Legal Rights Regulations of Health Workers and Patients Assignment

Legal Rights Regulations of Health Workers and Patients - Assignment Example This dissatisfaction originates from the ambiguity of the questionable decision even though the problem is resolved. In suicide, persons, for whatever reasons, decide voluntarily to end their own life; involuntary euthanasia, another assist in carrying out the person's wish (Johnstone, M., 2005, 236). Common to both is that the decision is made by the person who wishes to be and who ends up dead. When patients are hopelessly ill, the choice is between living longer at the price of suffering or living shorter at the price of death. It seems reasonable, in the last instance, to allow patients to make such a choice for themselves. Patients who have terminal cancer or another terminal condition not rarely ask their physician for the means of suicide. Patient requests to their physician for help in committing suicide are unfortunately often met by physicians and other healthcare providers with a refusal or by an appeal to the law (Johnstone, M., 2005, 241). Allowing patients to have acces s to an acceptable means of suicide empowers them. Empowering patients in this way helps them to hold on a bit longer than they often otherwise would. Allowing patients as much control over their own destiny as possible is not only ethically proper, it also allows more cooperation in the care process. Physician-assisted suicide is an example of active euthanasia that involves deliberate actions resulting in the death of the individual. This assistance can also be passive where the caregiver deliberately omits actions in care that may prolong life (Johnstone, M., 2005, 243). In physician-assisted suicide, the physician actively provides the client with the means to end life. Patients with terminal illnesses that are accompanied by considerable pain and suffering often do not wish their disease to be treated aggressively. All want the pain and suffering to be minimized, but many, at least at some stage, do not want their lives prolonged. This has put a considerable burden on physician s, whose culture, tradition and instincts are devoted to the prolonging of life, not to the shortening of it (Johnstone, M., 2005, 251). Inadequate palliative care at extreme age group is one of the significant reasons patients seek to die. The client's right to refuse treatment is based on the principle of autonomy, and the client can do this only after the treatment methods and their consequences have been explained. Sometimes, however, a patient who does fully understand the consequences of not being treated ranks the harms of treatment as worse than the harms of not being treated and so does not want to be treated. Ethically, if the consequences of such an action are dead, a physician may overrule a competent informed patient's rational refusal of treatment, including life-preserving treatment, always involves depriving the patient of freedom, and usually involves causing him pain. Moreover, ethically, the medical profession is entitled to do no harm to the client, and sometimes , in reality, the pain of the treatment is more than that of the disease, and many treatments are known to cause more harm than the disease itself.

Patient Abuse in Nursing Facilities Essay Example for Free

Patient Abuse in Nursing Facilities Essay Patient abuse in nursing facilities is becoming more prominent. Abuse is not only physical, but emotional, sexual, neglect and financial exploitations. The elderly are the most vulnerable and least likely to complain, so unfortunately they are the targets. Most families research in depth about the nursing facility that they will place their loved one, in hopes that abuse doesn’t occur. Although the research is done, families should still look for signs and symptoms of abuse since they are leaving their loved one in stranger’s hands. According to (Center), A recent investigation concluded that employment checks do not always provide adequate protection against elder mistreatment. For instance, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services prohibit nursing homes from hiring persons with a prior history of committing abuse in a nursing home setting, but those who have been convicted of other forms of abuse like child abuse may still be hired. Some states require a criminal background check, while others do not. Even so, these checks usually do not uncover convictions in another state. Furthermore, in some states, non-caregiving staff such as maintenance workers and others without a direct patient care role do not undergo criminal checks even though they may have direct access to patients and patient areas. Understaffing is a common cause of nursing home abuse. When staff members become overworked, they may begin to lose their patience with the nursing home residents. In addition, understaffing leaves many workers unsupervised or untrained, which can lead to nursing home abuse. Still, physical abuse in nursing homes is illegal, and the owners of the assisted living facility can be held liable if a resident is subject to nursing home abuse or neglect. Sometimes, it is difficult to identify nursing home residents who have been physically abused. Very often, members of the nursing home staff will state that the residents injuries were the result of a fall rather than the actual causenursing home abuse. In addition, the staff member may bully the resident into agreeing with their story. Because detecting signs of physical nursing home abuse can be difficult, loved ones should pay careful attention when visiting the nursing home. Be aware of the common signs of physical nursing home abuse, including: unexplained bruising, cuts, sprains, fractures and broken bones and open wounds. In addition to physical signs, nursing home patients who have been physically abused may also show changes in their behavior. If the resident appears withdrawn, fearful, nervous or depressed, they may be suffering from physical nursing home abuse. The most common type of physical abuse is battery, which can include forcing the resident into restraints for no valid reason. Other forms of physical abuse in nursing homes include: overmedication, use of excessive restraints, chemical or physical, for no reason, burning, pushing, shoving, force feeding, hitting the resident with the hand or an object, pulling the