How Psychological Research Has Helped in the Understanding of Criminal Behaviour Essay

Albert Bandura created the bobo doll experiment in 1961, the aim of this experiment was to show that if children where witnesses to aggressive displays by an adult of some sort they would imitate this behaviour when given an opportunity. The tested group contained 36 young girls and 36 young boys all aged between 4 and 5 years which was then divided into 3 groups of 24 – the aggressive condition, the non aggressive condition and the control group. The first group involved the children watching aggressive models, where the children where then subdivided by sex of the role model they were exposed to. The second group involved the children watched non aggressive models, where the children were also subdivided by the sex of the role model which they were exposed to. This left the two conditioned groups subdivided into eight experimental groups each containing 6 subjects. They were 6 boys with the same sex model, 6 boys with opposite model, 6 girls with the same sex model and 6 girls with the opposite model. With 3 different groups, Bandura had created a complicated design for the study which resulted in 3 independent variables; the conditions the children were exposed to, the sex of the child and the sex of the role model. Each child was then tested individually and the findings where then recorded. The experiment was done in an artificial environment and the researcher manipulated the independent variables into the conditions. In stage one of the experiment, the children were brought into the experimental room by the examiner. The room was set out as a nursery play room since that was the appropriate setting for the age of the children. One corner of the room had been arranged as a child’s play area consisting of a small table and chair and picture stickers. In the opposite corner of the room was where the adult models would be followed by a small table and chair, tinker toy set and a five foot bobo doll. In the aggressive condition the model began by playing with the tinker toy set but after a couple minutes the model turned its attention to the bobo doll and was aggressive towards the doll in a very distinctive way. Were as in the non aggressive condition the model ignored the bobo doll and played with the tinker toys in a gentle manner. After 10 minutes the children where then taken into new room. In stage two of the experiment the children were brought into a room with relativity attractive toys. In this room the children were to be subjected to mild aggression arousal. Once the children started to play with the toys, the experimenter took them off the children claiming they had been reserved for the other children. The children were then taken into the last and final room for stage three of the experiment. In this room the children were told they could play with any toys in there, the toys in stage three consisted of both non aggressive and aggressive toys. The children were kept in the room for 20 minutes where observations were made through a one way mirror by judges. With the observation and findings of this experiment, three measures of imitation were obtained. For this study the observers’ looked specifically for responses from the children that were very similar to the display by the adult model. They included; imitation of physical aggression, imitation of verbal aggression and imitation of non verbal aggression. With these observations, the researchers were able to consider which children imitate the models, which models the children imitated and whether the children showed a general increase of aggressive behaviour. The main findings of this study were that the children in aggressive model condition made more aggressive responses than the children in the non aggressive condition. They also found that the boys made more aggressive responses than girls, as well as the sex of the children being more aggressive if the model was of the same sex. These findings support Bandura’s social learning theory that children learn social behaviour through observation learning, which children learn through imitation. This study has helped in the understanding of criminal behaviour as children learn through imitation and the environment which they grow up in have an effect on their behaviour. If a child has been brought up around abuse, criminal activity or consistent aggression then the child is most likely to offend by imitating their role model which could be a parent, sibling or even just a role model which they look up to. Philip Zimbardo (1971) – Stanford prison experiment – Dr Philip Zimbardo created the Stanford prison experiment in 1971, the aim of this experiment was to find out the psychological effects of prison life, and to what extent can moral people be seduced to act immorally. The study consisted of 24 students selected out of 75, the roles of these 24 men were randomly assigned, 12 to play prison guards and 12 to play prisoners. The prison set up was built inside the Stanford’s psychological department, doors where taken of laboratory rooms and replaced with steel bars in order to create cells. At the end of the corridor was the small opening which became the solitary confinement for the ‘bad prisoners’. Throughout the prison there were no windows or clocks to judge the passage in time, which resulted in time distorting experiences. After only a few hours, the participants adapted to their roles well beyond expectations, the officers starting displaying authorisation and subject some of the prisoners to humiliation and torture whilst the prisoners developed passive attitudes towards the guards and accepted the physical abuse that was given to them. On the second day with surprise an unexpected rebellion broke out, reinforcement was called and more guards where to be on duty however the prisoners refused to leave their cells, barricading themselves in. This early in to the experiment the prisoners had already felt a loss of identity to the extent they started to refer to themselves as their inmate number rather than name. Even Dr Zimbardo himself started to lose sight of his role in the experiment believing he was in fact a ‘prison superintendent’ rather than a psychologist. Due to the extent of the rebellion the guards were forced to show more authority over them which led to the creation of the ‘privileged cell’. In order to break down the ‘superior’ inmates the guards placed the good prisoners in the privileged cell for a few hours, then placed the good prisoners back into the bad cells causing confusion within the inmates, breaking the trust and isolating them. Within a week the study was abandoned as the experiment was no longer a simple simulation, instead the guards saw the prisoners as troublemakers they were made out to be. In response to this they began stepping up control, surveillance and aggression whilst the prisoner started breaking down emotionally being unable to handle the situation anymore. From the observations and information given by Dr Zimbardo’s reports, this study has helped in the understanding of criminal behaviour as it relates to imitation and conformity. The guards imitated the behaviour of real guards adapting the role quiet quickly. The prisoners also adapted the role quickly falling into depression and conforming to each other. This also helps how a person mental state can change their behaviour, with the prisoners they soon became depressed and mentally unstable, and this shows that when put into a certain disciplinary situation the mind adapts causing them to act immorally. Solomon Ashce (1951) – Conformity experiment- Solomon Ashce conducted the conformity experiment in 1951. The aim of this experiment was to investigate the extent of social pressure from a majority group can affect a person to conform. For this experiment Ashe used a lab experiment. Ashe used 8 participants for this experiment, 7 confederates and 1 naive participant. The 7 confederates had previously agreed to what their responses would be when presented with the line task. However the real participant had no knowledge of this and was led to believe that the other 7 participants were also real. With this experiment each person had to state aloud which line was most like the target line, (A, B or C). The answer was always an obvious one. The real participant always gave his or her answer last in order to see if they conformed or not. In some trials, the confederates gave the wrong answer whereas in some they gave the correct obvious answer. In the experiment there was 18 trials altogether and the confederates gave the wrong answer 12 out of the total 18. Ashce main observation was to find out if the real