Impact of economic recession on British manufacturing - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 9 Words: 2613 Downloads: 9 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Economics Essay Type Analytical essay Did you like this example? Introduction Economy is the study of choice making by customers, business managers and government officials to attain their goals, given their scarce resources, in this era of globalization economy used to analyze real world development and productivity through interaction of buyers and sellers and cross border movement of goods, services, technology and capital. This movement caused by globalization and technology advancement in RD increased the number of MNE manufacturing which I am going to analyze in this assignment through PEST and strategic growth (Ansoff Matrix) in a case of British Manufacturing. Economic recession is slowdown of general economic activity over a period of time, this situation brings many effects in microeconomic and macroeconomic, as microeconomic deals with demand and supply and macroeconomic indicate variation in production as measured by gross domestic product (GDP)  [1]  , employment, investment spending, capacity utilisation, household incomes, business p rofit and inflation.  [2] . Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Impact of economic recession on British manufacturing" essay for you Create order Impact of economic recession People become jobless due to shut down of many firms Strong firms start getting down fall in profit data Creditors fail to pay Value of crucial merchandise increase rapidly No savings as people start to use their money for liquidity due to redundancy. Country gross domestic product data will start diminishing. Economic recession in British British, is the 6th largest country in the world in both Gross domestic product (GDP)  [3]  and Purchasing power parity (PPP)  [4]  , but due to many economic recession British face huge unemployment, GDP fell to 5.9% , most Banks reached stage of bankruptcy and affect many other sectors including investment firm. Multinational enterprise is a firm which has a worldwide approach to markets and production or a firm which operates in more than one county. (Daniels et al, 2009, pg 64) Advantages of Multinational enterprises It creates jobs and brings development through taxes. It improves BOP since they bring money to invest. It also acts as one of globalization motive through international integration of capital, technology, goods and people. Effect of MNEs to host country It creates unskilled labour and kills innovation through introduction of new technology Sometime they can have high influence to country economy and government operations as they operate in very large scales. Contribution of Multinational enterprises in British economy British economic growth depends in all sectors but secondary sector (Manufacturing) plays a vital role in British trade liberalization since colonial era, in this era of globalization British firms depends much on increasing investment (going global) be multinational enterprise and applying of new technology so as to be more innovative and cost efficiency. Example BLMC, Virgin, AstraZeneca, Vodafone and Tesco etc Diagram 1. Drivers of going global International Strategies Market Drivers ~ Similar customer needs ~ Global Customers ~ Transferable marketing Government Drivers ~ Trade policies ~ Technical Standards ~ Host government policies Competitive Drivers ~ Interdependence between countries ~ Competitors global strategies Johnson et al, pp. 297 Adapted from Yip (2003) Cost Drivers ~ Scale Economies ~ Country-specific differences ~ Favourable logistics Environment scans for British MNEs through PEST framework. PEST stands for Political, Economic, Social and Technological analysis which used to scan business environment through strategic management  [5]  so as to reduce uncertainty, minimise risk and deal with change. These variables are likely to influence organization demand, supply and its external costs. Diagram 2. Business environment scan Environmental Scan                /  External Analysis       Internal Analysis /                             Macroenvironment Microenvironment /    P.E.S.T. Political factor This is the major factor which affects MNEs operations in their foreign investment where by company has to focus on rules and regulations of the host countries. Also in British labour union has more power in all sectors but manufacturer are highly affected as their main stakeholders, to avoid these pressure group British MNEs continual to invest in labour intensive country like Africa, India and china. Taxation went down due to low productivity in recession period but European Union (EU) made a great contribution in British MNEs quick recover as is estimated to be the largest market accounting 23% of global sale, especially after further extension of EU zone. A new administrative rule was made to favour the members such as free trade flow and remove some of tariffs. As economy affect all sectors in the country, British economic recession of 2007-2008 played an immense role in changing political ruler (party in power) from Labour to Conservatives part, this also creates cha nge in investment, migration rules and business barrier (Hill, 2002) Economic factor Economic factor concern with demand, cost, prices and profits, one of the most influential elements on the economy is high unemployment levels, inflation and change in GDP. Economic recession which hit British so many times since 19th century made MNEs to suffer bankrupts and other firms were total close down, this is because firms are still highly dependent on local market as primary their primary source of growth and expansion example Tesco. Creditors failed to pay their loans which made banks to be in a danger of bankrupts like HSBC. In Recently recession of 2007-2008 British interest rate slash to 0.5%, GDP fell to 4.7%  [6]  and value of GBP fall all over the world which was major indicator of fall in country economy. Social factors The living standards of people dependent on wages and salaries are more affected by recessions than those who rely on fixed income or welfare benefit. The loss of a job in British create negative impact on the stability of families as people did not have money to support their families well being. Life standard of people change and moved toward one stop shopping, which drive chain of supermarket like Mark Spence, Tesco etc who are also manufacture to add value on their products and service through business mix. The type of goods and service demand by consumers is a function of their social conditioning and their consequent altitudes and beliefs. Consumers are becoming more aware of health issues, and their attitude towards foods are constantly changing, one example a Tesco which adapt product mix so as to accommodate an increase demand for organic product, the company was also the first to allow customer to pay in cheques and cash at the checkout. British improve Tax coll ection so as to finance government expenditure such as provision of credit to business or budget for social welfare, because by improving standard of living this will encourage citizen to work hard for economic development. Technology factors Rapidly growth in technology in this era of globalization helps British MNEs to run in low cost and increase flexibility. Invention of digital machines in western countries helped British MNEs to be more innovative like self check out machine in supermarkets example Tesco which speed up shopping process. Also due to high capital which firm spent in RD British MNEs benefit much in technology advancement as it creates new operation opportunities such as new marketing mix channel, new purchases environment e-business and low the cost of RD tools, where by firm can do primary feasibility study through e-data before do a survey in a target market. Example: Jaguar in e-business sees appendices 2 Environmental scanning helped British MNEs to face economic trend (world economic crunch and recession) by continual investment as well as shaping the future of their investment by identifying the elements of growth and expansion of their manufacturing industries. The direction of grow in British MNEs through Ansoff Matrix. In this era of globalization, every firm wants to grow and increase market share, operation tend to emphasize on developing corporate strategy which orient and push market objectives, but pushing market objective especially in foreign countries become a big dilemma due to economic recession and world political imbalance. In executing these strategies British MNEs has to identify a method which can make them analyze whether to continue with an existing mode or find a new one, this choice is considered with a combination of forecast in development of market and products in Ansoff matrix. Ansoff matrix is a four strategy alternatives which can be applied to any business so as to grow or expand market with its competitive advantage without changing the corporate strategy  [7]  , this mode was first introduced by Professor Igo Ansoff after quitting Lockheed Electronic as vice president and joining Carnegie University where he wrote a book called corporate strategy. Strategy which British MNEs can execute in a period of recession Market penetration This strategy can be more beneficially in period of recession where by firm had no enough fund to continual invest in a business. But firm can increase market share through competitive pricing strategies, advertising, sales promotion and perhaps more resource dedicate to personal selling example Kellogg Company attempted to sell more cornflake to existing consumers by advertising the idea of eating Kellogg cornflake at any time of the day Also due to financial crisis which cause many people to lose their job pricing strategy can increase customers by convincing existing customer to use more and attract non users of the product. Product development This strategy may require the development of new competencies and requires the business to develop modified products which can appeal to existing markets As British MNEs went through financial crisis in a period of recession this strategy can be more useful as firm can do minor change in existing product or develop a new one which will appeal the same market. The reasons that justify the use of this strategy includes:- To utilize the excess production capacity To counter competitive entry And maintain the company reputation as a product innovator and exploit new technology which will protect overall market share  [8]  . This strategy also moves the company into in to the market again and toward customer that are currently not being catered for. Example: In Automotive industry Ford Focus tended to replace Ford Escort. Market development This is when firm develop it market by move beyond its immediate customer by exporting goods to overseas market or selling to a new market segment. This strategy also can be usefully to British MNEs in a period of recession as firms can only adjust its operation and cooperate strategy by improve product dimension or packing, increase distribution channels or move to a new geographic example Tesco lunch Babys wear in Sweden. Will the benefit of new technology off set investment in RD for IB in an era of Globalization? It is true that benefit new technology can off set investment in RD due to the following resource. Globalization refer as integration of world economies through the reduction of barriers to the movement of trade, capital, technology and people.( John D.D, et al, pg 2009) This movement has high influence in social culture force which led to change in preference and altitude of customers towards quality and price of product due to this situation and huge capital which firm invest in RD example: UK-GlaxoSmithKline spent GBP 3,708m in pharmaceuticals biotechnology RD, firms decide to add new technology to counterbalance research and rapidly change in business. Also new technology had tremendous impact on International Business through development of new information technology whereby new market opportunities are now emerging through e-business which supports innovation and become the source of strategic advantage example current sales performance of Jaguar through e-busine ss.(Currimbhoy, 2004) In traditional firms production and sales was highly supported by RD but due to technical advances of internet and digital machinery firm improve production in competitive market and meet environment regulatory requirement in a short time through links system such as KM, CRM and ERPs New technology also improves distribution channels examples web shop, banner or linking and searching engine which speed up distribution and receive customer feedback quick. The development of new business information technology help firm to integrate their operation through usage computer software such as CAD,3Ds and 2Ds, these softwares provides firms with input- tools for the purpose of stream lining design process, drafting, documentation and manufacturing process which traditional was done after research. After this designing softwares also new technology assist firm in review their product performance before spending money in production through prototype and get f eedback from customers through company website. Regardless of all the benefit mentioned above new technology can also bring tough competition between firms due to economic integration and sharing of operation systems. Recommendation As world economy becomes more dynamic due to globalization this accelerate the technology advancement worldwide also many firms gets difficulty to hold on their competitive edge. British MNE has to increase efforts to develop means of collecting data globally in order to provide clear and more comprehensive, timely picture of RD for their investment abroad. New technology can be a crucial element in globalization but its implementation can be a slow process due to the following reasons:- As Technology frequently change, management is subjected to a dilemma whether to invest in new technology or not due to high capital which they will invest on it. It increases cost of operation in organizations for staffs re-training so they can have correlation with new system. It increases competition among firms due to the low production cost and effectively distribution channels. Appendices IMF data on economic recession Statistically, evidence of economic recession shown by IMF economist who states that global economic shows growth of three percent or less in four periods since 1985 (1990-1993, 1998, 2001-2002 and 2008-2009.  [9] Example of Technology factor for British Manufacture MNE Every factors has effect on its implementing example: Ford group in selling Jaguar car invest more in e-business and become source of strategic advantage (Currimbhoy, 2004) but as it create better supply chain control, development of this business side is very costly and the management have to choose between investing in jaguar brand uplifting or investing in future development of e- business and other operational improvement.  [10] https://ec.europa.eu/invest-in-research/pdf/download_en/report_international.pdf Reference and Bibliography Text Books Saleemi N.A, revised and update, 2008, Economics Simplified: introduction, Saleemi publications Ltd, Nairobi-Kenya. ISBN: 9966-28-982-8 Johnson G, et al, Fundamentals of strategy: Industries and sectors, Pearson education, first published 2009. ISBN: 978-0-273-71310-4 Daniel J.D, et al, 12th edition, 2009, International Business: environment and operations, Pearson, Prentice Hall, ISBN no. 978-0-13-500112-7. Manuafacturing in British, a survey of factors affecting growth and performance a councils account of the major positive and negative influence, Industry system research, 3rd edition, 2003 Website https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economic_agent, https://www.novinite.com/art/perfin/multinational_business_finance.html, last retrieve 2nd June 2010, at 3:46 pm https://www.ivoryresearch.com/sample3.php, last retrieve 28th May 2010, at 6:18 pm https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/financetopics/recession/4321675/UK-recession-its-official-but-will-it-be-the-worst.html, last retrieve 10th July 2010, 10: 15 am https://www.ehow.com/how_4561854_overcome-recession-economic-collapse-government.html#ixzz0s3VDsD8x, last retrieve 16th June 2010, at 7:40 pm https://www.thefirstpost.co.uk/47376,news-comment,news-politics,british-manufacturing-a-success-story,2#ixzz0svFxMR11, last retrieve 3rd July 2010, at 4:05 pm https://www.universityessays.com/example-essays/marketing/tesco-marketing-strategy.php, last retrieve 16th July 2010, last retrieves 07:20 pm https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/7677436.stm, last retrieve 15th July 2010, at 08:50 am https://ayushveda.com/blogs/bu siness/ansoff-matrix-business-expansion-strategies/, last retrieve 15th July 2010, at 06:43 pm https://ivythesis.typepad.com/term_paper_topics/2008/02/ansoff-matrix-d.html July 20 2010, at 5:25 pm https://www.spiked-online.com/index.php/site/article/7018/ , last retrieve 22nd July 2010, 11:42 am https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economic_sector, last retrieve 25th July 2010, last retrieves 1:33 pm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manufacturing_in_the_United_Kingdom, last retrieve 25th July 2010, last retrieves 4:02 pm https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Economic_sectors_and_income.JPG, last retrieve 25th July 2010, last retrieves 4:47 pm https://www.coursework4you.co.uk/essays-and-dissertations/pest-analysis.php last retrieve 26th July 2010, last retrieves 5:20 pm https://www.coursework4you.co.uk/essays-and-dissertations/ansoff-analysis.php, 3rd august 2010, 8: 34 https://www.ivoryresearch.com/sample5.php, last retrieve, 25th July 2010, last retrieves 4:47 pm

