ktmeng/mec huggingface dataset:
Topic: family

Through the evidence-based search, a large amount of information was found regarding caregiver syndrome, mental retardation/developmental disabilities, family therapy with the mentally disabled, role reversals within the family unit, grief therapy with the mentally challenged and best therapies for the family unit with mental handicaps. An evidenced based search was conducted on Google Scholar and through the University of Southern California’s library. The best interventions gathered through both databases are: psycho education, cognitive behavioral family therapy (CBFT), social skills training, and grief therapy with the developmentally disabled.
Topic: family

The therapy that was chosen for the Grape family is a multisystem approach. A combination of CBFT and psycho education will be implemented. The Cognitive Behavioral Family Therapy is based on a reciprocal and cyclical paradigm and promotes self-talk to develop their own cognitions in regards to family expectations, individual roles within the family, and how these impact the behaviors in the family unit (Shulman, 2012). The CBFT can address the grief and loss associated with the unresolved grief and any grief associated with the sisters moving out of the home.
Topic: family

Psychoeducation will provide illness specific information and tools to manage any issues that Gilbert may be experiencing in the caregiving duties of Arnie. It has been shown through numerous studies that psychoeducation as an intervention is associated with improved functioning and quality of life, decreased symptomology, and positive outcomes for all within the family unit (Lukens, 2004). The psychoeducation within this family unit can address stress appraisal and coping to reduce the caregiver stress syndrome. Detailed Intervention Strategy
Topic: family

In the first stage of therapy besides rapport building, information gathering will be conducted such as: collection of relevant history, treatment policies, and acknowledgment of the presenting problems. Strengths will be identified along with different resources and the family goals of the treatment itself. It is this earlier treatment that individuals are introduced to the wholeness of the family system, family schemas, relationship scripts, and the family constitution (Schwebel, 1992). This step in therapy will not take place in just one session, but, can take multiple sessions to accomplish.
Topic: family

It is this step that the family learns the dysfunctional schemas that promote chaos and turmoil within the family unit and alters them to a more functional state. Although Amy and Ellen do not live close by to physically be in the session, in this phase they can participate in the sessions via telephone. They are still an important part of this family and can provide Gilbert with support during the caretaking process and the reorganization of the family dynamics. By virtue of the relationship, with regular contact between family members, they can help to manage the presenting illness and promote the progress toward personal goals (Murali, 2002).
Topic: family

The psychoeducation would take place throughout all of the sessions conducted. The purpose of this intervention is to give knowledge to the specific areas of difficulty for this family. Through the psychoeducation both Gilbert and Arnie can learn and understand what their role is in the family unit as well as the community. Through psychoeducation Gilbert can learn behavioral interventions with Arnie. Changing the way Gilbert interacts and reacts to Arnie can change the way Arnie acts and reacts. This can reduce the amount of stress between the family unit and the community. Theoretical Rationale Underpinning Intervention Strategy
Topic: family

Within the Cognitive-behavioral perspective, it is believed that schemas affect the individual’s mental health. When applying this to the family structure, Epstein, Schlesinger, and Dryden (1988) define this as the longstanding and relatively stable assumptions that he/she holds about the way the world works and his/her place within that world. According to Baucom and Epstein, there are two specific family related schemas: assumptions and standards. The assumptions are the conceptions of objects and events that do exist and the standards are the conception of the characteristics that should exist (Schwebel, 1992).
Topic: family

These schemas do not emerge overnight. They begin in the family of origin and are learned throughout all interactions within the family. This is the case within the Grape family. This distressed family has incompatible schemas and cognitions that actually promote unhappiness and conflict instead of resolving it. It is the intent of CBFT to raise awareness of the family related cognitions and the effects of these cognitions on feelings, behaviors, and the family dynamics (Schwebel, 1992).
Topic: family

They have not been taught how to communicate with him, how to problem solve when things get hectic, or to develop any coping skills. The core foundation of this therapeutic intervention is that the family joins together to manage the symptoms and to understand the illness itself. The longer the family is in treatment the better and more lasting the effects of treatment are (McFarlane, 2003). Through psychoeducation the family will be a part of the solution rather than a part of the problem. Issues with Joining and Engagement
Topic: family

There are several issues with joining and engagement with the Grape family. Gilbert is more withdrawn. Getting him to feel comfortable enough to express his feelings might be difficult at first because he is used to keeping him thoughts and feelings to himself. Gilbert has always dealt with the struggles without outside assistance or help. He might give some resistance to the changes that are going to take place. Making any family changes are difficult so when the old patterns of communication are identified and challenged, Gilbert may become defensive of the old patterns and resist the new.
Topic: family