participant would end up conforming based on the majority views given by the other 7 participants. The results were then drawn up and out of the 18 trails, around 75% of the trials the real participant conformed even though he or she knew the answers were wrong. From the observations, this study has helped in the understanding of criminal behaviour as it explains that criminals may have previously been highly exposed to such aggressive behaviour causing them to conform. This shows that publicly any source of aggressive behaviour or criminal activity can lead to conformity causing more criminal behaviour. Anderson and Dill (2000) – Violence in video games study- Both Anderson and Dill conducted the relation between violence and video games study in 2000. The aim of this study was to find out how violent video games relate to aggressive behaviour. Their first study consisted of 227 students which were given a questionnaire in order to get data on their aggressive behaviour patterns. This study looked at the long-term exposure to video games and what effect it has on aggression towards people. The findings of the first study relating to the questionnaire came back with positive relations between the violence portrayed in video games and aggressive behaviour. The second study which Anderson and Dill conducted was to approach the impact that video games have on aggressive thoughts, social view and mood of a person. This study consisted of 210 students which were given a choice of 2 video games a non violent game ‘Myst’ or a violent interactive video game ‘Wolfstein 3D’. With the non violent game the objective was to travel the island of Myst, finding clues and making your own ending depending on the journey you took. With the violent game the objective was to eliminate the enemy ‘Adolf Hitler’ choosing your own hero and variety of weapons. With each game the students were allocated 3 slots for a period of 15minutes each. The findings of this study concluded Anderson and Dills knowledge and opinions that those exposed to the violent video game gained more aggressive behaviour than those who were not exposed to violence. From the observations, this study has helped in the understanding of criminal behaviour as it states that playing video games may increase aggressive behaviour because the violent acts are continually repeated throughout the game. Video games also encourage players to identify and interact through role play of their favourite characters causing them to imitate the character they are playing. Referring to first person in a game, it causes lead players to make their own decisions in the game affecting the actions of the character. Anderson and Dills studies show that after a limited amount of time playing violent video games, a player can start to automatically prime aggressive thoughts which can lead to aggressive behaviour. This shows that continually playing violent video games can affect a person’s thought patters leading to automatic aggressive behaviour through imitation of their favourite characters which could lead to criminal activity. Jahoda name study (1954)- Jahoda created the name study or as it is also called the self fulfilling prophecy. Jahoda studied the Ashanti tribe people who gave their boys ‘soul names’ depending on what day of the week they were born. For example, boys born a Monday were expected to be peaceful and full of good, whereas boys born on Wednesday which were called ‘Kwaku’ were expected to be aggressive and quick tempered. Jahoda found that when looking at prison and court records 13. 5% of boys that had been referred to court to court where from boys that were born on Wednesday, yet they were responsible for over 22% of violent crimes which was significantly higher than would be expected and shows that Wednesdays boys tended to live up to their reputation. However as for the boys born on Monday, they found that only 6. 9% of all juvenile cases where of minor offences. This implies that stereotypes of the boys behaviours depending on which day of the week they were born caused them to live up to expectations of their names. Jahoda concluded from all this that there was indeed nothing magical about the day of the week the boys were born on but of effect of expectations has on a person’s behaviour. From the observations and findings, this study has helped in the understanding of criminal behaviour as it links to the effect of rehabilitation and the study of the self fulfilling prophecy. If the offenders have the expectation that they should behave in such a way, rehabilitation may be more difficult. Overall the psychological theory of criminal behaviour suggests that negative expectations cause curtain’s to behave towards others in a specific way because their stereotypes – self fulfilling prophecy. Rosenthal and Jacobson (1968) – Self fulfilling prophecy- Both Rosenthal and Jacobson also conducted a self fulfilling prophecy study and the way that people behave according to profiling or being stereotyped in 1968. Their study was conducted on students in a classroom which was also known as the ‘Pygmalion in the classroom’. The students were then put into groups of what the students think they will achieve, where they were then treated in a way that their ability group could achieve. All students completed an IQ test before the study. The findings of this study concluded Rosenthal and Jacobson’s theory that when people are put into groups or have been stereotyped into a group can cause people’s behaviour to change as they will live up to the expectations of the stereotype. The findings found were that after two years the students that were put into the group for higher levels achieved higher than the other students in any other group. These students were known to have been given additional feedback and extra attention so the finding expected had were correct. From the findings, this study has helped in the understanding of criminal behaviour as it shows that when categorised into a stereotype, people soon learn to live up to that expectation, behaving in a certain way. This also has an impact on a person’s self esteem, causing them to act undesirably and maybe even lead them to turn to crime. Eden (1990) – Self fulfilling prophecy- Eden also conducted the self fulfilling prophecy study in 1990, this study explains why some people turn to crime due to the way they have been stereotyped or labelled into a certain group. For this study, Eden looked at the training of 1000 Israeli soldiers and had them organised into 29 platoons. Some platoon trainers were told their groups were above the average potential but other trainers were told nothing. The findings of this study showed that after 10 weeks the performance of all soldiers were assessed and was found that on both the written exam and weapon test, the soldiers who had been told they were above the average potential did overall better than others, even though all soldiers were at an average level. These findings concluded Eden’s expectations that when labelled into a certain group, a person can adjust to behave according to expectations within the labelled group. This study has helped in understanding of criminal behaviour as it shows the stereotypes and labelled groups can influence a person’s self esteem leading them to behave in a certain way and if the stereotype is negative it can cause a person to turn to crime. Sheehan (1983) – TV violence and aggression Sheehan conducted the TV violence and aggression study in 1983. This study consisted of a group of middle class children aged between 5 and 10 to help find the link between children’s TV viewing and aggressive behaviour. Throughout the study data was gathered about the participants’ parents and the researchers also asked about the children’s aggressive fantasies to whether it would physically injure a person. Sheehan found that there were correlations between viewing violence and peer rated correlations for children that were aged between 8 and 10, with the correlations being stronger for the boys than the girls. The results were recorded by looking whether the child injured of irritated another person. These findings can relate to the social learning theory as he found that boys were more likely to imitate male models but overall looking at the data Sheehan collected, those who watched violent TV and films became more aggressive towards others than those who did not. This study has helped in understanding of criminal behaviour as it shows that continuously watching violent and aggressive TV programmes can affect a person’s thought patterns leading to automatic aggressive behaviour and imitation of their favourite characters which could lead to criminal activity.