The Long Shadow Of Lincoln s Gettysburg Address - 1137 Words

Esmeralda Diaz Mrs. Anderson English III 9 April 2015 The Long Shadow of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president, he was born on February 12, 1809 and died April 15, 1865, he wrote a speech named the Gettysburg Address, it was a short quick speech he wrote on the spot, but it made a big impact. Lincoln abolished slavery he modernized the economy and strengthened the federal government. He lead the United States through its civil war, it was one of the bloodiest wars and constitutional and political crisis, â€Å" As many as 51,000 were dead, wounded, or missing after the bloodiest single battle in all of the United States history† (GETTYSBURG 9). After the decades of fights over slavery the United States was brought in to a war. The people saw Lincoln’s election as a â€Å"mortal threat to slavery, an institution central to their economy and way of life† (GETTYSBURG 9). 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Job Satisfaction Impacts Productivity Levels

Question: Write about theJob Satisfaction Impacts Productivity Levels. Answer: Introduction The satisfaction of the employees in a firm affects their performance in a significant way. Its vital for the management to understand ways or retaining his employees via offering them satisfaction and required level of motivation (Christina G. Chi, 2009). The objectives and success depends on the job satisfaction of the employees, the result of this is improved productivity and better success for the firm. Its essential that a firm to be sensitive to the employees feelings, reasoning, and wishes to realise how to raise the staff dedication and commitment to their jobs. By following this guideline, the outputs of the firm can be improved and commitment re enforced. Boosting staff satisfaction is a very important factor for the entity. My research is to evaluate how job satisfaction impacts on the level of productivity. The research will be supported by a variety of human theories. the theories will illustrate the level to which the employees will be job satisfied (Rachel W.Y. Yee, 2008). A cause effect relationship exists between the job satisfaction and the productivity level. The job satisfaction is the cause while the productivity level is the effect. Analysis of Data Preceding data collection, in the process of data analysis wo variables were identified dependent and the independent variable (Christina G. Chi, 2009). The job satisfaction is the job satisfaction since it is the basis for the assumption while the dependent variable is the productivity level since its the outcome of the defined assumption making the job satisfaction the x axis and the productivity level the y-axis statistical analysis techniques were applied to gauge the job satisfaction and productivity level. Outcomes and Discussion The outcome of the analysis was that there exists an impact on the productivity level by the job satisfaction. The use of intrinsic rewards results to more job satisfaction among the higher job level workers while the use of extrinsic words raises the job satisfaction among the lower level workers. The top managers are more willing to improve their effort on their jobs as compared to professionals and other staff members. The level of experiences plays a role on the job satisfaction with more experienced workers more satisfied with their jobs (Kurt Matzler, 2007). Presence of financial rewards unequal promotional opportunities and rewards contributes to employees satisfaction, retention and attraction. The more job satisfied the workers are the higher their productivity level. The job satisfied employees have a better reputation. Conclusion and Recommendation The study is about satisfaction and productivity, the overall means for raising job satisfaction are based on considerations of workers compensation and investment systems in to the workers welfare objected system that ensures staff motivation is enhanced. As a result, the research study connecting the job satisfaction and the productivity level consists of a set of compensations that workers expects currently form their jobs. Apart from financial rewards the workers are increasingly rooting for diverse reward choices. Employers research are proving that employees are demanding more variety of rewards from the work place (Gerhart, 1990). Some will go to an extent of a portion level of base pay for other needs. The management should therefore recognise and implement reward strategies that are in line to the needs of the workers. This way they would be able to raise job satisfaction and result into improved productivity of employees. The managers as well as the employees should be made aware of the targets attached to the rewards so theta un intended and malice motives can be undermined in advance. References Christina G. Chi, D. G., 2009. Employee satisfaction, customer satisfaction, and financial performance: An empirical examination.. International Journal of Hospitality Management , Volume 28. Christina G. Chi, D. G., 2009. Employee satisfaction, customer satisfaction, and financial performance:An empirical examination.. International Journal of Hospitality Management, Volume 28, pp. 245-253. Gerhart, B. . M. G. T., 1990. Employee Compensation: Research and Practice. In Marvin D Dunnette . Leaetta M. Hough (Eds.), Handbook of industrial . organizational psychology. Palo Alto, CA: Dunnette . Leaetta M. Hough (Eds.), Handbook of industrial . organizational psychology.. 2nd ed. s.l.:Consulting Psychologists Press,. Kruse, D., 1991. Profit-sharing and Employment Variability: Microeconomic evidence on the Weitzman theory. Industrial and Labor Relations Review, Volume 44. Kurt Matzler, B. R., 2007. . Assessing asymmetric effects in the formation of employee satisfaction.. Tourism Management, Volume 28. Rachel W.Y. Yee, A. C. Y. T. E. C., 2008. The impact of employee satisfaction on quality and profitability in high-contact service industries.. Journal of Operations Management, Volume 26.