The anticipated progress of Arnie and Gilbert Grape through family therapy is very positive. Through the use of CBFT and psychoeducation, Gilbert will have a reduction of stress caregiver syndrome and will be able to manage the stress, anger, and anxiety that stems from it. He can maintain the close bond that he has with Arnie in a more positive and healthy manner. Coping mechanisms will be in place to deal with the day to day stressors in the caregiver role. There will be external supports for Gilbert to utilize through this process and the family unit as a whole can move forward in a more empowered and balanced environment.
Topic: family

When the unrealistic expectations are changed into realistic ones, the family dynamics change. Gilbert will be able to learn about Arnie’s disability and modify his approach and methods of dealing with any behavioral issues. When approaching Arnie differently and through teaching behavior modification, Arnie will be able to engage in activities that present less risk to his safety and well-being. Having Arnie engaged with external resources will not only give Gilbert time away but, will enhance Arnie’s social skills.
Topic: family

Baucom, D. &. (1990). Cognitive behavioral marital therapy. New York: Brunner/Mazel. Bowen, M. (1972). On the differentiation of self: family interaction. New York: Springer Publishing Company . England, M. (2000). Cargiver strain: considerations for change. Nursing Diagnosis, 11(4), 164-175. Epstein, N. S. (1988). Cognitive Behavioral Therapies with Families. New York: Brunner/Mazel. Forward, S. (1989). Toxic parents: Overcoming their hurtful legacy and reclaiming your life. New York: Bantam Books. Hepworth, D. R.-G. (2010). Direct Social Work Practice. Belmont: Cengage Learning. Lukens, E. M. (2004, 09). Psychoeducation as Evidence Based Practice: Considerations for Practice, Research, and Policy. (C. U. Work, Ed.) Brief Treatment and Crisis Intervention, 4(3). McFarlane, W. &. (2003). Family psycoeducation workbook. Pasadena: U.S. department of health and human services. McTiller, M. (2009). McTiller’s channel: Triangle
Topic: family

one. Retrieved 02 03, 2013, from Youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhiipKE4dyw Minuchin, S. (1974). Families and Family Therapy. Harvard University Press. Murali, T. &. (2002). Retrieved 02 08, 2013, from www.nimhans.kar.in Papalia, D. W. (2008). A Child’s World . Boston: McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. . Schwebel, A. F. (1992). Cognitive-behavioral family therapy. Journal of Family Psychotherapy, 3(1), 73-91. Shulman, L. (2012). The Skills of Helping Individuals, Families, Groups, and Communities. Belmont: Cengage Learning.
Topic: family

Marriage or wedlock is usually a contract that is created through the civil processes. Furthermore, it is an interpersonal relationship that occurs between two individuals recognized by the government or by society and commonly through religion. A wedding ceremony occurs inside churches or pastorals officiated by a religious leader such as a pastor or a minister. Commonly, marriage is the unison of one man to one woman, but polygamy can also be present. In polygamy, it is usually a man having relationships with several wives.
Topic: family

An interview was conducted on January 24, 2008 about the marriage of a couple and what they believe as to the reason why they had been together for a very long time. The couple shared their experiences without any hesitation, however, their names were not wished to be mentioned. For the safety of the identities of the respondent, they will be called Mr. and Mrs. X. Mr. X is 45 years old, while Mrs. X is 43 years old. They had been married for 20 years already and they have a happy marriage with a family of five.
Topic: family

Mr. and Mrs. X at first believed that they wouldn’t experience or live a marriage that would last this long. At first, they were hesitant to get married and that they wanted to simply live together in one house. Being in a Christian community, they were greatly influenced by the ceremonies of wedding and its holiness that they planned to get married at the age of 25 and 23, for Mr. and Mrs. X respectively. At first, their relationship was not that strong, since they were just dating for a couple of months before the wedding. It seemed as if it was a hurried wedding, but the end results, being married and still passionate with one another up to this moment, defend that it was not.
Topic: family

Mr. and Mrs. X attribute the success of their marriage to their strong faith and hope in God who blesses their marriage and to the love that they have for one another. They go to church together for almost 20 years now and their zealous life improved their relationship as husband and wife. The bible states that the husband should be served, loved and cared by his wife while the wife should be protected, supported and loved by the husband. Mr. and Mrs. X follow this passionately and arguments or problems with their relationship are lessened. If there was an argument or a fight between the couple, they tend to rationalize things and think maturely. They try their best to talk with one another and control their temper.
Topic: family

They share the feeling that communication is the best tool of fixing things and making a marriage last. If one gets upset, the other would tend to loosen things up and decrease the tension. Mr. X or Mrs. X would likely to listen to the other well, before stating their opinions in a calm tone or voice. They also discussed and agreed that they have to talk at least once a day and share what they feel. They create or give constructive criticisms with one another and tend to work things which seem to cause certain arguments. They are willing to communicate with one another and improve their selves to conform to each other’s needs or demands. They see to it that their relationship has a good balance of giving and taking.
Topic: family