residents hair and mishandling the resident when transporting them from beds, bathrooms etc ( (Morgan). According to (Emotional Abuse in Nursing Homes), Emotional abuse in nursing homes is not as overt as other forms of abuse. Regardless, the effects that emotional abuse in nursing homes can result in are damaging to the happiness, health, and other areas of that resident’s life. Not knowing what signs to look for can allow emotional abuse in nursing homes to continue. Often times, a resident thinks that telling someone about abuse suffered, including emotional abuse in nursing homes, will make them a burden to the family or they feel afraid of enduring an increased amount of abuse. If emotional abuse in nursing homes is occurring the family members should immediately notify the facility. The facility should amend the situation at once but if the emotional abuse in nursing homes persists, the family should take further action. The chances of the emotional abuse in nursing homes occurring to just one resident are very slim so other residents are probably suffering as well. Emotional abuse in nursing homes can include humiliation, harassment, threat of punishment, deprivation, and intimidation, as well as other behaviors. One of the most pervasive forms of nursing home abuse today is that of neglect. Nursing home neglect is too frequently overlooked and results all too often in a decline in general health and eventually the death of those elderly people entrusted to nursing home care facilities. The problem can occur anywhere and can take many shapes. What makes this particularly sinister is that it can be overlooked or ignored for so long. Even upon repeated visits to a nursing home, the signs of nursing home neglect can remain hidden. In order to understand the scope of the problem, it is important to know the different types of nursing home neglect and nursing home abuse. The most obvious, most egregious, and the first that comes to mind for many people is physical neglect. Unfortunately common in nursing homes today, neglect takes many forms, however, all of which are disturbing in their own right. Any of the following forms of neglect warrant contacting a nursing home abuse lawyer to bring justice to the victim of neglect, as well as make conditions safer for other residents (Center). According to (Financial Exploitation of Nursing Home Residents), Financial exploitation of the elderly occurs when an individual takes or uses the money or property of a senior for any wrongful use, or with the intent to defraud the elder. Senior citizens who live in nursing homes or other long-term care facilities can be victims of financial abuse by their direct caregivers or by the administrators of the nursing homes. Financial exploitation is defined as the wrongful use of an individual’s finances or property for another’s advantage. This can occur when residents personal or financial resources are taken from them without their consent, either because the residents were incapacitated and unable to give consent or because they were subjected to threats, intimidation, manipulation, and deception. Examples of financial exploitation include cashing an elderly person’s checks without authorization, forging a senior’s signature, stealing an older person’s money or possessions, or deceiving an older person into signing any contract, will, or other document. According to (Nursing Home Abuse), It is critical for every resident to understand their nursing home patient rights in order to successfully acclimate to the very different living environment of a skilled nursing facility. Patients and their families should become well versed in the policies and procedures inherent to life in the facility and must know exactly what they can and should expect when it comes to care and safety. In the US, the federal government and each state government have written legislation which guarantees each nursing home resident specific and general rights while under professional care. Most foreign counties have similar laws enacted to protect elders from abuse and neglect in nursing facilities, as well. When your loved one is placed in a nursing home, it is required that they are given a written bill of patient’s rights. It is recommended that the family and loved one go over this bill of rights in detail so they are familiar with the rights of their loved one. Most often, nursing home patients cannot defend themselves, due to several different reasons: physical health, mental health, social isolation or dependency issues. Unless someone comes forward for these patients, they won’t get help and no one is penalized for their actions. Many do not know how to report nursing home abuse, so they remain silent and struggle with their disturbing knowledge of the abuse or neglect. Once the repost is filed, the organization that is responsible, will investigate thoroughly and will hold the person/persons responsible for their actions. If you are a family member and suspect any minor abuse or neglect, it is always wise to report the activity to the nursing home administrator directly. Tell them that you have evidence of the abuse and that you intend to take this matter as far as it will go. Do not back down. If the infraction is minor and resulted in no real damage, then you may consider allowing them to discipline the staff member internally. Just be sure to watch out for any retribution which may come back to your loved one if the staff member is not fired. If the infraction is more serious or you do not feel completely confident that the matter will be settled in the best interest of your loved one, then take the concern one step further. Immediately call police and report the incident. Additionally, contact adult protective services, your ombudsman, your local nursing home regulatory agency and Medicare, if applicable. You might also consider consulting with a nursing home abuse attorney and filing a civil lawsuit (Nursing Home Abuse). Although abuse in nursing facilities is becoming more prominent, there are several things that family members can do to protect their loved one from being a victim from this horrible crime. The elderly are very vulnerable, but they do not deserve the abuse that the under paid, aggravated staff member may give them. If someone suspects abuse in a nursing facility, they should report it immediately. If not, this makes you just as guilty.