Gender Identity Paper free essay sample

This paper will attempt to discuss some of the effects hormones, biological, and environmental factors have on an individual’s sexuality. When a baby is born usually the first statement out of the doctor’s mouth is â€Å"it is a boy† or â€Å"it is a girl†. Society has traditionally believed one is born either male or female. If one is born male he is expected to be masculine, be attracted to women, and to pursue hobbies and behaviors considered to be manly. If one is born female she is expected to be feminine, to be attracted to men, and to pursue hobbies and behaviors considered to be feminine. Occasionally an individual may be born with nonconforming gender identity. What this means is an individual may be born with male or female genitalia but actually have interest and behaviors of the opposite sex. For individuals with this conflicting belief life may be extremely painful. Society deems one either male or female and has developed certain schemas for each gender. However one’s emotional gender identity may be contrary to what society has deemed the individual. A single sperm cell which fertilizes an ovum, or egg, is called a zygote. A zygote contains all the information essential for the normal growth of a complete adult organism in its natural environment (Pinel, 2009). The zygote contains 23 pairs of chromosomes; half from the producer of the sperm and half from the producer of the egg. The cells of females only have the X chromosome, the cells of males have X and Y chromosomes; this means the male is responsible for the sex of the zygote (Pinel, 2009). A male zygote will have X and Y chromosomes while a female zygote will have only X chromosomes. Males and females produce the same hormones, androgens and estrogens, in different amounts. Males produce more testosterone, which is the most common androgen, and females produce more estradiol, which is the most common estrogen. Around the sixth week of gestation the Y chromosome of the male triggers the Sry protein which causes the primordial gonad to develop into a testis; in the absence of the Sry protein the primordial gonads automatically develop into ovaries (Pinel, 2009). Throughout the gestation period various other hormones are released to prompt the development of male or female genitalia. On occasion if the embryo is exposed to conflicting hormones there may be genital abnormalities. With the advances in medical technology it is possible for expectant parents to identify the sex of their unborn child. Once sex has been determined parents begin purchasing gender specific clothes, toys, and nursery items. This innocent act of the expectant parents begins the gender identity of an unborn child (Eliza, 2011). Traditional families, a mother, a father, and one or more children, is fast becoming a rarity in today’s society. Modern families may consist of two mothers, two fathers, a single parent male or female, or perhaps a grandparent. The environment in which a child is reared has some bearing on his or her sexual preference. A child reared in a traditional family, by grandparents, or perhaps by a single heterosexual parent may be encouraged to participate in gender specific play and to conform to gender specific roles. These children may also be corrected or disciplined when engaging in play or behaviors perceived to be in conflict with his or her gender. Whereas a child reared in a homosexual environment may be allowed or encouraged to explore his or her emotions of sexuality. Homosexuality has become more prevalent in today’s society; this could be a result in society’s tolerance of homosexuality and laws passed to ensure the equal treatment of homosexuals. The author tends to believe society’s tolerance of homosexuality has encouraged more individuals to express their homosexual tendencies. In times of the ancient Greek homosexuality and bisexuality were considered natural and normal. The increase in the popularity of Christianity was one of the major factors which affected society’s view of homosexuality. Christians considered homosexuality a sin and condemned the practice of homosexuality. However, the increase in gay rights and the implementation of policies which force society to tolerate homosexuality, such as laws against discrimination, has changed the view of homosexuality. Society has taken the subject of homosexuality away from being a moral issue and turned it into a personal preference. Through the readings of this course it is the author’s belief homosexuality is both a matter of choice and also an issue of biological abnormalities. The case studies found within the text indicate a stronger correlation between hormones and sexual preference. The case of the Twin Who Lost His Penis indicated the individual’s sexuality was imprinted from early childhood. The loss of his penis and his being forced to be raised as a girl had no bearing on his male tendencies. Despite the fact he was forced to live like a girl he always â€Å"felt† like a boy. It is the opinion of the author biological factors plays a stronger role in determining ones sexuality. Environmental factors such as society’s view of homosexuality have also played an important role in the acceptance of such behavior. Through the ages society has dictated the types of behaviors and actions which are acceptable and â€Å"normal†. A generation ago smoking was acceptable and homosexuality was considered abnormal. Today’s society says smoking is unacceptable and homosexuality is normal. It is not the author’s intention to pass judgment only to direct attention to the changes society has made throughout history. One may only speculate what changes the future holds. References Eliza, A. D. , Maria, R. S. , amp; Amy, L. S. (2011). Childhood gender identity . . . disorder? developmental, cultural, and diagnostic concerns. Journal of Counseling and Development : JCD,  89(3), 360-366. Retrieved from http://search. proquest. com/docview/873035547? accountid=35812 Pinel, J. (2009). Biopsychology. Boston: Pearson Education, Inc.

Richard Williams, III Essays - Physical Geography, Water

Richard Williams, III Mr. Greer Practicum STEM Robotics 09222016 The Exceptional Statewide Drought in California The issue at hand is the severe drought consuming over 71% of the state of California. This drought has California the driest it's been for 500 years . The heat has the Golden State with almost no snowpack in the mountains, which are critical sources of runoff for the state's water reservoirs. If this problem isn't fixed immediately the drought will only increase every year until the state has a 100% drought and there's no water left. This issue is was caused naturally but also influenced by mane-made things and issues such as global warming, pollution, and the overuse and waste of freshwater. One of the natural causes of the drought is a mass of warm water in the Pacific Ocean that has drifted closer to the West Coast named " The Blob ". Scientists believe this mass has persisted in about the same area for over 2 years and measure 1,000 miles across and 300 feet deep. Researchers have stated this mass of water may be a partial cause of the drought due to the increased temperature of the water, it doesn't allow much cool and moist air into the atmosphere in the direction of the state. Other scientist speculate that the high pressure system " La Nina " is likely what kicked off the drought cycle in 2011 by creating a persistent high-pressure system just off to the West Coast, close to California. The high-pressure system interfered with storm tracks and wind flow, causing storms that would usually have hit California to chart a different course and drench other locations with their much-needed precipitation. Recent studies on the scientific phenomenon have found that La Nina is to blame for the emerging drought. They've also discovered another possible cause named the "Ridiculously Resilient Ridge", which is a high pressure area in the atmosphere off the West Coast, nearly 4 miles high and 2,000 miles long. This atmospheric pressure is currently blocking Pacific winter storms from coming to California, deflecting them to Alaska and British Columbia. The results of this drought can become catastrophic. During times of drought, the areas flora and fauna are visibly dry and very unhealthy. This affects the herbivores that eat the plants, consequently removing the food source for omnivores and carnivores that eat the herbivores and plants. In summary, drought can cause an entire ecosystem to fail over time. Also the water levels in lakes and reservoirs fall dramatically, causing us humans to resort to underground aquifers and wells. The bad thing about that is over time, as the drought persists, the constant removal of the backup water can result in land subsidence, seawater intrusion, and the development of sinkholes. These issues are harder to see but are more costly to manage. The decline of surface water flows can be detrimental to water supplies for agriculture, cities, hydropower production, navigation, recreation, and habitat for aquatic and riparian species. There are no known ways to prevent and mostly natural drought; however there are ways man can prevent the negative effects of them. To begin with, local governments can use recreational surveillance drones to search for possible water sources or signs of aquifers. They can also be used to locate stranded or hurt people all over California with most focus on the Mojave, Colorado, and Great Basin Deserts. Other ways to prevent substantial water loss is to attempt to replenish the supply with seawater intrusion, which is using automated machines to remove water from the oceans, purify it, and store/deliver it to holding areas until it is needed. One of the major problems that come with droughts is wildfires. Fire departments can use drones put out the fires by remote so that no firemen with have to go in harm's way. And in conjunction with that, they can use rovers to survey particularly dry areas, locate, and remove potentially combustible debris and return them to a sec ure location. The drought in California is a major concern and should be treated as so. The natural disaster itself cannot be prevented but its effects can be. Technology is the greatest advancement in human civilization; we