Time and attention is also an important factor which Mr. and Mrs. X identified to be the reason for their marriage. Mr. X would usually fetch Mrs. X from her work and they go home together. If Mrs. X has some spare time, she would usually bring food to her husband or visit him in the office. They always eat their dinner and breakfast together at home and see to it that they do not miss eating without the other. Mrs. X doesn’t eat her breakfast or dinner unless Mr. X is with her. They only miss eating together if there are emergencies resulting to the absence of one. Moreover, Mr. and Mrs. X combine time with communication to improve their marriage. Even before the wedding, they already set a certain date to talk with their plans in life.
Topic: family

They set-up these “scenarios” to see how one or the other reacts. They also discuss this to avoid it since they would know that they would hurt each other’s feelings or harm the relationship. Lastly, their marriage is a success because neither one plans on giving up to any problem or thinks of letting go during hardships. They both have a strong stand to stay together and love one another for eternity. For Mr. and Mrs. X, separation or divorce is not an option.
Topic: family

For newlyweds, they could first improve their relationship as friends, then as lovers. A strong foundation of a relationship is very important to bring out the maturity, increase similarities and improve how they handle conflicts or problems. Furthermore, newlyweds should have a strong faith and trust with their partner. Trust is very important as it lessens jealousy or any thoughts of cheating. Communication, time and affections, which were showed by Mr. and Mrs. X, should also be mustered by newlyweds to live a successful marriage life.
Topic: family

I don’t sympathize Curley’s wife, as the way she talks is very arrogant and mean. The quotation “Think I don’t know where they all went?” shows that she doesn’t want to be looked down on. She is trying to make up for the fact that she doesn’t know where Curley and the others have gone to. She thinks it will be embarrassing when Lennie, Candy and Crooks these kind of “weak” people know something that she doesn’t.
Topic: family

She likes to show off in front of people and what she enjoys is applause and adoration, or even worship from others. Being in the center is what matters the most for Curley’s wife. I can tell by the quotation “ An’ a guy tol’ me he could put me in pitchers…’” “An’ what am I doin’? Standin’ here talkin’ to a bunch of bindle stiffs – a nigger an’ a dum-dum and a lousy ol’ sheep.” clearly shows her distain toward Lennie by calling him a “dum-dum”, Crooks by calling him a “nigger” and Candy by calling him a “lousy ol’ sheep”, when they all have names.
Topic: family

They way she treats Crooks is also extremely disrespectful, the quotation “ ‘Listen nigger, you know what I can do to you if you open your trap?’” and “Well, you keep your place then, Nigger. I could get you strung up on a tree so easy it ain’t even funny.” She treats them as her minions or even toys. When Curley’s wife doesn’t have words to argue back, she always shout — “ ‘Tell an’ be damned,’ she cried, ‘ Nobody listen to you an’ you know it.’” As Curley’s wife has such a bad personality, people around her don’t sympathize her. She wasn’t being welcomed at all when she entered Crook’s room. People all wanted her to leave. Candy said the quotation sourly “ Curley ain’t been here” when she was asking. He also said “ Then if you know, why you want to ask us where Curley’ is at?” and “So maybe you better jus’ scatter along now.”
Topic: family

Candy obviously dislikes her and he was not welcoming her, as he argued back. He also pointed out her bad personality staightly, “You gotta husban’. You got no call foolin’ aroun’ with other guys, causin’ trouble.” Candy argued back for Lennie, because Curley’s wife was picking on him. He said “You let this guy alone. Don’t you do no messing aroun’ with him. I’m gonna tell George what you says. George won’t have you messin’ with Lennie.” Candy also helped Crooks by saying “If you was to do that, we’d tell. We’d tell about you framin’ Crooks.”
Topic: family

Crooks has been fed up with her, so he said “I had enough. You ain’t wanted here. We told you you ain’t. An’ I tell ya, you got floozy idears about what us guys amounts to. You ain’t got sense enough in that chicken head to even see that we ain’t stiffs. S’ pose you get us canned. S’ pose you do. You think we’ll hit the highway an’ look for another lousy two-bit job like this. You don’t know that we got our own ranch to go to, an our own house.”
Topic: family

On the other hand, Curley’s wife can be sympathetic as well. She has no freedom and can’t go to places that she wants. She is owned by Curley. She really wants to talk to someone and has some friends, but Curley limited everything. The quotation “Well, I ain’t giving you no trouble. Think I don’t like to stick in that house alla time?” This shows how much she wants to stay in Crooks’ room, and be able to chat with people, for she is quite lonely. “Sure I gotta husban’. You all seen him. Swell guy, ain’t he?
Topic: family

