Maritime Domain Awareness

SYNOPSIS FOR PAPER 3 ON MARITIME DOMAIN AWARENESS AS A VEHICLE FOR EFFECTIVE NIGERIAN NAVY OPERATIONS GUEST LECTURER:Rear Admiral FD Akpan (Rtd) EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. This paper discussed the concept of Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) in the strategic dimension involving the security and safety of the maritime environment. It further stressed that safety and security of the maritime environment are critical for national security and economic wellbeing of any nation. While it highlighted the prospects of Nigeria’s littoral, the paper was quick to enumerate that there was need to present effective patrols, improve maritime security and provide a conducive environment within the maritime domain for enhanced commercial activities and foster the development of Nigeria. 2. The prospect of Nigeria’s maritime domain is enormous due to the presence of huge mineral deposit; however, the paper highlighted some threats to Nigeria’s adequate utilisation of the domain. These threats include nation state threat, terrorism, trans-national criminals, pirates, environment pollution and illegal immigration. Of interest to the presenter was the loss of revenue, employment opportunity and environmental degradation as a result of these threats to Nigeria’s maritime domain. The paper stressed the need for the NN to imbibe the tenets of maritime awareness by acquiring critical response architecture for effective naval operation. Some strategies proposed by the paper to address these threats include the preservation of the freedom of the seas/waterways through effective presence, facilitating and defending commerce and facilitating the movement of desirable goods and people, while screening out dangerous people and goods. 3. The paper enumerated the ISPS code and Safety of Lives at Sea (SOLAS) as some international instruments for enhancing MDA. However, there was need to fuse information and intelligence between government agencies and private ector because sharing of common data bases has been identified as one of the key to the development of an effective MDA. In line with this development, the paper stressed the need for Nigeria to implement the provisions of these instruments as proposed in the code as soon as possible to meet international standards and practice. 4. Building capacity for MDA as posited in the paper could be enhanced through a bill and an enabling act, because the bill would seek to prov ide the national structures, roles and the various guide lines towards the actualisation of the instruments of the conventions on MDA. Though the maritime security Bill is before the national assembly, the paper suggested the partnering of the NN with other key stakeholders in making inputs. However, due to the inhibitive cost of MDA programmes which would cause strains in planning regimes, there is need to utilize the provision for partnership to build enviable capacities for MDA within the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and other well advanced countries. As part of measures to build capacity towards effective naval operation through MDA, the NN would need to acquire some infrastructure to facilitate the monitoring of vessels that enter Nigeria’s maritime domain. These infrastructures include Port Vessel Traffic Management Information System (VTMIS), coastal VTMIS, Automated Identification System (AIS), Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) and Radio, Radar and Telecommunication system. 5. The strategic approach adopted in the paper for MDA involves consistent domestic and partner-initiated programmes, as well as significant regional collaboration given the trans-national character of most threats and vulnerabilities. Hence the proposal in the paper is a strategy incorporating regional and global realities. However, to achieve the appropriate MDA, understanding the implications of threats would help stakeholders and government to better appreciate their respective roles. 6. The paper was also of the view that while the NN within its premises could provide the wherewithal to educate her personnel on the tenets of the code, the government must compliment the efforts of the NN with the acquisition of the right size and type of ships and platforms. Also, it was opined in the paper that in the short term timeline for the NN to provide the adequate response as required in the MDA strategy, the Forward Operational Bases would have to be developed appropriately to meet the demands of MDA. The development would involve construction of jetties; logistics support facilities and other infrastructures to support helicopters operation. While the long term suggestion in the paper was the phased refit of NN warships. The paper was of the view that the losses to the government could be reduced if the funds for the refit and acquisition of NN ships were provided. However, the paper stressed that the personnel are the greatest assets towards the realisation of effective MDA. Consequently, there was need for the NN to appropriate the right skills towards the management of the equipment required to actualise the regime. VERBATIM REPORT OF INTERACTIVE SESSION 7. The discussion session was conducted by the following resource persons: a. V/Adm J Ayinla (Rtd)-Moderator b. R/Adm OS Ibrahim-Discussant c. R/Adm J Kpokpogri-Discussant d. AVM Atawodei-Discussant e. Cdre IE Ibas-Discussant MODERATOR’ OPENING REMARKS 8. The moderator commended the presenter for doing justice to the topic. He stressed that maritime domain has been given several definitions, but most of the definitions had missed out one part of the definition. According to him the earth spherical and 70 per cent of it is covered by water. He further stressed that the underwater aspect of maritime domain has always been ignored. He then posited that discussants should pay adequate attention to the underwater aspect of the maritime domain. He stated that vision 20 started in 1979. However, timeliness had been a problem in the NN. He posited that NN had continued from where it was in 1979, the NN could have gone far. CDRE IE IBAS 9. The first discussant was Cdre IE Ibas. He thanked the CNS for giving him the opportunity to comment on the presentation. He acknowledged that the presentation was comprehensive, apt and the definitions of the variables of Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) suited the theme of the conference. He stated that the presenter understood the goal of MDA as the early identification of threats at sea. According to him, the United States was the frontline proponent of the concept of MDA at all levels with the vision of multi layer domain picture involving identifying picture and observing known pattern of vessel movement in the MDA. 0. The discussant stressed the need for Nigeria to pursue an aggressive maritime domain culture. He further highlighted that Nigeria needs MDA in order to achieve 20:2020. The discussant emphasized that the SWOT analysis of the presentation gave an expose of the maritime environment. It was highlighted that MDA must go beyond platform sensors, consequently automated d etection system could be the basis for MDA as they could be employed for activities at sea. According to the discussant, the threats of terrorism are not as potent as militancy in Nigeria. Therefore, according to the presentation, all efforts could be geared towards addressing the potent threat of militancy. The militant attack on Atlas Cove was used for illustration. 11. The presentation also identified man as one of the key element in achieving MDA. However, the present attitude of personnel to attain MDA was stressed. The discussant enumerated the conditions that were prevalent in the 1980’s when the NN had been involved in arresting smugglers and pirates. The discussant stressed that the NN may not achieve the required rchitecture for MDA with the present behavioural attitude of the personnel. However, the discussant stressed that it was gratifying to note that the NN through the RMAC in the NN Base, Apapa through the installation of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) was making positive progress in MDA. He opined that the RMAC could be installed on NN helicopters. He was of the opinion that greater interaction was required between partners and stakeh olders. However, the challenge of inter agency and service rivalry would need to be overcomed in order to achieve MDA. R/ADM J KPOKPOGRI 12. The second discussant was R/Adm Kpokpogri. He thanked the CNS for finding him worthy to discuss this paper. He commended the presenter for a well delivered paper. The discussant stressed that he would look at the paper from one angle. He stated that the United States and the European nations started MDA. It was necessitated by the need to stop drugs trafficking and other illegal activities perpetrated at sea. 13. The importance of the NN is yet to be fully appreciated because the NN lacks the necessary platforms to cope with the present challenges. According to him, the NN needs new platforms in order to cope with the challenges. He stressed that it was alarming to note that about 80 per cent of ships operating in Nigeria’s water are not registered. Consequently, he posited that there was need for the NN to synergise with NIMASA and other maritime agencies such as DPR and NNPC on observation of certificate carried by vessels in our maritime environment in order to enhance efficiency. 14. According to the discussant, there was need for all involved in maritime security including retired senior officer to help the NN in repositioning her for the challenges. According to the discussant, Nigeria’s sub region is dominated by franco phone countries, consequently, he made some prayers for the NN to consider. The prayers made included the introduction of french language to enhance cooperation in the sub region, establishment of MDA watch in ENC and WNC and the need to involve foreign stake holders like the US and UK in perfecting MDA in Nigeria. R/ADM OS IBRAHIM 15. The third discussant was R/Adm OS Ibrahim and he stressed that he would look at the presentation based on 3 premises. The discussant highlighted his assumptions as: . It is upon the NN under the providence of God that the prosperity of the nation rest. b. Patrolling Nigeria’s EEZ is the only safe guard for control. c. Even if the money and resources required are made available today it will take a min of 5 days to achieve the much required state. 16. According to the discussant, MDA in line with vision 20:2020 would eradicate poverty, bring about peace and developmen t. He stressed that MDA could guarantee full security of the maritime domain, make waters safe and attractive for investment. He was of the view that the presenter was modest in his recommendations, however, he stressed that the presentation omitted logistics ship which was important for presence. 17. The discussant stressed that US mentioned capability gap in the regional maritime domain. To cover the gap, the US installed the RMAC in Nigeria. He further stressed that he was pursuing collaborative effort to enhance the utilisation of the RMAC. Consequently, the NN was able to organise a capability awareness discussion on the RMAC with representative from NPA and NIWA including the Director General of NIMASA. He was of the opinion that Nigeria’s maritime agencies would need to cooperate better in order to achieve the objectives of MDA. AVM ATAODE 18. AVM Ataode structured his discussion into 2 parts. He raised some observations which included: a. Was it the first time the NN was discussing MDA? b. He corrected the mistake on the deadline for compliance with ISPS code on para 25 from 21September to 31 July 2009. c. Why has Nigeria not passed its own bill as was done in Ghana. 19. He stressed that the focus for MDA would be on early detection by radars and radios. Consequently, he opined that the NN could set up a task force in determining NN capability on MDA. He stated that MDA could make the sea transparent and continuously available. According to the discussant, PICOMMS came about as a directive from IMO that all maritime nations should put in place a body to oversee the implementation of the ISPS code. He further enumerated that the government organisations were the ones defaulting in the implementation of the ISPS code, however, he stressed that 65 facilities have been declared compliant by the relevant authority. Most compliant facility was Niger dock while the least was the Atlas cove in Lagos. 20. He stated that the contract sum for COMMARAS was over bloated to the tune of 250 million euros, leading to the re-evaluation of the contract. He emphasised that PICOMMS was not meant to be a permanent establishment. According to him the COMMARAS was to be installed at 11 stations, with 93 personnel to man each radar stations. However, some of the locations of these radar station sites are uninhabited. PICOMMS has procured the DA 42 Opale Twin Star and King Air 350 aircraft. CONTRIBUTIONS FROM THE FLOOR 21. Cdr Oluwagbamila. MDA is not an end in itself but a means to an end. Do we have a maritime security policy? Efforts of the government in achieving MDA were borne out of external influence. ISPS by IMO code and AIS by US, there was need to harmonise the 2, because both are meant to achieve the same goal. 22. R Adm Arogundade. MDA is a subset of the policing role of the NN. The absence of training in policing role has affected the capability of young officers from appreciating the recent challenges in policing functions. 23. Capt Carew (Rtd). PICOMMS primary duties is to coordinate international shipping and ports facility. The absence of a senior naval officer could act as an impediment to the functions of the agency. 24. R Adm Adedeji. Real MDA is what is happening at the national high command. Real Change has to come from the political masters. 25. Capt Okunbor. He suggested that papers presented in the CONSAC be forwarded to the national planning committee on the implementation of vision20:2020 as the NN repositions itself for development. 26. Sen Olajumoke. He stressed a point that his duty was to be present for the whole deliberations in order to tow the line of developmental needs of the NN. He noted Capt Carew’s suggestion. He had expected that someone would have reacted on the opinion of the first discussant. PRESENTER 27. The presenter agreed with Cdr Oluwagbamila in working out the terms for maritime strategy, he cited examples with the US. He stated that there was need for the NN to be in charge with issues bothering on maritime security. MODERATOR 28. In summarising the session, political will was needed from the national authority from where national aspiration derives all that needs to be done. He wanted to know the authority to deliver maritime security. He stressed that the national prosperity of Nigeria is dependent on sea power and NN. Also, he stressed that there was consider previous threat appreciation in order to re-align it. Failure of the NN could be hinged on inability to ensure deterrence. In this regard, he highlighted the absence of a compact force and capability of visual deterrence. He further stressed the sophistication of the militants in Nigeria was affecting capacity development for adequate MDA. 29. He enumerated that the budget for maintenance of ARADU was not enough to ensure 15 per cent availability of the ship. According to him there was need for the NN to come up with a plan to growth within a time frame say 2010, 2020 or 2030. Also, in his opinion, discussions bothering on ships could involve training considerations and motivations. These would ensure that the personnel are adequately motivated. The issue of 100 ships for the sub region was raised. He opined that, if Nigeria has to be relevant, Nigeria would have to provide at least 60 ships. In this regard, if Nigeria was to be among the 20 most developed economies, she was to develop her national and sea power. 30. Finally, he stated that the NN does not have the right platforms to counter the present threats in our maritime domain. He opined that the NN could realise effective naval operations through better inter-agency cooperation between the NN and PICOMMS, and also that the NN could rely more on force multipliers for early detection and countering of threats. POSERS FOR PAPER 3 1. How can the NN in collaboration with other stake holders in the maritime sector implement measures to achieve MDA? 2. How can the NN harness her FOBs for improved MDA? 3. How can a framework for setting up a dedicated body structure that would be responsible for coordinating MDA in Nigeria? 4. Identify the factors militating against effective MDA in Nigeria with a view to proffering solutions. 5. Based on an identified structure, does the NN need to pursue an act of parliament? 6. Is there an enabling act for effective MDA or are the existing terms good enough for an effective MDA? 7. Identify sources through which dedicated funding for MDA can be achieved outside government sources. 8. What strategies can be adopted by the NN in effectively combating identified threats so as to sustain effective NN operations? 9. Identify policies for implementing MDA and suggest ways of making them more effective. If none, suggest policies. 10. What infrastructures can be put in place to facilitate effective monitoring of vessels? 11. In what ways can partnership with the various stakeholders be harnessed towards achieving MDA? 12. In extending her influence to cover the Gulf of Guinea, what asset mix would the NN require to be effective? 13. What strategies can be adopted by the NN to ensure that personnel are adequately enlightened or trained on MDA? 14. In what areas should the NN key into or make input towards the proposed maritime security bill in order to ensure that the interests of the service are guarded?