H&M in Accounting Essay

Content Page Questions Question 1. Using Michael Porter’s five forces model, evaluate the importance of Barriers to Entry to the fast-fashion industry. Support your arguments with evidence from the case study. (20%) Question 2. Conduct a value chain analysis to assess H&M’s capabilities and derive its core competencies. (35%) Question 3. Based on these competencies identify the generic competitive strategy which H&M is pursuing. (10%) Question 4. It is suggested in the case study that the fashion industry is full of companies that have confidently expanded into international markets but later have been forced to retreat. Analyze the international strategy choice being pursued by H&M and assess the extent to which this is appropriate for its future development. (25%) Appendix Global FactorsLocal FactorsIntegration Responsiveness Grid References Question 1. Applying Michael Porter’s five forces model, it includes the threat of entrants and substitutes, bargaining power of suppliers and customers and competitive rivalry. Among all, barriers to entry could be an essential factor to the fast-fashion industry. Even so, the threat of entry is affected by several factors. Different sources of barriers to entry can act as a determinant on the height of barriers. As mentioned in the case study, fast-fashion industries doesn’t require a large capital outlay. Entry to the retail industry is so easy that can be set up with a group of suppliers being chosen from. Therefore, the level of impact of capital requirement to the barriers to entry is low. Secondly, economies of scale is a barrier to entry as its product unit cost will be lowered for the businesses which already attained a production volume so that it will be hard for the new entrants to compete. H&M’s prices have been undercut by an even cheaper competitor. In this ca se, economies of scale’s level of impact to the fast-fashion industry is high. For the absolute cost advantage, for incumbent companies who already have economies of scale can have a significant cost advantage over new entrants. Additional costs may include  the learning or experience curve, proprietary technology and government subsidies. Therefore, the level of impact is high for new entrants. Considering product differentiation, the level of impact is regarded as low as fast-fashion industry has a variety of choices in its suppliers that could be different from many others. Also, it can be overcome by creating in its own brand to avoid this kind of barrier. There may not be a difficulty in access to channels of supply and distribution to the fast-fashion industry because these channels are held by numerous suppliers. New entrants can set up their own like Gap Corporation and Inditex by acting as both manufacturers and retailers which results in low level of impact. The level of impact of the legal and regulatory barriers will be treated as low either. Various controls may be limited by the governments such as the licensing requirement or limit to access to raw materials. These would not be applied to the fast-fashion industry as it generally has less control by the governments and usually bound by the legal system. Last but not least, the level of impact of the expected retaliation could be high since the size and duration of retaliation in fast-fashion industry are intense. These may threaten the new entrants including the price cuts. New entrants have less ability to make retaliation than those incumbents in view of experience and resources. To conclude, the overall height of barriers to entry is low which means a serious threat of entering fast-fashion industry. It implies an intense rivalry and an unattractive environment. Therefore, it is important to consider the barriers to entry in this industry. Question 2. The value chain analysis is mainly divided into two types- support and primary activities. This analysis is made to let companies determine where value is added to the customers and margin is increased to the organization. Under support activities, H&M’s firm infrastructure is easy and simple. Following Erling Persson’s basic values and beliefs, H&M intended to offer the fashion and quality at the best price. Also, the managers are given freedom and autonomy in decision-making processes which lead the success of H&M.For the Human Resources Management, H&M focused on one person’s qualities much more than qualifications which implies that opportunities are given to those people with lower academic levels. It was noticed that practical skills are more important to the company instead. Internal promotion and job rotation are the crucial ingredients to sustain H&M’s continuous growth.Regarding technology development, H&M has been adopting the latest IT systems with continuous improvement. Intelligent use of ICT has been an effective tool in assisting H&M’s business which can be applied to the logistics and warehouse system. Moreover, H&M is tightly connected to the customers through social network and various phone apps.The fourth support activity is the procurement. As H&M does not own any factories so the manufacturing is outsourced to low-cost countries. Procurement is centralized in Stockholm. A good connection network can be seen between the production offices and the suppliers in order to reduce the lead times. On the other hand, the primary activities include five elements-inbound logistics, operations, outbound logistics, marketing and sales and service. H&M provided little information on inbound logistics which should include raw materials con trol and inventory control of input material. This may become a weakness in the management of H&M.For the operation of H&M, it opts for renting store premises to increase flexibility and adaptability. In addition to this, H&M will do the product testing about the quality control. Furthermore, a new interiors program is created to catch up with the latest trend.Under outbound logistics, only transportation is handled by the external contractors. However, H&M deals well with the distribution by offering the best price to avoid middlemen. H&M is cost-conscious and thus can reduce the costs being incurred. Also, daily shipments are available to H&M which implies an effective and efficient shipment scheduling system.Considering the marketing and sales, H&M has been collaborating with 200 in-house designers and several famous ones. In addition to this, it has launched long-term advertising campaigns with high-profile celebrities which can indirectly boost the sales and build up its image. Online promotion is also available for customers for the latest updates.The last category is the service. Usually it refers to the after-sale service that how well a company can do on the quality contr ol. H&M just put little focus on after-sale service such as the customer support. This appears to be a weakness to H&M.Apart from inbound logistics and the service, other activities are considered as H&M’s strengths which makes H&M being world leader. Concerning the two types of the activities, there are three key linkages  between them. From support to support activity, Human Resources management (HRM) is linked to technology development as the intelligent staffs are employed to assist in IT development and continuously making updates through the IT systems. As the advanced technology requires employees to apply the IT skills they have learnt, so there is an important relationship between HRM and technology development. For example, HRM acts as an important role to reply customers’ queries efficiently and let them know the latest trend of the company through social networks. From primary to primary activity, the outbound logistics is linked to the marketing and sales. When the products and services are delivered to customers, the next process will be about the packaging and promotion on the products. Whether the customers choose the company depends on the quality of both products and services. It is said to be closely related because marketing and sales has usually become a must-do item for the large incumbents especially for the fast-fashion industry. For the last type of linkage from primary to support activity, it can be linked to five activities. Procurement, outbound logistics, marketing and sales, human resources management and technology development are all connected with each other in H&M’s operation.Although H&M didn’t own any factories, its manufacturing is outsourced in order to find some fashionable items with the lowest costs in response to the changing market which results in economies of scale. After the procurement process is done, it will be delivered to the customers from the warehouse. Under outbound logistics, it specifies the importance of the order fulfillment and on time delivery. As a large incumbent in retail industry, a budget is spent on t he marketing and sales on the products being delivered to the consumers. When doing the marketing and sales, IT skills and applications will be used to assist. In line with the promotion of its products, its brand name is highly attentive as well. Regarding the firm size and experience in the textile industry, H&M has been paying much attention on CSR keeping the brand name away from the criticisms which is treated as a kind of value driver that manage in its brand and reputation.For example, inventory will be shifted to the more popular regions from those with poorer sales amount in order to boost the sales. From this example, it can be seen that the intranet network is well-developed. From procurement to the technology development, they are all connected between each activity. Based on the 3  main linkages, the linkage between primary and support activity is the most important among all which is likely to be a core competence of H&M. To affirm whether it is core, the VRIN test can act as an effective tool.Whether it is valuable depends on the effectiv eness of the value-creating activities and its future development. The most significant value-creating activity is Human Resources management. Responsible and skilled staffs are essential to H&M as they can apply their experience and techniques in meeting the latest trend and customer needs. Trainings and duration of experience can definitely create value and be further developed.To define how rare it is, this should be compare with other similar competitors. Apart from the collaboration with in-house designers, H&M uniquely co-operated with different famous designers over the years from various countries.The fundamental concept that has already been embedded in the employees. It was said to be unbreakable stubbornness devotion to a goal by the journalists. This in fact is a competitive advantage which H&M can stick to the fundamental principle by offering fashion and quality at the best price and this will be difficult for others to imitate. For the last aspect, the category of the human resources management and the procurement may be vulnerable to substitution. The staff’s mobility is relatively high in this industry as it varies with the times. This theory also applies to the sources of supplies. But the staff trainings can increase their loyalty to the company which becomes non-substitutable. All in all the competency mentioned is sufficient to meet the criteria of the VRIN test. Therefore, human resources management in the linkage between the primary and support activities can be treated as core competency that confer competitive advantage. Question 3. Based on the competencies stated in question 2, H&M is pursuing the Hybrid strategy which is the integration of both cost and differentiation strategies. H&M has been applying economies of scale that is achieving cost leadership. H&M’s core principle is to offer the fashion and quality at the best price. One of its core value is to be cost conscious. H&M is alert to the costs which aim to provide the most worthy price for customers. Bargaining power is particularly important in this industry as fast-fashion changes in a speedy mode. At the same time, H&M has also  put a focus on differentiation. In building its reputation and image, H&M has spent a budget especially for advertising. Besides, working with different types of fashion designers creating innovative collections can lead product differentiation . To compete with others in this industry, cutting cost is not the only way to survive. To become a stable yet significant player, product differentiation is more effective. Based on the analysis in question 2, H&M has already built core competencies in cost drivers and value drivers which generate efficiency and differentiation. Also, H&M can respond quickly to the changing environment to fulfill customers’ needs and technology level. So Hybrid strategy is adopted in H&M. Question 4. Based on the Integration Responsiveness Grid, H&M is likely to pursue globalization strategy. Globalization is the transition of industries from a multinational to a global competitive structure. From the global factors, H&M scores higher than that in local factors. There are different arguments that support H&M pursuing globalization. For the most significant factors, H&M is obviously buying centrally in Stockholm. Stockholm becomes the central purchasing office of H&M. Gaining economies of scale is one of its goal of H&M either. To fast-fashion industry, speed of introducing new products to changing environment is very important to meet the latest trends. As mentioned before, advanced technology is applied in H&M which can improve the quality of products and service. Customers around the world behave in the same way as H&M has been opening over 2,000 stores in 2010 which implies customers in different countries accept the products and services H&M delivered. These factors globalize s H&M. On the other hand, pricing strategy being adopted by H&M has been coherent across borders as it focused on offering the best price to all customers in different countries sticking with the spirit of itself. There is no big difference in the distribution channels as it follows its own practice by distributing from distribution centers to warehouses to the stores. Business regulations and contexts also does not differ much from place to place. Customers contact and after-sale service are less focused by H&M which suggests low customization. Transportation is controlled by the external contractors which means local  operations are not that essential. Concluded from the local factors, H&M is not likely to pursue localization. Furthermore, decision-making like buying and logistics are centralized at the Head Office which confirms its position using a global strategy. Global strategy also has another characteristic which offers standardized products to different countries. In my point of view, global strategy is very suitable for H&M in future development. In fast-fashion industry. H&M belongs to a vibrant player which should aim to be a global leader. Also, it has already been achieving few tactics like economies of scale and increasing its bargaining power. However, there are several benefits and risks associated with the global strategy. By applying this strategy, H&M can achieve global economies of scale and brand consistency. Expanding the target customers as the whole world, independent management is also treated as its strength. For the risks that H&M might be facing, standardized products may not meet all customers’ needs as it might be lack of sufficient innovative ideas to suit everyone. Moreover, centralized decisions will be lack of innovation and creativity, though decentralization is now encouraged in H&M.