Spends all his time sayin’ what he’s gonna do to guys he don’t like, and he don’t like nobody. Think I’m gonna stay in that two-by-four house and listen how Curley’s gonna lead with his left twice, and then bring in the ol’ right cross?” show how lonely she is. Curley not giving her much love, care, warmth, and all he cares is being strong and able to fight with guys he dislikes. Curley’s wife hates Curley deeply in her heart, she doesn’t love him, because he treats her like toy. This is why she said to Lennie “I’m glad you bust up Curley a little bit. He got it comin’ to him. Sometimes I’d like to burst him myself.”
Topic: family

Overall, I feel both sympathize and not sympathize for Curley’s wife. I sympathize for her tragedy marriage to a guy who never cares about her feelings and doesn’t give her any freedom. She’s mostly owned by Curley, and not being able to do anything without his permission. We can tell this by Steinbeck didn’t even give her a proper name. We call her “Curley’s wife”, which clearly shows how she’s owned by Curley rather than being independent. I don’t feel sympathize for her, because the way she treats other people, such as Lennie, Crooks and Candy. She needs to learn how to respect, support or encourage others, rather than making fun and disdain them. If she puts herself to the same level with other workers, her life will be much more happier and the way workers treat her will change, too.
Topic: family

When you are looking at your relationship with your different client (age) groups you need to consider the following areas, the context that you speak and in which you work with individuals. You may need to adapt the way you communicate with one individual to others. I think that sometimes you do this without thinking at work and within my role I complete this automatically with the children I work with as well as my immediate colleagues. I can evidence this in the use of language that I would speak to a child to an adult. There would be a more formal language to colleagues / adults then there would to children and the vocabulary used may also be more in depth and less simplified.
Topic: family

There also needs to be a view to the way we communication to individuals that may have a different cultural. In communicating with all people there needs to be train of thought all the time considering how we are being portrayed and to make sure that a polite manner is delivered as well as comfortable and open body language, in all this considered then this would enable you to have effective relationships with all and in turn strength your working relationships with all and help deliver the role that you are required to complete more effectively.
Topic: family

When communicating with children, young people and adults you should always give them opportunities to speak. Some children, young people and adults may have confidence issues so it is important to work on this with the individual and make sure that you are showing them you value their views. Visual eye contact and actively listening is a good way of communicating and making the child, young person feel valued and you are interested in what they are saying. In completing this form of communicating with the individual this may help towards the growth of their confidence in communicating.
Topic: family

Body language is also important in communicating and making yourself open can make you more approachable for children, young people and adults to want to speak to you or ask you for help. For example if you are sitting next to a child or young person rather than standing over them this can be more approachable as standing over them can be seen as intimidating. Reacting to what the individual is telling you even with a simple nod of the head can be enough for them to know you are listening and interested.
Topic: family

If you are working in a class environment then you need to make sure that the child or young person is well supported, you are clear in your instruction of work task and less distraction the better so focus is maintained so you would need to discourage this from occurring. In situations I find myself in sometimes the sensory level of a classroom can be very high and the child I am supporting and cannot focus and work so I would remove them from the class situation and work with them back in the facility which is a quieter environment.
Topic: family

These can be answers to a certain degree or humour is also a good strategy to use in this situation as again you need to be mindful of your role. Rather than shutting the conversation down you may want to change the discussion topic to something they like or may be doing in the holidays or after school. Another important factor is for you to never give out your personal contact details to a child or young person as you need to always follow the college / organisations procedures especially with regards to the Safeguarding policy.
Topic: family

Our school often sends out emails and written communication and if this was non readable for some careers, guardians then you could offer to speak to them regarding this information face to face or over the telephone. If for any reason there is a complex situation to communicate to an adult then again support should be given and perhaps another member of staff could be present to help set out the format of the discussion. When I had to communicate to parents at a student termly review I had to make sure that the appropriate professional language was used. I set out what I was going to say and made sure I used clear.
Topic: family

I researched the information such as data regarding the childs grade that I had to feedback and made sure this was accurate to the parent. At the end of the meeting I confirmed everything I had said in a summary form and also asked the parent if they understood what we had discussed and asked them for feedback directly to myself. The feedback given was positive and I feel I met my goal. I did explain to them that if they were not happy with anything that had been discussed or my performance then they were welcome to speak to my line manager. It is important to give alternative in communicating and feedback as sometimes people may not feel they can address this with you direct so other pathways need to be put in place to show good practice.
Topic: family

