Young Offenders and Youth Justice Research Paper

Young Offenders and Youth Justice - Research Paper Example There has been a concern of how the society views and deals with young people. Some people believe that juvenile engage in antisocial behaviors because of lack of good rearing by the parents, while others believe that the whole society has failed to instill morals to its young people. However, studies have documented that due to increase in poverty and technology, young people are involved in different crimes (Barnickol 430). Conversely, studies have also documented that culture dictates the parenting style, which in turn has a lot to do with the child’s development. In light with his, it has been argued that bad parenting style has effects on the behavior of a child. Although measures exist, it is apparent that they have not elucidated on how best strategies they use can comprehensively address the problem. What is currently evident is that these measures lessen the situation with little empirical approach being adopted in order to address the causes of anti-social behavior a mong young people (Hancock 142). In this regard, more emphasis has been on the correctional perspective, but this problem requires a comprehensive approach, which incorporates both correctional and preventive approaches. With such deliberations, the current research would be of help in utilizing theoretical frameworks in order to ascertain the best approaches to use in order to both correct and mitigate causes of anti-social behavior among young people. ... Another major concern involves poor parenting. It is believed that poor parenting can slowly develop a culture of unruly behavior. Parents who use permissive parenting style tend to unknowingly encourage their children to engage in unruly behaviors (Harr 64). However, some studies have noted that when parents are unable to provide basic necessities to their children, they have little control over their lives. To some parents, they become too busy to have quality time with their children. This way, children tend to imitate other people without any control of their actions (Gottfredson 94). In fact, when this continues and they realize their parents cannot control their lives, most of them indulge in drugs – something that highly contributes to delinquent behavior. An Introduction of Key Research Questions In regard to the above-mentioned issues, it is apparent that there is a need to have the issue of anti-social behaviors among young people addressed comprehensively (Gaines 28 ). The current research aims at presenting theoretical and comparative measures to not only reform the already existing youth justice system but also to provide a framework that can help reduce and prevent cases of anti-social behaviors among young people. In this scope, the hypothesis of the research argues that if community based programs that deal with child rearing can be introduced, the rate of juvenile anti-social behaviors can be reduced (Hodge 103). In this regard, the research aims to find solutions to the following questions, which will give an overview of causes of anti-social behavior among young people. 1. What causes of anti-social behavior among young people. 2. How effective are the programs designed to

Research Proposal on contingency leadership theories Essay

Research Proposal on contingency leadership theories - Essay Example Any decision is based on a body of knowledge which is produced through research. By applying the appropriate methodologies and the research method, the body of knowledge can be established and advanced with confidence. Research is basically a systematic method of investigation which increases knowledge. Research relies on facts and experience, data, concepts and constructs, hypotheses and conjectures, and principles and laws (Amaratunga, Baldry, Sarshar, & Newton, 2002). The ultimate purpose of this research is to add knowledge to the already existing body of knowledge, which would facilitate the right decision on the leadership that would suit the situation. Attempts will be made to reach a suitable conclusion to the objectives. Although research has been considered important in every business activity, there is no consensus on how it should be carried out. There are different paradigms for research which are classified under qualitative or quantitative research. Amaratunga et al., suggest that research strategy should be chosen as a function of the research situation. Each strategy has its own approach to collect and interpret data and hence its strategy has its own advantages and disadvantages. As far as this research is concerned, the qualitative method or the inductive method of research is preferable because a lot of literature is available, with diverse opinions and it is essential to understand what is happening. Besides, topic, theory and methodology are closely interrelated. The deductive method would not bring to light the deeper, underlying meanings and explanations of the data collected. Taking large samples would be impractical and small studies over a period of time would help establish facts. It would enable to understand the totality of the situation and multiple methods can be used to establish different views of the phenomena. Leadership research is a conservative field and slow to innovate. Qualitative