Photography term paper

â€Å"Photography can only represent the present. Once photographed, the subject becomes part of the past† (Abbott, Bernice). Since the beginning of time humans have tried to commemorate their existence and one of the ways we have done so is through photography. Photography can be found anywhere. One of the most common places you can find photography is in a museum; which is where my story begins.As I entered the doors of the Museum of Photography at the University of Riverside I was transported through time. I was taken back to a time when hydrotherapy was nearly a budding phenomenon. A time where the mention of daguerreotype; a picture made on a mirror-like surface, would stop people dead in their tracks. A time where death; as tragic as it was, was celebrated as art. The time of Post-Mortem photography.As I ventured deeper into the world of Post-Mortem photography, I quickly discovered that Post- Mortem photography meant photography of the deceased. I immediately questioned the photographers' motives and was hesitant to except their works as art. However, as I continued to examine and observe I realized that these photographs weren't as horrific as I had made them UT to be. In fact, they were quite beautiful; In that they leave something behind for the living to hold on to.As I continued through the halls of the museum I found several other photographs whose subjects were living. I favored these photographs over the other photographs because they were much more cheerful. Throughout my exploration of the museum In total there were four photographs that stood out to me. Photography term paper By zoologically out to be. In fact, they were quite beautiful; in that they leave something behind for exploration of the museum in total there were four photographs that stood out to me.