Outline and Evaluate the Psychological Research Into the Link Between Stress and the Immune System Essay

The main function of the immune system is to protect the body from infectious agents such as viruses and other toxins. The immune system can fail us in two ways-either by, letting infections enter the body, or being over-active, so that it is the immune system itself, rather than an infectious agent that causes illness. Most studies of the relationship between stress and the immune system have focussed on acute stressors and have found a decrease in immune cell function. One study which relates to stress and the immune system was Cohan (1993). Cohen investigated the role of general life stress on vulnerability to the common cold virus. Three hundred and ninety-four participants completed questionnaires on the number of stressful life events they had experienced in the previous year. They also rated their degree of stress and their level of negative emotions such as depression. See more: argument essay format The three scores were combined into what Cohen called a stress index. The participants were then exposed to the common cold virus, leading to 82% becoming infected with the virus. . The findings were that the chance of developing a cold was significantly linked with stress index scores. A strength of this study was that it did measure health outcomes, showing a relationship between life stress and illness. This can be compared with studies that use measures of immune function rather than illness outcomes. Also, this was an indirect study in the sense that there were no direct measures of immune function. However it is supported by Evans and Edgington (1991) who found that the probability of developing a cold was significantly correlated with negative events in the preceding days. However there are many limitations. During the study participants should be constantly monitored to check for any reactions to the viral challenge which had affected their health and the scientific value of the study should be balanced against any psychological or physical distress to participants. Another study which looks at the link between stress and the immune system was a study carried out by Brady in 1958. He linked high levels of stress to increased hormone production and the development of ulcers. In an early study he placed monkeys in â€Å"restraining chairs† and conditioned them to press a lever. They were given shocks every 20 seconds unless the lever was pressed in the same time period. This investigation came to an abrupt halt when many of the monkeys suddenly died. After 23 days of 6 hours on, 6 hours off schedule the executive monkey died due to a perforated ulcer. He tried various routines, such as 18 hours on and 6 hours off, or 30 minutes on, 30 minutes off. However, no monkeys died from ulcers. He then tested the stomachs of executive monkeys on a 6 hour on, 6 hour off schedule, and found that stomach acidity was greatest during the rest period. Brady concluded that it was clearly stress, not the shocks that created the ulcers. One criticism made of Brady’s study in general was that the monkeys were not randomly selected, the â€Å"executive† was chosen because it was faster at learning an avoidance response. This may of course have parallels with the human world. Also, the fact that the study was carried out on monkeys means that the results cannot be generalised for humans. Also another limitation was that a more serious problem was raised in the research by Marshall et al (1985). They found strong evidence of another cause of stomach ulcers, a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori not stress related.

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Fashion in France during Renaissance - Essay Example The essay "Fashion in France during Renaissance" talks about fashion in the period of renaissance. By the end of the 15th Century, men's Renaissance fashion imposed a short and ornamental mantle, a broad-brimmed hat covered with feathers, and trunk hose, the ample dimensions of which earned for them the name of trousses. Women wore the bodies of their dresses closely fitting to the figure, embroidered, trimmed with lace, and covered with gilt ornaments; the sleeves were very large and open, and for the most part they still adhered to the heavy and ungraceful head-dress of Queen Anne of Brittany.† Females’ dresses became chic and shorter than ever, they wore very colorful garments during the time of renaissance. The female garments were loose and looked chic on the contrary men’s dress was made to be tightly fit and there was a lot of difference in men’s and women’s wear during the time of renaissance. â€Å"During the 16th Century, ladies wore the s kirts of their dresses, which were tight at the waist and open in front, very wide, displaying the lower part of a very rich under petticoat, which reached to the ground, completely concealing the feet. This, like the sleeves with puffs, which fell in circles to the wrists, was altogether a typical Italian Renaissance fashion. Frequently the hair was turned over in rolls, and adorned with precious stones, and was surmounted by a small cap, coquettishly placed either on one side or on the top of the head, and ornamented with gold chains, jewels, and feathers.

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Literary Response #5 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

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Calls for Change in High School Mathematics Essay Example for Free