Free Essays on The Right To Die

Euthanasia The controversy of euthanasia has been debated for years. Is it immoral or just a way to help a person suffering? Both sides of this argument make good points, which make it even harder for one to decide. In the end, it is currently illegal in the states, but maybe this law should be changed. In â€Å"Euthanasia – A Critique† published June 20, 1990, Peter A. Singer and Mark Siegler argue against two of the main basis for euthanasia: relief of suffering and individual rights. Their reasoning against relief of suffering is that they feel a patient can be put out of pain without death. They feel with better pain management patients won’t feel this way. They also dispute that the fear of dying is tied into this. For this cause, the writers state that a person can opt to not be put on life saving devices allowing them to pass, without relying on euthanasia. As far as individual rights are concerned the people behind this article state that â€Å"(the right to die) must be balanced against the legal, political, and religious prohibitions against killing that have always existed in society generally and in medicine particularly† (Singer/Siegler 334). On the other hand, in â€Å"In Defense of Voluntary Euthanasia† published in 1987, the writer, Sidney Hook, is for euthanasia for two main reasons. First, because he went through an ordeal where he asked to be allowed to die and he was denied that right. Now, even though he has recovered a lot, he still feels he’s gone through more than enough, and wishes he could just pass away. His second reason is because he doesn’t want his family to have to go through seeing him in a stage where he can’t function properly. He feels that he has â€Å"lived a full and relatively happy life, I would cheerfully accept the chance to be reborn, but certainly not to be reborn again as an infirm octogenarian. To some extent, my views reflect what I have seen happen to the aged and stricken who... Free Essays on The Right To Die Free Essays on The Right To Die Euthanasia The controversy of euthanasia has been debated for years. Is it immoral or just a way to help a person suffering? Both sides of this argument make good points, which make it even harder for one to decide. In the end, it is currently illegal in the states, but maybe this law should be changed. In â€Å"Euthanasia – A Critique† published June 20, 1990, Peter A. Singer and Mark Siegler argue against two of the main basis for euthanasia: relief of suffering and individual rights. Their reasoning against relief of suffering is that they feel a patient can be put out of pain without death. They feel with better pain management patients won’t feel this way. They also dispute that the fear of dying is tied into this. For this cause, the writers state that a person can opt to not be put on life saving devices allowing them to pass, without relying on euthanasia. As far as individual rights are concerned the people behind this article state that â€Å"(the right to die) must be balanced against the legal, political, and religious prohibitions against killing that have always existed in society generally and in medicine particularly† (Singer/Siegler 334). On the other hand, in â€Å"In Defense of Voluntary Euthanasia† published in 1987, the writer, Sidney Hook, is for euthanasia for two main reasons. First, because he went through an ordeal where he asked to be allowed to die and he was denied that right. Now, even though he has recovered a lot, he still feels he’s gone through more than enough, and wishes he could just pass away. His second reason is because he doesn’t want his family to have to go through seeing him in a stage where he can’t function properly. He feels that he has â€Å"lived a full and relatively happy life, I would cheerfully accept the chance to be reborn, but certainly not to be reborn again as an infirm octogenarian. To some extent, my views reflect what I have seen happen to the aged and stricken who...

Business Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 8

Business Plan - Essay Example The company intends to incorporate information technology into the marketing strategies adopted by companies to gain a competitive advantage. To offer marketing services through clear-cut information systems. To be an effective information technology company that offers operational management services in relation to marketing processes. The company will strive to create a broad consumer base by improving the marketing strategies adopted by companies. The primary reason for writing this business plan is to convince our prospective clients to utilize the operational management services offered by the company. The company plans to provide information technology services to companies to improve the marketing strategies adopted. The company is concerned with formulating ways to improve productivity through effective marketing strategies. The first part of the business plan is the company description. The business plan contains an in-depth analysis of the company to explain that it is a reliable information technology company. The products and services provided by the company are also outlined in the business plan. This section describes the benefits of the services offered by the company to its clients. The business plan is concluded by an overview of the operations and management functions of the company. The business plan does not include an appendix, market analysis, or financial analysis. The reason for such omissions is attributable to the fact that the company is still new. It has not been in existence for a significant amount of time to establish the market and financial performance. However, the service description and operations and management segment provide all the relevant information about the company and the set objectives. Techmark is a limited liability corporation that focuses on providing operational management services in relation to marketing.

Management And Personal Management Competencies Essay

Management And Personal Management Competencies - Essay Example This deed will make sure the sufficient and suitable corresponding among the organisational and the personal/managerial competences. No doubt, Khandwalla (2004) research results sketch management competencies which have been highly oriented in consecutive managers in dissimilar organisations around the planet. No doubt, the core competencies seem to be helpfulness enhancing" (p.12). Reliability has a huge impact on the aptitude to earn respect which eventually helps to mobilize scarce resources in hard situations. Planning aptitude and time management ability have exposed appositive effect for taking personal responsibilities. Team building skills are a basic source for helpful, effectual and relaxed environment. Before introducing the manger require for team job competencies. The author powerfully proclaims that personal traits, values, consider and attitudes are the core personal competencies which may improve or weaken one aptitude to manage others. So, self awareness, personal orientation, motivation, expressive aptitude etc' are to be firstly address and training focused in order to augment personal aptitude to perform, to learn and to take pleasure in his communication with the surrounding. (fields supportive concepts from :Bandura, A.(2000);Covey, S. (1988);Gardner, W.L. and Schermerhorn. (2004);Luthans, F. (2002). Myers, L and Tucker, M. (2005);Pajares, F. (2002) Robbins, S.P. (2001) and Updegraff, S. ( 2004). Skills And Values Required Of Professionals IF we analyzed then we come to know that dynamic and quick developed operational environment demands for expert and high possible personal traits and skills. No doubt, under these circumstances, performance fineness becomes personal and organisational proportional advantage. Khandwalla (2001) suggest, "Performance of the manager depends considerably on how well his/her multiple roles are played. In turn, how well these roles are played by the managers of an organization influences the performance of the organization" (p.11). Updegraff (2004), broaden the theory of the decision-making competence throughout join learning and the interface in the middle of people in the organisation. "If employees can assist employees make the mainly of their personal competence and achievement, it than follows that companies would stand to gain as well" (p.43). McLean, J and Davis, P (2000) emphasis the learning process from side to side relations when they wrote, "It is from side to side our relations (intrapersonal; inter-personal; intra-organisational and inter-organisational) that we attain all of our important personal, organisational and shared goals (p.1). Updgraff (2004) suggest, "The ability to build and uphold expert association is a vital part for personal efficiency" (p.46) Covey (1988) supports an extra point of view to the management capability when he writes, "When more than two persons are concerned in the win-win agreements the psychosomatic contact turn out to be a communal contract" (p.9). From the higher than information it is clear that decision-making effectiveness is a combination of personal skills and ecological pressure. The need

Education of Young Children Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Education of Young Children - Essay Example However, "the preparation" context of DAP does not neglect the fact that more and more knowledge are being discovered regarding the significance or uniqueness of childhood that should merit the attention and commitment of educators, parents, government and communities alike - thus, DAP is consequently becoming more attuned to the ever-current needs of the child. DAP also recognizes the individual child as much as the diversity of the socio-economic and cultural environments that contribute to the differences in children's perceptions that they carry with them while attending early education. There are certain elements that make developmentally appropriate programs well suited to the aim of supporting the development of children in their education. These are knowledge or information used to come up with learning programs, the learning environment which is the dynamic interface between children and the educators, whether inside or outside the school system, and the policies which serve to institutionalize the mechanisms that make DAP continuously responsive to its aims. Knowledge as a key element of DAP allows educators to come up with learning programs and applications that are guideposts on what will work or not for the development of children. ... Furthermore, knowledge of varying socio-economic and cultural contexts as applied in DAP allows for relevance among children and families coming from different backgrounds. The learning environment as an element of DAP encompasses the interface between young children and the all the actors such as teachers, families and other children. It also includes the inter-related practices of teaching, developing curricula and the feedback processes that go with DAP. The learning environment is where social interactions and relationship skills are developed, that is why DAP is committed to fostering a safe and caring environment for young children. Continuous assessment of how children fare in learning programs also constitutes an important facet of the learning environment. Policies also constitute an important element of DAP in as much as they make learning programs committed to the development of young children viable. These include formal mechanisms that would set up personnel with the needed expertise, funding and other guidelines that serve as rules when certain expectations under DAP are not met. 2. What are the underlying values of DEC Recommended Practices According to the Division for Early Childhood of the Council (no date) for Exceptional Children or DEC, Recommended Practices are important because RP "represents collective wisdom, identifies what practices work, provides a framework to define quality, supports positive outcomes and applies to all settings". Instead on focusing on the larger framework of locating the child in the greater milieu of the education system or the society and to a certain extent and taking off from there, the approach is more evidence-based and is more geared towards what is practical and works. The