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History of modern latin america - Essay Example Sandra Phillips (2009) stated that sports provide a unique opportunity for children to acquire physical, social, and personal benefits that can help them throughout their lives. According to her, the benefits of youth sports are extensive. She gave some of the ways how sports can positively influence a child’s development and serve as an avenue for teaching children valuable life lessons (Phillips, 2009). According to Phillips (2009), sports can build self-esteem, self-respect and dignity. It provides social interaction with peers and adults and an opportunity to develop talents (Phillips, 2009). Sandra Phillips (2009) also added that sports teaches sportsmanship, teamwork, control, and how to deal with adversity by showing them that it is alright to make a mistake and giving them the opportunity to learn from mistakes as well as moving on once a mistake has been made. It instils self-discipline and awareness of the value of preparation (Phillips, 2009). A sport teaches kids h ow to deal productively with criticisms, provides leadership opportunities, and fosters a sense of community by providing a sense of belonging or opportunity to be part of a group (Phillips, 2009). In addition, Phillips (2009) presented that sports develops skills for handling success and failure and provides stress relief from academic and social pressures. SPORTS AND THE HIGH RISKS COUNTRIES Brazil is a passionate country besotted with sports (Tyler, n.d.) According to Vera Tyler, a volunteer coach, there are many areas of the city where children are exposed to dangers of poverty and they can be easily led into a life of crimes and drugs. The sports programme that they offered provided a positive channel for energy of the children and a distraction from a ghastly lifestyle. Tyler added that they focused on encouraging children to see the ‘good side’ of the world by taking them away from the violence and poverty that they live in and encouraging them to see things in a different way. The sporting activities provide positive role to help keep the children away from the dangers of the streets (Tyler, n.d.). According to Tyler, the activities helped motivate and encourage poor children in Brazil. In Rio, charitable organizations, NGO’s and social projects are working hard to provide recreational activities to street children or those from disadvantaged neighbourhoods. In Haiti, they organize sport events to help integrate the people, boost self-esteem and encourage change after the city was shaken and desolated by earthquake (Pires de Mello, 2011). They highlighted the sports for social inclusion, social re-insertion and its desired effect in contributing to create an environment conducive to peace and less violence in the area (Pires de Mello, 2011). Kay Nou, a non-profit organization in Haiti, is devoted to caring for abandoned and disenfranchised youth in Haiti (www.kaynouinc.org, Kay Nou). They aim to deal with physical, emotional and aca demic needs of the Haitian youth. Kay Nou took part in sports activities such as soccer, judo, volleyball, capoeira, athletics, gymnastics and other activities (Pires de Mello, 2011). In a vast squatter settlement outside Lima, Peru, schools are overburdened and most families don’t have the means to pay for a child’s education outside the slum (www.globalfundforchildren.org, Escuelas Deporte y Vida). There is violence in the streets and at home. Sara Diestro, as social worker who

US airways's new Market - China Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

US airways's new Market - China - Term Paper Example It is a subsidiary of the US Airways Group with its headquarters in Temple, Arizona. The airline company operates both domestically and internationally. Being one of the biggest names, it would obviously want to explore the Asian markets. However, the major determining factor in this regard would be the pricing of fuel in the coming fiscal year, the economic scenario and the state of the aviation fleet. Interestingly, the company had already received permission from the sovereign authority to fly from Philadelphia to China back in 2008. However, due to the global economic slowdown, the project got delayed. This paper aims to understand the impact of the business environment of China on the expansion of US Airways and the possible marketing strategies to be adopted. Under the leadership of MAO Zedong, China had developed as a socialist state. However since 1978, under the leadership of DENG Xiaoping and with a favorable attitude towards globalization, a pro-market economic structure had materialized with a positive outcome through an increased GDP (â€Å"East & Southeast Asia: China†). The majority of the population is Buddhist with Christians and Muslims forming the minority. Chinese population is equally distributed between the urban and rural areas such that only 50% of the population lives in the urban areas with the rate of urbanization hovering around a mere 2% (â€Å"East & Southeast Asia: China†). Occupationally, majority of the population are engaged in the agricultural sector (around 50%), even though agriculture makes a relatively lesser contribution in GDP, while the shares in the industry and services sector stand around 22% and 28% respectively (Yoo 187). Level of education Figure 2: Education level in China Source: (â€Å"East & Southeast Asia: China†) Mobility In the wake of the pro-market reforms and globalization, China’s occupational mobility is undergoing paradigm shifts (â€Å"Occupational Mobility and Migration in China†). This is causing a rapid change in the age-old social division, according to occupational natur e. Due to the increasing unemployment and large lay-offs by government and private enterprises, the masses are increasingly migrating to the urban areas in search of employment. Both the mobility between jobs and places has increased on this account. This will be an added advantage for US Airways. Transportation The traditional form of transportation in China revolves around the railways. However, roadways, airports and waterways also comprise the other forms of transportation. The total area covered by the roads is 4,106,387 km with a paved length of 3,453,890 km and unpaved length of

In the decade of 1970, women's fashion trend reveals there had a Essay

In the decade of 1970, women's fashion trend reveals there had a strong intertwined relationship with political events and socia - Essay Example Fashion and design changed from being an elite group associated culture, but developed to incorporate the different age groups and genders for nations’ population. The designers had to put an extra effort in their artistic and designed works, so that they could come up with appealing styles and produce more for the vast population within their nations, and across their boundaries where the demand existed. It was a spontaneous thing to do for the growing markets in America, Europe and British among others. Some designers could not keep up with the current trend of the time, others had to lose some of their authenticity and adjust to the new changes, while for other designers, it gave them an opportunity for entering the industry and popularizing their new ideas works. Fashion boosted women careers and confidence in their new changing roles in official positions and politics, gave feminists more vigor, played a key role in opposition towards the governments and their operations, influenced by music (hippies, punk and rock) and social cultures. Fashion and Women in Politics The period after the 1960s saw women venture in politics and official positions in the government. ... Power clothes for women that expressed their new absorption and ability to perform in different careers that had been attached to masculininity became the new fashion, and career guide embraced by most working women at the time and later in the 80s (Hill 123). The power suit was the great design of the period that was tailored into different looks to distinguish it from the men’s suit style and looks. The variations of the power suits either with the men like pants or the ladies skirts as well as the make in different colors made the outfit even more diverse, and acceptable for women in high demand markets. The professional look was promoted by the influencing fashion that saw women dress in designer blazers and pants, official jackets and skits sets among other lines of power suits as designed by Karl Lagerfield (â€Å"Fashion† thepeoplehistory.com). It demonstrated equality in work places and power opinion for the working women in their careers. While seeking their ri ghts, liberation, and being free from male supremacy in their societies, the women's movements in the 1970s gave an opportunity for women to dress in fashionable pants designed for women, as way of sending a political and social message to change the oppressive social structure and enhance equality. According to Coen, the 1970s second wave of feminism greatly contributed to power suit acceptance as female wear, with the suits exaggerating women’s shoulders, skirts and trousers worn with relaxed jackets indicated how women intended to climb the ladder of success and how their presences was a force to be reckoned (mancunion.com). The famous designs of Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) can demonstrate more with his influential work in