Reviewing Recidivism In The Criminal Justice System Criminology Essay

Reviewing Recidivism In The Criminal Justice System Criminology Essay Recidivism, in the criminal justice context, is most simply defined as a relapse into criminal behavior (Merriam-Webster Online, 2010). Once a convicted criminal has served his or her time and is released from incarceration, in a perfect world, they would never return. One might assume that having lost all individual liberties, a person would do everything within their power to not ever be in that predicament again. However, against all logic, this is not always the case. When an ex-convict reoffends and is incarcerated again, he or she has then become a recidivism statistic. So the question is, Why does this happen? Does not the thought of untainted freedom appeal to these individuals? Secondly, does society have a role in ensuring these released prisoners have the skills necessary to progress forward as productive members of society; never to return to the prison system? Whose responsibility is it to ensure those who walk beyond the prison wall do not return? And third, with the nu mber of people in prisons and jails (in America) at an all time high, these are questions that beg to be answered. Since the burden of financing prisons falls upon the American tax-payers, it is of benefit to them to invest in efforts geared towards reducing recidivism. All of society has a large stake in keeping offenders out of prison, which in turn decreases the amount of new prisons which need to be built, staffed and funded. With that said, in order that the issue of recidivism be addressed, all involved parties must ultimately agree upon the best course of action. Many in the correctional field erroneously assume that what works to reduce re-offending rates for one individual may work for all. Thus, many programs in place today utilize a standard approach for the masses; recalling one instance in which that particular approach was successful. One side states the best approach to reducing recidivism is more discipline; harsher sentences and longer prison stays. Yet another faction may stand behind the various rehabilitation approaches which include: diversion programs, half-way house stays, treatment programs while incarcerated, work-release programs, substance abuse programs and 12-step programs to name a few. Furthermore, an additional barrier to any approach is the responsibility of correctional facilities to prove what works, via statistics and the like to enable such programs to be funded. So, what really works? Those in the criminal justice community (and scholars in general) make great claims as to what is most effective at reducing recidivism. Every political party, prison administrator, police officer or correctional officer has their own personal analysis on the matter. Nevertheless, as with any concern, before mapping out a solution the problem must first be properly identified. Unfortunately, recidivism is plagued with a number of unique problems which contribute tiny parts to the whole. One great contributor is the fact that many of the prisoners, before even becoming incarcerated, cannot read or write, have very little job skills, have anti-social behavior problems and may even be mentally unstable? With these issues comes the instigator of little to no treatment. Are the correctional institutions able to address these issues or are they simply ignoring them in the spirit of simple incapacitation? Although there is scientific evidence that rehabilitation really does work (even if on ly part of the time), many stake their claims on harsher punishment; retribution. Yes, there has been controversy regarding previous research based on conflicting definitions of recidivism and faulty statistics. Even so, exact definitions or not, the greatest harm to date is the application of a one size fits all approach. In this paper Ill review the various schools of thought and outline programs in use today. Secondly, Ill summarize the programs and approaches which seem to garner the attention of experts, via empirical evidence and scientific research, as possessing the greatest hope for reducing the rates of recidivism; even if only slightly. REHABILITATION Criminal justice policies were not always as punitive as they are today. During the 1950s and 1960s, most Americans held the optimistic view that offenders could be reformed and that it was the responsibility of the criminal justice system to do so (Pager, 2007). This mindset reflects societys tolerance and sympathy at the time. During this period the Federal Bureau of Prisons emphasized rehabilitation as a correctional tool for use in Federal prisons. This Medical Model, a term by which the rehabilitation movement was referred, placed offenders through treatment programs which included counseling, education and vocational training (UNICOR, 2010). Prisoners were taught vocational skills, attended educational courses, completed high-school course work, and in some instances received college degrees. Rehabilitation was a key part of the United States policy on incarceration and prisons in general (Benson, 2003). Another implicit motive for these rehabilitation efforts was the fact that a large majority of the prison population suffers from mental illness. This reality is no secret. Inmates, because of their risky lifestyles, poor access to health care, and substance abuse, are less healthy both physically and mentally (Petersilia, 2003). According to a Bureau of Justice Statistics Report, in 1997 an approximately 347,000 prisoners, both state and Federal, reported having a physical impairment or mental condition (Maruschak Beck, 2001). The severity of these illnesses can range from mild mental issues to severe illness such as schizophrenia. During the Medical Model era, and still today this issue lacks the full attention of correctional institutions and the criminal justice community. Nevertheless, treatment was offered for mental health issues during this time. Up until the mid-1970s offenders were often given mandatory therapy and drug treatment as part of their prison sentence. Many had substance abuse problems and were treated for such. Convicted criminals were seen as needing supervision, re-socialization, and support in acquiring the coping skills, behavioral therapy, and vocational skills which form the foundation for reentering society. At that time it was generally believed that counseling, education, and job training were central to criminal desistance and that active intervention could have lasting effects (Pager, 2007). As previously mentioned, many offenders enter prison as illiterates with very little marketable job skills, drug problems and mentally health issues. Thus, this approach seemed practical. Although necessary this rehabilitative approach would not last long enough. Unfortunately, when the get tough on crime initiatives rolled in the rehabilitation portion of punishment was rolled out. Former President Ronald Reagan took it upon himself to focus the nations attention toward the problems of drug use and distribution. These get tough on crime initiatives, a product of Reagans war on drugs, caused prison populations to explode almost instantaneously. Between 1980 and 1990, the annual number of drug offenders admitted to state prisons increased tenfold (Pager, 2007). With the inundation to the prison population it was technically impossible to effectively rehabilitate each and every prisoner. This was especially true with the increase in prisoner sentences being tied more specifically to drug offenses, which meant substance abuse treatment for all. Along with these new initiatives came a more corrective approach towards punishment which left little room for rehabilitation. Along with the prison explosion of the 1980s and 1990s came a decrease in financial backing for the departments of parole (Pager, 2007). This decrease, purportedly tied to the war on drugs, put a strain on parole officers role in the rehabilitation and reintegration process. Tasked with reintegrating offenders back into society, the departments of parole as a whole are an integral part of the reentry movement and effort to reduce recidivism. An offender is generally considered to be rehabilitated when he or she no longer represents a threat to members of the community and are therefore believed to be fit to live in that community (Gaines Miller, 2007). Parole officers are (or were) responsible for the post release portion of this rehabilitation effort; getting the ex-con back in touch with his or her community. After the prison explosion parole officers were now finding themselves with almost three times more the amount of caseloads then previously charged with. This reduction in ti me and increase in case loads meant less assistance and more correction and supervision. Yet another rehabilitative tool was being left behind. A great majority of the American public, ex-convicts included, have always had unfavorable opinions of the department of parole and probation officers. Now trust in the department was dwindling even further. WHAT WORKS Two (2) of the largest studies on recidivism were conducted by the Bureau of Justice Statistics in 1983 and again in 1994 (the fourth and fifth BJS study of offenders released from prison and their re-involvement in crime). The most obvious lesson learned from these studies was that from 1984 to the 1994 there was a 5% increase in recidivism for those prisoners released (Langan Levin, 2002). Thus, it would seem that the practices currently being utilized to address the concern of recidivism are, or have been, somewhat ineffective. Those released in 1994 were not only re-arrested in greater numbers than those released in 1983. But they were also re-arrested sooner after release and for graver offenses (Beck Shipley, 1989). The greatest chance for reoffending took place within the first year of release from prison (Langan Levin, 2002). As mentioned previously and as pointed out by both the BJS studies on recidivism, there are several contributing factors which come into play when co nsidering whether or not an individual will reoffend. Factor such as education level, prior arrests and/or previous incarcerations, age, gender, type of offense, amount of time served, and ethnicity. These characteristics, to name a few, are part of a reoffended equation. These characteristics can also be utilized to form a risk assessment, which may identify those who are at the greatest risk of reoffending. This insight again solidifies the notion that not each person can be addressed utilizing the same approach. Alongside research conducted by the Bureau of Justice Statistics stands a large body of study collectively known as the what works literature (Latessa Lowenkamp, What Works in Reducing Recidivism, 2006). The what works literature has, with the assistance of evidence-based research, further confirmed that what is good for the geese is not always good for the gander. As continuously stated, not all approaches work for every offender. In addition, even the most successful approaches are not successful every time (Hooley, 2010). Its unfortunate that some offenders simply cannot function outside of prison walls. There are those criminals who will ultimately remain criminals stuck in a cycle of reoffending. Part of the what works literature addresses this issue by addressing the risk and needs of each individual inmate or ex-convict. Dr. Edward J. Latessa and Dr. Christopher Lowenkamp, both Professors at the University of Cincinnati have dedicated much of their research to the study of recidivism. Drs. Latessa and Lowenkamp (2005) have a recurring theme that the components of effective correctional intervention, including offender reentry programs, have already been demonstrated and confirmed time and time again (p.72). Many academics (Petersilia 2003, Pager 2007, Hooley 2010) profess the fact that there are programs that have been scientifically proven more successful than others. According to Latessa and Lowenkamp (2005) the setback in recidivism stems from correctional institutions disregarding this large body of evidence in favor of quick fixes or the latest trends. According to Hooley (2010) and several authors of what works literature in addition to science based strategies and writings put out by the National Institute of Corrections, in order for a correctional system to be effective at reducing recidivism it must adhere to several core concepts. The most important core concept is a risk assessment; who to target (Latessa Lowenkamp, What Works in Reducing Recidivism, 2006). Included in this risk assessment are several characteristics identified in the Special Reports conducted by the BJS as well as others. These characteristics include, but are not limited to: age (the younger the prisoner when released, the higher the rate of recidivism), attitude (does the offender display anti-social attributes), criminal history (will he or she continue to hang around with other who cause trouble), motivation (will the offender seek and keep employment), and attitude (does the offender accept responsibility for their actions either good or bad). Once th ose at risk are identified, resources should only be expended on offenders with the highest probability of reoffending (Hooley, 2010). In the age of do more with less its imperative, both for taxpayers and the correctional system, to utilize funds and resources where they will most likely to have the biggest impact. It has also been proven that it is possible to do more harm than good if low risk offenders are paired and treated with high risk offenders. In Latessa and Lowenkamps 2005 article in the Ohio Judicial Conference, they speak of a second principle to be addressed; criminogenic needs. The most effective programs assess, address and meet the individuals criminogenic needs. These needs include who they hang out with, their attitudes, beliefs and values, their lack of problem solving, substance abuse issues, and employment status to name a few (Latessa Lowenkamp, What are Criminogenic Needs and Why are they important, 2005). They have the largest influence on what motivates the individual to reoffend. One such example is a recently released inmate who continues to associate with anti-social and criminal friends. Chances are they will be more likely to reoffend. Programs such as boot camps and other programs which address non-criminogenic needs are by themselves unsuccessful as they tend to not focus on crime-producing needs (Latessa Lowenkamp, What Works in Reducing Recidivism, 2006). Although self-esteem and discipline build ing programs can be helpful for a short period of time, those that fail to address the attributes which encourage criminal behavior will never be successful in the long term. While static criminogenic needs such as a prior criminal record and family criminality cant be change, dynamic criminogenic needs such as those listed above can be influenced to reduce the individuals chance of reentering the criminal justice system (Latessa Lowenkamp, What are Criminogenic Needs and Why are they important, 2005). The next concept is referred to as the treatment principle. This principle addresses the how to go about targeting offenders needs. Evidence-based programs that are not only behavioral in nature, but are also delivered by a well-trained staff have been proven to be successful (Hooley, 2010). Some offenders may have to be taught a whole new way of thinking. Cognitive behavioral therapy that focuses on current factors influencing behavior that are action oriented with role-playing involved have a tremendous influence on improving anti-social behavior. A four to one ratio of positive reinforcement over sanctions has been found to be one of the most effective forms of treatment (Hooley, 2010). Many inmates have had no positive influence in their life or have