Age and Gender Differences in Attitudes

Age and Gender Differences in Attitudes A survey was carried out among people from two different age categories to determine whether age and gender individually result in different attitudes towards seeking psychological help. The 653 participants each completed a shorter version of the Attitudes Towards Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale survey. The survey results were later grouped based on gender where there was 319 males and 334 females. The gender groups were again each classified into two age categories; as either young or older adults. The results indicated females have more positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help than males and that older adults have more positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help. It was also found that participants who had previously sought psychological help had more positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help. This research needs to consider the methodological limitations, such as the selection of the participants by the experimenters, which could h ave biased the results and also whether the length of the Attitudes Towards Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale survey produces different results. Age and Gender Differences in Attitudes Towards Seeking Professional Psychological Help Psychotherapy has been described as embarrassing and potentially difficult and it induces fear and avoidance in some individuals (Vogel, Wester Larson, 2007). Andrews, Issakidis Carters study (2001, as cited in Vogel, Wester Larson, 2007) found that less than one third of individuals who experience psychological distress do seek help from a mental health professional (p 410). For many people, counselling and seeking psychological help is an uncomfortable way to deal with personal problems. This may be true for many men as the findings of most studies related to attitudes towards seeking psychological help have been particularly consistent that women tend to have more positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help (Fisher Farina 1995). Some researchers have found that age is another barrier which underutilizes help seeking (Mackenzie, Gekoski Knox, 2006) and it is generally uncommon for an individual to discontinue a psychological service once they have experience it for t he first time (Deane Todd, 1996). Attitudes towards psychological help seeking vary between individuals due to avoidance factors and demographic influences. Kushner and Shers study (1989, as cited in Vogel, Wester Larson, 2007) found that different avoidance factors are likely to vary in their intensity and importance depending on the characteristics of the individual (eg., sex, age) as well as social and cultural differences (p 413). Vogel, Wester Larson (2007) stated that some researchers have suggested that traditional gender roles influence professional help seeking (p 414) which is possibly why males avoid seeking help. The behaviours and characteristics associated with traditional masculinity form a system of social beliefs- that is, an ideology- regarding the expectation of how men should be (1995, as cited in Levant, Wimer, Williams, Smalley Noronha). This ideology influences the way that adults think, feel and behave in gender matters. Therefore, males may feel that they need to mask their problems due to traditional masculinity which is why females are mainly found to have more positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help. Veoff, Kulka Douvan (1981) believe that adolescents and seniors are both reluctant to help-seeking due to one avoidance factor in common; Social norms, which changes across the age groups. However, social stigma has been conceptualised as one of the most significant barriers to treatment for both younger and older adults (Vogel, Wester and Larson, 2007). Vogel, Wester and Larson (2007) concluded that younger adults however are more affected by the avoidance factor social stigma as adolescence is a time of developing and building a sense of identity. Being a young adult is also the time when peers and norm groups may be particularly salient (1989, as cited in Vogel, Wester and Larson, 2007). Therefore, some young adults may be reluctant to help seeking because of the threats as being judged negatively (2002, as cited in Vogel, Wester and Larson, 2007). Some individuals may or may not find psychological help beneficial and this determines whether they continue or discontinue the service. However, most people who have received help from a professional psychologist or counsellor rate themselves as more likely to continuing seeking help as compared to people who have received no psychological help (Deane Todd, 1996). Consistent with this research, females with more positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help rate themselves as more likely to seek professional help (Deane Todd, 1996). The present study aimed to determine whether age and gender affect attitudes towards seeking psychological help. From the research examined, it was anticipated that age, gender and previous history of counselling influences attitudes towards help seeking. It was hypothesised that females will have more positive attitudes towards psychological help seeking than men and younger adults will have more positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help. It was also hypothesised that individuals who have previously sought psychological help would have more positive attitudes towards psychological help seeking. Method Participants The 653 participants in this study consisted of 319 males and 334 females. Participants needed to be specifically selected based on their age, since the research involved investigating age and gender differences in attitudes towards seeking psychological help. There were two age categories that separated the younger adults from the older adults. Younger adults were classified between the ages of 18 years to 30 years of age, whereas the older adults were classified over 55 years of age. Of the 653 participants, 373 participants were classified as younger adults and 280 participants as older. The younger adults group consisted of 178 males and 195 females, whereas the older adult group consisted of 141 males and 139 females. The mean age of the 653 participants was 38.05 (SD= 20.10) and the ages ranged from 18 years of age to 85 years of age. The mean age of the 178 younger male adults was 21.72 (SD= 4.38), whereas the mean age of the 141 older males was 60.11 (SD= 6.10). The mean age of the 195 younger female adults was 20.90 (SD= 3.26), whereas the mean age of the 139 older females was 60.64 (SD= 7.73). Materials A shorter version of the Attitudes Towards Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale was used to measure participants attitudes towards seeking psychological help. The scale for each statement ranged from 0 (disagree) to 3 (agree). The scale contained 10 statements, some of which expressed negative attitudes towards seeking psychological help and other expressed positive attitudes. Reverse scoring was needed for the statements which expressed negative attitudes towards seeking psychological help so that a higher score represents a more positive attitude. The statements which represented positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help did not have to use reverse scoring. The maximum possible score was 30 which represented the highest positive attitude towards seeking professional psychological help, whereas the minimum possible score was 0, which represented the lowest support for seeking professional psychological help. A demographic sheet was also attached to the Attitudes Towards Seeking Psychological Help Scale. The demographic sheet questioned for information such as date of birth, age, sex, occupation, country of birth and whether the participant has had no, little or a lot of counselling prior to completing the scale. Procedure The shorter version of the Attitudes Towards Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale was provided to all students attending Victoria University who are enrolled in Psychology 1B. Psychology 1B students were instructed to make an additional three copies as they each needed to survey four people. Each Psychology 1B student needed to survey two males and two females, however one participant from each gender needed to be either 18 years of age to 30 years of age and the other needed to be over 55 years of age. The participants were not allowed to complete the survey if they were a psychologist or a psychology student. The unit coordinator of Psychology 1B derived the mean age and mean attitude score towards seeking psychological help for the following categories: (a) young male adults, (b) young female adults, (c) older male adults and (d) older female adults. Results An analysis of the mean attitude scores towards seeking psychological help for each of the four participant categories were used to determine whether the hypotheses were supported. The mean attitude scores towards seeking professional psychological help for all four participants categories are presented in Table 1. Table 1 The mean attitude scores towards psychological help seeking Males Females Younger (18-30) 15.13 18.36 (5.56) (5.01) Older (55+) 14.74 19.78 (6.76) (6.07) Total 14.96 18.95 (6.11) (5.52) Note. Numbers in brackets are the standard deviations of each mean attitude score. The results from Table 1 indicates that females have more positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help with a mean of 18.95 (SD=5.52) as compared to males who scored a mean of 14.96 (SD=6.11). This finding supported the hypothesis that females have a more positive attitude towards seeking psychological help than males. From the table, it is also evident that older participants have more positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help with a mean of 17.24 (SD=6.90), as compared to younger adults who scored a mean of 16.82 (SD=5.52). This result did not support the hypothesis younger adults have a more positive attitude towards seeking psychological help than older adults. In terms of counselling history, a no counselling history was mostly reported. Of the 653 participants, 418 participants had never had counselling before with a mean of 15.76 (SD=5.98), 203 participants have had little counselling before with a mean of 18.69 (SD=5.71) and 32 participants have had a lot of counselling with a mean of 22.44 (SD=5.62). Discussion In this study, two of the three hypotheses were supported. Both hypotheses (a) females have more positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help than men and (b) individuals who had previously sought psychological help would have more positive attitudes towards psychological help seeking were supported in this study. However, the hypothesis (c) younger adults will have more positive attitudes towards psychological help seeking than older adults was not supported. A gender difference in attitudes towards psychological help seeking is one of the most consistent findings in the literature (Ang, Lim Tan, 2004). In the present study, the results suggested that females had more positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help than men. This finding supports the results of previous research of Vogel, Wester and Larson (2007) where they researched factors that inhibit seeking help. In their study, Vogel, Wester and Larson (2007) found that gender role plays a part in psychological help seeking. This was evident as men were more likely to think that they would be stigmatized for consulting a psychologist or counsellor. Women in contrast, are more open towards seeking psychological help and feel comfortable and less ashamed. However, because gender role is recognised by so many people, women may feel that they are expected to act reverse to a man. In this study, females may have felt that it would only be normal for them to have positive attitude s towards seeking help as compared to men because they are usually classified as weaker and softer than men. To address this limitation in further research, participants should be given the opportunity to make a statement or comment on why they believe their gender should and should not seek psychological help. This may further help explain gender role which is defined as one of the most common factors that prevents seeking psychological help. On the other hand, a previous history or experience seeking psychological help indicated that participants were more likely to have more positive attitudes towards psychological help seeking than those people who have not sought help. Deane and Todds study (1996) supports the findings of this study as their results were very similar. For example, approximately 35% of participants have had little or a continuation of therapy in this study which is similar to the 40% of participants in Deane and Todds study (1996). In this study, participant needed to mark whether they had never had counselling before, have had little counselling or have had a lot of counselling. This approach used to determine whether a previous history encourages a positive attitude towards psychotherapy could have been used more effectively to find out the duration of therapy and for those who have had no counselling; to find out whether something is inhibiting them from seeking psychological help or if they simply do not need it. In future research, participants who have received psychotherapy both short term and long term should be questioned about the duration of psychotherapy they have had. On the other hand, participants who have not received psychotherapy should be given the opportunity to further elaborate on their choice of not seeking help. The results did not support the hypothesis that younger adults will have more positive attitudes towards seeking psychological help than older adults. These findings differ from those of previous studies (e.g., Mackenzie, Gekoski Knox, 2006; Vogel, Wester Larson 2007) in which respectively reported that older adults attitudes towards seeking psychological help are generally positive and younger adults are reluctant to help seeking due to a certain avoidance factor; social stigma. This could be due to the way researchers from previous studies tested their participants to determine their attitudes. In some studies, participants may have been tested for their opinions on psychological help seeking, whereas others may have been tested on their actual use of a psychotherapy service. In this study, participants were tested to determine their opinions towards seeking psychological help, whereas other studies may have tested peoples attitudes after using the service. Future research should mention what their participants are tested for so that other researchers are able to correctly support or find differences in their findings. A further limitation of the study was that the participants were not given the opportunity to provide statements about how they feel about seeking psychotherapy as a quantitative scale measure was used to determine their attitudes towards seeking psychological help. Therefore, their responses were restricted using the Attitudes Towards Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale survey. Future research should also employ a qualitative measure to help support the results produced from a quantitative measure. Overall, the results of the study suggest that gender role does impact attitudes towards seeking psychological help as one gender consistently showed more positive attitudes towards help seeking. The results also suggest that older adults have more positive attitudes towards psychological help seeking than younger adults. It may be that adults in the present are exposed to a positive interpretation of psychotherapy which encourages them to view seeking psychological help more positively. Also, the results of the study suggest that a previous history of psychotherapy will make an individual view psychological help seeking with a positive attitude. This may be because the individual learns that the therapy is beneficial and outweighs their reasons for avoiding during psychotherapy.