Ikea in Oman Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Ikea in Oman - Essay Example part of the company’s continuous global expansion strategy, IKEA successfully managed to set up a store outlet in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia back in 1983 and 1996 respectively (IKEA, 2008c). With the active assistance of International Al Futtain Group – Dubai-based business conglomerate of IKEA, the business is currently planning to open a store outlet within the jurisdiction of the Sultanate of Oman over the next three to four years from now (Business Intelligence Middle East, 2007). In general, Oman is well-known for its fishing and oil industry (Nations Encyclopedia, 2008a; U.S. Department of State, 2008). Since Malaysia is one of the world-class exporters of high quality rattan-made furniture including home dà ©cor items (One2furniure, 2008; Rinaat Cane, 2008), it is best on the part of IKEA to promote the selling of these furniture item throughout the entire market in Oman. With regards to IKEA’s expansion project in Oman, an international marketing plan which includes the international marketing objective(s), a thorough market situational analysis, a marketing strategy, implementation and control will be provided in this study as part of making the introduction of rattan-made furniture items in Oman successful. The corporate objective is to be able to successfully penetrate the company’s target market in Oman by effectively promoting the benefits of using rattan-made furniture over the use of other alternative materials like glass, wood, plastic, and metal. As part of the company’s international marketing objective(s), IKEA should: 1. Effectively promote the importance and benefits of using rattan-made furniture items such as living room sets, dining room sets, bedroom sets, cabinets, and office furniture over the typical wooden, plastic, or metallic home products through the use of appropriate marketing communication techniques (i.e. environmental impact and the excellent craftsmanship in Malaysia); PEST1 framework is often

Business cultural Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 14000 words

Business cultural - Dissertation Example 115). Strengthened by the maximum gross domestic product (GDP) per capita within North African region and government expenditures going beyond 48 billion USD every year, Libya has rapidly turn out to be one of the most lucrative markets in the region for a wide range of products and services. As foreign businesses assess the prospect of entering this potentially productive market, endurance, a dependable associate and profound understanding of the political as well as business setting are significant assets that should come with any future venture. Background As Libya carries on to recover from the Qadhafi era, businesses will certainly come across a number of the similar challenges many Libyans have coped with for years. From a functioning point of view, these aspects repeatedly disrupt the best of project management attempts and exponentially raise the level of endurance essential to function successfully (Bayoud et al, 2012, p. 145). Nonetheless, in a culture focused on associatio ns, the value of a dependable associate with the necessary understanding of the Libyan market cannot be devalued. Looking for an associate with the cultural understanding and continuing political as well as business dealings required to get things done can usually indicate the difference among achievement and collapse. While this business setting will certainly modify during the coming months as the lately nominated General National Congress (GNC) carries on to deal with its parliamentary priorities, companies must be responsive towards existing regulatory requirements. Businesses should as well be aware of a decision linked with â€Å"new customs tariffs issued by the GNC’s predecessor, the National Transitional Council† (Joffe, 2011, p. 240). The general charge of customs duties shall be five percent, with the exception of some particular products that charged higher duty rates starting from 10 percent up to 30 percent. There are some offered within this decision how ever, up till now, a thorough customs tariff chart has not yet been published. While many may consider the inherent challenges of the existing Libyan market as daunting, there are still some companies from around the globe who are recognizing the bright prospects at hand once the problems are being taken care of. Following a year of inconsistency and 42 years of dictatorship, Libyans are dedicated towards helping the country to apprehend its potential and identify the part for foreign business during the process (Adetunji, 2011, p. 209). With the proper leadership, global businesses can do well in Libya and deliver products and services that the financial system requires as it goes to the next level. For companies who can afford to be enduring, who can operate with a dependable local associate and stay at the forefront of political and business