never received positive reinforcement paired with non-criminal activity. Thus, in the treatment principal social learning is reinforced, via psychotherapy that emphasizes the important role of thinking in how we feel and what we do ( National Association of Cognitive Behavioral Therapists, 1996-2010). This encourages the individual to become less anti-social and motivated to do better. But above all, none of the above mentioned strategies are useful unless they can be delivered by a well-trained and dedicated staff. This applies to programs delivered both inside and outside of prison walls. In What Works in Reducing Recidivism, Latessa and Lowenkamp (2006) name this as the fifth core concept. All parties involved in the process of rehabilitating the offenders attitudes and behaviors must be on-board and on the same page. Those implicated must be trained, competent, consistent and sensitive to the offenders needs. This support is imperative. This requires on-going support as staying away from negative influences in the form of old friends and family may prove easier than staying away from drugs (Hooley, 2010). Dr. Lateesa cites recent studies which have demonstrated that even evidence-based programs can increase recidivism if not competently delivered (as cited by Washington Institute for Public Policy, 2004). THE REENTRY MOVEMENT There is a vast amount of anecdotal and empirical evidence pointing out the rise in prison populations. Furthermore, an abundance of reports signal an increased number of ex-convicts being released into the community. Hence, it only makes sense to focus more attention on pre-release programs and training. Much of the incentive surrounding the reentry movement have sprung from pressure on public policy makers to provide treatments and services that will smooth the integration process while reducing recidivism (Nunez-Neto, 2008). Approximately 650,000 people are released from prisons every year to return to communities that may or not welcome their return (U.S. Dept of Justice, 2010). With such a large number of annual releases, the most important question to be asked is whether or not those released are equipped to be productive members of society. Without the proper attention and equipment (both physically and mentally), they will not be prepared. It is with this information that a reentry movement of sorts has surfaced and gained great momentum during the past century. Correctional facilities are striving to make the transitioned from the punishment mindset to one of rehabilitation and preparation for prisoner reentry and reintegration. In the words of Joan Petersilia of the University of California at Irvine, prisoner reentry encompasses all activities and programming conducted to prepare ex-convicts to return safely to the community and to live as law abiding citizens (Petersilia, 2003). The correctional community at large is slowly coming to the realization that, without the tools required to function in what may be a whole new world, a recently released convict may have but one option; to resort to the criminal tendencies which proved useful prior to his or her incarceration. Part of the reentry progress has come with backing from the Federal government. On April 9, 2008 the Second Chance Act of 2007 was enacted. H.R. 1593 outlines the purposes of The Second Chance Act of 2007 as the following: To break the cycle of criminal recidivism, increase public safety, and help better address the growing population of criminal offenders who return to their communities and commit new crimes. To rebuild ties between offenders and their families and to encourage the development and support of programs that reduce recidivism. For example: substance abuse treatment, alternatives to incarceration, and comprehensive reentry services. To protect society and promote law-abiding conduct by providing necessary services to offenders. To assist offenders reentering the community with transitional services for a sufficient amount of time after incarceration. To provide offenders in prisons and jails with educational, literacy, vocational, and job placement services to facilitate re-entry into the community. (The Second Chance Act, 2008) This original Second Chance Act of 2007 was a way for Congress to authorize a number of new programs and expanded the current offender reentry grant program at the Department of Justice (Nunez-Neto, 2008). It also assists the Federal Bureau of Prisons with its offender reentry programs in modifying components which prove most successful for federal ex-offenders. And it establishes a prisoner reentry program at the Bureau of Prisons and bestows the agency with new authorities (Nunez-Neto, 2008). This Act, and other similar programs at the state and local levels, is instrumental in giving ex-offenders the boost they need to be more victorious in their quest to make it on the outside. REINTEGRATION Three phases are often associated with offender reentry programs. First there are those programs that take place during incarceration, which aim to prepare convicts for their release. Secondly there are those programs that take place during the convicts release period, which seeks to connect them with the various services they might require once released. And lastly, during the final phase, there are the long-term programs that support the offenders permanent reintegrate into their community and society. This final phase attempts to provide the support and supervision ex-cons require most (Nunez-Neto, 2008). It is also the most crucial phase as what happens during the months following an ex-cons release often determines if and how quickly they will or will not re-offend. As stated previously, from the late 1950s up until the mid-1970s offenders were often given mandatory therapy, drug treatment, behavioral therapy and coping skills during their incarceration period. Rehabilitation efforts were at the forefront of correctional reform. The pattern during this era emphasized rehabilitation and reintegration. Since the early 1980s, views towards these forms of traditional treatment efforts have begun to deteriorate (Kadela Seiter, 2003). With changes in ruling political parties and differing prison administrations also comes change in corrective tactics. Fortunately, the pendulum is returning towards rehabilitation and for the past century rehabilitation has been viewed as not only the most humane goal of punishment, but also as a cost-effective (and possibly crime-reducing) alternative to punishment (Gaines Miller, 2007). Nevertheless, in order to alter the in prison experience prison officials have to accept that prisoner reintegration is part of their core responsibilities (Petersilia, 2003). Correctional staff and prison administration must make extensive efforts to ensure the prisoners are prepared for reentry. This includes not only a return to providing education and treatment, but also promoting and environment that encourages positive relationships, improving life skills and conflict management as opposed to violence and domination (Petersilia, 2003). While incarcerated each day of an inmates life is planned and structured. The inmate is required to make very few decisions on his or her own behalf. Allowing an inmate opportunity to make decisions will reduce the trauma of having to deal with lifes decisions on the outside. Studies show that the most successful programs in the reentry movement are those which begin during the actual incarceration period. During the months, and possibly years, leading to release is when programs which attempt to connect inmates with services theyll require upon release are most important. Again, correctional staff truly engaged in the process must foster collaborations and develop partnerships with the community. These services can include employers willing to participate in work-release programs, family members who participate with the inmate in counseling services, and community services geared toward assistance with housing and transportation to name a few. The list of programs and assistance should be modified to meet the individual needs of each inmate. In the words of Joan Petersilia (2003), Just as welfare reform forced welfare agencies to shift from a dependency model to a model of transition to independence, so too a reentry perspective would force correctional agencies to take practical steps to move prisoners toward independence (p. 174). Even upon release from prison, an ex-convict is labeled by society. What seems to be a great instigator to the crisis of recidivism is the fact that upon being released from prison many a ex-con feel they are still doing time (Pager, 2007). Felons face numerous hurdles in todays world. Many (especially those with drug convictions) are barred from public assistance, which may include housing, food stamps, or, in the case of women, WIC (Women, Infant and Child assistance). Convicted felons cannot vote and in some states they are further disqualified from obtaining a drivers license (Samuels Mukamal, 2004). This is more grounds with which to facilitate the rehabilitation and return of the parole system. Without the Department of Paroles (due to abolishment in some states and determinate-sentencing releases in others) many states have form their own form of mandatory supervision. This supervision is still less individualized and based on risk rather than need, setting supervision levels based primarily on offenders history of criminal behavior (Kadela Seiter, 2003). Thus, even if an inmate has participated in rehabilitation programs while incarcerated and was assisted with reentry by both the prison personnel in conjunction with a well-trained staff, that inmate must still be able to successfully navigate the outside world. EMPLOYMENT Being able to find a job is one of the easiest ways for an ex-convict to get back on his or her feet. With employment comes the ability to pay rent, purchase food and clothing, a boost in self-esteem and, most importantly, the choice of not having to resort to illegal means. In addition, the ex-convict may be returning to a family for whom he or she must now provide. A job for an ex-con in this situation means an already stressful situation becomes less traumatic. For both male and female ex-cons, being able to find a job after being released from prison can only be a boost to their confidence and sense of worth. Research has empirically established a positive link between job stability and reduced criminal offending (Petersilia, 2003). However, for most the odds are against them. To add insult to injury, nearly 80 percent of parole boards nationwide list some form of gainful employment as a standard condition of parole (Pager, 2007). Back in the 1960s and 1970s Wisconsin, New York and Hawaii passed laws forbidding discriminating against ex-convicts based on their criminal record (Pager, 2007). Discrimination of this sort could only be done so if the nature of the crime was directly related to the specific responsibilities of the job (Pager, 2007). Of great note is the fact that only three (3) states have such laws preventing employment discrimination against ex-convicts. The view of the remaining states is indicative of societys judgment as a whole. The majority scrutinizes ex-convicts as untrustworthy, uneducated and unable to be employed for anything but manual labor. Many equate all felons to murderers and rapists. Unless more states pass similar laws, which hold the status of a protected category, similar to protections provided for minorities under Title VII of the Civil Rights Acts, the most important factor in successful reintegration will also be the hardest; finding a job. When applying for any job some of the questions an applicant must answer are those regarding previous criminal history. And in this age of technology many employers also have the option of conducting background check. Combinations of these two facts do not bode well for those with a criminal record. On a positive note, Petersilia (2003) reported that a recent survey revealed employers are becoming more receptive to the idea of hiring an ex-convict if a liaison-a service provider, counseling program or community center-is available to mentor and to help avert any problems (as cited by Wirthlin Worldwide, 2000)(p. 196). This is yet another testimony to the importance of an ex-con having an advocate on the outside. Whether it be a parole officer, a community-based program that has chosen to champion the felons fight, or family members intent on providing for their loved one; assistance plays a pivotal role in the success or failure of the ex-cons struggle. PAROLE The same get tough on crime policies that nearly abolished the rehabilitation mind set toward incarcerated prisoners were also responsible for inadvertently (or purposely depending on who is asked) diminishing the functions of the parole board. The stated role of parole is supposed to be to oversee the process of reentry and to assist the ex-convict in his path towards a crime-free life (Pager, 2007). However, during the 1960s and 1970s the job of the parole board was not only essential, but also meaningful and multi-faceted. During the years when the majority of the prison population was serving indeterminate sentences, the parole board was largely responsible for determining which prisoners would be allowed early release, via parole. Part of that decision process included requiring extremely dangerous and high risk inmates to serve the majority of their sentence (Kadela Seiter, 2003). They also made it their job to ensure inmates had a plan as to what they were going to do followi ng release from prison. Parole also served as an incentive for inmates to behave. Part of indeterminate sentencing included good time, which removed days and/or months from an inmates sentence for good behavior. This encouraged cooperation amongst prisoners who were highly aware that bad behavior could affect their chance of gaining parole. After the Sentencing Reform Act of 1984, the length of time served by federal convicts for their crimes rose significantly. Sentencing reform statutes and truth-in-sentencing laws had the same effect at the state level (Gaines Miller, 2007). These legislative enactments were attempts to ensure convicts served the majority of their actual sentence; determinate sentencing. Secondly, change came on the heels of crimes committed by inmates who had gained parole and reflected societys belief that those being incarcerated were more violent that before. The down side of determinate sentencing, where most prisoners serve approximately 85% of their sentence, was the abolishment of parole by the federal government and between 14-16 states (Gaines Miller, 2007). In When Prisoners Come Home, Joan Petersilia (2003) presents twelve recommendations on how to reform parole and reentry practices (p. 171). Petersilia (2003) presents reinstituting discretionary release as an incentive for inmates to try to rehabilitate themselves while incarcerated (p. 188). Although inmates are to serve the majority of their sentence, these terms are generally shorter under determinate sentencing. Therefore, they have no motivation to earn good time or show effort toward rehabilitations since their sentences are shorter. And without discretionary parole the board no longer has the power or ability to deny release when it deems necessary. A case in point is Richard Allen Davis whose account is described by Petersilia (2003). Under indeterminate sentencing Davis was denied parole six times. With the Sentencing Reform Act, the state of California (in which Davis was imprisoned) chose to abolish discretionary parole. Thus, in 1993 Davis was mandatorily released due to time served. Less than four months later he kidnapped and brutally murdered Polly Klass (Petersilia, 2003). Ironically, this incident also fueled support for Californias passage of th