SMOKE CITY: A STORY OF REDEMPTION :: essays research papers fc

INTRODUCTION The 21st century is an age of environmental awareness. We have commissions and agencies that measure our pollution in minutiae level parts per million. There is study after study of the affects of not only elemental health pollution, but also mental health pollution. Although there is no doubt of the importance of this era of hyper-awareness of this movement, it is a new phenomena in the spectrum of history. In the United States, a vanguard in environmental awareness has only seriously started legislating pollution controls for the protection of its citizens in the past thirty years. Many detractors, even today, feel that it is a loosing battle and that regulation of pollution control is indirect conflict with the industrial machine that is the backbone of the United States economy. However, there is one example of a region of this country that demonstrates not only the successful combination of environmental control and business, but this relationship was started forty years before the nations first pollution regulations were drafted to Congress. Pittsburgh’s story is one of suffering and redemption that no city, no community no region can claim to be more tragic and hopeful in its fight against pollution. A city founded in a river valley rich with resources; central access by water, rail and road; and integral to the key to the creation of a nation; Pittsburgh knew days when no vegetation grew from the soil and the sky was permanent midnight twenty four hours a day. That was life in the monikered â€Å"Smoke City† until citizens and businesses took fate into their own hands and cleaned themselves up. Their struggle endured hardship and death, but the residents of Pittsburgh found themselves after two hundred years of darkness living in one of the cleanest major cities in the country. HISTORY Before Europeans traveled the Monongahela to the confluence of the â€Å"Three Rivers† of the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio, Pittsburgh was a sparsely populated area even by the Native Americans. At best it was a rendezvous point for trade, claimed by no one due to the difficulty in traversing through large waterways and steep hills. For colonists, the trek over the Appalachian and Allegheny Mountains was enough to make the Pittsburgh region almost unreachable. On November 23, 1753, an officer of the Virginia Militia—Major George Washington—sent to give warning to Britain’s enemy, the French forces, on the Ohio river a warning as a precursor to the French & Indian War-— noted in his journal the confluence of the major rivers.

