their friends and family. This is shown in the third stanza. They would not think to lie so long. Such faithfulness in effigy Was just a detail friends would see. Larkin uses bleak metaphors to convey his doubts about love in Talking in bed. And dark towns heap up on the horizon. This sentence talks to me of problems building up in the relationship that will come to a head in the near future. Outside, the winds incomplete unrest Builds and disperses clouds about the sky. Here Larkin uses another metaphor. The winds incomplete unrest reveals the unease felt round each other and the incomplete is almost like there is something missing from the relationship. I think this is Larkins way of talking of a loveless relationship and this sparks off anger as conveyed in the following sentence. The build up of tension in the relationship flares up at times and the metaphor of clouds, to me, is the clouding of their relationship because of this lack of love. This is also shown in the final stanza; It becomes still more difficult to find Words at once true and kind Or not untrue and not unkind. This final stanza shows the deterioration of communication between the couple. Larkin says it is hard to find kind words or unkind words and so sees the relationship at its end. In the third stanza, Larkin says something very interesting. None of this cares for us. Nothing shows why At this unique distance from isolation. This is a very lonely statement because although they are together, they have isolated themselves from each other perhaps in an attempt to block out the fact they are living a lie by being together. In an Arundel Tomb, we see a slightly surprising line in which Larkin seems to be moved by. One sees, with a sharp tender shock, His hand withdrawn, holding her hand, Here we see another side of Larkin that perhaps thinks that their love was true because of the loving act of holding hands. The use of the word tender is also surprising because it is such a gentle word unlike some of Larkins bleaker metaphors. In the final stanza we see Larkin being as positive as possibl e about love. The stone fidelity they hardly meant has come to be Their final blazon, The word hardly suggests that their love wasnt quite meaningful but now together in stone they have no choice but to be together, whether or not they meant it to be like that . Our almost-instinct almost true: What will survive of us is love. Here I believe Larkin is saying that if anything survives it is love but nothing survives after we die. He is trying to say that it would be nice if love did survive but the love that has survived in this poem is the love that is set in stone and Larkin wonders whether or not this was real love or something comprehended by friends. In the poem Wild Oats we see another approach to love told in a story with the characters of bosomy rose and specs. This poem shows Larkins view of how love is unreliable and he speaks of it in a bittersweet way. Show preview only The above preview is unformatted text This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our GCSE Philip Larkin section.