Essay --

Although I knew a little bit about blood borne disease before starting the nursing program, I learned much more as I started my career. I never really understood why the majority of people get infected with disease such as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV) and Hepatitis C. It was made clear to me when I started my nursing career, that people who get infected with these diseases are drug users because they share needles with someone else. Even though there are several routes of transmission of these diseases, sharing needles with a partner is one of the routes. As a current Public Health Nurse (PHN), this topic is very important and the only way to prevent outbreaks and stop the sharing of needles is by referring patients to needles exchange programs (NEP) and educating people as much as possible. Even though we cannot completely stop the outbreak, minimizing the amount of people who get infected through sharing needles will help decrease that mode of transmission. After a study was a performed in Canada, researchers found that preventing HIV is by needle exchange programs (NEPs). These program drastically diminish spread of blood borne disease. NEPs are programs where drug users can safely dispose of old syringes and exchange them for new, sterile ones. The services that NEPs provide is essential for drug users that are more vulnerable to these diseases. NEPs are the most successful interventions for preventing HIV. Studies show that changes in HIV risk behaviors after NEPs were implemented reported reductions in syringe sharing and other high risk injecting behaviors. There are some controversies that NEP programs distribute needles when in fact, in order to get new sterile needles drug users have to return used ones (Ma... ...cate our clients, we are telling them the truth about the risks involved with sharing needles. By telling them the truth our intentions are not to scare them, but to tell them everything they need to know in order to make the best option for themselves when it comes to needle sharing. Fidelity means keeping promises (Allender et al., 2010). This is very essential for a PHN when it comes to trustful patient client relationship. If a nurse promises the patient that they will help them obtain sterile needles or refer them to NEP, then he/she has to follow through with that. If the PHN doesn't follow through with the promise that he/she makes, then the client won't trust the PHN in the future. All in all, needle exchange programs are very essential and beneficial for reducing blood borne disease, and we as nurses have to educate our clients because if we won't who will? Essay -- Although I knew a little bit about blood borne disease before starting the nursing program, I learned much more as I started my career. I never really understood why the majority of people get infected with disease such as Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV) and Hepatitis C. It was made clear to me when I started my nursing career, that people who get infected with these diseases are drug users because they share needles with someone else. Even though there are several routes of transmission of these diseases, sharing needles with a partner is one of the routes. As a current Public Health Nurse (PHN), this topic is very important and the only way to prevent outbreaks and stop the sharing of needles is by referring patients to needles exchange programs (NEP) and educating people as much as possible. Even though we cannot completely stop the outbreak, minimizing the amount of people who get infected through sharing needles will help decrease that mode of transmission. After a study was a performed in Canada, researchers found that preventing HIV is by needle exchange programs (NEPs). These program drastically diminish spread of blood borne disease. NEPs are programs where drug users can safely dispose of old syringes and exchange them for new, sterile ones. The services that NEPs provide is essential for drug users that are more vulnerable to these diseases. NEPs are the most successful interventions for preventing HIV. Studies show that changes in HIV risk behaviors after NEPs were implemented reported reductions in syringe sharing and other high risk injecting behaviors. There are some controversies that NEP programs distribute needles when in fact, in order to get new sterile needles drug users have to return used ones (Ma... ...cate our clients, we are telling them the truth about the risks involved with sharing needles. By telling them the truth our intentions are not to scare them, but to tell them everything they need to know in order to make the best option for themselves when it comes to needle sharing. Fidelity means keeping promises (Allender et al., 2010). This is very essential for a PHN when it comes to trustful patient client relationship. If a nurse promises the patient that they will help them obtain sterile needles or refer them to NEP, then he/she has to follow through with that. If the PHN doesn't follow through with the promise that he/she makes, then the client won't trust the PHN in the future. All in all, needle exchange programs are very essential and beneficial for reducing blood borne disease, and we as nurses have to educate our clients because if we won't who will?

A Clausewitzian Analysis of the Thirty Year’s War Essay

When applying the Clausewitzian paradoxical trinity paradigm to the Thirty Year’s War, we see that the catalyst that sparked much of the conflict during that time was driven by civil unrest of the ‘People’ engendered by fear of religious persecution. Beginning with the divergence of religious and secular leadership resulting from the Protestant Reformation which was exacerbated by the rigidity of Catholic monarchy, we see how widespread fomenting dissent within the German States lead to the decline of the Habsburg ruling family. In his work, On War, Clausewitz describes the essence of war as a continual interplay between the ‘paradoxical trinity’ of the people, the government, and the military. As we apply this framework to the complex and varied influences of the early 17th century, this model provides clarity in determining the root causes that shaped this era – an era that has come to be characterized by the rampant internecine warfare of religious and political factions of the time. The Protestant Reformation, which had begun to take traction with many of the expansion-minded German nobility, set the stage for the conflict between Catholic and Protestant factions throughout the German Provinces. With the signing of the Peace of Augsburg in 1555, Lutheranism had been officially recognized by the Holy Roman Empire. The major outcome of this treaty enabled the Protestant movement in Germany to claim lands once belonging to the Catholics. This result had great appeal to the more secular rulers throughout Europe who sought to disentangle themselves from papal oversight and influence. Under the rule of the Holy Roman Emperor Mathias, Protest and Catholic factions had gained equity of representation and influence throughout the Hapsburg controlled regions. This unification was driven, in part, by the larger Muslim threat presented by the Ottoman Empire. This truce, however, was an uneasy one with all the characteristics of a 17th century Cold War between the two religious sects, and as the balance shifted with the rise of a new monarch, each side began an arms race to defend their interests from the other. The appointment of the intransigent Catholic monarch, Ferdinand II, posed a threat to Protestants throughout the various Habsburg controlled territories. Religious hegemony of individual States was the preferred condition of German rulers in the early 17th century. The religion of the ruler shall be the religion of his subjects† was a motto that was very near and dear to many of the European rulers of the day. This rang especially true among the Catholic territories where the Church exercised much greater political influence than their Protestant counterparts. So when the balance of Protestant and Catholic controlled States was disrupted with the ascension of Ferdinand II – a widely acknowledged Catholic zealot – to the throne of Bohemia it brought a face to the fears of the Protestant nobility. In an effort to limit his religious edicts, the Protestant Bohemians entreated for religious freedoms of their newly throned monarch. The harsh dismissal of these entreaties was the spark that ignited the powder keg that Central Europe had become, and the subsequent â€Å"Defenestration of Prague† resulting in the death of Ferdinand’s representatives by Protestant rebels signaled the start of uprisings in Hungary, Transylvania, and the rest of Bohemia. This uprising spread throughout Europe, drawing in both political and religious powers to become decisively engaged. The unresolved religious dissent among the people and the Habsburg ruler served as a lodestone for conflict throughout Europe and lead ultimately to the decline of the Holy Roman Empire into several small autonomous territories. Early successes by the Hapsburg against the Bohemians, and later the Palatinate States, led to the direct involvement of France and Holland allying against the Hapsburgs. Their efforts were later supported by England, Sweden, Denmark, Savoy and Venice. These State actors all had their own agendas but ostensibly acted in support of the Protestant rebellion whose secular distancing from Church control appealed to both the ruling classes and commoners alike. The war ravaged the German countryside and some estimates have nearly half of the population were killed, wounded, or displaced, with some areas such as Wurttemberg losing nearly 75% of their population. The Peace of Westphalia which was signed in the fall of 1648 signified the end of the war. Alsace became part of France, while Sweden gained much of the German Baltic coast, while the Emperor had to recognize the sovereign rights of the German princes, and equality between Protestant and Catholic states, while Spain, in a separate peace, finally acknowledged the independence of the Dutch Republic. † The Habsburg crown was now, more than ever, subject to the auspices of the Imperial Diet, also termed the Reichstag or German Parliament, which exists to this day. When viewing the root cause of the Thirty Year’s War under the Clausewitzian perspective, we see that the â€Å"People† node of the paradoxical trinity was the most influential during that time. This war is often termed the War of Religion as religion was either the root cause of conflict, or the excuse used to mask political machination in efforts to expand power and influence. But in truth, religion was merely the vehicle by which contention among the commoners and landowners took shape to facilitate change of the current governmental structure. Upon the conclusion of the war, after the smoke had cleared and the damage was tallied, Habsburg power was irrevocably shattered and France emerged as the new epicenter of European influence and might. But the consequences extended beyond the immediate outcomes of the war. The resulting Peace of Westphalia changed the very relationships between citizens and the State, extricating religion from the government and laying the foundation for modern civic relationships of today’s democracies.

Cause and Effect in Economics

Organizing An Essay Often student writers are taught short-term solutions to the problem of organizing an essay. The most common short-term essay is the â€Å"five-paragraph essay† format. The five-paragraph essay uses the following organization: 1. Introduction–Background and thesis 2. First Body Paragraph–The first reason why the thesis is true 3. Second Body Paragraph–The second reason why the thesis is true 4. Third Body Paragraph–The third reason why the thesis is true 5. Conclusion–Recap of essayIt is important to understand that the five-paragraph essay is not necessarily bad. However, most student writers are led to believe or falsely believe that all essays must follow the five-paragraph essay format. Just a little thought makes clear that format is very limiting and limited and does not provide an adequate organization for many types of writing assignments. That is why I have crossed-out the description of the five-paragraph essay, so that you won't make the mistake of thinking that it is the best way to organize your essays.Instead, student writers should see that the form of an essay (its organization) needs to match the purpose of the essay. To begin with, we should look at one of the most common tasks student writers are asked to perform and the one of the organizational strategies effective for this task. Explaining Cause and Effect Often writers are asked to explain how certain conditions or events are related to the occurrence of other conditions or events. When a writer argues that â€Å"one thing leads to another,† he or she is making a cause-and-effect argument.For example, in an Economics class, students might be asked to explain the impact of increasing oil prices on the nation’s economy. Inherent in the question is the assumption that increasing oil prices is a cause, which produces specific effects in the rest of the economy. So, higher oil prices produce higher gasoline prices rais ing the cost of shipping goods. Higher oil prices produce higher jet fuel costs raising the cost of travel, and so on. Higher oil prices† is the cause, and increased shipping costs and travel expenses are among the effects. Writing tasks involving cause and effect analysis usually take one of two forms: explaining how a known cause produces specific effects; explaining how specific effects are produced by a previously unknown cause (which the writer has discovered). The second type of analysis is commonly referred to as root-cause analysis. The first type of analysis is what the technology and privacy topic requires.To argue that certain conditions will lead to other conditions (that the loss of privacy will lead to something else), first the writer needs to define clearly what those conditions are, and then the writer needs to make clear how those conditions lead to other conditions. Finally, the writer needs to explain what this cause-and-effect relationship means. This type of essay then has five parts (not paragraphs! ), with each part corresponding to a specific task the writer needs to perform, and each part consisting of one or more paragraphs.Essay Part| Scope| Purpose (not all necessary for every essay)| Introduction| General| * Background for the topic * Setting out the issues * Focusing the argument—the purpose of the essay| Description of the â€Å"Cause†| Begins general; becomes increasingly specific| * What the specific conditions are * Specific illustrations of these conditions * How these specific illustrations are representative of (can stand in for) other situations In this first part of the analysis, the writer needs to provide enough detail for the reader so the reader can understand the present situation.In addition, the writer needs to focus the description of the situation in such a way as to prepare for the â€Å"effect† that the writer is arguing for. For example, if the writer wants to argue that the loss of privacy has led to (or will lead to) a loss of individual freedom, then the description of how technology affects our privacy should focus on technologies that affect an individual’s freedom to act. Description of the â€Å"Effect†| Begins general; becomes increasingly specific| * What the specific effect is (or effects are) * How we get from the specific conditions to the specific effects * Specific illustrations of these effects * How these specific illustrations are representative of (can stand in for) othersIn this second part of the analysis, the writer needs to walk the reader through the logical steps the writer has used to move from cause to effect. For example, if the writer rgues that loss of privacy leads to loss of individual freedom, the writer needs to explain carefully how privacy and freedom are linked. So perhaps the writer might claim that privacy allows an individual to be free from the observation of others. With our privacy becoming increasingly l imited by surveillance, we are no longer free from the observation of others. If we believe that we are always being watched, we will probably change our behavior and be less willing to take chances or act independently.If we feel we cannot act independently then we are no longer free. | Explanation of the meaning of the cause-and-effect relationship| More General| * Why this analysis is important * How we might act upon the ideas the writer has presentedIn this third part of the analysis, the writer argues for the importance of the argument’s findings, often by putting in perspective the short-term or long-term consequences of the â€Å"effect. † In addition, in this part the writer usually makes some sort of recommendation (what we should do).So if the writer is arguing that loss of privacy leads to loss of freedom, in this part the writer might speculate one what might happen if this trend towards further loss of privacy continues. In addition, the writer might desc ribe some of the specific actions we can take to safeguard our existing privacy, or how legislation might provide such safeguards. | Conclusion| General| * Summing up * How our understanding of the larger issue might be changed by the writer's analysis * Appeal to the reader—how this situation affects us|