Calls for Change in High School Mathematics Essay Mathematic educators, parents and students are calling for proper changes in approaches to learning mathematics in high schools. The need to improve learning of mathematics in schools is highly recognized and underlined. Thus, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics published the Curriculum and Evaluation Standards for School Mathematics that offered recommendations for high school mathematics reform. In addition, the Conference Board of the Mathematical Sciences in their official report ‘The Mathematical Sciences Curriculum K–12: What Is Still Fundamental and What Is Not’ stresses the importance of new topics and techniques in the secondary schools. New approaches should develop new learning techniques that would be discrete from statistics, mathematics, and emphasis on algebra and geometry should be properly re-assessed according to different abilities and needs of students who are taking mathematics course in the secondary school and high school respectively. The need for change and innovation is generally driven by emergence of advanced computing technologies that offers excellent opportunities for school educators to replace manipulative traditional techniques with more complex realistic problem-solving techniques. In its turn, the National Science Board Commission issued a report ‘Educating Americans for the 21st Century’ challenging courses in algebra and pre-calculus and stressing the importance of developing integrated mathematical sciences curriculum in the secondary school. Researchers argue that new curriculum will positively affect students’ achievement outcomes in the secondary and high schools. To make changes more effective teachers are required to understand the advantage of curriculum’s full scope and its consequences; students are required to support the expectations of classroom environment. The Core-Plus Mathematic Project is newly developed curriculum for high school mathematics. Of course, the Core-Plus Mathematic Project or CPMP curriculum is a matter of debates and controversies as not everyone admits the need of high school mathematics reforms. Nonetheless, the CPMP curriculum is worked out with assistance of mathematics education researchers, instructional specialists and classroom teachers. Moreover, the curriculum is shaped by empirical evidence gathered from students and teachers who are willing to participate in field testing. In particular, organization of mathematics curriculum should be interpreted in terms of teaching and assessment recommendations and should follow the standards set in the above-mentioned reports. New mathematics curriculum is a three-year mathematics course for high-school students who are allowed to take the fourth year to prepare for college mathematics. Newly designed curriculum differs from more traditional approaches as new curriculum encourages students’ understanding of mathematics – statistics, probability, algebra, geometry, trigonometry and discrete mathematics. Learning mathematics is developed in focused units that combine fundamental ideas with mathematical habits of mind. It means that new curriculum stresses the need to connect function, data analysis and symmetry with recursive and visual thinking. In contrast to traditional approaches to mathematics, new curriculum emphasizes the role of mathematical modeling and problem-solving instead of simple calculus. Researchers say the primary goal of curriculum improvement is to enhance students’ understanding and comprehension of key mathematical processes and concepts, to enhance student’s ability to use mathematical concepts in real-world problem-solving. Graphic calculators should enhance students’ understanding and abilities to solve authentic problems. Improved instructional materials encourage active teaching and learning processes that will primarily focus on problem situations, abstraction and analysis. Oral and written communication, reasoning with ability to represent, and conceptual understanding are highly appreciated and encouraged. All courses centre on mathematical reasoning and thinking with abilities to develop formal proof. Additional fourth year course will allow to keep students, who prepare for college mathematics, despite whether their undergraduate program is based on calculus. Students interested in mathematics are encouraged to be accelerated into the fourth course year. Today, many researches are focus on identifying whether new curriculum meets its specific goals. In particular, they try to reveal whether the learning outcomes based on new patterns of mathematics learning process differ from outcomes based on more traditional curriculum. During the past eight years researchers conducted various studies to examine mathematical achievement in classroom with CPMP curricula. Research studies have revealed that performance of CPMP students is much better than that of students with traditional interpretation of mathematical representation. It means that problem-solving and recursive thinking appear to be more effective in learning mathematics than simple understanding of key concepts of processes. Further, CPMP students are characterized by higher grade results at the end of the years than students with traditional approach to mathematics. Summing up, recent researches have indicated that CPMP students perform better than students with traditional curriculum. CPMP students are characterized by better abilities to interpret mathematical representation and calculation, to measure conceptual understanding and to recognize the importance of problem-solving. CPMP students are better in probability and statistics, algebraic manipulative skills, etc. Nonetheless, researchers argue that student’s success in college mathematics doesn’t fully depend on CPMP curriculum. Other factors, as, for example, student’s attentiveness, readiness to participate in learning process, self-awareness, classroom environment, play their important role in student’s high school mathematics performance. With guidance from educators, researchers and teachers, curriculum developers will be able to build on stronger patters of student outcomes. References Schoen, H. L. , Hirsch, Ch. R. (2003). Responding to Calls for Change in High School Mathematics: Implications for Collegiate Mathematics. The Mathematical Association of America Monthly, February, pp. 109-123. Available on-line from http://www. jstor. org/stable/3647770 .

How Useful Is Robert Mertons Anomie Theory?

How Useful Is Robert Mertons Anomie Theory? This essay is about how Robert Merton theory accounts for crime and deviance within a contemporary society. I will look at how he believes crime is a result of an ambitious society, and whether or not we can blame crime on the wider society and not on the deviant themselves. I will show how Merton and also Durkheim (1958-1917) construct their theories of crime from different principles, However, both use the theory of `anomie (also referred to as strain theory) in their bid to explain the negatives of society and the effect it has on the individuals who live here in retrospect to crime. I will look at the different approaches each functionalist uses to explain anomie, and how it fits in with their theories of contemporary society. I will also look at how they both agree on this theory, but differ on its initial causes. I also investigate how both believe that crime at some stage is a normal integral part of a contemporary society, and a result of ones self, but they differ on it valu e to society. Emile Durkheim, a French sociologist and functionalist, introduced the concept of anomie in his book The Division of Labour in Society, published in 1893. He used anomie to describe a lack of morale that was occurring in society. Durkheims book was first published 119 years ago however astonishingly his theories can still be applied to todays contemporary society. Anomie is a state were social norms are in crisis. They are vague and confused or even perhaps not present. Durkheim strongly felt this was a cause of deviance. In 1897 Durkheim used the theory again in his study on suicide. http://www.criminology.fsu.edu/crimtheory/week8.htm Durkheims One Cause of Suicide, Barclay D. Johnson, American Sociological Review, Vol. 30, No. 6 (Dec., 1965), pp. 875-886, Published by: American Sociological Association Merton works within the overall functionalist perspective which puts a great deal of emphasis on the role of society, particularly its merging aspects, it states that crime and deviance is a positive attribute to society due to many aspects which I will delve into further on in this essay. Merton now adapts a concept he adopts from the book suicide written by the functionalist, Durkheim in 1897. Durkheim strongly suggested that it is not the individual but culture that creates deviance. He stated that Crime is an integral part of society. He went on to further say that a deviant could also be viewed as a visionary to society and that deviance strengthens society by bringing communities together in times of crisis. In order to illustrate the importance of collective forces on the individual, Durkheim examined the subject of suicide. In Durkheims work, anomie referred to a situation in which cultural norms in a society break down because of sudden rapid change. He stated that rapid social change disrupts such norms and controls producing anomie, characterised by agitation, dissatisfaction, anxiety and a myriad of other characteristics relative to suicide and other deviance. Anomic suicide, for example is a result of the economic cycle. This can occur during a major economic depression such as the much recent recession, when people are not able to achieve the goals that they have learned to pursue, but it can also occur when the economy experiences a sudden and peoples once reasonable aspirations are now easy to achieve if not already achieved and they no longer have goals or something to work towards, also people do not know how to limit their aspirations and be satisfied with their achievements. Merton however changes Durkheims theory slightly, to refer to a situation in which there is an apparent lack of adequa cy between the cultures norms about what constitutes success in life, goals, and the cultures norms about the appropriate ways to achieve those goals otherwise known as the means. Durkheim, E, Spaulding, j, Suicide: A Study in Sociology, Free Press; Reissue edition (11 May 2010) Mertons take on anomie became the explanation for extremely high rates of deviant behaviour occurring in the United States compared with other societies, and also gave an explanation for the spread of deviant behaviour across groups defined by class, race, ethnicity and gender. Merton views the United States as a polar example of a society in which aspiration and goals are an integral part of society and pressure is put upon the people of America to aim towards a goal, however the goal is already set, The American Dream. The social structure in America, is however, characterised by major divisions and harsh economic inequality. Along with this huge division in social classes, people are also criticised as being quitters if they diminish their goals. On the other hand, however, the culture is at best indecisive in its norms about the appropriate means of being successful. Hard work in school and then in the economic workplace are favoured and are the culturally