How to Survive Your Admissions Interview

How to Survive Your Admissions Interview Getting into a private school isnt as simple as just deciding to go. You must apply, which means youre going to need to submit an application, take a test  and prepare for the admission interview.   Why? Because schools want to get to know you in person to see how you will fit into their community. They have your transcripts, recommendations, and test scores to give  them a profile of your abilities. But, they also want to see the person behind all those stats and achievements. Check out these 12 tips on how to survive your admission interview: 1. Plan Ahead The interview is important, so make sure you schedule one well in advance of the interview deadlines. This also gives you time to prepare for the interview and review some potential interview questions that might be asked of you, and give you a chance to come up with some potential questions to ask your interviewer. 2. Take a Deep Breath and Relax An admission interview  can be  stressful, but theres nothing to worry about. Dont be scared and dont worry about how you look or what they will ask you; we have tips to help you with all of that. Remember: almost everybody is nervous at an interview. The admissions staff know this and will do their best to make you feel comfortable, at ease and as relaxed as possible. The trick is to not let your nerves get the better of you. Use your nerves to give you that natural edge and alertness you need to present yourself in the best light possible. 3. Be Yourself Be on your best behavior, socially speaking, but be yourself. While we all want to put our best foot forward when we interview, its important to remember that schools want to get to know you, not some perfectly poised robotic version of you that you think the interviewer wants to see.  Think positively. As a rule, the school will be trying to sell itself to you as much as you are trying to sell yourself to it. 4. Leave the Technology Behind Always turn off your cell phone, iPad and other devices before you go into the interview and put them away. It is rude to text or read messages or playing games during an interview. Even your smartwatch can be a distraction, so take a temporary hiatus from technology during your interview, which usually lasts only about 30 minutes. To avoid the temptation, leave your devices behind with your parents in the waiting room (and make sure the sound is off!).   5. Make a Good First Impression From the first moment you step foot on campus, remember that you want to make a good first impression. Greet people you meet openly, looking them in the eye, shaking hands, and saying hello. Dont whisper, dont stare at the ground and dont slouch. Good posture makes a strong impression. That goes for the interview itself, too. Sit up tall in your chair and dont jitter or fidget. Dont bite your nails or pull at your hair, and never chew gum. Be polite and respectful. Please and thank you are always appreciated and go a long way to indicating respect for authority and your elders and even your peers, should you meet other students. 6. Dress for Success Its common for students to ask, What should I wear to my private school interview? Lets remember that youre applying to private school, and most schools have strict dress codes and high standards for their students. You cant roll up to the interview looking like you just fell  out of bed and couldnt care less about the experience. Wear comfortable clothes appropriate for the occasion. Look up the schools dress code and do your best to align. You dont have to go out and buy the uniform itself if they have one, but make sure youre dressing appropriately. For girls, opt for a plain blouse and skirt or slacks, or a nice dress, and shoes that arent sneakers or flip flops. Use minimal makeup and accessories. Keep your hairstyle simple. Remember that youre applying to school, not to walk the runway. For boys, opt for a plain shirt, slacks and shoes (no sneakers) work for most situations. There is nothing wrong with expressing your individuality. Just make sure that the way you express it is appropriate. 7. Be Honest Dont lie or panic. If you dont know the answer to the interviewers question, say so. Look her in the eye and admit that you do not know the answer. Similarly, if she asks you a question you dont want to answer, dont avoid it. For example, if she asks why you failed algebra, explain why that happened and what you are doing about it. Showing that youre willing to own a mistake or problem and are actively working to fix it can go a long way. If attending their school is part of your strategy for improvement, say so. Honesty is an admirable personal quality which schools prize in an applicant.  Give truthful answers. If you are not a top student, admit it and tell the interviewer how you plan to achieve better results. Remember, they will see your transcript! Interviewers like to see an honest appraisal of ones strengths and weaknesses. If you can point to some challenge you had in your school work, for example, not understanding quadratic equations, and how you overcame that, you will impress the interviewer with your positive attitude and approach to life. This goes back to being honest. If you are honest and truthful, you will learn more and learn more easily. 8. Ask Questions Ask questions about the school, its programs, and facilities. Find out how it can help you achieve your goals. Determine as best you can how the schools philosophy meshes with yours.  Dont feel like you should ask questions just to ask, but instead, be sure to cover the topics you and your parents want to know more about. For example, you may be an avid  linguist who wants to study Mandarin. Ask in-depth questions about the Chinese Studies program, its faculty and so on. Its also important to do your research before the interview though. Dont show up asking if they have a soccer team; thats the kind of information you can easily find online. Also, dont ask a question that was already answered earlier in the interview. That shows youre not paying attention. You can, however, ask for more details about something you talked about earlier. 9. Pay  Attention Listen carefully to the questions being asked and what is being said. Is what you are hearing what you want to hear or is the school just not suitable for you? You will get a feel for that early in the interview. The last thing you want to do is zone out during the interview and not know what the interviewer said.   10. Be Thoughtful Think before you answer. Avoid mannerisms such as like and you know. Careless speech patterns can indicate a lack of discipline and general sloppiness. Standard business English is always acceptable. That does not mean that you have to repress your personality. If you are a free spirit, let that side of you show. Communicate clearly and convincingly. Make your points without being rude or overbearing. 11. Reflect When the interview is over, record your observations and compare these with your parents. Both of you will want to discuss these observations with your consultant later. Those recollections are important because they help determine which school is the best fit for you. 12. Follow Up Its important to follow up with your interviewer once its over. If theres time, send a handwritten thank you note to your interviewer. It will speak volumes for your ability to follow through and your personal sincerity. It doesnt need to be long, just a quick note thanking your interviewer for the meeting and perhaps reminding him of why you want to attend the school. If youre short on time, an email is a suitable alternative if youre on a fast track for decisions with limited time between the interview and decisions.

What do we owe each other in the social Contract Research Paper

What do we owe each other in the social Contract - Research Paper Example onfessing (assuming they wish to), they will be assured of punishment but by refusing to do so each of them is guaranteed a light one (Kreps et al., 1982). Ergo if each can depend on the other not to confess for the sake of them both, then it can be said they have a social contract in place. In the early part of this decade there has been a great deal of controversy and conflict in respect to the expectations of Americans from the social contract that has was established in previous generations (Edsall, 2013). There have been numerous complains for instant in the fast food industry with employees and employers at loggerheads over issues of minimum wage. In the 80’s and early 80’s for instance, the industrial social contract in the USA was characterized by companies that took care of their workers welfare and provided them with insurance cover and pension benefits (Lubchenco, 1998). As a result, they workers needed unions less and one could argue that the industrialist sacrificed their right to exploit workers and they in turn sacrifice theirs to agitate for better conditions than they were already enjoying through labor unions. There are other underlying issues that underpin the social contract challenge, for the first time in nearly half a century, Americ ans are forced to struggle with what they want to get from the social contract (Freedman & Lind, 2013). Retrospectively, it was founded on a premise of relatively high wages and reliable benefits; however today, the system is such that low wages are supposed to be offset by reduced consumer prices and government intervention. Explicably, there has been considerable disaffection with the state of affairs and this has necessitated a re-examination of what the social contract is expected to do for the people and how it is they seem to be getting a raw deal. Alan Krueger who is the chairperson of the Obama’s economic advisors posits that America has lost its ethical and moral moorings because of the