Path to Enlightenment Essay

Path to Enlightenment Essay Path to Enlightenment Essay Path to Enlightenment Enlightenment is the obtainment of inner peace and true wisdom. How to achieve this seemingly unattainable idea has been a prevalent question since the dawn of time. Two authors, Matthew Arnold in his poem â€Å"Self Dependence and N. Scott Momaday in his nonfiction text â€Å"A Vision Beyond Time and Place†, attempt to answer this complex question. In each of their texts, they look to nature for spiritual enlightenment. Because they are posing the same question and both are looking to nature for answers, one would assume they would come up with similar processes for achieving spiritual enlightenment. However, this is not the case due to the contrasting points of view each author takes. The texts are similar in many ways, such as the importance they stress on nature. Although due to the difference in points of view, they end up conveying entirely different messages: one supporting self-dependence and the other supporting expansion of the mind. The question Momaday and Arnold answer through their writing is fundamentally the same: how to achieve enlightenment. The crucial difference between the two texts is the contrasting points of view. While Arnold explores the attainment of enlightenment from an individual’s standpoint, Momaday explores it from a society’s standpoint. Arnold is essentially asking the question: â€Å"How do I reach spiritual enlightenment, whereas, Momaday is asking: â€Å"How can we as a society reach enlightenment?† Arnold’s speaker desperately seeks advice in order to help him find out who he is supposed to be, â€Å"Weary of myself, and sick of asking What I am, and what I ought to be†(1-2). Through the rhetorical device of anaphora: the speaker’s hopelessness is emphasized. The author repeats the phrase â€Å"what I am† which highlights how lost the speaker is. He is struggling to find his place and needs guidance to help him find his way. While Arn old talks about a single person’s search for enlightenment, Momaday focuses on society’s search for enlightenment, â€Å"†¦most of us in this society are afflicted with a kind of cultural nearsightedness†¦we fail to see the nature and meaning of our own humanity† (Momaday). Momaday expresses that a common problem with society is the inability to expand one’s mind. People can’t break the barrier that traps their mind and therefor remain ignorant and closed off. It is shown here that â€Å"A Vision Beyond Time and Place† focuses on society’s problem, rather than an individual’s problem. This key difference between the texts, along with dissimilar literary techniques and contrasting diction, causes each work to convey dissimilar messages. Nature has always been viewed a place of power, awe, and purity. Both authors recognize this and look to the sky when searching for enlightenment. In â€Å"Self Dependence†, th e speaker desperately seeks advice from the stars, â€Å"And a look of passionate desire O’er the sea and to the stars I send†(5-6). The speaker in this poem admires nature greatly and wishes to become like it, all-powerful and supreme. The same reverence for nature is expressed in Momaday’s work, â€Å"Every morning, my father tells me, Cheney would paint his wrinkled face, go out, and pray aloud to the rising sun† (Momaday). Cheney’s unwavering devotion to the sun is demonstrated through this quote. This proves the great resect that Cheney has for nature. The unnamed speaker from the poem looks to the stars as a source of comfort and solace, seeking advice from it. Cheney prays to the sun every day and views it with great reverence. These acts of dedication and admiration prove the importance role nature plays in both of these texts. It is evident that nature plays a significant part in both works, however, the message nature conveys in each text is starkly different. When the unnamed speaker in the poem asks how to become more like the stars, the stars respond with these words: â€Å"Bounded by themselves, and unregardful In what state God’s other works may be†(26-28). Through

Your guide to becoming a Certified Medical Assistant

Your guide to becoming a Certified Medical Assistant Healthcare is a hot industry, no doubt about it. As care becomes more advanced and an ever-growing population needs care in every aspect of health and wellness, these are jobs that will keep growing and demanding qualified professionals willing to take on these crucial roles. And while technology will continue to be a growth area for the field, the most in-demand roles of all may be the ones that handle patient care on the front lines, with and without cutting-edge tech. Certified Medical Assistants are just such professionals, who work directly with medical staff and patients to keep care running smoothly. What Does a Certified Medical Assistant Do?Certified Medical Assistants (or CMAs) are skilled, versatile professionals who may work in patient care assisting doctors, nurses, and other medical team members; in administration; or in a combination of both areas. They can be found in virtually any kind of clinical medical facility (hospitals, clinics, agencies, nursing homes, rehabil itation centers, government facilities) in support roles.A CMA’s tasks may include:Scheduling appointments and lab tests/proceduresAnswering phones and receiving patientsCleaning and preparing exam roomsTaking patient vital signs and medical history informationPreparing patients for specific procedures or testsExplaining treatment plans and follow-up care to patientsGiving injections or medications under the direction of a physicianPreparing patient samples for lab testsEntering patient information into charts and recordsAs you can see, CMAs take a large part in the everyday functions of a medical office, helping to make sure the basics are covered so that patients are receiving high-quality care. Thorough, accurate record-keeping is a large part of the role, as is being able to work equally well with both patients and other staff to make sure that information is clear and correct.Some CMAs have a more administrative focus, with their jobs more heavily weighted toward schedul ing, record-keeping, and managing the office aspects of a medical practice. Others are more oriented toward direct, clinical patient care, handling medical tasks and prep. The focus of the job really depends on the type of medical office and the skills and strengths of the CMA. For example, if you find you’re more inclined toward medical records expertise than drawing blood or taking blood pressure, there are CMA jobs that focus more heavily on administrative tasks.Medical assistants typically work a 40-hour work week, depending on the size and specialty of the practice.What Skills Do CMAs Have?CMAs need to have a pretty diverse skill set, given that their jobs can take on many different tasks.Medical skills: Medical assistants need to have a strong base in biology, anatomy, physiology, and science in general.Patient care skills: In addition to the medical know-how necessary to do the job, medical assistants also need to have strong customer care and service skills. They may be dealing with people as both patients and customers, and so need to have good people skills and bedside manner.Attention to detail: Small details can mean very big things when it comes to medical care, so CMAs need to have an eagle eye for details. This is especially true for administrative tasks like setting appointments and working with patient medical information, as inaccuracies can completely disrupt a medical practice, or a patient’s level of care.Teamwork skills: Medical assistants are crucial members of a whole medical team that may include doctors, nurses, administrative staff, and more. They need to be able to take directions from physicians and help ensure seamless care for the patients.Organizational skills: Efficiency and accuracy are two huge skill areas for medical assistants. CMAs may be juggling a waiting room full of patients on an aggressive appointment schedule, or need to process large numbers of samples for lab testing. Keeping everything calm and orga nized is essential.Communication skills: CMAs need to be able to record complicated medical information, as well as potentially be able to explain instructions or treatment plans to patients. Listening skills are crucial, as is the ability to communicate clearly with people at all points in the process to make sure that patients are getting what they need, and that other medical staff have the information they need too.How Much Do CMAs Get Paid?According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical assistants make a median salary of $31,540 per year, or $15.17 per hour, depending on location and experience.How Do You Become a CMA?Although some medical assistants start their careers right after high school, it is far more common for CMA jobs to require some college, or a certificate from an accredited Medical Assisting program. To become officially certified, candidates also need to pass the Certified Medical Assistant Exam offered by the American Association of Medical Assistants .What is the Outlook for Certified Medical Assistants?It’s a bright one- the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the demand for certified medical assistants will grow by 23% by 2024. This is much faster than average. As the need for quality healthcare doesn’t seem to be shrinking anytime soon, the need for high-quality medical assistants will continue to grow as well.If you’re considering joining a healthcare-related field, and can juggle the many needs of a medical practice, becoming a certified medical assistant could be the natural next step for your career. Good luck!