approved means of succe ss, but theres also an element of appreciation for the successful rogue who breaks the rules using immoral or illegal avenues and still achieves success. The end result is more appreciated then the journey to get there, so sometimes a blind eye can be turned to certain corners that may be cut in order to achieve success. A highly successful billion pound American company has recently been exposed for how it cuts corners to obtain high revenues; nobody asked how they were so successful until it was challenged. Some people saying Starbucks had a very good financial advisor as they were actually not doing anything illegal but morally it was wrong. Starbucks were very happy to continue their tax avoidance practices knowing it was probably immoral, however slightly this has tarnished Starbucks they are still a success story and whatever measures they are doing now is only to protect the brand, not because they feel they have a moral duty. In America, in other words, success is probably rated a lot more highly than virtue. http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2012/dec/03/amazon-google-starbucks-tax-avoidance A Critical Look at Mertons Anomie Theory, Alex Thio, The Pacific Sociological Review, Vol. 18, No. 2 (Apr., 1975), pp. 139-158, Published by: University of California Press. The Legacy of Anomie Theory: Advances in Criminological Theory, Freda A. Adler, William S. Laufer, Robert King Merton, Transaction Publishers, 1 Nov 1999 In addition, the United States, along with all other countries has minority groups whose access to success by conventional means is clearly limited. In the period in which Merton was writing, Society as a whole was a clearly racist. Black Americans were severely limited when it came to education and the workplace. Even so, the same goals were not just emphasised to the white middle class American however to all of their society, Thus therefore creates an influx in crime as people fight by any means to achieve their dreams, the collective American dream. http://www.criminology.fsu.edu/crimtheory/merton.htm Tony Sopranos America: The Criminal Side of the American Dream, David R. Simon, Perseus Books Group, 2 Mar 2004 In order for people to respond to this disjunction of goals and means, Merton created a typology of adaptations. The first of these being a conformist. Most individuals in society are conformists, they accept the culturally defined goals and choose these within their means, they then go on to pursue them using legitimate means of achieving them through the socially-acceptable avenues of educational and occupational advancement and work diligently. An example of this being University students wanting a degree and successful job in the workplace, however using their available means to pay for the study and achieve these goals. Although many citizens; majority being working class and lower middle class, are unlikely to attain the desired, unrealistic ends, they obey social rules anyway and grin and bear it (Winfree Abadinsky) without deviation or grievance. When unable to achieve their goals or to achieve success, they claim responsibility for such failures themselves (I didnt work as hard as I could have at school), and continue to conform to social expectations. The second possible reaction to Mertons anomie is that of innovation. Merton believed that much of criminal behaviour could be categorised as innovative. Innovators are people who tend to accept the goals of society for success and social status however lack the means of achieving such goals and therefore turn to immoral, illegal and deviant techniques in order to achieve these. Gomme stated that a good example of an innovator was a drug dealer or a gangster who perhaps come from a working class background who wish to attain wealth and success however lack the intelligence and money which is needed to achieve such goals, so therefore they maintain their goals but use socially unacceptable means to accomplish these aspirations. Innovators, however, are not necessarily violent or serious offenders: people who lie about their work experience or educational background on a job application can also fall into this category, These acts are not criminal or illegally wrong however these indiv iduals are trying to achieve success through immoral socially unacceptable means. Another of Mertons possible explanations to anomie is called ritualism. The ritualist accepts a lifestyle of hard work and ambition, but rejects the cultural goal of deferred gratification. This individual goes through the avenues of getting an education and working hard, and therefore has the means, yet is not committed to the goal of accumulating wealth or social status. Ritualists ease the strain of anomie by lessening their own aspirations of success to a point where goals are more attainable. They accept their social position, and consistently obey the path they are required to follow. Ritualists tend to avoid taking any risks and are comfortable living within the confines of daily routines, for example a mundane job etc. without complaining or striving for better. Ritualists are fearful of rejection and failure, so therefore do not set themselves up for one in order to not get hurt. As Gomme describes, for ritualists, the means become ends in themselves, A tele marketer for exa mple may be comfortable with the knowledge of not attaining wealth or status within their field of work, they are almost fearful of having to base their life on prospects and a dream and therefore almost make do with their current situation. The fourth explanation is retreatism. Retreatists make a more dramatic reaction to the stress of anomie, which is usually a permanent procedure. The stress and anxiety of the forced upon expectations of social success through conventional and traditional avenues forces the individual to essentially give up. They almost withraw from society as the individual rejects both the cultural goals of success and the socially legitimate means of achieving it. . The retreatist removes themselves or retreats from society and may become an alcoholic, drug addict, or vagrant. They have no means and no goal and have no ambition to change this.. As Durkheim observed, suicide can be seen as the ultimate retreat. The fifth type of adaptation to anomie outlined by Merton is rebellion. Rebellion can be seen as the most threatening and dangerous reaction to society. Rebellion occurs when an individual rejects both culturally defined goals and means and substitutes new goals and means. For example, gang members may make a new goal of gaining power in their gang and using violence and other illegal activities to achieve this. When alienated from society and social structures, rebels propose new goals and means for success. Their view of success differs from the usual law abiding citizen. Rebels may advocate new groups and work together to attain success, perhaps by radical terrorist attacks; suicide bombings. Society however may not be to blame for such radical movement as religion is at the forefront of terrorism. Siegel, L, Criminology: Theories, Patterns, and Typologies, Cengage Learning, 18 Jan 2012 Lauri Taylor however criticises Mertons typology and compares it to her own theory of a fruit machine what Is rigged. She stated that Conformists play the fruit machine and delude themselves thinking that it is fair. She stated that we are fooling ourselves having dreams that are more catered to society and not an indivual dream for our own self. Although a criticism of Taylors approach is perhaps there needs to be a protocol for quickness of time and economical reasons. Whether this is because we want to be accepted by society or for a consistent easy life without any trauma. Taylor stated that the second reaction to anomie, innovators, try to rig the fruit machine in their advantage. Perhaps this is an alternative approach to gaining success but can still ultimately fail as we are trapped in the confines of society. Although the people who judge what acts are illegal are those in the bourgeoisie, were crime is being committed daily; corporate veil, however it goes unseen. Perhaps the goals and the means are not consistent with one another and this is purposely set out as the upper classes wish to restrain those of a less social position from achieving success and wealth. The third approach, ritualism, as stated by Taylor is played blindly and obsessively by the ritualist. Ritualists do not like taking risks and therefore play the fruit machine blindly. They therefore never win any prize and do not have any expectation of winning any prize. They are quite content with their life and do not wish to be burdened with any goals or aspirations which they must base their life or work on. There is no end goal, they are ultimately like a hamster in a wheel working and not getting any reward. Retreatists as stated by Taylor, ignore the existence of the fruit machine. They almost live a day to day life with no sight of a foreseeable future. They have no end goal and wish to not any persue any dreams. Lastly, rebels. These individuals smash up the fruit machine and re build it in their favour according to Laura Taylor. They have the same goals; receiving a prize from the fruit machine, however lack the means of attaining such success so therefore use an alternative route; re building the machine, in order to gain a prize, there is however, no certainty of a prize at the end of it. Page 192, Durkheim and Modern Sociology, Steve Fenton, CUP Archive, 19 Jul 1984 Page 101, Understanding Deviance: A Guide to the Sociology of Crime and Rule-Breaking, David M. Downes, Paul Elliott Rock, Oxford University Press, 2007 This essay has discussed whether Mertons theory of anomie can give an understanding for the reasons behind crime in a contemporary society. It has established that the goals and aspirations set up by society have a big effect on the individual and also that in a lot of cases the means do not coincide with the goals and therefore people take a different avenue to achieve success, whether this being legal or illegal. Contemporary society has made wealth, education and success achievable for all classes, genders, races and ages. Because these goals are now available to everybody, this has created an influx in crime due to more competition and more people aspiring for the acceptable goals. Furthermore with the new coalition governments abolishing of the education maintenance allowance and the hiking up of University fees has meant there is more stream lining and again only the wealthy can be perceived as achieving their goals which could result in an increase in anomie amongst the indivi duals who lack the money and are at a disadvantage who are unable to access higher education. Mertons Anomie Theory however has come under criticism due to the overlook of Richard Quinneys conflict theory, crime in the suites. Crimes by the wealthy and powerful seem to not be discussed. Merton also seems to turn a blind eye to Cloward and Ohlens research on illegitimate opportunities and labelling theory and how this perhaps gives an understanding on individuals committing crime. This essay therefore concludes that anomie is a reasonable explanation for crime in contemporary society. A Critical Look at Mertons Anomie Theory, Alex Thio, The Pacific Sociological Review, Vol. 18, No. 2 (Apr., 1975), pp. 139-158, Published by: University of California Press