Single Parent Families in Australia

Contents 1. 1Introduction3 1. 2Social Wellbeing3 1. 3Disadvantage, Marginalisation, Power and Privilege4 1. 4Brief Report Outline4 2Research Methodology4 2. 1Reliability of Data and Limitations5 3Presentation and Analysis5 3. 1Housing6 3. 2Income7 3. 3Survey Evidence10 3. 4Survey results – Diagrammed12 3. 5Conflict and Functionalist Theories17 3. 6Functionalist Theory17 3. 7Conflict Theory18 4Conclusion – Evaluation and Decision Making19 4. 1Recommendations and Implications19 5Appendix20 Melissa Zanesco, Adderton 6 Study of Society report Single Parent Families Ms Brown 1 Introduction In a survey conducted over a period of ten years, it has been found that the number of single parent families has nearly doubled, and is continuing to increase [Figure 11 – ABS, 2007]. Despite this, single parent families in Australia face many challenges in terms of marginalisation and disadvantage because they do not have the same income advantage and housing accessibility as coupled families. In particular, research has shown that women are even more so disadvantaged than men and, as such, experience further difficulty in raising children and balancing income and housing affordability. Consequently, these disadvantages lead to a lower chance of having power in society and therefore, not receiving the same level of privilege as those in married couples. 2 Social Wellbeing Social wellbeing comprises a number of contributing factors. The Australian Bureau of Statistics lists areas of concern as being health, education, employment status, economic resources and housing [ABS, 2001]. It is these very factors that directly affect the level of equality shown towards groups in society. In addition, if one’s access to these fundamental indicators is undermined because of their marital status, it can lead to social inequality. Inevitably, this produces unfair rights and opportunities between groups. Inequality arises in societies when individuals or groups within the society do not experience sameness of treatment in relation to class, wealth, education, gender or race [Wikipedia, 2010]. Single parent families are particularly affected by their access to ffordable and maintainable housing and their capacity to earn an adequate income in order to support their families. In 1996, the ABS Census of Population and Housing found that at least fifty percent of single parent home owners or private renters spent at least a quarter of their income on either mortgage repayments or rent [Council of Single Mothers & their Children, 2002]. This claim is further supported by findings from the survey completed – which found that of thirty people surveyed, 87% of single parents were living in rented accommodation compared to only 13% of married couples. These statistics confirm that single parent families are hugely disadvantaged in housing ownership, primarily because the income being earned is not sufficient enough to purchase a house and the absence of a second income limits the level of privilege single parents have. 3 Disadvantage, Marginalisation, Power and Privilege Such disadvantages and consequent marginalisation inevitably produces inequalities in society, therefore hindering their access to power and privilege in the community. Limited power in society results in single parent families receiving inadequate support and privileges [WordNet, 2009]. Power can often be confused with privilege. While the two are interrelated, one’s level of power is determined by their actions and the subsequent status achieved by it. Privilege can be seen as a result of having power. When one achieves power in society, greater privileges are rewarded [WordNet, 2009]. Similarly, marginalisation is also closely related to disadvantage. One is disadvantaged when they are not given equal access to opportunities. Disadvantages are often caused by not having the same level of status as another because of lifestyle circumstances; in this situation it is being a single parent [WordNet, 2009]. Consequently, single parents and in particular single mothers are a minority group in society and as such become marginalised within the community because they are unable to have the same lifestyle a coupled family would have. 4 Brief Report Outline This report will investigate single parent families in Australia and the way in which they are disadvantaged through economic income and housing. As a direct consequence of these disadvantages, single parents are being marginalised in society. From the ABS Social Indicators, housing and income will be analysed as areas of concern in order to evaluate whether single parent families are indeed disadvantaged because of their status in society. It will be investigated as to how these two measures of social wellbeing affect the level of equality shown towards single parent families. In addition, evidence from the survey will be presented to support the information given in the report. Finally, both the conflict and functionalist theories will be considered to explain social inequality in relation to, and which theory is best suited to single parent families. Research Methodology The focus of the research was to locate information from an array of primary and secondary sources about single parent families in Australia. The Australian Bureau of Statistics was the main secondary source used to find official statistics, while the quantitative survey completed was the primary source of data. The survey provided information from thirty participants that would support the information presented and allow conclusions to be drawn. The questions in the survey focused primarily on housing and income and also what the general public’s view was on government assistance for families. The survey was created with convenience in mind, and thus featured primarily multiple choice questions, with one question asking for a written opinion on the government assistance scheme. Information found from secondary sources was presented in a research book and referenced accordingly. Reliability of Data and Limitations There were only three factors which may have played a role in the reliability and validity of the findings. Firstly, and the biggest variable was the survey responses. It is unknown whether every person surveyed gave truthful answers and while it was acceptable, it made it difficult to record accurate statistics if a participant did not want to answer certain questions. Seco ndly, in terms of the survey, only thirty people were questioned, which meant that the sample size was small and confined to Brisbane regions. Presumably, this meant that it did not harness the opinion of a wide variety of people. And lastly, only about half of the survey participants were single parents and it was very difficult to find single parents, so the results were not as comprehensive as would have been preferred. Presentation and Analysis Single parent families consist of a parent whereby they do not live with either a married or de facto partner together with a child of their own that was dependent on the parents [ABS, 2007]. According to the information obtained through the surveys, 9 out of the 18 single parent families were single due to divorce of registered marriage. The other 9 of the 18 single parents stated that they had never been in a registered marriage, but this was single due to separation of de facto couples. It was found that single parent families are most often headed by women, with only a small minority headed by men [ABS, 2007]. This is a significant variable that has been consistent in research and whereby income and housing have shown to differentiate between the two. Single parent families account for twenty two percent of families with children less than fifteen years of age in Australia [ABS, 2007]. This figure is expected to continue to rise, as can be seen in Figure 11, which has shown a steady and continual increase in single parent families from years 1987 to 2003. In 2006, 87% of one-parent families with children younger than 15 years were headed by mothers [ABS, 2007]. Yet, despite this rising trend, single parents continue to be one of Australia’s most disadvantaged groups, with little indication of improvement. 1 Housing In 2007, 14% of single parent families publicly rented their homes, forty percent privately rented and forty percent owned or purchased their homes. While that figure does not seem alarming, it is when compared to the eighty percent of coupled families who owned their homes – double the rate of single parent families [ABS, 2007]. Coupled with this, the survey found that 87% of single parents surveyed were living in rental accommodation, compared to just 13% of married couples [refer to Figure 2]. Between the ABS and survey statistics, this is an average of 70. % of single parents living in rental housing. In addition, women are at a further disadvantage with 62% of single women surveyed living in rented homes and only 38% of single men with the same living arrangements [refer to Figure 3]. In addition, those applying to take out a mortgage must pass a certain criteria; including whether your income has the capacity to afford the repayments. Banks apply certain standards, like capacity to make repayments and many single parents are not earning enough to qualify for this criterion, making it even more difficult for single parents to buy a house. The key trend here is that single parents are marginalised in housing ownership because only those with a high income may be able to afford to take out a mortgage and as such, are restricted in their chances of being able to purchase a house. A recent study by the University of South Australia found that single mothers faced discrimination when trying to secure housing in the private rental market because landlords were unwilling to sign leases for single mothers with children [AHURI, 2002]. Furthermore, Cam Smith from the Victorian Council of Social Service recently discovered that â€Å"rents have also been rising by about 15 per cent a year†, arguing that despite the growing costs of housing, the Government is yet to re-evaluate it’s rental assistance scheme for single parent families, with single parent families still spending more than a quarter of their income on housing [ABS, 2007]. Those eligible for rent assistance must be living in private rental accommodation and must also be receiving social security payments [Centrelink, 2010]. Many have called for a review of this policy because single parents on a low income that are not receiving social security payments are ineligible for rent assistance. This is supported by evidence found in the surveys which showed that half of the single parents surveyed were earning under $30 000 per annum, meaning that $7500 of this income is eing spent on rent alone. In summary, it is evident that in terms of housing access, single parent families struggle to obtain suitable housing that is affordable and maintainable and majority of single parents are unable to purchase a house because their income and other factors do not meet the criteria for home loans. Majority of single parents are living in rented accommodation and still find it difficult to pay rent even with rent assistance. Thus, single parent families are marginalised in terms of home ownership because many do not earn a sufficient income to purchase a home, but cannot work more hours because they must be home to look after their children. Inevitably, single parent families are limited in their access to power and privilege because having dependent children means they are restricted to working less hours and earning a lower income – a key factor in determining the level of power a person has and the privileges attained by it. Income Research constantly shows that single parent families are at a greater risk of poverty than couple families. According to a study by the National Centre for Economic and Social Modelling (NATSEM), in 2001 the proportion of single parent families in income poverty was 18% compared with 6% of married couples with children (refer to Figure 1)[NATSEM, 2001]. The vulnerability of single parents results from the difficulty of balancing employment to earn an income while pr oviding for and raising children alone. The difficulty in this is that single parents who are raising children alone find it almost impossible to work any more than part time and thus, cannot earn the same income as married couples working full time. Single parents are disadvantaged because they are restricted in being able to work only a certain number of hours a week because a lot of time must be spent at home looking after their children. Single mothers are at a greater level of poverty as seen in the surveys; with only 26% of single mothers working full time, compared to 74% of single fathers [refer to Figure 7]. This statistic reinforces the argument that single mothers are not privileged in terms of income because they do not have opportunity to earn that of a full time working parent, and are more disadvantaged than single fathers because women account for the majority of single parents. In 2007, the ABS reported that forty two percent of single parent families were relying on government benefits as their primary source of income compared to six percent of coupled families with dependent children [ABS, 2007]. The disadvantage in this is that many single parents are headed by mothers, and it is widely known that women earn less than men. In fact, surveys showed that 38% of single mothers were earning less than $30 000 per annum compared to just 11% of single fathers earning the same income. Furthermore, just 5% of single mothers were earning over $45 001 per annum compared to 38% of single fathers earning the same amount [Figure 6]. These results highlight the fact that single fathers are less disadvantaged when it comes to income because they are more likely to be working full time than single mothers and as such are less likely to be living in poverty. If majority of single mothers are only working part time and if wealth equals power, single women are limited in their access to power in society because they are unable to achieve power with minimal income. This demonstrates the income marginalisation of single mothers when compared to their male counterparts and the fact the single mothers are one of society’s most underprivileged groups. According to a survey conducted by the Child Support Agency in 2000, seventy five percent of the ninety one percent of single mothers were raising children on incomes below $20 000. Furthermore, these women were earning and average of $295. 