Planilla N-400 para ciudadanía por naturalización

Planilla N-400 para ciudadanà ­a por naturalizacià ³n Se puede adquirir la ciudadanà ­a de los Estados Unidos de varias formas, entre ellas la naturalizacià ³n. El formulario N-400 es el indicado para iniciar estos trmites. Este artà ­culo te guà ­a de manera sencilla para que puedas completar sin problemas la planilla N-400 y puedas jurar como ciudadano en aproximadamente 6 meses desde la fecha de inicio de todo el proceso. Quià ©n puede naturalizarse y asà ­ convertirse en estadounidense Los residentes permanentes legales pueden adquirir la nacionalidad americana por naturalizacià ³n. Si bien tienen que pasar un nà ºmero de aà ±os como titulares de la tarjeta de residencia (green card) antes de poder aplicar. El  tiempo de espera  varà ­a segà ºn cà ³mo se consiguià ³ la green card. Aunque hay varios supuestos y excepciones la regla general es que los esposos de ciudadanos deben esperar 3 aà ±os, mientras que el el resto de los residentes deben esperar 5 aà ±os. Extensià ³n de la planilla para pedir la ciudadanà ­a y quà © te vas a encontrar En cuanto a la extensià ³n de N-400,  tiene exactamente 21 pginas.   A tal fin, se hace una serie de preguntas divididas en 17 partes: Parte 1: elegibilidad.   Parte 2: Informacià ³n sobre ti (nombre, Nà ºmero del Seguro Social, fecha de nacimiento, solicitud de acomodacià ³n especial para la entrevista, peticià ³n de que se aplique una excepcià ³n para no presentar el examen de inglà ©s y/o cà ­vico, etc). Parte 3: Informacià ³n de contacto: telà ©fonos y cuenta de correo electrà ³nico. Parte 4: Datos sobre dà ³nde has vivido en los à ºltimos cinco aà ±os. Parte 5: Informacià ³n sobre tus padres. Parte 6: Con el objeto de poder identificarte fà ­sicamente al verificar un posible expediente delictivo, Inmigracià ³n te pide que le informes sobre ciertos datos personales: altura, color de cabello y ojos, grupo à ©tnico, raza y gà ©nero. Parte 7: Informacià ³n sobre las escuelas o universidades a las que has atendido en los à ºltimos cinco aà ±os y tus empleos en ese mismo periodo de tiempo. Parte 8: Descripcià ³n detallada de los viajes que has hecho fuera de Estados Unidos que han durado ms de 24 horas y que has realizado en los à ºltimos cinco aà ±os. Esta informacià ³n es muy importante ya que los residentes permanentes tienen limitado el tiempo que pueden pasar fuera de EEUU. Si lo sobrepasan pueden perder su condicià ³n de residentes y, consecuentemente, no podrà ­an aplicar por la ciudadanà ­a. Parte 9: Inmigracià ³n tambià ©n quiere saber con quià ©n ests casado/a y con quià ©n lo has estado en el pasado. Es decir, la historia de tus matrimonios, divorcios, separaciones o estado  de viudedad.   Parte 10: Inmigracià ³n tambià ©n quiere saber toda la informacià ³n relevante sobre tus hijos: biolà ³gicos, adoptados legalmente (no simplemente de crianza) o hijastros. No importa la edad, si viven en EEUU o en otro paà ­s, si estn solteros o casados o si son fruto de un matrimonio o de una relacià ³n extramatrimonial o anteriores al casamiento. En otras palabras, hay que incluir los datos de todos los hijos (incluidos los fallecidos). Parte 11: Informacià ³n adicional. Ms sobre esta parte, casi al final del artà ­culo, porque merece una explicacià ³n amplia. Parte 12: Tienes que firmar. En casos excepcionales de incapacidad fà ­sica o psà ­quica podr hacerlo un representante, que deber firmar primero con el nombre del representado y luego con el suyo propio, aà ±adiendo la aclaracià ³n designated representative. Esta persona NO es la preparadora que ayuda a llenar este formulario, si es que se precisa. Parte 13: Si tà º aplicas, pero es  tu esposa/o, primo, amigo, abogado, contable, etc, quien llena por ti este formulario, entonces deber completar esta parte. Parte 14: Si tus conocimientos del inglà ©s son limitados y necesita que alguien te traduzca el documento, entonces tà º y la persona que te hace de intà ©rprete tienen que completar esta parte. Parte 15: Dà ©jala en blanco en el momento de llenar el formulario. Tendrs que firmar pero lo hars en el momento de la entrevista cuando el oficial de inmigracià ³n te diga que tienes que hacerlo .No antes. Parte 16: en el poco probable caso de que seas un prà ­ncipe, condesa, marquesa o conde de otro paà ­s o tengas otro tà ­tulo nobiliario, debers renunciar a à ©l. Parte 17: Esta parte dà ©jala en blanco cuando llenes el formulario. Se trata de la parte de Juramento de lealtad a los Estados Unidos y se llenar delante del oficial de inmigracià ³n en la entrevista. Explicacià ³n con mayor detalle de la parte 11   Se hacen muchas preguntas donde hay que contestar Sà ­ o No. Algunas ya existen en el formulario actual. Pero se incluyen muchas nuevas, ms especà ­ficas.  Se trata de determinar tu carcter moral y si eres un peligro para la seguridad. Hay preguntas de todo tipo, desde si has votado alguna vez en EEUU o te has declarado ciudadano sin serlo a si has pertenecido a la policà ­a o al ejà ©rcito de cualquier paà ­s, si has militado o colaborado directamente con un partido comunista o uno totalitario. Si has formado parte de un grupo vigilante, guerrillas, paramilitares, etc. Tambià ©n quieren saber si has sido arrestado o condenado por un delito o falta. Incluso si has colaborado en grado de tentativa en un delito del que ni siquiera has sido arrestado. Es muy importante entender cà ³mo contestar en caso de tener un rà ©cord sellado. Asimismo, Inmigracià ³n quieres saber si alguna vez has sido ingresado en un hospital mental o institucià ³n similar, si has tenido un problema grave con el alcohol, si consumes droga, si te dedicaste a la prostitucià ³n, si has ayudado a cruzar ilegalmente la frontera a un extranjero o si no has pagado una pensià ³n alimenticia, cuando estabas obligado a ello. La lista es muy larga y hay que contestar honestamente. Si crees que alguna respuesta te puede acarrear problemas o se te pasa por la cabeza la idea de mentir, entonces este es el momento de parar de llenar el formulario y buscar ayuda legal. Un abogado de inmigracià ³n es el à ºnico que puede proporcionar asesorà ­a legal para tu caso en concreto. Aquà ­ puedes acceder a una base de datos para buscar por tu localidad. Pero puedes tambià ©n pedir consejo a una organizacià ³n acreditada de ayuda a inmigrantes para que te refieran a un abogado de confianza. Detalles de seguridad del formulario N-400   Desde hace unos aà ±os esta planilla incluye un  cà ³digo de barras en 2D. Esto hace que segà ºn se va cubriendo el formulario en la computadora y se pasa de pgina, la informacià ³n se codifica.   Despuà ©s imprimes el formulario, lo firmas y lo envà ­as al USCIS. Al llegar a las oficinas de inmigracià ³n un escner podr descodificar rpidamente la informacià ³n y à ©sta  se incorpora  a su sistema de computacià ³n. Entre las ventajas del nuevo sistema destacan: Reduce tiempo y cantidad de trabajo para incorporar al sistema de computadoras de Inmigracià ³n la informacià ³n que contienen  las solicitudes.Evita errores de transcripcià ³n.De una manera muy rpida se puede compartir informacià ³n entre las agencias del gobierno que requieran acceso  ¿Cules son los puntos bsicos con los que te tienes que quedar? El USCIS sà ³lo admite una  planilla actualizada que puedes obtener en ese enlace. Mentir en un formulario de inmigracià ³n para obtener un beneficio es un fraude de ley, lo que podrà ­a dar lugar a muchos problemas. En caso de dudas, lo mejor es aconsejarse con un abogado o con una organizacià ³n reputada de asistencia a migrantes. Despuà ©s de enviar el formulario con el pago correspondiente, recibirs una cita para presentarte en una oficina para que te tomen datos biomà ©tricos como huellas digitales y fotos. Posteriormente, debes pasar un examen de conocimientos cà ­vicos, histà ³ricos y de inglà ©s. Diversas organizaciones en todo EE.UU. brindan ayuda gratuita para tomar clases para preparar el examen de ciudadanà ­a. Si te da miedo el examen de inglà ©s, verifica si puedes  rendir el examen en espaà ±ol. Adems, si tienes alguna discapacidad, comprueba si calificas para no rendir el examen o para pedir un acomodo especial. El à ºltimo paso es la jura de lealtad a los Estados Unidos y la adquisicià ³n de la ciudadanà ­a. En ese acto se entrega el certificado de naturalizacià ³n, que asà ­ lo prueba. Entrà ©nate para el examen de ciudadanà ­a con este test de respuestas mà ºltiples Uno de los pasos que implica adquirir la nacionalidad americana por naturalizacià ³n est tener que pasar un examen de conocimientos cà ­vicos.  Toma este test con preguntas reales para comprobar si ests preparado.   Este artà ­culo no es asesorà ­a legal. Sà ³lo tiene un carcter informativo.