Research Analysis: Acceptance of Non-Abstinence Goals

Research Analysis: Acceptance of Non-Abstinence Goals Aaron Glogowski Dr. Michael E. Dunn Davis, A. K., Rosenberg H. (2013). Acceptance of Non-Abstinence Goals by Addiction Professionals in the United States. Psychology of Addictive Behaviors, 27(4), 1102-1109. doi: 10.1037/a0030563 Alan K. Davis and Harold Rosenberg have observed some formerly unexpected results from the use of drugs and alcohol recreationally. While the effects of excessive drug and alcohol use have been monitored and proven to be unsafe and unhealthy, recent studies have shown that a controlled use of them, otherwise referred to as non-abstinence, may bring several health benefits. Addiction professionals specializing in substance use disorders (SUD) are beginning to open their eyes to new alternatives of drug therapy for their patients. While many of these views are controversial among the professional world, many clinicians and doctors are starting to turn to the idea of non-abstinence in an attempt to help their patients more in the long term, by giving them short term goals that are easier for them to achieve. In this article, Davis and Rosenberg have catalogued their findings from a study that they conducted on the changing attitudes and ideals of professionals in many different clinical fields, in regards to the practice and implementation of non-abstinence. Davis and Rosenberg conducted their study based on previous surveys that they found that had been created to determine people’s opinions on the idea of non-abstinence. They asked the participants about how acceptable they thought it would be to administer a suggestion of non-abstinence to patients in eight different categories. They divided these categories based on the type of substance use disorder, as well as the severity of the problem and the intended final result from the practice. All of the survey respondents were then asked (using the eight categories from the previous question) to give a proportion of patients whom they had prescribed a non-abstinence procedure to. They gave proportions in increments of 25%, from none to 100%. After this, the participants were asked to rate its acceptability in different clinical settings. The survey was concluded with questions about the personal history of the respondents, such as their work environment, and whether or not they had any past history with substance abuse. The survey respondents were mostly Caucasian members of the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Addiction Counselors, and over half of them had previous experience with a substance use disorder. The results appeared to be in favor of non-abstinence being used as a mid-term goal on the way to giving up drug abuse, however, only 32% of respondents said it was acceptable to use non-abstinence as an end-goal. When the issue came to alcohol abuse however, 51% agreed that non-abstinence was an acceptable end-goal. On the other hand, when it came to drug or alcohol dependence, far fewer participants agreed with non-abstinence as a procedure. The participants ranked non-abstinence acceptability for drug dependence as 27% for an intermediate procedure, and 15% for an end-goal. They found very similar results with alcohol dependence, at 28% and 16% respectively. No matter what type of drug or severity of the problem, Davis and Rosenberg’s participants seemed to disagree with non-abstinence more often than agree with it. At least half said that they would not consider non-abstinence as a procedure in any case, regardless of the situation. Most of the respondents who were against non-abstinence thought it was ineffective, or it did not agree with the treatment philosophy that they had laid out for themselves. Some other reasons why participants disagreed with non-abstinence included things such as a fear for a medical condition that a patient could have, or worries over the legality of the substance that was being used, or the context in which the patient would be using it (such as underage drinking, or drug use in a stressful work environment). Another key player in the determination of the acceptability of non-abstinence procedures was the environment in which professionals would be recommending the procedure. In both rehab and detoxification programs, the majority of survey participants found it to be a completely unacceptable treatment, with unacceptability ratings at 74% and 68% respectively. However, outpatient programs, DUI/DWI education programs, and independent practices saw significantly better results in terms of acceptability, with unacceptability ratings at 57%, 45%, and 28% respectively. Davis and Rosenberg also observed various characteristics of their respondents to determine whether there was any correlation between those factors and their acceptance of non-abstinence programs. They found that participants who had history with alcohol or drug related issues tended to disagree with non-abstinence programs more than those who had no history with drugs and alcohol, however, the variation was so small that it was deemed insignificant. In observing the results of their study, Davis and Rosenberg noticed some outside circumstances in relation to their topic of discussion. They realized in conducting the surveys that there was a possibility of bias, especially in regards to whether or not the addiction professional was willing to work with the client. They found that some professionals were simply unwilling to work with clients who were attempting to continue taking drugs or alcohol in moderation. These professionals were less likely to accept the possibility of non-abstinence treatments. These same professionals also accepted the fact that some of their clients may resort to non-abstinence procedures anyway, even if they didn’t prescribe or condone the procedure. Davis and Rosenberg’s study, when compared with previous studies on the subject, found that American addiction professionals had become more accepting of non-abstinence in terms of drinking than they had been 20 years prior. The amount of participants who rated non-abstinence as an acceptable mid-goal for alcohol abusers is twice as many as 20 years before their survey. Davis and Rosenberg claim that the increase in acceptance could be due to several factors, including an understanding of non-abstinence as a potential method for reducing long-term harm, and a reduction of total abstinence, or the 12-step program. Other regions still appear to be more accepting of non-abstinence in general, whether it is for a mid-goal or an end-goal. From previous studies, Rosenberg found that the United Kingdom had over an 80% acceptance rate of non-abstinence for alcohol abusers, and a 68% mid-goal as well as a 50% end-goal for alcohol dependence. Overall, even though America is slowly becoming more accepting of non-abstinence, they still have a long way to go before they reach the United Kingdom’s acceptance level. Davis and Rosenberg realize that their study may be skewed by outside factors, such as the study being a web-based study, or an inherent bias with the way that questions were asked. With regard to the outliers, Davis and Rosenberg conclude their study with notice for those practicing non-abstinence as it is becoming more common, especially in outpatient or independent practices. Everyday Use, Alice Walker | Symbolism And Characters: Everyday Use, Alice Walker | Symbolism And Characters: In the story Everyday Use, Alice Walker uses a detailed description to help describe the symbolism of the unique and highly valued quilts, as well as, contrasting the characters throughout the story. The quilts stand as a specific symbol and as more than just a creative piece of artwork throughout the story. According to an article written by Sam Whitsitt, the quilt, itself, represents the history and tradition that binds the African culture to the past and the past to the present (Whitsitt, 445). The quilts helps portray the theme of African American heritage throughout the story and binds Mamas ancestors and her heritage altogether. The quilts signify the bond between each generation and the impact they have on each main character in the story, which include Mama, Dee and Maggie. Walkers usage of the quilts throughout the story also helps demonstrate the differences between each of the characters. The quilts are the main focus in the story that brings out the characters true person alities and shows the differences in those personalities. Throughout the story Everyday Use by Alice Walker, the quilts help portray the unique cultural symbolism of the African culture and the way they view quilting, as well as, illustrating the differences of the main characters in the story. In the story, quilting is used as a symbol to signify the African American past. The quilts are a primary symbol that stands for the ties of heritage and the distinctive culture of Mamas family. According to an article written by Claudia Tate, Barbara T. Christian, the person who showcases the corpus of Walkers works and the traditions of African-American literature, explains that Walker articulates the metaphor of quilting to represent the creative legacy that African Americans have inherited from their maternal ancestors (Tate, 308). Quilting is part of the African American past and travels from generation to generation. According to an article written by David Cowart, the quilt that Dee, or Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo, fights over links her generation to previous generations and, therefore, the quilt is shown to represent the African American past (Cowart, 171). There are many types of unique patterns in the quilts that Mama and Dee are disputing over. According to Whitsitts article , many African American quilters employ large, often abstract designs, the use of these different designs shows the uniqueness of the quilt (Whitsitt, 454). The patterns in the quilts represent the African American past and Mamas heritage. In both of them were scraps of dresses Grandma Dee had worn fifty and more years ago. Bits and pieces of Grandpa Jattells Paisley shirts. And one teeny faded blue piece, about the size of a penny matchbox, that was from Great Grandpa Ezras uniform that he wore in the Civil War (Walker, 113). The use of these different types of patterns in the quilts symbolizes the history of Mamas family and the creativeness they had. The precious materials used in making the quilts represent the culture and the high value they each contain. The fabric that is used in the making of the quilts shows Mamas unique culture and the love her family has for their culture. The work Mama, Grandma Dee, and Big Dee put into the quilts show their strong African American herit age and background. In the African American culture many quilts travel from generation to generation to show ones familys culture and where they came from (Cowart, 171). The quilts Dee and Mama are fighting over are to be traveled from generation to generation, also, to help keep the culture alive. The quilts play a major role in the family because of the prestigious heritage they each contain. They help show the distinctive African heritage and special cultural symbolism. The quilt ties everything, heritage included, together. As the quilts are passed down the familys history and culture is past down, also, which makes the quilts play a special role in the African American culture. The quilts made by Mama, Grandma Dee and Big Dee are not only used as a symbol throughout the story but are shown as objects that the African American culture keeps in reserve because of the value the they contain (Whitsitt, 455). The quilts contain a historic value because of the creativeness that was put into making them. As Patricia Mainardi notes in Whitsitts article, many inhabitants of the African culture who make the quilts sign them and date them to show the high value they contain and also put a list in their will of who should inherit the quilts they make once they pass away (Whitsitt, 455). The quilts have a specific value and are treated with much care because of the strong culture they uphold. Throughout the story Mama and Maggie distinguish the quilts as more than just a piece of artwork, instead they see them as something to treasure in remembrance of loved ones. According to Whitsitts article, the quilt represents those values of things which do not circulate, do not wander, do not gel traded or sold but, rather, stay at home (Whitsitt, 454). They value them because the quilts remind them of their beloved relatives, such as Grandma Dee and Big Dee. The quilts portray a high value throughout the story and because of this high value Mama promises the quilt to Maggie for when she marries (Whitsitt, 455). Mama wants to give Maggie the quilts because of the history they each contain and because Mama wants the quilts to be utilized in everyday use. If the quilts were to be hung on the wall, like Dee wanted to do to preserve the African American heritage, then the true culture wouldnt be shown. On the other hand, if the quilt was put to everyday use, like Maggie would do with the quilt, then the African heritage would be shown and kept alive because it was being put to use. Mama wants to give Maggie the quilts for that reason. Mama knows Maggie will preserve the quilts and put them to everyday use to remember her ancestors and their families history and culture. Throughout the story the quilt not only shows symbolism and value but also helps in contrasting each character. According to the article by Susan Farrell, Dee is seen throughout the story as shallow, condescending, and manipulative, as well as, overly concerned with style, fashion, and aesthetics, and thus as lacking a true understanding of her heritage (Farrell, 179). Mama remembers Dee as a fearless girl who, unlike herself, would always look anyone in the eyes. Hesitation was not part of her nature (Farrell, 181). Dee is seen throughout the story as very different then Mama and Maggie because she is very selfish and demanding (Farrell, 181). Maggie, on the other hand, was the complete opposite of her sister. Maggie, throughout the story, was seen as the quiet and timid child with no characteristics that related to her sister. In Farrells article, she states that most readers see Mama and Maggie as having a true sense of heritage as opposed to Dees false or shallow understanding of the past (Farrell, 183). Mama and Maggie are seen throughout the story as wanting to cherish their heritage by keeping the quilts to use, as well as, to remember loved ones. Dee, on the other hand, sees the quilts as something that should be kept in reserve and to hang on the wall as a unique piece of artwork. Maggies moderation in the story contrasts with Dees courage (Farrell, 183). When Dee says that Maggie would ruin the quilts by putting them to everyday use, and that hanging the quilts would be the only way to preserve them, Maggie, like somebody used to never winning anything, or having anything reserved for her, meekly replies: She can have them, Mama, I can member Grandma Dee without the quilts(Farrell, 183-184). Once this occurs, Mama acts in a different manner than she has before. She sees Maggie standing with her hands hidden in her skirt and says: When I looked at her like that something hit me in the top of my head and ran down to the soles of my feet. Just like when Im in church and the spirit of God touches me and I get happy and shout (Farrell, 184). This powerful feeling causes Mama to do something she never had done before; she snatched the quilts out of Dees hands and dumped them into Maggies lap(Farrell, 184). This scene in the story is the only part where Mama acts differently than before. Instead of acting like the patient Maggie, Mama begins to act more like Dee, with her refusal to back down and her motivation to stand up for herself (Farrell, 184). The quilt in the story acts as a way to contrast the characters and show their different personalities. Throughout the story, the quilts symbolize and show the value of the African American culture, as well as, acting in a way to show the differences between the main characters in Everyday Use. The quilts play a major role in Everyday Use and are mentioned throughout the entire story. The quilts have an impact on each character throughout the story, and they help in contrasting each character and showing symbolism of the African American culture. The mentioning of the quilts display the importance of the African American heritage and the true value it has on Mama, Maggie, and Dee. Dee is shown wanting the quilts to just hang on the wall and show their unique culture from afar. In actuality, the quilt is shown as a symbol of the African American heritage and importance of remembering loved ones. The remembrance of Mamas ancestors will also be preserved forever with the use of the quilt in everyday life. The values of the quilts are shown as a way to remember the loved ones who helped in the making of them and also of Mamas ancestors. The quilts portray the unique cultural bond between Mamas ancestors and her heritage. The quilt binds Mamas ancestors and the value of her heritage together and shows the impact the quilt has on her, Maggie and Dee. The quilt brings out the diverse personalities of Mama, Maggie and Dee throughout the story and the different views they have on their heritage, as well as, the actions they each take. With the usage of the quilts, the distinction between each character is shown, as well as, the unique cultural symbolism throughout the entire story.