I have found that when I have been in a situation where I have to disagree with the child, young person or adult the best way to manage this is to always remain calm and clear. The situation should be managed carefully and sensitively as well as recorded for future reference. If there is a problem raised then it is best to try and deal with this as sensitively as you can, but as quick as possible as the longer a problem can go on then this can escalate and cause more upset.
Topic: family

If you find yourself in a situation where a child, young person or adult tells you something in secret it is important to make them aware that in your position you cannot keep a secret so would need to confidentially tell another member of staff, preferably your line manager. This is particularly the case in the importance of suspected child abuse where you must disclose the information you have been told as the young person could be at harm or risk if you did not breach this trust. You can of course reassure the individual that you have to tell another member of staff in order to support them due to the seriousness of the situation.
Topic: family

I was sadly in a positive such as this and I advised the individual I could listen to what they were telling me, but I would have to tell my line manager in order to support further due to the seriousness of the situation of what they had told me. I also explained to them as I think it is important to be honest as they are being with you that as a Teaching Assistant my role is to support them but I cannot withhold details as again this will not help them and they need support.
Topic: family

I interviewed a close family friend of mine named Lauren Reyes.  To figure out if biology has an impact on her behavior, I asked her if hormones influence her behavior towards other people. She said that she experiences mood swings but “[my] actions usually depend on the situation and the expectation of others.” Her answer conveyed that the expectation of others around her has been primarily based on what society deems is the proper reaction/behavior in a given situation.
Topic: family

I also inquired about the traits that she have that has been influenced by her parents. She said that being kind, helpful, forgiving and considerate are the traits that she has learned from her parents. She has internalized being kind and helpful to the point that she is aware that she reflects those attributes when dealing with other people. This is demonstrated when I asked her how she sees herself. She told me that she sees herself as “friendly, approachable, and nice/kind….like[s] to hel[p] others.
Topic: family

In addition, her forgiving attitude is exhibited by the fact that she cannot stay mad at a person for a week. She also considers herself as “soft”, hence she easily forgives people. Meanwhile her considerate nature is illustrated when she does things for other people, especially to those that are dear to her, that she knows will benefit them. This is what motivates her to accomplish her goals and to do something productive in her life. Also, being considerate toward others is a strong influence on her behavior. Therefore, her actions in any matter will always be based upon how it will effect the lives or situation of those that she knows well and cares about.
Topic: family

Similarly, her solid relationship with her friends is based upon the fact that she cares about them. This is also the reason that she remains loyal to them. This behavior is also reflective of her INJF personality, which shows that “she makes a decision based on emotion.” In this case, choosing her friends depending on how they make her feel.  Also, these genuine and warm feelings are extended to people that she just met. Although she admitted that she self-monitors her behavior around people that she just met and she is extra nice to them.
Topic: family

On the contrary, her performance in school has been greatly influenced by her desire to “make [her] parents proud…[Hence] I study hard to maintain my good grades.” Thus, the desire to be outstanding in whatever she is doing comes from within. Therefore, Lauren is clearly motivated intrinsically. She also mentioned that her motivation to do well is not because she wants or expects a reward for a task. The reason she engages in a certain task is she gains a feeling of contentment whenever she is doing a specific task. In effect, this has contributed to a young lady who has become and continually shows to be a responsible person in all aspects of her life.
Topic: family

As a former student, she preferred to study at home in her room with music playing in the background. This particular trait exhibited by Lauren is in accordance with INFJ personality, which states that “when the INFJ’s thinking function is operative [the person becomes] most aloof… such distancing is merely an indication that the seer is hard at work” (Butt). In addition, learning new information for her becomes easier if she observes the behavior being performed.
Topic: family

Numerous studies has also suggested that a person’s environment is responsible for one’s behavior. Robert Tyron, a pioneer in behavior genetics, conducted a study among rats that are bright in going around a maze versus rats that are dull in performing the same task. The study showed that the dull rats’ ability to go around the maze improved once they were placed in a stimulating environment. Hence, the study indicated that the stimulating environment improved the rat’s capability in going around the maze (Intelligence and Mental Abilities).
Topic: family

In addition, psychologist H.M. Skeels observed children who resided in orphanages in Iowa and were neglected by the adults that took care of them. The adults never read them stories, talk to them or played with them. The children were considered subnormal in intelligence when they took an IQ test. Two of the orphan girls were transferred to a an adult ward wherein the people “play[ed] with them, read to them, cheer[ed] them when they took their first steps, and encourag[ed] them to talk” (Intelligence and Mental Abilities). After 18 months, the IQ scores of these two girls improved.
Topic: family