00 per week, but research conducted by the University of Canberra found that the weekly cost of raising two children alone was $310. 00 [CSA, 2000; University of Canberra, 2003]. This proves that single mothers are earning less than basic living expenses require and are finding it incredibly difficult to survive, despite child support from the government, it is not sufficient for single mothers to live comfortably. In addition, if they are earning barely enough to support their children, it would be impossible to save any money to put towards possible housing ownership. This reinforces the argument that single mothers are increasingly disadvantaged by only having one source of income and that hinders their access to any privilege in society because they do not have any assets or savings needed to gain a powerful status in society. Further statistics are proving that single parent families are at a disadvantage when it comes to income and child support. The Australian Institute of Family Studies research paper notes that forty one percent of single parents were receiving no child support, due to income deemed too high to be eligible and hours children spent in their custody were not enough. Of those who did receive it, over eighty percent got only one hundred dollars or less per week [AFS, 2003]. In addition, the surveys showed that a huge 89% of single parents were not satisfied with the government assistance they were receiving (refer to Figure 4) and believed the government did not provide enough funds for single parents. The key trend noted here is that even those receiving child support are still only receiving minimal amounts and a low income means their financial disadvantage is at an all time low. An average single parent family spends half its income on rent, household bills, and food while parents who are married spend under one third of the budget on these essentials, further highlighting the fact that married parents do not face anywhere near the level of financial hardship that single parents do [ACOSS, 2005]. The expenses of raising a child do not decrease because one is a single parent, and these statistics are proving that single parent families are becoming financially marginalised because their inevitable low incomes are preventing them from living comfortably. This information has clearly distinguished the extreme disadvantages in terms of housing and income that single parents, and in particular, single mothers face. Single parents on the whole are earning far less than those who are married and as such, are disadvantaged in their ability to buy necessities and have any money remaining to put towards savings or other expenses. It is clear that single mothers are the most marginalised because majority of children in single parent families live with their mother and as such, single mothers must lessen their working hours to ensure that they are home to raise their children. It is clear that single parents with primary custody should be receiving more support from the government to compensate for their inability to work full time and government assistance should be provided with more consideration of the single parent’s situation. 3 Survey Evidence (Notes: *all statistics and figures presented in this section are out of thirty participants surveyed. those who responded as being ‘Never married’ were previously in a de facto relationship that had separated, and those without children in this category were omitted from the results. ) ? Of the single parents surveyed, 44% were male headed and 55% were female headed (Figure 1). The information presented in this report reinforces that single mot hers are at a greater disadvantage than single fathers due to majority of single parent families being headed by women and their limitations in earning a high income because of family commitments, thus making them less likely to achieve any power or privileges in society. Of those who were living in rented accommodation, 87% were single parent families and 13% were married parents (Figure 2). This supports the argument that single parents are marginalised in their ability to afford a mortgage and their low incomes prevent them from being eligible for a home loan. ? Furthermore, of the single parents renting, 62% were single mothers and 38% were single fathers (Figure 3). Single mothers are marginalised in housing ownership because many experience discrimination when applying for a home loan and low incomes make housing ownership almost impossible. Married parents were earning a minimum of $45001 per annum, with 67% earning $75001 or more a year (Figure 5) Married parents have the ab ility to gain power in society because while one parent is raising the children, another can be out working full time and earning good money, which is a determining factor in one’s level of power. Thus, wealth and power means greater privileges are rewarded and married couples are less restricted in achieving this than single parents are. 61% of single parent families were earning under $30000 per annum (Figure 5). This reinforces the fact that low income means limited access to power and privilege in society and wealth in a major disadvantage for single parent families. ? Furthermore, the single parents who were earning $45001 or more (2) were unsurprisingly men (Figure 6) Single fathers are less marginalised than single mothers because they have the capability and time to work longer hours and earn more due to most single parent families being headed by women. 74% of single fathers were working full time, compared to just 26% of single mothers (Figure 7) Single mothers are disadvantaged in their ability to work full time because they must be home to take care of their children, which limits the hours they can work. ? 70% of single parents had children enrolled in state schooling, while just 28% of married parents had children attending state schools (Figure 8). Married parents earn more > can afford private schooling; single parents earn less > don’t have financial opportunity to send children to private school therefore, they are marginalised in their access to education. 65% of married parents were unaware of the current government assistance scheme for parents, while 21% of married parents thought it was unfair and 14% thought it was fair or that single parents should be given counselling (Figure 9). Married couples do not know what single parents are receiving from government and so, that may be preventing them from lobbying for the government to provide single parent families with more assistance. Perhaps better education about government assistance should be given to harness stronger opinions from people. 61% of single parents were unsatisfied with the government assistance they were receiving, while 22% were satisfied with it and 17% were not entitled to it (Figure 10). Single parent families are at a disadvantage of only having one income, but are even more so marginalised because government assistance provided does not compensate for a second income; it is only support. ? Single parents surveyed were not receiving anymore than $200 fortnightly in Government Assistance. Despite being at an income disadvantage, single parents who are desperately in need still receive no more than $200 fortnightly which indicates the limitations they have to afford life essential, let alone save any money to afford to buy a house. 4 Survey results – Diagrammed Figure 1: [pic] Figure 2: [pic] Figure 3: [pic] Figure 4: [pic] Figure 5: [pic] Figure 6: [pic] Figure 7: [pic] Figure 8: [pic] Figure 9: [pic] Figure 10: [pic] 5 Conflict and Functionalist Theories The Conflict and Functionalist theories are concepts developed by theorists looking for a way to describe levels of class in society. Each has key tenets that make them different and why one in particular may be a better explanation of single parent families and their marginalisation and disadvantage in society, which leads to power and privilege shown towards them. 6 Functionalist Theory The Functionalist theory sees levels in society as a comparison to the human body. It sees the social system to be made up of different interconnected parts and if any of these ‘organisms’ break down, the rest of society will malfunction. Functionalists approve of social order and view inequality as natural and necessary where ‘everyone gets their due’. In addition, they see social change as disruptive on the system unless it happens gradually and social stratification is useful in maintaining stability in society. It sees those with special talent as deserving of the social reward and privilege (wealth, power, prestige) but fails to explain the place of those in society where their social status is ascribed or inherited, and not achieved. As such, the Functionalist theory sees single parent families and the disadvantages they experience as necessary to maintain social order and believe they receive what their position in society is worthy of. [Sociology: Australian Connections. 2007] 7 Conflict Theory The Conflict Theory originates from the thinking’s of Karl Marx who studied societies throughout history. Marx believed that social change emerges through the struggle and conflict being played out between social classes. The Conflict Theory sees social stratification as a result of groups becoming rich and powerful then preserving their own interests above those in lower classes. Conflict theorists view tension, hostility, competition and differences as a permanent and inevitable feature of societies. The key idea in the Conflict Theory is that ‘social order is marked by conflict and maintained by force’. It states that life chances are less for members of subordinate and powerless groups who have inferior opportunities, which in the case of single parents, is the limitations in income and housing that their situation has created. It is important to note that Conflict theorists do not see conflict as a negative force, more that it has many consequences bringing about social change. [Sociology New York, 1987; Sociology: Themes and Perspectives, 2000. ] Of the two theories, the Conflict theory more suitably explains the disadvantage and marginalisation experienced by single parent families. The rising number of single parent families is due to their low level of income forcing them into a lower social class and as such, their level of class hinders their access to power in society. Due to their lack of power and marginalisation in comparison to married parents, the opportunities of single parents are limited to those that they can afford and find time for and it has proven to be a vicious cycle that is very difficult to break. The rising number of single parents and disadvantages they experience in comparison married parents has been an issue for some time and so, as the Conflict theory states, these differences are bound to bring about change in the future. For these reasons, the Conflict Theory is a better explanation of single parent families. Conclusion – Evaluation and Decision Making Single parent families are one of Australia’s most underprivileged and powerless groups. In particular, single mothers have shown to be the most disadvantaged group and experience the highest level of financial disadvantage and are most marginalised in their housing accessibility. Because most single parent families are headed by women, single mothers are limited in their access to power because it is a constant struggle to balance earning an income with family duties. As such, single mothers do not receive the same privileges as married parents because they are restricted in their ability to earn a high income which limits the opportunities available to them. Single fathers have shown to be less disadvantaged than single mothers but still experience hardship in relation to home ownership. The research has proven that the disadvantage experienced by single parent families has shown no signs of improvement and married parents continue to have a much greater level of power and more privilege in society. As the Conflict theory states, when there is conflict between two groups in society single and married parents), it is destined to bring about social change. For that reason, the rising number of single parents in Australia is not necessarily a negative force, but one that is demonstrating the need for reform in the Government support and privileges that single parent families so desperately need. 1 Recommendations and Implications It can be seen from the primary and secondary sources of information that single parents experience the greatest disadvantage in their ability to work full time to earn a high income and their ability to purchase a home. Thus, it is recommended that the Government puts in place certain programs and funding to ensure that the marginalisation of single parents is decreased and that the equality between married and single parents is made level. This can be achieved by providing single parents with child care grants that provide single parents with the opportunity to work full time without having the burden of child care costs. In addition, the government should provide single parents with grants to purchase a home to ensure that their single income does not restrict their access to home ownership. Furthermore, grants for everyday necessities such as groceries and fuel should be provided so that single parents have a higher chance of being able to save money. Finally, the government should create some programs for single parents that give them advice on how to handle work and family duties and how they can save money even on a low income. These suggestions may cost taxpayers more money, but at the end of a day, if society wants to live in an egalitarian society, these are the first steps that must be taken in order to achieve this. Appendix Figure 11: [pic] Figure 12: [pic] Figure 13: [pic] Bibliography Article Base. 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