Street racing: On The Inside :: essays research papers

For 19-year-old Jeff, weekends begin on a long strip of highway near Atlanta. rather than browsing the mall or going to the movies like others his age. Jeff joins a group of his comrades and spectators to witness a spectacular show of speed. As we pulled up to the meeting spot he looks over at me and says, â€Å"Welcome to the world of illegal street racing.† "We have a cruising area where all the cars go and just chill. If someone wants to race," says Jeff, "they just ask...most of our races are with people you know pretty well...we don't have the major race nights like they have in other areas." The other areas Jeff refers to are about as common as can be and can probably be found on a straightaway near you. "Motorsports has made incredible progress as a legitimate sporting event in the last decade," says Editorial Director of NHRA Publications Phil Burgess. "Corporate America has taken a keen interest in motorsports, which has led to the proliferation of not just racing teams, but racing venues, where racers and fans can go to enjoy the fast-paced excitement that the varied forms of racing have to offer. Many sanctioning bodies offer grassroots-level racing, often where families can enter a race car literally off the street and compete against similar entries." Contrary to popular belief, street racing isn't only found on the fast moving streets of the major cities, its going on all over the country. Recent articles published on MSNBC.com report on street drag racing as an increasing problems in such out of the way places as Spokane, Washington and Forth Worth, Texas; other articles found on www.abc.com report on accidents and coverage of events in Washington D.C., Boston and New York City. Los Angeles County is a big street racing scene however, was recently given a $200,000 state grant to crack down on the illegal street racing activity. Penalties for racing vary from state to state and offense to offense, but can range from a slap on the wrist ticket to arrest and impounding of the vehicle as was the case last January when police in Sylmar-Sun Valley arrested 32 people and impounded 72 vehicles after a sweep. With such heavy impending penalties why would anyone set themselves up for what seems imminent trouble? "Everyone's got a hobby," says Jeff. "And this just happens to be mine.

How the Use of Drugs and Alcohol Affect High School Achievement Essay

How the Use of Drugs and Alcohol Affect High School Achievement A student at Lakeside High School, called Ann for purposes of privacy, had a grade point average of 3.6 through her sophomore year. During her junior year, she dropped out of extra-curricular activities and became withdrawn from other social activities. As she was introduced to the world of hard drugs, Ann’s grades dropped to C’s and D’s. At her graduation party, she was rushed to the hospital for a heroin overdose. Ann’s grades plunged as a result of heavy drug use, a likely combination of emotional and physical degrading upon herself. Society as a whole degrades itself in this manner, whether the individuals themselves realize it or not. Achievement in high schools today is lacking greatly because of the societal problem of teen drug abuse. (Callahan 1) The achievement of high school students is affected by the usage of drugs and alcohol. Many factors can lead to the usage of drugs. There is an apparent correlation between family income and drug use. The pressures exerted by society and peers also increase the chance of high school students to use drugs or alcohol. Students who are under the influence of mind-altering chemicals cannot learn as well, lack motivation, and risk permanent loss of memory and ability to learn. Many programs have been put into effect in the last five years to help combat this social disease, such as D.A.R.E. This is a serious problem in today’s society because not only is the usage illegal, it causes society as a whole to degrade its social climate for growth. (Schydlower 1) Some of the most common factors that seem to have a direct correlation with drug use are peer pressure, high unemployment rate, low paying jobs, continued poverty, health problems, and lack of health insurance. There are many reasons why a high school student may use alcohol or drugs, but there are five main reasons as thought by Cepulkauskaite. They may feel the need to use drugs in order to feel grown up, to fit in and belong, to relax and feel good, to take risks and rebel, or to satisfy curiosity. Students yearn for social acceptance more than academic achievement, which is a problem that society continues to fight. These causes are among the many that may or may not lead to drug usage. (Hayslett 1; Cepulkauskaite 2) The effects of drug abuse are many and range from coma to ... ... Executive Summary of the 2000 Primary Prevention Awareness, Attitude, & Use Survey (PPAAUS). 2000. March 23, 2003. Futris, Ted G. and Urvia McDowell. Adolescents at Risk: Illicit Drug Use. 2002. April 6, 2003. Hayslett, Chandra. Alcohol, Drugs Affect Dropout Rate-Study. February 13, 1996. March 9, 2003. Jacobus, Karen. Effects of Drug Use. 1999. April 6, 2003. National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Prevention. School Health Policies and Programs Study. September 30, 2002. April 6, 2003. Parents. The Anti-Drug. Winter 2002. April 7, 2003. Pride Says Teen Drug Use at 10-Year Low. July 19, 2002. April 6, 2003. Schuster, Eli. Education, Poverty Linked. November 26, 2002. April 9, 2003. Schydlower, Manuel and Committee on Substance Abuse. The Role of Schools in Combating Substance Abuse. May 1995. March 9, 2003. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. The National Household Survey on Drug Abuse. September 3, 2002. March 9, 2003. Tobacco, Alcohol, and Other Drug Use Among High School Students – United States, 1991. August 5, 1998. March 9, 2002. Your Time-Their Future. Overview. 1999. April 9, 2003.

The Three Main Theories of Deviance and Their Strengths and Weaknesses

The Three Main Theories of Deviance and Their Strengths and Weaknesses A functionalist analysis of deviance looks for the source of deviance in the nature of society rather than in the biological or psychological nature of the individual. Although functionalists agree that social control mechanisms such as the police and the courts are necessary to keep deviance in check, many argue that a certain amount of deviance can contribute to the well-being of society. Durkhiem (1895) believed that: * Crime is an 'integral part of all healthy societies'. This is because individuals are exposed to different influences and will not be committed to the shared values and beliefs of society. * Crime can be functional. All societies need to progress and all social change begins with some form of deviance. In order for change to occur, yesterday's deviance must become tomorrow's normality. Nelson Mandela, once imprisoned as a 'terrorist', eventually became president of South Africa. * Societies need both crime and punishment. Without punishment the crime rate would reach a point where it became dysfunctional. Durkheim's views have been developed by A. Cohen (1966) who discussed two possible functions of deviance: 1. Deviance can be a 'safety valve', providing a relatively harmless expression of discontent. For example, prostitution enables men to escape from family life without undermining family stability. 2. Deviant acts can warn society that an aspect is not working properly, for example widespread truanting from school. Merton (1938) explains how deviance can result from the culture and ... ... (taking advantage of 'insider' knowledge to make huge profits on the stock exchange). This is illegal, which suggests that capitalists do not always get the laws they want. 5. 'Left Realists' believe that Marxists put too much emphasis on corporate crime. Other crimes such as burglary cause greater harm than Marxists imply. Their victims are usually working-class and the consequences can be devastating for them. 6. Post-modern Criminology rejects Marxist criminology as being neither believable nor defensible. Despite these criticisms, Marxism has been an influence on a number of critical perspectives on deviance. Some have drawn their inspiration from Marxism and can be referred to as neo-Marxist approaches. Others owe less to Marxism and are better defined as radical approaches.

Personal Scarlet Letter

La Seanda Hendrick AP English Ms. Avallone Period 2 October 10, 2012 PERSONAL SCARLET LETTER ESSAY Insecurity, a word we’re all familiar with. A person’s insecurity is a reflection of one’s self-esteem and pride within their self. There are many things I am insecure about: my face, my weight, my body, the list goes on. These are all things that I believe are flaws about myself. I tend to think that everyone is against me. As if I am everyone’s enemy. That no one is as genuine to me as I am to them. My flaw is overthinking. Always over analyzing someone’s words or actions into what I assume they are meant to be.This major flaw of mine I believe is the cause of my insecurities. Over thinking has caused me to stress myself out over minor situations that could have easily been avoided. I developed early, very early, as early as 7 years old. In my young mind, I thought I was just like everyone else. That was until someone finally spotted it out, making m e aware of my abnormality. This then made me feel self-conscious about my physical appearance. For years to pass, I continued to believe that my abnormality was wrong. As if I was supposed to look like one thing but did not. I hit puberty before anyone of my age.I was the tallest amongst my friends and classmates and the most developed. Boys at my age did not look at girls that were â€Å"bigger† than them, or looked older than them. They were interested in girls that looked their age, which was only about 9 and 10. I did not take this as â€Å"I’m too good for them† or â€Å"They’re not on my level yet. † I took this as â€Å"boys don’t want me because I am ugly. † I would think that people only wanted to befriend me just to have a reason to laugh at me, or make me cry – considering I was a huge cry baby – I would think no one genuinely wanted to be my friend.We are all taught to watch our surroundings and who we allow in our lives. After all, you are a reflection of those that you surround yourself with. As I’ve grown up and have matured, a lot, I am still very self-conscious, but I choose not to let people know. All the hurt and agony I feel, I hide and keep to myself. It can hurt to hear the truth, the desire to know the truth but afraid of what the answer may be. This is where the overthinking plays in. The simplest thought, I over analyze and interpret in my own way and this can most likely cause me to come up with conclusions that were never discussed.These thoughts that I come u with tend to bring me down, making me feel worse than before. My mind is consistently in motion, I am always processing something. Without the peace of mind I desperately want, I will always scrutinize everything. This is a truly personal flaw that no one could ever point out, much more complex than any physical â€Å"flaw†. I have grown to not care what people have to say about what may seem as a flaw to them but I still undergo a personal struggle of attempting not to over analyze situations and allowing them to solve itself instead of making up a solution in my conflicted mind.