Japan Approach To New Product Development Information Technology Essay

Japan Approach To New Product Development Information Technology Essay Japans manufacturing industry can be the largest industry that contributes in the Japanese economy. It is admired by the various researchers that the Japanese companies enable to target the aspects of corporate and research strengths. Through the use of the various technologies, which half maybe came from their land, the Japanese companies laid broader approach regarding the idea of product development. In general, Japanese approach to the product development has a large numbers of changes. For example, the automobile industry in Japan had radical steps such as the application of the concept of the fuel cells (Masaru and Kazuhiko, 2009). The organization has an aim to provide the quality solution by answering two of the biggest issues in the era of modernization the environmental destruction and the problem in the oil, gas, and other petroleum products. From this example the organization can have the full opportunity to be the first company that enables to incorporate the use of technology. But the drawback is the cost of the product that might be too expensive for the customers (Masaru and Kazuhiko, 2009). Japan has strength to set the flow of trend in the market and the high level of technology delivers the variety of strategies that can, however, minimize the appearance of the present problems. Japanese culture views technology as a tool for making marketable products (Takahiro and Joe, 1995). Production technology is central to such a view and has become a clear force in developing competitive advantage for Japans industrial giants. An effective vision of next-generation products combined with continuous product improvements provides the vision for upstream developments (Takahiro and Joe, 1995). Japans focus on production equipment and process improvements is directed towards designing for cost and manufacturability: that is, Japans focus is on designing processes to improve productivity, increase quality, and decrease cost; designing concurrent engineering methods to speed product introductions; developing software to implement and improve factory automation; and devising effective management methods related to all of the above (Takahiro and Joe, 1995). On the other hand, the UK has a responsibility in meeting their own set of standards based on the participating companies, research, and government organizations and then, latter develop their product (Sven Haake, et al., 2000). Again, the automobile manufacturing is the example that can be use. The approach of the UK in the product development was prioritized on various concerns such as addressing the organizations participation in terms of security. If the manufacturers followed the innovation of fuel cell, the assurance of the UKs framework should be also developed for the proper deployment. Such policies like the use of technologies, standards, codes, and infrastructures are the UKs gateway toward the evolution (Sven Haake, et al., 2000). Comparison of Product Improvement Techniques: The Japanese plants have continued to make improvements in terms of labour efficiency and still lead their UK counterparts, by a significant margin. Labour productivity in the UK plants has been more or less static (and actually shows a decline). Although on average production volumes in the plants in the two countries have risen, Japan has managed this with a much smaller increase in headcount than the UK plants, and without a major rationalization of product ranges (Masaru and Kazuhiko, 2009). Plants in the two countries have made significant progress in reducing the proportion of defective products that reach their customers (that is, the car makers, in the case of this study). Japan continues to lead the UK in quality performance by a margin of around 35 per cen. Given the sustained, and in some areas increasing, performance advantage of the Japanese plants, it is precisely in areas such as these that renewed interest should be taken (Masaru and Kazuhiko, 2009). The measures rele vant to the closeness of buyer supplier relations largely present a picture of continuity, rather than change, in Japan. The tight logistics symptomatic of close social relations between buyers and suppliers have if anything becomes tighter over the last seven years. Of course it may be that changes in the commercial relations between firms do not affect such operational details, though this would run counter to what has been the accepted wisdom through much of the 1980s and 1990s, namely that it is the very existence of tight social relations that permits and facilitates operational excellence (Takahiro and Joe, 1995). An alternative explanation is that changes in social relations are occurring, but that the lag inherent in any such changes is obscuring this. The economic problems experienced by Japan at a macroeconomic level should not distract from the continuing lessons that may be gleaned from operational assessments of Japanese manufacturers. In difficult circumstances, Japane se plants have continued to improve their operational performance. The concept of continuous improvement is one of the most significant components of the Japanese model of manufacturing; the evidence reported here suggests that this concept remains an enduring feature of Japanese manufacturers and it remains an area where Western manufacturers, especially UK, may have much to learn (Takahiro and Joe, 1995). Methods of Product Development: Below are two important methods that are used by Japanese companies: Prototyping: is the process of building a model of a system. In terms of an information system, prototypes are employed to help system designers build an information system that intuitive and easy to manipulate for end users. Prototyping is an iterative process that is part of the analysis phase of the systems development life cycle (Glenn, et al., 2008). During the requirements determination portion of the systems analysis phase, system