Training Development Written Project Essay Example for Free

Training Development Written Project Essay This written project will discuss the process involved in the design of training, learning, and evaluation. I will begin by breaking down the need assessment covering the process, analysis, and various methods. I will also cover the process of learning and discuss two theories which will support specific processes of learning. The process will include how age influences learning and retention of knowledge. Finally, I will cover the importance of evaluation of training, the process of choosing an evaluation design, and the value placed on training evaluation by an employee. The content of this paper will be based on information covered in Raymond A. Noe’s (2010) text book Employee Training and Development (5th edition). The process described will use other sources to support Noe’s finding as it pertains to the written project content. Needs Assessment An effective training design begins with a needs assessment. A needs assessment allows the gathering of information which better prepares the modeling of training. The needs assessment provides an analysis of organization, people, and tasks. Each has a distinct influence on the depth of training developed and methods best suited for the organization. The needs assessment allows the trainer to address whether the requirement for training is based on performance, motivation, job design or communication. The defining of training requirements ensures the validity of content developed, course objectives, and training method. The assessment also allows a trainer to determine if the trainee has the basic skills and confidence to learn. Finally, an assessment will determine if the training meets the corporate strategy and expected outcome. According to Noe (2010), pressure points influence training design, â€Å"These pressure points include performance problems, new technology, internal or external customer requests for training, job redesign, new legislation, changes in customer preferences, new products, or employee lack of basic skills. † (pg. 104) Who should participate in the needs assessment? The text suggests that upper mid-level managers, trainers, and employees should participate in the assessment. Upper-level management iews the assessment from a corporate level. They will determine if training meets the corporate strategy. The mid-level management will determine budget, who should be trained, and what jobs will make the largest impact on production. The trainer will determine training delivery, identification of trainees, and basic skills, knowledge and characteristic required. Noe goes on to state that it is important to include job incumbents in the assessment process. These are individuals who perform the task and tend to be the most knowledgeable. (Noe, 2010, pg. 05-106) In an article, written by J. L. Utecht (2005), she states that a needs analysis should reach at least ten percent of the work force. Those participants should be the work staff performing the job, front-line supervisors, upper-level management, and union members and representatives when applicable. She goes on to state that the group should range in age, ethnicities, job types, shifts, and seniority. These statements support and expand on Noe’s idea of assessment participants. (Uteht, 2005) Let’s begin by breaking down the analysis process. Organizational Analysis The Organizational analysis will identify the corporate strategy for training, the support of management and employees, and the availability of internal resources to adopt and train its staff. The first key component of any assessment is to define a budget. Training must present a value which is backed by capital expenditure. This simple question of budgeted resource allows the person conducting the assessment necessary ground work for the amount of time and resource which may be dedicated to training. The second component of an organization analysis is to understand the business strategy behind training. Training increases the value, or skill currency, of its employees. Strategies can consist of a concentration in increased market share and cost reduction, internal growth through research and development, external growth of market share through vendors and suppliers, or disinvestment of corporate divisions. These strategies will assist in the development of training and how that skill and knowledge will be deployed. Once a budget and strategy have been defined the next step is support. While an overall corporate support is required for any successful training endeavor, upper and mid-level management is paramount since they approve allocations of funds. Support should include a positive attitude from management and peers to incite enthusiasm among the targeted trainees. There must be a perceived value to the knowledge which the training supports. Information must be provided on how the training will enhance productivity and success in the trainees given job. The next step is identifying resources and whether the company has the budget, time and expertise for training. Support of training can be readily established if upper management sees the economic value of training output and cost justification. A crucial step of defining a training model is determining the most cost effective approach. If training is an ongoing organizational vision there may be a better return on investment if training is internalized. If it is determined that training is better served by a third party, then a request for proposal will be required. This outlines the requirements of training which include the type of training, the number of trainees, funding, date of completion, evaluation, and follow-up training. The criteria standards will allow for the evaluation, elimination, and awarding of the most competent vendor. (Noe, 2010, pg. 110 113) The impact of the organization analysis is what defines the budget, strategy, and support. These factors are the foundation of a needs assessment and should be the first thing analyzed. Person Analysis In this analysis we identify for whom and why training is required. The person analysis requires that we understand the task the individual performs. This foundation allows us to determine the employee readiness for training. We must determine the personal characteristics required for learning and applying training context. The personal characteristics consist of individual cognitive ability and reading level. Context must be relevant to the persons learning ability. The individual must also believe in their ability to learn. If training is to be successful the context must provide a need, interest, or meet the goal of the trainee. This simple understanding of who the training is directed will motivate individual behavior and the desire to learn. So now that we have discerned the characteristics required for training, we must create a learning environment. A well-conceived training curriculum can be lost if the environment does not afford a focus to learn. Many times individuals are pulled from training tasks to perform job duties. This is both counterproductive and erodes the financial benefits expended on the training. Successful training requires concise and understandable input. Input can be instructions, job-related objectives, training materials and other work aids which support the training program. Input also consists of reinforcement through verbal and written feedback. Encouraging trainee involvement, practice, and feedback are elements to a successful learning experience. A positive training experience is the best endorsement. Those trained will share their experience with their peers and create enthusiasm and interest. For training to be effective an assessment must identify the required output. What is the performance expectation of the trainee and are they aware of those expectations? If a trainee knows the required outcome expected of them, they are more apt to learn. The knowledge and skill achieved can be gauged by task proficiency through performance and knowledge proficiency through the form of testing. Individuals must have the willingness to learn. Clear and positive expectations of training must be delivered. To reinforce this behavior there must be reward and incentive for applying this knowledge and skill in one’s job. The responsibility of knowledge transfer should be fostered by the corporate entity. As we have discussed this should include, but not limited to, positive management and peer support, time given to learning, and a consequence through reward for successful completion of training curriculum. (Noe, 2010, pg. 113 123) Task Analysis This is the most important aspect of developing an effective training course. We must first define the job or task for analysis. To provide a complete assessment we must understand the tasks of the position itself. We can achieve this through interviews and observation of those performing the said task. These can validate the knowledge, ability, and skill requirements needed to perform a task effectively. We may also validate our assessment by involving subject matter experts. To complete the task assessment it must meet the company’s goals and objectives. Another step of task analysis is the incorporation of a competency evaluation. This allows the determination of the skills and abilities which the trainee will require in their job function. I will discuss evaluation in more detail later in the written project. Training can then be modeled to focus on the deficiencies of an individual’s knowledge which lends to the training strategy. Since employee skills are not equal, we must determine the skill set of each and provide training accordingly. This leads us back to the readiness for training and will allow a curriculum to advance the knowledge and skills of all participants. The task assessment is not only a tool for our training model but is also an invaluable tool for coaching and development of the employee. Managers are often overwhelmed with the minutiae of administrative tasks which impede their core responsibility of developing employees. The text refers to creating a â€Å"road map† for identifying opportunities for growth and development. This transcends the task of modeling training and provides an additional value to a company if recognized and applied. (Noe, 2010, pg. 123 127) Methods Used in Needs Assessment There are various methods related to a needs assessment. Because no one method is better than the next it is common to use more than one. Here is a list of methods which show the advantages and disadvantages of each. The observation method allows for real data and minimizes work interruption. Unfortunately, it requires the observer to be skilled in the task which they are observing. It is also likely that those being observed will not behave as they would in a normal setting. The questionnaire method is inexpensive, provides a larger data group, and can easily be summarized. The disadvantage is there are usually low return rates. The questions usually lack detail and only provide data specific to the question. Interviews are effective in uncovering detail that questionnaires lack. The interview process may sometimes uncover details which were not known prior, allowing for modification. The disadvantage is that it requires skilled interviewers, scheduling, time for the interview, and may be threatening to Subject Matter Experts. A focus group can be useful in complex or controversial issues. These groups are usually made up of Subject Matter Experts from the various levels targeted for training. This group interaction allows for modifications by uncovering issues which may be difficult to glean from observations or questionnaires. The disadvantage is the group often gives answers they think you want to hear. Often there is trepidation for lower level employees to voice concerns when management is present. This can contaminate the analysis process by ignoring the needs of the employees performing the task. Technical training materials can also provide a wealth of information in relation to a task. Unfortunately, the information is only as good as its source. Often the information is outdate or difficult to understand. Finally, online technology can be used to define the strengths and weaknesses of an employee. Unfortunately, these are often viewed as threatening and may be perceived as a way to surplus their position. The other threat is that managers may use the content for punitive measures rather than an opportunity for coaching and development. The use of multiple methods allows data to be validated against another. The method used will often depend on the environment which is being analyzed. It becomes the task of the individual performing the assessment to utilize those methods which provide the most relevant data to the task performed. Often a method of benchmarking is used to define the training practices of a competitor. The emphasis on Total Quality Management may require this practice to determine type, level, and frequency of training. Benchmarking coupled with methods discussed above should provide valuable data and aid in the development of a training model which best fits the business strategy of the organization. (Noe, 2010 pg. 07 – 109) The overall benefit of the needs assessment is the process and steps defined above. Each step is important to maximizing the return of investment of training. The importance of the process is that it provides a basis for the assessment to cover the various aspects of organization, person, and task. The methods of interviews, observation, questioners, focus groups, documentation, and online technologies are vehicles to d etermine an effective format with which to train. Without a needs assessment an organization would be ill equipped to determine whether training is necessary. An assessment also eliminates the unknown and identifies who, why, and when training is appropriate. Again, this is an investment in human capital and should be treated as any other company investment. Learning Process Now that we have covered the value of a needs assessment let’s review the learning process. What is learning? The text defines learning as a change in human capabilities which are not a result of the growth process. (Noe, 2010, pg. 140) In chapter two Noe (2010) also refers to learning as the acquisition of knowledge. He defines knowledge into two groups, tacit or xplicit. Tacit knowledge is based on personal experiences which are passed through interaction with others in a society. Explicit knowledge is knowledge which is formalized, codified and communicated in a learning environment. (Noe, 2010, pg. 50 – 51) What is learned? The book refers to five types of learning outcomes which I have listed below. Verbal information consists of names, labels, facts , or bodies of knowledge which are retained. Intellectual skills are concepts and rules which are critical to problem solving, service, and product creation. Motor Skills include the coordination or physical conditioning required for a given task. Attitudes are the combination of beliefs and feelings. Attitude is crucial to the way a person will react in job related settings, their organizational commitment, and job satisfaction and proficiency. Cognitive strategies are related how a person manages their own learning and thinking process. These process elements include attention to information, strategies of learning, and problem solving. (Noe, 2010, pg. 141) Let’s review how people, or trainees, learn. In chapter four Noe (2010) discusses the learning cycle. This dynamic cycle involves four stages of learning: concrete experience, reflective observation, abstract conceptualization, and active experiment. The first process of learning is exposure to a work problem (concrete experience). The next step is analyzing the problem and it affects (reflective observation). Next, the person, or trainee, will devise a way in which to deal with the problem at hand (abstract conceptualization). Finally, a trainee will apply their solution directly to the problem (active experiment). The act of applying the solution allows for positive or negative feedback. The person, or trainee, then improves and applies this learned result over again. Each action should result in development, growth, and improvement in the four stages. Those results are usually shared and possibly adopted by peers and management. (Noe, 2010, 151) David C. McClelland (2003) has proposed that motivation is closely associated to the learning concepts. He contends that when a need is strong, its effect is motivation. That motivation leads the person to use behavior that leads to its satisfaction. Based on research results McClelland developed a description set of factors which reflect the need for achievement. They consist of a motivation to take responsibility for solving problems, set moderate goals, take calculated risks, and a desire for feedback on performance. Since the need is to learn through experience, positive feedback on achievements leads to high frequency of reoccurrence. McClellands Learned Needs Theory supports the desire to solve problems and defines the importance of positive feedback. (McClelland, 2003) This leads me into the theory portion of my written document. Here I will compare and contrast to theories which are defined in the text.