A Difficult Task Force: Organizational Behavior Essay

The concept of groups, teams and teamwork is a very important factor for good performance of the whole company. I read the case about the group of professionals who had to control and serve the new joint venture between companies from Japan, United States, and South America. This new company had to make, sell, and service pet caskets for the burial of beloved pets, mostly dogs and cats. During the first month of work, each company had assigned personnel to the task force. The members from every company were chosen to participate in the joint venture. As chair of the task force, Jose initiated a meeting of all the members of the new company. He gave historical information, and then he reviewed the market for the innovations of their prospective product. The task force was to develop the initial design parameters for the new product to meet increasing demand around the world. Next part of the meeting was opened to comments and suggestions. Mariana Preus, representative from Argentina, the head of product design, said that the current designs that they had in production in Argentina plant were just fine, and he didn’t see any reasons to innovate the design of their product. All other members of the meeting agreed not to make any changes in the design of the product. Jose reminded to all of the participants of the meeting that their task force’s purpose is to redesign the product and its manufacturing systems. Finally, Jose had to agree with members of the meeting and to write a memo to the council of presidents with the recommendation to use existing designs and to begin immediately to design the plant and the manufacturing system. The meeting adjourned,d and Jose returned to his computer and started to write the memo that, he knew, would anger the presidents. He wondered what had he done wrong and what he could have done to prevent such result of the meeting. I think that in this case study we see an example of the formal group that is formed by a manager to help the organization to accomplish its goals. The group development process wasn’t finished and ended on the second stage–storming. Analyzing the group member roles, in our situation Jose is the initiator of the meeting, information giver, opinion seeker, and orienter. Mariana Preus has a role of initiator and information giver, because he insisted on the not redesigning of the product. The other members seem to serve just as a passive audience–followers, because they all agreed  to the Mariana’s suggestion, and didn’t give any other opinions. Also, there was no group cohesiveness; a â€Å"we feeling† binding group members together to accomplish their goal. The diverse nature of the group affected the committee’s action by not understanding and participating of all members in the meeting. If I was in Jose’s position, I would try to keep the group headed toward the stated goal better, and not to agree with the suggestion of one member, but to count the opinions of every member of the group. Also, it wasn’t right to adjourn the meeting before getting the result that would approach to the goal of the whole meeting.

Psychology and Multiple Choice

Psychologists who accept the model tend to seek universals and do not believe there are Individual differences in behavior. Multiple Choice 1 1. Pets Your Score: Your Answer : neuroscience Correct Answer : neuroscience The Choices Were: neuroscience cognitive humanistic behavioral Psychologists who believe in are most likely to attempt to understand diversity in ethnic background as an influence on behavior. Multiple Choice 1 1. Pets Your Answer : Individual differences Correct Answer : Individual differences individual differences free will determinism universal principles del tend to look for the uniqueness of every individual.Multiple Choice 1 1. Pets Your Answer : humanistic Correct Answer : humanistic psychodrama Although their interests are diverse, psychologists share a common Multiple Choice I I. Opts Your Answer : Interest In mental processes and behavior. Correct Answer : interest in mental processes and behavior. Interest in mental processes and behavior. Concern for apply ing their knowledge to social situations. Interest in the study of animal behavior. Respect for the ideas of psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud. The scientific study of s the primary focus of psychology.Multiple Choice I 1 . Opts Your Answer : behavior and mental processes Correct Answer : behavior and mental processes behavior and mental processes how people live and work paranormal experiences people with psychological disorders In explaining human behavior and mental processes, psychologists try to achieve all the following goals EXCEPT Multiple Choice | 1. Pets Your Answer : manipulation. Correct Answer : manipulation. Description. Prediction. Explanation. Manipulation. The primary difference between a psychologist and a psychiatrist is that MultipleChoice | 1. Pets Your Answer : psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in psychological disorders. Correct Answer : psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in psychological disorders. The Choices Were: psychologists have more formal education than do psychiatrists. Psychiatrists are physicians who specialize in psychological disorders. Psychologists are more likely than psychiatrists to have a Used degree. Psychologists are unlikely to have education beyond the bachelor's degree. Currently, there are dominant perspectives in psychology.Multiple Choice I Correct Answer : five one five nine hearten A psychologist who adopts the perspective would be interested in how cells in the nervous system transmit information to each other. Multiple Choice | 1. Pets DRP. Reams is a psychologist who is working to develop a drug treatment for Parkinson disease. Knowing nothing else about DRP. Reams, with what perspective in psychology do you think she would closely identify? Multiple Choice | 1. Pets Your Answer : neuroscience Correct Answer : neuroscience neuroscience DRP. Anthony is a psychologist who researches the hereditary influences of schizophrenia.Knowing nothing else about DRP. Anthony, with what perspective in Your Answer : neuroscience Which psychological approach is most closely associated with Sigmund Freud? Multiple Choice 1 1. Pets Your Answer : psychodrama Correct Answer : psychodrama â€Å"Slips of the tongue† and dreams are seen by psychologists as revealing the unconscious mind's true beliefs or wishes. Multiple Choice 1 1. Pets Those who identify with the psychodrama perspective emphasize Multiple Choice Your Answer : unconscious rather than conscious causes of behavior. Correct Answer : unconscious rather than conscious causes of behavior.The Choices Were: unconscious rather than conscious causes of behavior. Observable behavior rather than mental processes. Mental processes of which the person is aware, rather than those that are hidden from awareness. Intentional rather than unintentional actions. Which perspective asserted that psychology should focus solely on observable behaviors that can be objectively measured? Multiple Choice | 1. Pets Your Answer : behavioral Correc t Answer : behavioral A main theme of the humanistic approach is that Your Answer : people have free will to make their own decisions.Correct Answer : people have free will to make their own decisions. The Choices Were: people have free will to make their own decisions. Behavior is genetically or environmentally determined. Unconscious conflicts dominate personality. Thoughts and emotions can be understood biologically. With their emphasis on human potential and free will, and figures in the humanistic perspective. Multiple Choice 1 1. Pets Your Answer : Carl Rogers; Abraham Moscow Correct Answer : Carl Rogers; Abraham Moscow Sigmund Freud; Carl Jung Carl Rogers; Abraham Moscow John Watson; B. F.