analysts gather information about the organizations current procedures and business processes related the proposed information system. In addition, they study the current information system, if there is one, and conduct user interviews and collect documentation. This helps the analysts develop an initial set of system requirements (Glenn, et al., 2008). Prototyping can augment this process because it converts these basic, yet sometimes intangible, specifications into a tangible but limited working model of the desired information system. The user feedback gained from developing a physical system that the users can touch and see facilitates an evaluative response that the analyst can employ to modify existing requirements as well as developing new ones (Michael and Mitzi, 2000). Prototyping comes in many forms from low tech sketches or paper screens (Pictive) from which users and developers can paste controls and objects, to high tech operational systems using CASE (computer-aided software engineering) or fourth generation languages and everywhere in between. Many organizations use multiple prototyping tools. For example, some will use paper in the initial analysis to facilitate concrete user feedback and then later develop an operational prototype using fourth generation languages, such as Visual Basic, during the design stage (Mic hael and Mitzi, 2000). Some Advantages of Prototyping: Reduces development time. Reduces development costs. Requires user involvement. Developers receive quantifiable user feedback. Facilitates system implementation since users know what to expect. Results in higher user satisfaction. Exposes developers to potential future system enhancements (Gerri, 1999). Some Disadvantages of Prototyping Can lead to insufficient analysis. Users expect the performance of the ultimate system to be the same as the prototype. Developers can become too attached to their prototypes. Can cause systems to be left unfinished and/or implemented before they are ready. Sometimes leads to incomplete documentation. If sophisticated software prototypes (4th Generation Language or CASE (computer-aided software engineering) Tools) are employed, the time saving benefit of prototyping can be lost (Gerri, 1999). Because prototypes inherently increase the quality and amount of communication between the developer/analyst and the end user, its use has become widespread. In the early 1980s, organizations used prototyping approximately thirty percent (30%) of the time in development projects. By the early 1990s, its use had doubled to sixty percent (60%) (Juha, 2005). Although there are guidelines on when to use software prototyping. Prototyping will grow even bigger in the future especially in the UK as it will reduce time and cost and will help by pushing the economy as the new products will be available to consumers in lesser time. Time-Based Concurrent Engineering: Despite the fact that Japanese manufacturers have led the way in compressing time by speeding up product development, Toyotas unique adaptation of concurrent engineering appears a contradiction of universal thinking. Instead of pursuing design decisions as early as possible by marshalling the energies of all team members, Toyota uses a method best described as set-based concurrent engineering (Sotiris, 2005). Designers at Toyota work with sets of design alternatives instead of systematically carrying one basic idea through progressive iterations. The sets are gradually narrowed until a final solution is agreed upon. Toyota uses a relatively unstructured development process in which decisions are purposely delayed, so that suppliers are not provided with final specifications until very late in the process. Another unique aspect of the process is that numerous prototypes are built and evaluated. Many automobile industry experts feel that prototyping and subsequent testing are two phase s of the product development process that greatly extend cycle time. However, tile paradoxical system employed by Toyota is undoubtedly effective. Toyota is recognized as the world leader in fast and efficient development of vehicles (Sotiris, 2005). In general, Japanese companies have been ahead of almost everyone in adopting fast product development tactics. Some Japanese companies, however, found in the 1990s that despite committing more emphasis and capital to Time-Based Competition (TBC) strategies, they were not achieving competitive advantages, higher margins, and more profit (A. Al-shaab, et al., 2009). It was difficult to gain an advantage when every other company was employing the same strategy. Further, it appears the Japanese made their companies time-based in terms of efficiency, instead of embracing a more encompassing strategy. These Japanese firms failed to carry TBC beyond the initial phases of implementation. They neglected to recognize that TBC strategy is a constantly evolving exercise that must focus on the needs of customers. The lesson to be learned is that time compression is not a cure-all. Time reductions that are not tied to viable business strategies can dramatically reduce profits by unnecessarily inc reasing costs (A. Al-shaab, et al., 2009). One Japanese design and development methodology that helps enable quality planning throughout the concurrent engineering process is Quality Function Deployment (QFD). Unlike other quality methods originally developed in the West, the QFD methodology was born out of Total Quality Control (TQC) activities in Japan during the 1960s. Development was motivated by two issues [1]: how to design a new product that meets customer needs, and [2] the desire to provide QC process charts (control plan) to manufacturing before initial production (Nick, et al., 2002). The QFD methodology provides a structured framework for concurrent engineering that propagates the voice of the customer through all phases of product development. Concurrent-engineering is one of the best methods in developing a new product. It involves many small and big companies in contributing towards the product at the same