It is apparent, just with the studies mentioned earlier, that a person’s environment affected a person’s intelligence and performance in life. While my interview with Lauren also showed that a person’s upbringing and culture contributes to a person’s personality and attitude. Lauren’s traits-such as her kind, helpful, forgiving and considerate nature- and behavior toward others are formed and developed by her parents. While her culture played a part in her attitude and relations toward older people. However, her motivation for doing any task comes from within and her interactions with people are based on how she feels toward them.
Topic: family

Overall, I personally believe that one’s environment clearly shapes a person’s personality and attitude in the long-run. People usually act in accordance with expected beliefs and mannerisms in the culture they are apart of. Hence, even if there is a segment of the population that are aggressive because they have high-levels of testosterone, proper etiquette and knowledge of societal norms will probably make them refrain from beating their loved ones or strangers. They may also decide to seek help with their out-of-control, aggressive behavior. Also, adequate child-rearing is essential to produce mature and responsible adults in our society. Thus, living conditions should be conducive to the development of a healthy, mature and responsible individual.
Topic: family

Sparkling tiaras, beautiful gowns, glamorous hair and make-up; One would believe that this would be every little girl’s dream. Unfortunately this dream often turns into a horrible nightmare. The popularity of child beauty pageants seems to be rising every year causing more and more controversy. There are many different views and concerns that people seem to have on these types of pageants. Many of them do not agree with children being forced to fulfill their parents dream by taking place in a beauty pageant.
Topic: family

The history of beauty pageants became part of the American society around the 1920’s. They originated as a marketing tool in 1921 by an Atlantic City hotel owner who was trying to attract tourist. Since then, pageants have become a major event in the lives of Americans. The online article written by Kareen Nussbaum exclaims that it wasn’t until the 1960’s when child beauty pageants really began. Back then, child pageants consist of modeling sportswear, evening attire, dance, and talent.
Topic: family

Pageants were conducted at political, educational, and entertainment venues. Many were scholarships were being offered through pageants, and beneficial programs were being facilitated. The pageantry world helped introduced a face to the faceless troubles of racism, handicaps, and illnesses. Since that time, a lot in the pageant industry has changed. Nowadays, they are anything buy conservative. Beauty pageants, like the ones on the show Toddlers and Tiaras, are not about natural looks but are based on such superficial things such as who has the most make up and best tan.
Topic: family

Parents have a major role in most child beauty pageants. There are very few children who participate in pageantry without their parents. They are the ones who provide the money and connection into the pageant world. Several families who start their child in beauty pageants have generations of competitors that include grandmas, mothers, kids, and grandkids. Many believe that the mothers of children that are involved in beauty pageants live vicariously through their children. Too often, pageant moms have only one thing on their mind and that is for their child to win! Having their own mother/parent as their role model, the child will most likely have that same kind of attitude causing many problems throughout their life.
Topic: family

There are many other reasons why child beauty pageants are unnecessary in today’s society. As children, they are most likely forced into the beauty pageants. Being too young to say no, the parents take control. Beauty pageants also sexualize young girls too early. They are exposed and become familiar with “womanly” items such as padded bras, high heels, and make-up. Instead of acting like their own age, the little girls believe to think they are older than they really are. High heels aren’t made for small feet. They needlessly push the child’s weight forward causing lower back pain and hindering proper development of their feet.
Topic: family

Sometimes younger girls are forced to wear heels outside of pageants, because their feet have grown in a way that makes wearing other shoes uncomfortable. Hairspray is the most common widely used product in child pageants. Unfortunately, too much hairspray can actually stunt growth. The Psychology Corner claims that it contains certain chemicals that act as hormone disruptors that could be harmful to the body, and is linked to stunted growth and even lung cancer! If child beauty pageants weren’t allowed, these kinds of troubles wouldn’t be so prevalent.
Topic: family

Cognitive and emotional problems are probably the most dangerous problems that beauty pageants can cause. They are capable to leading to many different kinds of disorders that could ruin a child’s life. A 2007 report by the American Psychological Association found that the hypersexualization of young girls is strongly associated with eating disorders, low self-esteem, and depression. Psychologists and psychiatrists largely agree that pageants reinforce negative female body image issues that result in eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia. Beauty competitions emphasize the “barbie doll” image of what a beauty queen should look like. The problem with having that image is that there is no way for a person to be able to look like that.
Topic: family

“5 Facts about Beauty Pageants.” Oprah Winfrey Network. Harpo Productions, 2012. Web. 2 Dec. 2012. Nussbaum, Kareen. “Children and Beauty Pagaents.” Beauty Pagaents. N.p., n.d. Web. 2 Dec. 2012. “Toddlers and children beauty pageants – Risk factors for severe psychological turmoils.” Psychology Corner. Psychology Corner, n.d. Web. 2 Dec. 2012. Williams, Zinzi. “Beauty Pageants and its Effects on Children.” Purduecal. N.p., 6 Dec. 2010. Web. 3 Dec. 2012.
Topic: family