The Collector Author John Fowles English Literature Essay

The Collector Author John Fowles English Literature Essay Im not a big fan of reading to be honest. I havent read many books. Since I got in the 10th grade I actively started reading. It was mandatory and it was also part of the exams program so I had to. The books that I have read were mostly for Dutch. I had to read 5 books. Ive read books like Gouden ei, Turks fruit, Het leven is verrukkeluk etc. Motivation I have chosen to read the book The millstone. I have a few reasons why I have chosen this book instead of another one. The first reason is because of the title. The millstone is a strange and unusual title. It immediately got my attention. Then I started to read a short description of the book. It said that I was about a girl who got pregnantà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. And it sounded interesting. So I said to myself sure. Bibliographical entry Title of the book: The collector Author: John Fowles First published by Jonathan Cape, London 1963 Summary The story is about a young man named Frederick Clegg. He works as clerk in a city hall and collects butterflies in his spare time. Clegg is obsessed with a girl named Miranda Grey. She is a art student at the Slade School of Fine arts. He admires her from a distance but is unable to make any contact with her, because of his extreme lack of social skills. One, day he wins a large prize in the football pools. This allows him to stop working and buy a house in the countryside. He feels lonely and wants to be with Miranda. Clegg decides to add her to his collection of pretty objects. He hopes that if he kept her captive long enough she will grow to love him. After careful preparations, he kidnaps Miranda by drugging her with Chloroform and locks her in his basement. When she wakes up she confront him with what he has done. Clegg is embarrassed and he promises her that he will let her go after a month. He also promises to treat her with respect and wont sexually molest her and that he will shower her with gifts and presents on 1 condition. She cant leave the basement. During her captivity Miranda kept a diary. In it she writes about her previous life before she was held captive. Clegg scares Miranda and she does not understand him at the beginning. At first, she thinks that he has sexual motives for abducting her, but later as his true character begin to reveal she realise that it is not true. Miranda starts to have some pity for Clegg, because of his hopeless obsession with her. Clegg tells Miranda that his first name is Ferdinand. Miranda tries to escape several times but failed. Clegg was always able to stop her. Miranda also tries to seduce him in order to convince him to let her go, but this only resulted in him becoming confused and angry. When Clegg refuses to let her go, she starts to fantasize about killing him. After a failed attempt, she thought that killing Clegg would lower her to his level. She refrained from any further attempts. Before Miranda can escape again, she becomes very ill and dies. Clegg found out that Miranda died. At first, he wanted to commit suicide, but after reading her diary in which she wrote that she never loved him, he decides that he is not responsible and is better off without her. The book ends with his announcement that he plans to kidnap another girl. Bibliographical entry Title of the book: The millstone Author: Margaret Drabble First published by Weidenfield Nicolson 1965 Summary The story takes place in London in Cambridge in the 1960s. Its about a 19 year-old girl named Rosamund Stacey. The main character is Rosamund Stacey Other important characters are the Beatrice ( the sister of Rosamund), Lydia (friend of Rosamund), Joe and Roger, George. . The most important events are that Rosamund got pregnant and she hasnt told the father George, the family and friends except Beatrice and Lydia. Yes the life of the Rosamund changes. Both Joe and Roger think that she is sleeping with one another so neither one of them presses her to have sex. In a pub Rosamund meets George Matthews. He is newsreader for BBC radio. She feels attracted to him and they end up in her flat and eventually have sex. Rosamund When she found out that she is pregnant, a whole new world opens for her. While she decides not to tell George and her parents in order not to upset them, she did tell her sister, Beatrice in the hopes she will get some moral support First personal reaction The book is very interesting. You can relate to the events that happen in the book. The story is convincing and has a deep core.