time. The future of this method is great as it will involve more engineers and companies in producing the product, hence, it will reduce the time to produce a new product. Conclusion and Future of UK Product Development: The Japanese tend to recruit scientists primarily within basic research and if one compares Japan to the UK, the latter has many more people in basic research reflecting the concept of creativity in invention inherent in the British economy. Japan however has its focus and thus its advantage in applied research (A. Al-shaab, et al., 2009). Japanese manufacturing companies recruit far more engineers and integrate them across the whole company. When comparing the number of engineers in product development and design in the UK to those in Japan, the latter tends to actively invest and nurture more resources, and hence create better capability. If the Japanese manufacturers have strength in setting the trends in the market, the UK manufacturing industry has strength by following the governmental policies. The UK needs to invest more in engineers and make new products research easier to develop by given scientist less tougher rules by the government and much more funds and investment from both companies and the government. They also need to integrate more engineers in the manufacturing area so they could be in equal place with Japan.

Cognitive Behavioral Theory

Cognitive Behavioral Theory The Cognitive-Behavioral theory is a form of short-term therapy used by counselors in the psychology and social work fields. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) encourages a blending of behavioral and cognitive therapy models. The theory is based in the belief that the clients behaviors and feelings are heavily influenced by their thoughts. A CBT therapist plays an active role in helping the client prioritize their problems, recognize the maladaptive thoughts that are behind their problems and feelings, and devise and implement goal-oriented changes in their thinking. Background Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) places significant importance on how negative thinking impacts our emotions and behaviors. Dr. Aaron Beck observed that many of his clients had automatic thoughts emotion-filled thoughts that might pop up in the mind (Martin, 2007). Many of these thoughts are not consciously known to the client; however through practice the client can learn to identify the negative and irrational thought. Upon identification the client can then learn to overcome the thoughts. CBT is based on a model or theory that its not events themselves that upset us, but the meanings we give them (Martin, 2007). These automatic thoughts can cause us to become blind to new ideas and have the ability to overcome obstacles. A persons automatic thoughts are rooted in belief systems that were embedded in their subconscious from childhood. When an event happens a person uses these belief systems to help them cope with their difficulties. If there is negative thinking in the persons b elief system, they are more likely to misconstrue the event or issue as too difficult to handle. Cognitive Therapy Cognitive therapy focuses on peoples thoughts and how they affect their emotional, behavioral, and physiological reactions to stressful situations. People often have difficulty thinking rationally when feeling pressured by disturbing life experiences. Through cognitive therapy, clients are able to identify and challenge their thoughts about themselves, the people around them, and the world around them. Behavioral Therapy Behavioral therapy in its most basic state is the encouragement of clients to engage in adaptive behaviors and not to allow pathological internal experiences to dictate the ways in which they act (Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies, 2012). Solutions under the behavioral theory closely follow Pavlovs classical and operant conditioning philosophies. A clients negative responses to normal stimuli are typically learned behaviors, because something negative happened the last time the stimulus was present. Through a process called extinction, therapists often try to change a clients negative responses by showing the client that the negative result does not always occur with the stimulus. Using operant conditioning a client will be more likely to engage in activities and behaviors in a positive manner, if they have previously received positive outcomes. If the consequences of their behavior have been negative, they are less like to repeat that behavior. Rational-Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) One form of behavioral therapy, founded in the 1950s by Albert Ellis, was Rational-Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT). REBT focuses on the clients current, irrational thoughtsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ and actively targets them for change (Fraum, 2012). Through REBT the client confronts their irrational beliefs and expectations. After confrontation, the client and therapist are able to develop realistic thinking. Only after these two things are accomplished is the client able to change. Epictetus wrote in The Enchiridion, Men are disturbed not by things, but by the view which they take of them (National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists, 2008). Dialectical Behavior Therapy Another behavioral therapy that is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy is Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Based heavily in philosophy, the main tenet of this therapy looks at two opposing views and works through the therapeutic relationship to blend them together to find a happy medium. The counselor does not make the client feel that their thoughts are invalid or incorrect, but guides them to understanding that their behavior needs to change. This therapy is most often used for clients who have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder. (National Institute of Mental Health, 2012) Commonalities of Cognitive Therapy and Behavioral Therapy Although there