For example, when going and actually watching various siblings and parents, Catherine Conger, found that “70% of fathers and 65% of mothers actually do have a favorite child” (Kluger 44-50). She says that “these numbers are probably even higher because parents try very hard to try and hide their favoritism” (Kluger 44-50). The author relates child favoritism to how it works in nature. Parents want their kids to be the best and most successful out of all the other kids.
Topic: family

When talking about being second best, the article shows how not being the favorite is very hard on a child. Clare Stocker did a study on 136 sibling pairs and found that the child being loved the less will usually develop depression and low self-esteem. This doesn’t mean that that most favored child will always be the most successful. Child favoritism can also damage the favorite child because they may be used to getting everything and may not develop certain skills.
Topic: family

I find all this evidence very compelling, and being the second child and youngest of two sons, I believe a lot of what this article says is true. I also think a lot of it depends upon who the parents are and I don’t totally agree with some of the points made. Yes, my brother is bigger and stronger, but I am probably healthier and smarter. We both have our perfections and we both have our flaws but I would say we are both equal. That doesn’t mean our parents don’t have favorites, because I’m sure they do but I would say it changes from time to time.
Topic: family

This article can be used by many people but there is a specific audience that can really benefit from reading this article. I would say the author was trying to reach either young couples thinking about starting a family, couples that have recently started a family, or couples that have already gone through parenting. He would try to reach young couples either thinking about a family or young couples that just started a family because it would be helpful for them to know this information and would hopefully lead to better parenting and decision making so their kids, either the second best or even the favorite, don’t end up totally damaged.
Topic: friendship

Today, social media is incredibly popular and is used by thousands of people as a convenient method of communication. The prevalence of online communication can lead us to wonder what impact social media has on our relationships. Does it change the way we treat people or the way we view our friends? Does it strengthen or weaken our friendships? Opinions on this topic are certainly mixed, but it is possible to analyze the different ways in which our relationships may be influenced by our use of social media.
Topic: friendship

They may think that it has negative impacts on our wellbeing, work and academic life, and relationships. It’s not only the older generation that holds this view, but also much of the younger and more tech-savvy generation. According to a poll from the Teen Advisory Board, seventy-five percent of teenagers polled agreed that social media negatively affects romantic relationships (Gowen). This may be a shocking result, as teenagers and younger people are generally seen using social media much more than anyone else.
Topic: friendship

Lowered privacy could have several effects on relationships, both positive and negative. Social media may also make negative interpersonal relationships easy to maintain. When someone is bullied face to face, they have the option of escaping or leaving the area, at least eventually. When someone is bullied through social media, any time they check their account they could be receiving yet more negative and hurtful messages. Social media makes interaction seem more distant and less personal, thus making bullying easier to go through with. Social media can also enable people to easily bully one another publicly and allow many others to see it. This can serve to exacerbate the problem.
Topic: friendship

Although I acknowledge that technology can have some negative impacts, I do not believe it is truly as negative as it may seem. Poll results may have indicated a negative opinion on social media, but a study Matthew M. Hand et al. states that their model “did not find a significant relationship between relationship satisfaction and either participant usage or perceived partner usage [of social media]” (Hand). This indicates that even in romantic relationships, which tend to be more intimate than casual friendships, are not necessarily negatively impacted by social media usage. As for the lowered privacy aspect, I would argue that it is someone’s personal choice what they share through social media. Although it makes it easier to share personal information, it does not happen without a conscious choice. In addition, negative behaviors such as bullying can easily exist outside of the internet, and it is not social media’s fault that some people may misuse it. Despite the general negative outlook on technology, I would argue that it can be a great tool in both preserving and building friendships. Social media can allow us to keep in touch with others from anywhere without seeing one another. It allows for ties to be maintained and strengthened despite distance. Without social media or other forms of technology-based communication, it would certainly be difficult to stay close with old friends from school or a past job.
Topic: friendship

Natasha Koifman, the president of public relations and digital media firm NKPR, stated that “online communication can even make face-to-face, offline relationships stronger; parents are able to keep in close contact with their children who are travelling abroad or going away to university, and couples who are in long distance relationships can stay connected and be a part of each others’ lives. There’s a reason why Facebook has over a billion users: it works” (Koifman). It is easy to see both the positive and negative sides of social media once we examine it critically. Although it does have some negative impacts, I would argue that the benefits are far greater. The ability to maintain and build friendships over distance and connect with others all over the world quickly and easily is a huge advantage that people have not had throughout history until recently. As psychology professor Krystine Batcho stated, “you can suddenly make social connections with people all over the world, people who share different worldviews, religions, values, and politics. I think the benefits trump the dangers or risks” (Graham). Social media has many uses and benefits for both our relationships and society in general, and it would be foolish to discount it simply because of a few negative side effects.
Topic: friendship