Houses as Motif: Kate Chopins the Awakening

Houses as Motifs in Kate Chopin’s The Awakening Linda Catte Dr. Kathryn Warren ENGL 2329: American Literature March 22, 2012 (KateChopin. org. ) (Krantz’s Grand Isle Hotel Picture of painting by Tracy Warhart Plaisance) (Reflechir: Vol. 1. Les images des prairies tremblantes: 1840-1940 by Cheniere Hurricane Centennial Committee) It is not new or unique that an individual is looking for one’s purpose and meaning in life. Nor is it unique that men and women imitate the norms of society. In Kate Chopin’s novella, The Awakening, Edna Pontellier, the antagonist, knocked against the societal norms of the late 1800’s.Houses represent Edna’s search for her inner self. The houses which Chopin uses in The Awakening come in pairs which contrast each other. Chopin uses the bird cage and the bath-house to illustrate imprisonment and freedom. The house on Grand Isle and the small house on the Cheniere Island represent restlessness and awareness. The grand house on Esplanade Street in New Orleans and the small house located just around the corner demonstrate confinement and control in contrast with freedom and independence. Each house brings to light different aspects of Edna’s personality as she searches for her inner soul and finds new awakenings along the way.As various houses are presented by Chopin, each will provide insight into Edna’s search for meaning in her life. In order to better understand Edna’s state of mind as Chopin begins The Awakening, the norms of society needs an explanation. Mr. Leonce Pontellier demonstrates characteristics of a husband who fits the societal norm of 1899 when The Awakening (Chopin) was written. Behaviors by Leonce are displayed in the opening chapter of Chopin’s novella. There are bird cages with a talking parrot and a singing mockingbird, hanging on the porch of the main house at Grand Isle. â€Å"Mr.Pontellier, unable to read his newspaper with any degree of comfor t, arose with an expression and an exclamation of disgust. † (Chopin, ch. 1) Leonce had the freedom to walk away from an irritation and find solace elsewhere. â€Å"Mr. Pontellier had the privilege of quitting their society when they ceased to be entertaining. † (Chopin, ch. 1) The bird cage represents imprisonment, the birds represents how individuals in society mimic what is repeated over and over. Although every word is not equally understood and interpreted by all, the words still have a meaning. (http://office. microsoft. com/en-us/images)Edna and Leonce were interpreting different meanings from what society expected. Edna had the burden of imprisonment because of the societal norm. Leonce had flexibility and freedom. He was a businessman with a wife and family that was expected to behave in such a manner that would exhibit appearances of a proper marriage and family. An illustration of Leonce’s attitude is revealed in Chapter One of Chopin's book, a few spe cific examples are, â€Å"†¦looking at his wife as one looks at a valuable piece of personal property †¦,† â€Å"†¦perhaps he would return for the early dinner and perhaps he would not. and â€Å"If it was not a mother’s place to look after children, whose on earth was it? He himself had his hands full with his brokerage business. † Leonce viewed himself as important, the roles of society were rigid and fixed in his eyes, and certainly to his advantage. (http://office. microsoft. com/en-us/images) Edna did not have the freedom to detach herself as her husband did from unwanted annoyances. Her escape to the bath-house provided as much freedom as Edna could possess at the time. â€Å"†¦had no intention of bathing; they had just strolled down to the beach for a walk and to be alone and near the water. (Chopin, ch. 7) Lounging at the bath-house on the beach with her friend, Madame Ratignolle, is when Edna realized realities about her marriage a nd children. Her life was now somewhat predetermined because of her own rash decision to marry Leonce out of rebellion against her father and sister Margaret. â€Å"Add to this the violent opposition of her father and her sister Margaret to her marriage with a Catholic, and we need seek no further for the motives which led her to accept Monsieur Pontellier for her husband. † (Chopin, ch. ) She desired passion as expressed in her daydreams prior to marriage, â€Å"It was when the face and figure of a great tragedian began to haunt her imagination and stir her senses. The persistence of the infatuation lent it an aspect of genuineness. The hopelessness of it colored it with the lofty tones of a great passion. † (Chopin, ch. 7) But she had no passion in her life. â€Å"As the devoted wife of a man who worshiped her, she felt she would take her place with a certain dignity in the world of reality, closing the portals forever behind her upon the realm of romance and dreams . † (Chopin, ch. 7) (http://office. icrosoft. com/en-us/images) Marriage did not bring fulfillment or satisfaction to Edna’s life, nor did being a mother. â€Å"She would sometimes gather them passionately to her heart; she would sometimes forget them. † (Chopin, ch. 7) When her children were away with their grandmother, they were not missed by their mother. â€Å"Their absence was a sort of relief, though she did not admit this, even to herself. It seemed to free her of a responsibility which she had blindly assumed and for which Fate had not fitted her. † (Chopin, ch. 7) What mother forgets her children and does not miss them when they are gone?Edna was searching for meaning in her life, she wanted happiness. (http://office. microsoft. com/en-us/images) (http://www. loyno. edu/~kchopin/Album10. html) Vacationing at the house on Grand Isle is where Edna’s dissatisfaction with her own life is brought to the reader’s attention by Chopin. †Å"An indescribable oppression, which seemed to generate in some unfamiliar part of her consciousness, filled her whole being with a vague anguish. It was like a shadow, like a mist passing across her soul’s summer day. It was strange and unfamiliar; it was a mood. † (Chopin, ch. ) Leonce’s role as a husband was unchanging, â€Å"†¦her husband’s kindness and a uniform devotion which had come to be tacit and self-understood. † (Chopin, ch. 1) Spending her summer vacation with the Creoles opened Edna’s eyes to a whole new society. â€Å"A characteristic which distinguished them and which impressed Mrs. Pontellier most forcibly was their entire absence of prudery. † (Chopin, ch. 4) Edna had been raised in a strict religious Presbyterian home by her father. (Chopin, ch. 22) Edna’s new acquaintances stirred new thoughts, there was an inner conflict within her.Unspoken expectations were present for societal norms to be followed fo r a devoted wife and mother, those like her new friend Adele Ratignolle. Edna longed to be her own person, depart from what is expected of her and discover what or who makes her happy. As more and more of Edna’s days were spent together with another new friend, Robert, she missed him when he was not around. â€Å"She missed him the days when some pretext served to take him away from her, just as one misses the sun on a cloudy day without having thought much about the sun when it was shining. † (Chopin, ch. 0) Mademoiselle Reisz impacted Edna, it started when she heard her play the piano at the grand party in the main house on Grand Isle. â€Å"Edna was what she herself called very fond of music. † (Chopin, ch. 9) As she heard the chords, she would envision in her mind what each piece of music was saying to her. But with Mademoiselle Reisz, it was different. Her emotional response was something she had never experienced. â€Å"The very first chords which Mademoi selle Reisz struck upon the piano sent a keen tremor down Mrs. Pontellier’s spinal column. † (Chopin, ch. 9) It was the exact emotion in which she was searching. But the very passions themselves were aroused within her soul, swaying it, lashing it, as the waves daily beat upon her splendid body. † (Chopin, ch. 9) It was that night Edna learned to swim; it was that night she did not do exactly what her husband asks of her. (Chopin, ch. 10) It was the house on Grand Isle that first awakened Edna to new thoughts and feelings. (http://www. loyno. edu/~kchopin/cheniere. htm) The next morning, Edna and Robert went to Cheniere Island. Edna’s behavior and attitude began to transform. She took steps of boldness by sending for Robert to go with her to Cheniere. She had never sent for him before. † (Chopin, ch. 12) On the boat ride to the island, Edna felt a sense of freedom, â€Å"†¦felt as if she were being borne away from some anchorage which had held h er fast, whose chains had been loosening-†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Chopin, ch. 12) She began to daydream of a life where she was alone with Robert. She shared this imagined world with him as her flirtation intensified. (Chopin, ch. 12) When they reached the island, they fulfilled the intended purpose of the trip by attending mass at Our Lady of Lourdes. The freedom Edna had experienced on the boat ride was stripped from her as she sat in the church. †¦her one thought was to quit the stifling atmosphere of the church and reach the open air. † (Chopin, ch. 13) It was at this time that Robert took Edna to a small house on the island where she naps and discovers another facet of herself. Once she awakens, she and Robert have dinner outside the small house, the evening approaches, they do not want the day to end. â€Å"It was very pleasant to stay there under the orange trees, while the sun dipped lower and lower. (Chopin, ch. 13) Upon their return from Cheniere Island, Edna separates herself so that she can be alone to ponder her escape.The escape to the little house that gave her a taste of peace and contentment. â€Å"She could only realize that she herself-her present self-was in some way different from the other self. † (Chopin, ch. 13) (http://office. microsoft. com/en-us/images) Upon return to the grand house on Esplanade Street in New Orleans, Edna brought with her disappointment and heartache. She had not planned on Robert’s sudden departure to Mexico. As her life was becoming more self absorbed, she wanted Robert to remain part of her life. She was aware of her infatuation with him and reacted emotionally to his absence. †¦she had lost that which she had held, that she had been denied that which her impassioned, newly awakened being demanded. † (Chopin, ch. 15) Being home in the grand house where Leonce displays his possessions with such pride, left Edna feeling trapped and imprisoned. Her summer experience changed how she wante d to live her life. When Leonce was ready for life to be back just like it was before, Edna displayed behaviors of rebellion. She was not going to receive visitors on Tuesday afternoons any longer, she was not going to dress as expected for dinner, and she was not going to lead her life controlled by her husband. Chopin, ch. 17) bb (katechopin. org) Leonce was appalled at Edna’s sudden change in behavior. There were societal norms that were important to Leonce. He did not want their friends to think they did not behave properly. â€Å"†¦people don’t do such things; we’ve got to observe les convenances if we expect to get on and keep up with the procession. † (Chopin, ch. 17) The Esplanade house represents confinement and control over Edna. With her new found awakenings, she had no desire to return to the ways of her old life. â€Å"She resolved never to take another step backward. † (Chopin, ch. 7) Her thoughts remained with Robert. â€Å"She had tried to forget him, realizing the inutility of remembering. But the thought of him was like an obsession, ever pressing itself upon her. † (Chopin, ch. 13) (katechopin. org) Edna moved forward with confidence but still did not find the independence she was desiring. Leonce found her behavior â€Å"†¦odd, she’s not like herself. † (Chopin, ch. 22) â€Å"Her whole attitudetoward me and everybody and everything-has changed. † (Chopin, ch. 22) Leonce had concerns about his wife but left her alone upon the advice of Doctor Mandelet. He moved forward with his own (katechopin. rg) life and took a business trip to New York. Edna thought she might miss him , but found â€Å"†¦a radiant peace settled upon her when she at last found herself alone. † (Chopin, ch. 24) Her children were in Iberville with their grandmother. But this peace was short lived. She still did not have Robert. She looked to activities and relationships to find fulfillment in her life. But none provided the contentment and satisfaction she desired. (Chopin, ch. 25) While Leonce was away, Edna made a spontaneous and rash decision , while on a visit with Mademoiselle Reisz, to move into her own house. (Chopin, ch. 6) The small house was located just around the corner from their home on Esplanade Street. â€Å"It looks so cozy, so inviting and restful†¦I’m tired looking after that big house. It never seemed like mine, anyway-like home. † (Chopin, ch. 26) It was this small house where Edna was certain she would find peace and happiness. She would find what this cozy house represents, â€Å"freedom and independence. † (Chopin, ch. 26) Each house Chopin uses as a motif brings to light different aspects of Edna’s personality as she searches for her inner soul. Each house brings new awakenings for Edna along the way.Each house represents her search for meaning in life. â€Å"No longer was she content to ‘feed upon opini on’ when her own soul had invited her. † (Chopin, ch. 32) But Edna was unable to satisfy her soul. She wanted more than anyone or anything could give her. She wanted passion, she wanted Robert. When Robert left for Mexico, it was out of his love and respect for Edna that he could not stay. When he left the small house, it was, again, out of his love and respect for Edna that he must leave. It was Adele Ratignolle who reminded Robert in the beginning of The Awakening (Chopin) of his behavior as a gentleman. If your attentions to any married women here were ever offered with any intention of being convincing, you would not be the gentleman we all know you to be, and you would be unfit to associate with the wives and daughters of the people who trust you. † (Chopin, ch. 1) Edna did not have the wisdom to understand Robert’s rejection of her. She lived selfishly. â€Å"Conditions would some way adjust themselves, she felt; but whatever came, she had resolved n ever again to belong to another than herself. † (Chopin, ch. 26) This statement confirms that Edna’s soul would not be found with Robert. She was aware of her own emptiness. There came over her the acute longing which always summoned into her spiritual vision the presence of the beloved one, overpowering her at once with a sense of unattainable. † (Chopin, ch. 30) (http://office. microsoft. com/en-us/images) The emptiness Edna experienced after Robert’s departure left her hopeless. â€Å"Despondency had come upon her there in the wakeful night, and had never lifted. There was no human being whom she wanted near her except Robert: and she even realized that the day would come when he, too, and the thought of him would melt out of her existence, leaving her alone. (Chopin, ch. 39) It was when Edna stood before the ocean that she knew her future. â€Å"The voice of the sea is seductive, never ceasing, whispering, clamoring, murmuring, inviting the soul to wa nder in abysses of solitude. † (Chopin, ch. 39) The only answer to free Edna’s soul was to enter the sea. Freedom would come only in death. There was no turning back to the empty life which only brought despair, heartache and loneliness. The true love, passion, and happiness she envisioned for her life had escaped her. Robert brought a glimpse of the future Edna had envisioned.But that future was not for Edna. In the ocean, naked and without any confinement around her , was she was able to find home. (http://office. microsoft. com/en-us/images) Citations: Chopin, Kate. The Awakening. 1899. www. amazon. com/Kindle-eReader-eBook Retrieved on January 14, 2011. http://www. katechopin. org http://office. microsoft. com/en-us/images http://www. loyno. edu/~kchopin/Album10. html Reflechir: Vol. 1. Les images des prairies tremblantes: 1840-1940 by Cheniere Hurricane Centennial Committee.