are a few differences between cognitive and behavioral approaches, there are some similarities that allow these two methods to be blended into the cognitive-behavioral approach. In CBT, the client and the therapist work together as a team to help the client overcome their troubles. Often CBT is a short-term counseling method that, typically, only lasts a few months, but it is also a rigorous therapy, in that the clients must utilize their new skills in between sessions through homework. CBT therapists seldom dig deeply into why a client is having the irrational thoughts, but rather stay focused in the present and future. (Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies, 2012) Notable People There are many notable people who have influenced Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. Dr. Aaron Beck is considered the father of cognitive therapy. Another notable person in the field of cognitive therapy is Dr. Martin Seligman, who is known mostly for his development of learned helplessness. Some key players in the development of behavioral therapy include Ivan Pavlov, John Watson, and B. F. Skinner. In 1955, Albert Ellis developed Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy. He is considered the founder of cognitive-behavioral theory. Dr. Samuel Yochelson and Stanton Samenow are known for their collaborative research and findings in the treatment programs of juvenile and adult criminal offenders. Aaron T. Beck, M.D. Dr. Aaron Beck started his career with as the Assistant Chief of Neuropsychiatry in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (Department Of Psychiatry, Penn Behavioral Health, n.d.). In 1954, he joined the University of Pennsylvanias Psychiatry Department. While there, he explored psychoanalysis which led to his development of cognitive therapy. (Beck Institute for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, n.d.) Through his research he realized that his clients had negative thoughts that popped into their heads automatic thoughts. These automatic thoughts centered on themselves, the world and the future. These distorted thoughts then begin to affect the clients lives leading to the disorders they are diagnosed with. Ultimately they stem from a persons core belief systems and are formed throughout the persons life. (Beck, 1997) Albert Ellis, Ph.D. REBT was developed by Dr. Ellis in the 1950s. After spending several years practicing psychoanalysis, he found the he disliked the in-efficient and in-directive nature (National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists, 2008). Dr. Ellis established the ABC model of emotions, which was later modified into A-B-C-D-E approach. Sessions Cognitive-behavioral therapy sessions have a structure. Structure is important, because it allows for the most effective use of time. CBT sessions are usually only about 50 minutes long, happen once a week or once every two weeks, and only continue for a few months to a year. In the beginning of therapy the client and counselor discuss what issues and trouble the client is having. Next, they work on prioritizing the issues. These activities fall under stage I of the Egan Model. Under stage II, the client discusses their ideal self or what they want. This allows the client, with the guidance of the helper, to set realistic goals for themselves. In the final stage, the client and counselor explore the options available and there are always options and find the option or options that best work for the client. The last step is to produce an action plan. Throughout the process the client often has homework. This homework is usually meant to help the client identify the triggers for their anxiety or problems and the feelings that surround those events. As the process moves forward the assignments will coincide with whatever step the client is currently working on. Techniques Due to the blending of theories and therapies, there are more than three dozen techniques available to cognitive-behavioral therapists. The selection includes cognitive, emotive, and behavioral techniques that make a well-rounded selection that can be tailored to the individual clients needs and wants. The ABC (also known as the ABCDE) Technique is most closely identified by its creator, Dr. Ellis, and under REBT. Other major techniques include cognitive reconstruction, exposure, reframing, and journal writing. Another widely used, yet somewhat controversial technique is self-disclosure. ABC/ABCDE Technique or Rational Self-Analysis Dr. Ellis created this technique to help people identify and understand why they are behaving the way they are to certain Activating Events. The Activating Event ((A)) is often seen as the reason for the clients initial emotions and behaviors (Consequences or (C)). In reality there is another step in between the clients Beliefs ((B)). While the (A) triggers the (C), the (B) is what actually causes the (C). Dr. Ellis went continued to develop this technique and it was later modified to include three additional steps Disputing ((D)), New Effect ((E)), and Further Action ((F)). Once the client has been able to identify the (A), (B), and (C), they are then able to move forward and challenge their Beliefs through Disputing. They, also, evaluate how they would prefer to feel or behave the New Effect. Finally, the client develops their Further Action plan to avoid a relapse. Cognitive Restructuring While Rational Self-Analysis is part of the process of Cognitive Restructuring, it is not the whole process. Cognitive Restructuring is a set of techniques that helps the client identify, challenge, and change their distorted thoughts. Common thought distortions often include words like: always, must, and never. They also stem from Dr. Elliss list of irrational beliefs (appendix A) and a list of cognitive distortions influenced by Dr. Beck (appendix B). There is a Cognitive Restructuring Worksheet (Appendix C) that counselors and clients may find useful in when utilizing this technique. Exposure Exposure Therapy is an emotionally intense, yet effective way