In the book “Of Mice and Men”, by John Steinbeck, is a story which shows how friendship and loyalty can be the strongest thing in the world until it gets in the way, and begins to get overwhelming. It shows how people can turn on their family, best friend, and even their life-long companions if they have the opportunity for a better life. Steinbeck develops his theme by using relationships, events, outcomes, and conflicts throughout the story. This theme is established in many instances, when George and Lennie share the same dream and Lennie loves when George tells him how it is going to be when they finally own their own house, when candy allows his loyal and loving old dog to be shot in the back of the head, and when George gets angry with Lennie and yells at him when they are in the woods sitting around the camp fire.
Topic: friendship

They share their hard times and the good, their victories and their defeats, but most importantly they share a common dream. That dream is of having “a little house and a couple of acres an’ a cow and some pigs an’ live off the fatta the lan'(14), where Lennie can take care of the rabbits just as George has been taking care of him over the years. Lennie is constantly thinking and worrying about the rabits.
Topic: friendship

Candy loves his dog with all of his heart; it has been his best friend for years and according to Candy he has “Had him since he was a pup. I herded sheep with him.” (44) Even though he cannot run as fast as in his prime or herd sheep like he did when he was younger Candy loves him just the same. He appreciates all of the joy and loyalty that his once great dog has brought to him during his life and is ready to let his friend now live out the rest of his natural life. Unfortunately that is not the way that some of the other people in the room see it. Carlson feels “This ol’ dog jus’ suffers hisself all the time. If you was to take him out and shoot him right in the back of the head… right there, why he’d never know what hit him”(45). Carlson even offers to give him a new dog to replace the one that he is about to destroy. The way that Candy sees it is that he is not hurting anyone and that there is no reason to have to end his life early. Even though Candy loves his dog more than anything else in the world he chooses to let someone shoot his dog in the back of the head. After all that they had been through and all the years of loyal service that his best friend had performed for Candy, when pressured into a decision, he chose to betray his loyal companion and make the decision let him go. This leads one to wonder why he made the decision that he did. He let Carlson kill his dog in hopes that the other workers would then give him the friendship and loyalty that his dog had provided him for years. If this happened, Candy would not have to spend the rest of his life alone in his old age; he would then have friends and people who he could talk to. He had been lacking this for years and wanted it desperately, even if it meant betraying his oldest friend.
Topic: friendship

George and Lennie have the same relationship that Candy and his dog have shared for so many years. They are as close to each other’s hearts as any two people can be in life. George has given up his chance at a somewhat normal life to help Lennie live as full of a life as he is mentally capable of doing. As the story progresses you see that George starts to regret the fact that he is being held back by Lennie: “…crazy son-of-a-bitch. You keep me in hot water all the time”(11). After George said this “His anger left him suddenly.” When George blows up on Lennie he then remembers that although he does a lot for Lennie, Lennie does a lot for him. Then George takes what he said back “No-look! I was jus foolin , Lennie. Cause I want you to stay with me.”(13) Without each other they both would be lost in life and have nobody else to turn too. This all changes once they get their jobs on the ranch together. George fits in very well with all of the other workers on the ranch and sees that for the first time in his life, he has a chance to live a typical life. He becomes almost obsessed with the idea of being able to have friends and not have to travel all over the place running from the trouble that Lennie has got them into. As time goes by on the ranch where the two characters are working, George starts to look out for Lennie less. He knows that Lennie cannot take care of himself and that it is hard for him to stay out of trouble, but he still leaves him alone more than he has before. It seems that George’s priorities have been switched around and that he is more concerned with having a good time with the guys than he is about making sure that his life-long companion is safe and not getting himself into trouble on the ranch. This is shown rather clearly when George goes into town and leaves Lennie behind. He is not worried about what kind of trouble Lennie may get in to; all he is thinking about is having the chance to go out with the guys and have a good time. This is something that he could not have done in the past because he had to worry about Lennie and make sure that he was not going to get into any trouble that would endanger himself or George. For some reason he does not seem to worry about this when he makes the decision to leave. As the story closes, George makes the effort to find Lennie before any of the workers from the ranch can. He has a choice to make after he finds Lennie: he can run away and hide as he has done in the past, to protect his best friend, or he can take Lennie’s life himself. Due to his lack of loyalty to Lennie and his selfishness he chooses to take Lennie’s life. It is significant to the story how George decides to kill his friend. He does not even give Lennie a chance to get away from his pursuers but instead he shoots him in the back of the head just like what had been done to Candy’s dog.