Volatility is the Saudi Arabian petrochemical industry Dissertation

Volatility is the Saudi Arabian petrochemical industry - Dissertation Example In the era of growing globalization, it is important to take appropriate steps for retaining one’s position amongst international competitors. This is the reason why Saudi Arabia, like many of its peers had been contemplating measures for expanding their respective productive capacities. However, Saudi Arabia is immensely dependent upon revenues from oil for its income which helps the country to stick to its strategic plans. Given the fluctuating nature of the same, it is essential to attach some certainty in the revenue figures in order to initiate a long term plan such as expansion of oil production capacity. A possible way through which this could be accomplished is that of attracting foreign direct investment funds. The national government has put forth a high degree of effort in this aspect recently, after the concept had been popularized and successfully implemented in Egypt from 2004. Normally private institutions are found to be more interested in adopting measures for encouraging FDI given their aim of instilling a more business-friendly environment and an edge over its peers. This is not the case in an economy which is crowded by public enterprises that does not move in the line of profit, which is why no such innovations had been entertained in Saudi Arabia. However, the national government having recently realized its mistake and has submitted to adopting measures for improving its productivity potential (New Zealand Trade & Enterprise, 2011). ). These statistics definitely speak out for the popularity.... Comparison between markets Returns and Stock Returns of Advanced Petrochemical Company 40 4.1.2 Alujain Corporation 40 Chart 2. Comparison between Market Returns and Stock Returns of Alujain Petrochemicals 41 4.1.3 Methanol Chemicals Limited 41 Chart 3. Comparison between Market Returns and Stock Returns of Methanol Chemical Company 42 4.1.4 Nama Chemicals Company 43 Chart 4. Comparison between Stock Returns of Nama Chemicals Company and Market Returns 43 4.1.5 National Industrialization Company 44 Chart 5. Comparison between Stock Returns of National Industrialization Company and Market Returns 44 4.1.6 National Petrochemical Company 45 Chart 6. Comparison between Stock Returns of National Petrochemical Company and Market Returns 45 4.1.7 Rabigh Refining and Petrochemicals Company 46 Chart 7. Comparison between Stock Returns of Rabigh Refining and Petrochemical Company and Market Returns 46 4.1.8 Sahara Petrochemicals 47 Chart 8. Comparison between Market Returns and Stock Return of Sahara Petrochemical Company 48 4.1.9 Saudi Arabia Fertilizers Company 48 Chart 9. Comparison between Market Returns and Stock Return of Saudi Arabia Fertilizers Company 49 4.1.10 Saudi Basic Industries Corporation 49 Chart 10. Comparison between Market Returns and Stock Return of Saudi Basic Industries Corporation 50 4.1.11 Saudi Industrial Investment Group 50 Chart 11. Comparison between Market Returns and Stock Return of Saudi Industrial Investment Group 51 4.1.12 Saudi International Petrochemical Company 52 Chart 12. Comparison between Market Returns and Stock Return of Saudi International Petrochemical Company 52 4.1.13 Saudi Kayan Petrochemical Company 53 Chart 13. Comparison between Market Returns and Stock Return of Saudi Kayan Petrochemical Company 53 4.1.14 Arabian

Discussion questions for Managing Diversity Class (third week) Essay

Discussion questions for Managing Diversity Class (third week) - Essay Example However, The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 completely changed the situation and made it possible for people with incurable diseases to get a job. In order to get the treatment you need it is important to know your rights well. In fact millions of discriminated workers don’t know their rights. For example, people who work for companies with 14 or fewer people are not protected by federal law. Those people who work for the federal government also can not be protected by this act. There are several ways the act protects the rights of people with incurable diseases. There were lots of obstacles that kept people with some disabilities from full participation in a social life and that was intended to be break down by the Congress. In order to combat discrimination, Congress enacted The Civil Rights Act of 1964. In accordance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, an employer had no right to hire or fire any employee or to discriminate against him/her basing on his/her race, color, religious beliefs or origin. In general, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 became a basis for further legal and moral pillars of America. Non-discriminative principles (either racial or gender) became the core issues for legal principles of America. Further extension of the scope of issue covered in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 concerned conditions of equal employment opportunity (the Equal Employment Opportunity Act, 1972). This signified a perspective promotion of civil rights in America. Moreover, further amendments were made in 1978 in the Pregnancy Discrimination Act. Thus pregnant women could be neither fired nor discriminated in employment-related issues. Statistics of 2009 fiscal year provides the following figures: 33,579 complaints of race discrimination were received by EEOC, 28,028 related to sex discrimination and 3,386 reports of discrimination caused by religious discrimination. 11,134

Organizational Communication Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Organizational Communication - Assignment Example He encouraged them to ask questions or complaints either directly or through a fishbowl kept in the companys cafeteria. He displayed great willingness and enthusiasm to answer questions quickly and on the spot (p. 85). These changes proved to be highly effective because of various factors such as effective leadership headed by the new CEO Jim Sims; a significant boost in employee morale and in the words of one of the technical directors at CTP, development of â€Å"a critical mass of committed people† (p. 86). There is ample evidence which suggests a direct relationship between effective leadership and employee productivity as well as between employee morale and productivity. Furthermore the manner in which a leader behaves and communicates with the followers during challenging periods directly affects their relationship with the employees resulting in improved performance and commitment on the part of the employees (Kasper-Fuehrer and Ashkanasy, 2001; Connell et al., 2003; Costa, 2003; Dirks and Ferrin, 2002; Corbitt and Martz, 2003, Conrad and Poole, 2012). The effectiveness of the new leadership could be observed from the fact that immediately after the new policy (the three rules) was implemented a significant and apparent change in there was a marked improvement in the employee morale, the company was able to hire more employees, secure more contracts, and stabilize the financial position of the company through improved performance (p.

The Education of John Dewey - a biography by Jay Martin Essay

The Education of John Dewey - a biography by Jay Martin - Essay Example John Dewey was considered as one of the most ten important thinkers in the history of the country of America. This was of the many instances of popularity he achieved during his lifetime from his birth in the year 1859 till his death in 1952. The short hand word of Pragmatism identified his line of thinking conventionally. The body of thought as prescribed by the prominent thinker has been identified as one of the distinctive philosophy of the American society that had been ruling the philosophy of the country for the last fifty years. The work he had done for the education system of the society has still been famous and influential in recent period in the eve of the changing world and has been considerably famous for the worldwide system of education. According to him education is the immediate necessity of life. The ascendance of multiculturalism and that of independent thinking of individuals in the American pedagogy of the contemporary period was anticipated in the educational wo rks that had been done by him in his lifetime. In the emerging democracies of the present world The University of Chicago Laboratory School that have been founded by him in the year 1896 has been a model for the schools and also in entire world of schools. John Dewey had well established himself as one of the eminent reformers of the education system of the country.... The movement of progressive education emphasized on attacking the established education system of the country from both inside and outside the establishment. However, according to some critics of the education philosophy of John Dewey, the philosophy had racial assumptions underlying it. The famous child centered education philosophy of John Dewey holds true for the American as well as the European American students but not for the African Americans. Apart from this criticism the educational thoughts propagated by him had been truly helpful for education of every society of the country. There was a need of continuous interaction of the classroom education of an individual along with experience of his real life. There is the need of students in continuously learning the use of the past experience of the individual along with the present one for the attainment of decisions intelligent enough in the future. Education of the individual is defined as the only process in achieving so. Acco rding to John Dewey harmonization of individuals with the people of the society, which is involved in the growth of the mental power of individuals, is the ultimate meaning of education. A democratic society in the country could only be evolved with the achievement of education with respect to the intelligence capacity of each individual of the society along with his or her own uniqueness. Dewey perceived democracy as a ‘â€Å"way of life† founded on a working belief in the possibilities of human nature and in the capacity of humans for â€Å"intelligent judgment and action† (Martin 438). He addressed the League for Industrial Democracy in 1931 and suggested the ban of Japanese commodities unless they receded their forces from the borders

The Woman at the Tomb Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Woman at the Tomb - Essay Example The faith in Jesus’ resurrection plays a central feature in the Christian tradition. In such case, there is the need to investigate the origin and meaning of the belief in Jesus’ resurrection. The oldest text in the New Testament that says something about the resurrection can be found in the first letter of Paul to the Christian community in Corinth that was written around the year 56 C.E. The passage reminds the Corinthians of the proclamation of Paul regarding the resurrection of Jesus. Such reminder by Paul also indicates how early the resurrection belief was. The text starts with â€Å"I handed on to you as of first importance what I in turn had received† (1 Cor. 15:3). This indicates that what follows is not purely Paul’s composition. Paul quoted a very old creedal statement. There are many theories behind regarding how Paul might have received this basic Christian proclamation. Some scholars say that he received the main formula at Damascus when he w ent there upon being converted to Christianity about 36 C.E. Others would state that Paul got all or some of this material from his first visit to the Christian community of Jerusalem in 39 C.E. The formula from which Paul quotes contains two important elements about the resurrection: he was raised and he appeared (Loewe 101). ... The author of the gospel supplies his audience various indications of time. Furthermore the names of the women, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Salome were mentioned. When the women arrived in the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in white. The young man made a three-part speech. Firstly, he addressed the women’s feelings. Secondly, he explains why the tomb is empty. According to him, Jesus had been raised. Thirdly, the young man gave the women a job to do that is, to tell the male disciples that Jesus will see them in Galilee. Mark also established what transpired between the young man and the three women placing its emphasis on the reaction of the women to the young man. For Mark, the women’s response to the good news of the resurrection was a disappointment. Overcome with fear, the women run away and did not tell anyone what they experienced. Matthew followed Mark in this narrative of the empty tomb. Salome was taken out of the picture leaving Mary Magd alene and â€Å"the other Mary.† For Matthew the reason of the women in was simply to see the tomb. Another major change in the version of Matthew is the dramatic scene were the opening of the stone of the tomb coincided with an earthquake. In contrast with the earlier account of Mark, the author of Matthew describes the reaction of the women to the resurrection on a positive note. The women left the tomb with fear and great joy then ran to tell the other disciples. Luke’s version of the empty tomb bonds with Mark regarding the purpose of the women in visiting the tomb that is to anoint Jesus with spices. The number of women increases: Joanna replaces Salome and there were other unnamed women as well. The young man in Matthew’s edition turns into an angel and eventually