for clients to confront their fears, especially those with anxiety disorders. Through a series of extremely carefully planned sessions, the client is introduced or exposed to the trigger (stimuli) that is causing the anxiety (classically conditioned response). Over time the client is able to see and comprehend that nothing bad will happen and the anxiety lessens. The therapist often uses Exposure Therapy in conjunction with relaxation skills and cognitive reconstruction techniques. In addition to anxiety disorders, an adaptation of Exposure Therapy is sometimes used for people with sexual disorders. Self-disclosure Self-disclosure is when the therapist briefly tells the client something personal about themselves that may be of value to the client and the therapeutic relationship. This technique can be difficult to manage effectively and is somewhat controversial. If the therapist is going to utilize this technique, they must use it carefully and sparingly. Where this technique can become problematic is when the focus shifts from the client to counselor. Too much divulging of information can lead to the client being uncomfortable or feeling like the relationship has changed. When used appropriately; however it can show the therapists empathy to the situation the client is facing. Case Study Synopsis Client is a 52-year-old female widower with two daughters. Her husband died seven years ago. Her relatives live 50 miles away. Client was accused of a work-related incident, after which she became anxious. Client is currently on medication with effects consistent with an antidepressant. Presenting problems included poor memory, lack of concentration, confusion and slowness. The client met the DSM-IV criteria for a major depressive episode. The client was given several clinical scales to rate herself on. These scales were completed prior to every session and discussed briefly during the session.as a means of verifying efficacy. The therapist used the five systems model to help the client analyze her thoughts and recognized negative automatic thoughts and behaviors. She was given daily activity monitoring sheets, although she was successful at many activities very few gave her any pleasure. Due, in part, to years of sexual abuse by her father, the client felt that something was wrong w ith her. She felt like she didnt fit into her family. By using a more detailed variation of the ABC Technique, the client and therapist were able to identify stressful situations; discuss the emotions, behavior and physical reactions to the situations; and recognized the underlying negative beliefs. The therapist utilized behavioral experiments to help the client challenge her core beliefs and recognize the differences in how she felt. Final Thoughts I chose this theory because I felt that it is the one I was most likely going to use, when I become a licensed psychologist. The multiple views and varied techniques available for the client make it seem like the one theory that can be tailor fit for each individual. What I found out through my research; however, is that the cognitive-behavioral approach does not dig deeply into the why someone has the beliefs they do. The why is what drew me to the field of psychology and human services in the first place, so I need to investigate other theories, career opportunities, and techniques to find my right fit. Ideally, I would like to investigate the criminal mind more closely and help the prison population overcome their psychopathological issues. I still feel that many of the cognitive-behavioral techniques can be useful in discovering the why, so I will likely use them in my ultimate career field.

Sexual Abuse In the Catholic Church :: Paedophilia Catholic Church

The Catholic Church is right now struggling with a very serious and grave scandal, Sexual Abuse of catholic priests and Paedophilia. Within the last year the Catholic Church has had to dispense over 100 million dollars in sexual abuse settlements*** (find source). However, the crisis became mainstream when two Catholic priests in Boston were accused of abusing over 100 boys and young men. The church worldwide has felt repercussions from this scandal. In fact, it even resulted in the call of all American cardinals who are healthy enough to travel to a summit in the Vatican with Pope John Paul the second. There are several issues at play as this scandal continues. In this paper I hope to look at the actual scandals involving retired priest Paul Shanley and defrocked priest John Geoghan. These two men served as priests in the Boston community for over 20 years under the leadership of three different Cardinals. Throughout their years of service they had sexual relationships with males ranging from the age of 4 to 26. Only within the past year were legal steps taken against them. John Geoghan was tried and convicted and Paul Shanley’s case is still under investigation. In the Catholic Church, priests are the moral authority. When one has questions with his faith he is taught that he can go to his priest for informed answers. In this paper I also hope to deal with how these priests failed their flock. They took advantage of men who came to them for help when in trouble and preyed on the little boys who came to the church for guidance. In addition to the tacit feeling that as a priest they will only do what is right, these men told their victims that they would deal with the moral implications. I also hope to look at the role of the Cardinals in this whole affair. The Catholic Church teaches that these men are responsible for the priests under their care, as well as the people. Fathers Geoghan and Shanley served under three Boston Cardinals and they were still allowed to continue preying on the people in their parish. The people of the church depend on their Cardinals to keep the archdiocese in order, and these men failed the people they are supposed to guide. The question then arises: how much responsibility should these Cardinals take. In order to answer that question I shall look at Cardinal Bernard Law.

Children And Exercise Essay -- essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In our society today one of the most difficult problems we are facing is the large numbers of obesity in our children. One of the major factors in that is this; our children have become less physically active. At an early age children start watching TV, learn how to operate a computer, and play video games. Having technological skills is now a necessity in all of our lives because everything has turned â€Å"computerized,† but the fact is that our children are relying on these types of entertainment rather than getting up and physically exercising to entertain them selves. This directly affects the large number of obese children in our country today because of the lack of physical exercise. It is not that we want our kids to look a certain way or to be better at sports than everyone else, but it is that we want our kids to be physically fit and to develop a healthy lifestyle. Physical exercise is not only for adults, it is for children as well, so we must understand the importance of our children exercising and the benefits from it. By doing that it will make an impact on that child for the rest of his/her life.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The reason we should be hesitant to allow our children to watch TV or play video games is that once a child does that, then he/she starts to enjoy it and wants to do it more and more. It becomes an event that they look forward to doing. Whether it is anxiously waiting on a certain TV show to come on, or hurrying in the house to get to their favorite video game. Children have become obsessed with these types of entertainment and have completely forgot about physical activities. Children do not look forward to getting some friends over to play football in the backyard as much anymore. They look forward to getting friends over to go inside and play a video game while eating chips and drinking cokes. Not only are they eating wrong foods, but also they are cutting out the physical activities to burn those calories off. Granted children should have restrictions on the types of food they eat, I am not taking anything away from that fact. But if a child is at least exerci sing then he/she will burn off a lot of those calories consumed in those unhealthy foods. So one question to ask is this; why are children becoming more dependent on technology rather than physical activity?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  &nbs... ...verything you and your child need to know about   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  sports, Physical activity, and good health - a doctor’s guide for parents an coaches.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  New York: Newmarket Press. Kalish, Susan. (1996). Your Child’s Fitness: Practical advice for parents. Champaigne:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Human Kinetics. Hinson, Curt. (1995). Fitness for Children. Champaign: Human Kinetics. Gabbard, C., LeBlanc, B., & Lowy, S. (1994). Physical Education for Children: Building   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  the Foundation, 2nd edition. New Jersey: Prentice-Hall, inc. American Heart Association. Exercise (Physical Activity) and Children. April 4th, 2005   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  < http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4596 > Diagnose-Me. Problems associated with lack of exercise. March 27th, 2005. April 4th, 2005. < http://www.diagnose-me.com/cond/C380381.html >. IDEA Fitness Journal. Exercise Decreases Risk of Depression in Kids. October 2004. April   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  4th, 2005. < http://pdfserve.galegroup.com/pdfserve/get_item/1/Scdbf1ew6   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  _1/SB806_01.pdf >.

Essay :: essays research papers

The impact that athletics has had on my Life   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The impact that athletics has had on my life is everything. It made me a better person. For example it made me to be more responsible, focus, and more determined to accomplish my goals.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ever since I became being an athlete I’ve learned that there’s responsibility. And one of them is being responsible for me and me only. I have to watch what I do and who I hang around with because hanging with the wrong people can mess up my opportunities an athlete. But it’s more than that; it’s also being responsible inside the classroom. Taking care of my grades and doing my work.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Being an athlete it made me more focus of what I do. For example, it makes me focus in the classroom, so I will be able to get good grades. Getting good grades keeps me focused because I want to get an academics scholarship than an athletic scholarship. Don’t get me wrong I would be happy if I got an athletic scholarship but I just prefer an academic scholarship. What also keep me focus are coaches help keep me focused as well. Player who gets a grade lower than a B   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Moss Has to jump a bench. This bench is about 3ft long and very wide with sharp corners. And the coaches determine how many you jump by how many points that you’re away from a B. For example, say if I got a 70 he would make jump a hundred because I was ten points off from getting a B.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  As an athlete I’m determined to accomplish my goals. Those goals are to go to a college with my academic or my athletic abilities and to be successful in my life.