Sound levels Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Sound levels - Essay Example There is no doubt that the amount of noise generated in the NICU can be significant. A study at the University of Padova established noise levels within and outside the incubator. It divided those noises into significant ‘white’ noise, and specific noises, which can be used by voluntary and involuntary noises generated when workers touched the plexiglass surface of the incubator, or connected or disconnected to the incubator. It appears that the background noise was less harmful than the sudden and unexpected noises, which tended to generate levels above 80 dB (Benini, 1997). A literature review discovered a good deal of evidence of neonatal stress from noise, with the most common measures being cardiovascular and respiratory response. The authors list the key stimuli, including sound intensity, and the effect that they have on the infant’s behavioral state. Some articles have differentiated the neonates by gestational age and infant maturity. As one of the co-authors found, however, the sample sizes were small, and the variables were not well controlled in most studies (Morris, 2000) Noise has been measured and reported upon in the NICU since the 1970’s. At that time, noise levels were reported in the 70-117 dB range, which is clearly above currently-acceptable levels (Peltzman, 1970) (Long, 1980) (Satish M. a.-S., 1993) (Satish M. S., 1991) . These studies suggested that continuous and elevated noise levels resulted in significant deterioration in healing and levels of nervousness in neonates. Early work on the effects of noise in the NICU concentrated on noise within the incubator itself; these led to improvements in incubator noise reduction, and resulted in a general emphasis on NICU noise reduction (Bess, 1979). It is always difficult to find accurate, reproducible responses of newborns to stimuli. One effect which can be reproduced is that of reduced noise on sleeping times for infants. Strauch et al led a study which

The Woman at the Tomb Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Woman at the Tomb - Essay Example The faith in Jesus’ resurrection plays a central feature in the Christian tradition. In such case, there is the need to investigate the origin and meaning of the belief in Jesus’ resurrection. The oldest text in the New Testament that says something about the resurrection can be found in the first letter of Paul to the Christian community in Corinth that was written around the year 56 C.E. The passage reminds the Corinthians of the proclamation of Paul regarding the resurrection of Jesus. Such reminder by Paul also indicates how early the resurrection belief was. The text starts with â€Å"I handed on to you as of first importance what I in turn had received† (1 Cor. 15:3). This indicates that what follows is not purely Paul’s composition. Paul quoted a very old creedal statement. There are many theories behind regarding how Paul might have received this basic Christian proclamation. Some scholars say that he received the main formula at Damascus when he w ent there upon being converted to Christianity about 36 C.E. Others would state that Paul got all or some of this material from his first visit to the Christian community of Jerusalem in 39 C.E. The formula from which Paul quotes contains two important elements about the resurrection: he was raised and he appeared (Loewe 101). ... The author of the gospel supplies his audience various indications of time. Furthermore the names of the women, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Salome were mentioned. When the women arrived in the tomb, they saw a young man dressed in white. The young man made a three-part speech. Firstly, he addressed the women’s feelings. Secondly, he explains why the tomb is empty. According to him, Jesus had been raised. Thirdly, the young man gave the women a job to do that is, to tell the male disciples that Jesus will see them in Galilee. Mark also established what transpired between the young man and the three women placing its emphasis on the reaction of the women to the young man. For Mark, the women’s response to the good news of the resurrection was a disappointment. Overcome with fear, the women run away and did not tell anyone what they experienced. Matthew followed Mark in this narrative of the empty tomb. Salome was taken out of the picture leaving Mary Magd alene and â€Å"the other Mary.† For Matthew the reason of the women in was simply to see the tomb. Another major change in the version of Matthew is the dramatic scene were the opening of the stone of the tomb coincided with an earthquake. In contrast with the earlier account of Mark, the author of Matthew describes the reaction of the women to the resurrection on a positive note. The women left the tomb with fear and great joy then ran to tell the other disciples. Luke’s version of the empty tomb bonds with Mark regarding the purpose of the women in visiting the tomb that is to anoint Jesus with spices. The number of women increases: Joanna replaces Salome and there were other unnamed women as well. The young man in Matthew’s edition turns into an angel and eventually

Banyan Tree Research Essay Example for Free

Banyan Tree Research Essay 1. Growth and development of Banyan Tree. Banyan Tree Holdings Limited is a leading, international hospitality brand that manages and develops premium resorts, hotels and spas. From a single boutique resort in Phuket in 1994, Banyan Tree has grown into a multi-business operator globally. Listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange since 2006, the group currently consists of 30 hotels and resorts, over 60 spas 80 retail galleries and two golf courses in 27 countries, with aggressive expansion plans for the future. Below shows the milestone of Banyan Tree Resort: Banyan Tree Group garnered some 117 international awards and accolades in 2010, bringing the total number of awards it has received close to 640 since the first Banyan Tree property opened in Phuket in 1994. In 2010, Banyan Tree Phuket and its Spa continue to be recognised by industry experts, having won 14 prestigious awards and accolades The Banyan Tree organization has seen very dynamic and expansive growth in the last few years. Banyan Tree attributes is success as a company to their strong brand recognition, command pricing, and superb management. Revenues increased from $187.3 (million) in 2005 to 335.3 (million) in 2006, which is an increase of 79%. In 2007, Revenue increased another 26% to $429, 859 (million). 2. Success factors of Banyan Tree Banyan Tree Capital has its own dedicated construction, project management and cost management capabilities, enabling it to fulfill the role of a developer and assume full ownership of any projects. * Brand Building Branding has started right from the locations of the Banyan Tree resorts and has been consistent through the designs, the facilities offered, and the ambience created in each of the resorts. In line with the â€Å"romantic escape for couples† theme, Banyan Tree has placed a strong emphasis on the locations as a key element of the brand identity. The company has chosen exotic locations with exclusive access to sun-bathed beaches, exciting environment around and a good transportation infrastructure to connect the resorts to the main destination highlights. * Company Growth and Health The Banyan Tree is a rapidly growing company with lots of investment all across the globe. Their expanding nature, coupled with a positive stock price, solid financial earnings, and continual success at all resort locations, is exceptional in the competitive hotel and resort industry. Not many hotel companies can brag about recent success like the Banyan Tree. * Good Brand communications Banyan Tree promotes their product through mass international media. They invite travel editors and writers who could potentially increase editorial coverage on Banyan Tree to use the service. This can make â€Å"Banyan Tree Experiences† distribute to people by word of mouth and it is more effective. It is also make brand awareness and brand value that generated largely through public relations and global marketing programs. * Being a socially responsible and environmentally sensitive organization Banyan Tree Exercise caution with respect to the environmental impacts of their operations, and taking an active role in the protection and remediation of our global ecosystem. * Creating a good culture By combining the Asian culture and heritage with world-class service and luxury, Banyan Tree has been able to build a brand that has appealed to people across countries in Asia and beyond, and successfully been capitalizing on the pan-Asian sentiment. 3. Marketing Strategies * Collaboration with marketing agencies Banyan Tree Holdings appointed a few key wholesalers in each targeted market and worked closely with them to promote sales. Rather than selling through wholesale and retail agents that catered to the general market, they chose to work only with agents specializing in exclusive luxury holidays targeted at wealthy customers. Global exposure was also achieved through Banyan Tree’s membership in the Small Luxury Hotels and Leading Hotels of the World. Targeting high-end consumers, they represent various independent exclusive hotels and have sales offices in major cities around the world. * Winning awards Banyan Tree resort management believe that to publicize their properties, word of mouth is more important than advertisement. Therefore, one of the marketing strategies they adopting is to win awards. Banyan Tree sought recognition in service, innovation and, more importantly, its environmental efforts. To date, it has won more than 570 awards, with two given last week for its excellence in social and environmental responsibility. * Expanding Brand portfolio Banyan Tree to come out with a brand extension in the form of Angsana Resorts (launched in 2000), targeted towards young families and at different price points – typically 20-30% lower than Banyan Tree resorts themselves. It also operates stand-alone Angsana Spas. These measures not only allow Banyan Tree to increase its awareness in new markets and gain international momentum, but also create a strong platform for a portfolio of sub-brands that can be a source of long-term revenue generation. * Online marketing Banyan Tree sets up company website to conveniently update latest information and offers for customers. In additional, the online website allows customers to do bookings for their holidays. Online bookings rapidly increase over the year and it definitely generated more revenue. 4. Future Challenges * Competition There is only one other resort that is comparable to the Banyan Tree: Amanpulo. Amanpulo is situated on a private island in Palawan. The island boasts white sand, crystal clear water and tropical vegetation. They, too, respond to a leisurely lifestyle for the affluent and rich worldwide. In addition, Amanpulo is just as concerned as we are in building environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing resorts. * Copycats The market is crowded with many entrants running similar branded resorts in the upper-end. Particularly in Asia Pacific, where Banyan Tree has its stronghold and traditional base, new entrants are facing only small barriers-of-entry other than huge capital requirements and availability of good locations. A new entrant can always try to copy the â€Å"romance-intimacy-rejuvenation† theme and replicate the serene locations with beautiful villas providing it at lower prices to gain foothold in the market. * Natural Hazards The Philippines sits astride the typhoon belt, which means it’s prone to be struck by dangerous storms. In addition, the country is known to be home of active volcanoes. Other natural hazards known to occur are landslides, earthquakes and tsunamis. * Environmental Issues Existing issues that the Philippines are dealing with, and trying to combat, are uncontrolled deforestation, soil erosion, air and water pollution, coral reef degradation and increasing pollution of coastal mangrove swamps.