Globalization on Chinese Society Essay Example for Free

Globalization on Chinese Society Essay Our research aims to discover peculiarities of ideology in China. It’s going to highlight integrating values, legitimating the government’s policies and continued authority. The study is a review of articles by David Lynch, Gordon White and Feng Chen. From the recent past years up to this point of time, China has been taking part in extensive economic globalization activities like facilitating free trade policy. China’s new economic openness has resulted to remarkable growth trends. It has been practicing its â€Å"go out policy† by participating in the international market competitions. Observers have also noted some major changes in the Chinese media in coping up with globalization. With China’s entry to the World Trade Organization, structural reforms have taken place and more and more researchers have focused their interest on the interaction between Chinese media particularly television and the world at large. Currently, China is still in a whirl and sways with various ideologies such as a waning communist ideology, an increasing conservatism, as well as liberalism. Various ideological trends such as globalism, nationalism, individualism and pragmatism are likewise alive and under further exploration especially by Chinese youths. The pursuit of the leftists who adhere to the theory of socialism, elect to preserve the fundamental purity of the socialist economy and state authority. Meanwhile, reformists have argued that China should rather enrich its market economy and the rights to property. Besides, reformists want to recognize private entrepreneurship to join the Party. There exists some few numbers of youths having true belief in communism. Most of them, however, want membership to the Party as a stepping ladder in gaining their individual objectives. In some of the researches, David Lynch (2000 (Lynch, 1999, p173) has focused his objects on what expectations the intellectual and political elites expect leading to same changes in China for the years ahead. The objects include linked issues on some domestic and political affairs, the power capability of China as a nation, how the party state would defend its national identity as well as its cultural heritage and integrity in the face of the raging and deepening effects of globalization. Besides, Lynch assesses on how China aligns its new development and technology in directing its society’s future. With the continued transformation of the media including print, TV, the Internet, the entry of some foreign TV programming and the likes now depends mostly on the supply and demand and the behavior of the controlling party. The improvements of local or domestic contents have rivalled foreign counterparts. Lynch also assessed the trends in censorship and found some possible means by which media could possibly find ways of overcoming or avoiding rules, laws, problems, or difficulty to government restrictions of imported as well as local media contents. Briefly, Lynch tries to arrive at a point when the communist government’s hold on China’s domestic affairs would become loose due to the use of new technology. â€Å"Dilemmas of Thought Work in Fin-de-Siecle China† reports that in May 1997 was established special organ of the Party Central Committee Central Guidance Committee on Spiritual Civilization Construction. This fact indicates the seriousness of intentions in pursuing the spiritual civilization line. â€Å"Thought work† refers to Chinese Communist Party’s attempts to transmit socialist ideology and to control ideas of the masses so that they will comply to the demands of the national development plan. In his article Lynch argued that the governments efforts to build a socialist spiritual civilization in China failed. He concluded that government’s attempts to limit access to global media and control political discourse turn out to be ineffective. Lynch reports the Chinese Ministry of Public Securitys estimate that as many as 620,000 Chinese had access to the internet in 1997, with a rise to 4 million expected by 2000 (Lynch, 1999, p. 193). The propaganda state is indeed crumbling. The author reports that Chinese children play cops and robbers who require the cops to inform the robbers of their rights before taking them into detention, as they have seen in American movies (Lynch, 1999). Other political writers like Feng Chen and Gordon White agree that China’s Chinese Communist Party is capable of adapting itself to the changing political climate. Moreover, China’s leaders could strengthen its position like having political legitimacy by re-inventing itself and continue some evolutionary tuning to reinforce the CCP’s legitimacy. Nevertheless, evolutionary refining is a hit and miss system that nobody can guaranty its success. Gordon White primarily focused on the politically engaged society in China. According to White politically-engaged society proved to be a durable theme in Chinese politics. Riding the Tiger concludes that societys political engagement with the state will shape future of the state. For example, There may be a form of Chinese Brezhnevism to see out the millennium as the current leadership tries to stay in power. If this is indeed the case, then the political contradictions and trends which I have identified will intensify and make it more likely that the transition, when it comes, will be sudden, radical and possibly violent. (White, 1993, p. 255) Even if the market becomes predominant through radical reform and even if it takes a capitalist form, which is very probable, there is a continuing need for a new form of developmental state to tackle†¦social and economic problems [such as market failure and its consequences for the poor]. In the short term, moreover, the role of the state is even more crucial because of the need to break through the hard policy constraint and manage the transition from a planned to a market economy. This is a process†¦which is fraught with instability and tensions arising from the opposition of vested interests, threats to economic security, inflation and growing inequality. A strong state is needed to provide the political order and direction necessary to underpin this transition and regulate an emergent market economy in a huge and increasingly complex country. (White, 1993, pp. 238-9) As Gordon White has observed in Riding the Tiger, an attempt to establish a political system that can serve as an alternative to both capitalist economics and liberal politics has not appeared to be possible in China: Marxist-Leninist socialism has been incapable of reforming itself and that market socialism rather than saving its bacon, cooks its goose (White, 1993, p. 12). White was writing at the start of the 1990s. Civil society-like forms emerged in China in the 1990s. That process the result collapse of the state structure, as it was in Soviet Union. But for the time being the Party-state still remains in command. As it was noted in Riding the Tiger, to the extent the economic reforms were the spearhead of an attempt to resuscitate the political fortunes of Chinese state socialism, they can be judged to be a dismal failure(White, 1993, p. 233). By the millennium China was certainly the most successful of the socialist states in adjusting to capitalism. Yet at the same time socialism remains in place in China and power is monopolized by the Communist Party. White denoted this combination as market Stalinism (White, 1993, p. 256). White suggests that the increasing prevalence of the elements of a civil society does not point toward an evolution into more liberal regime with market-oriented economy and multiparty political system. The author also noted that in Chinese society there are some groups that didn’t make benefits from the reforms. These would include state officials and state workers, women and the unemployed and floating populations: Fear of threats to status, power or income; disappointment because the reforms were delivering less than they had promised; disgruntlement arising from the red-eye disease; concerns that gains already achieved were in danger of erosion (through inflation and leadership mismanagement); contrarily, impatience at a deceleration of the reforms and anxiety at an acceleration. (White, 1993, p. 217) Some observers have concluded that the efforts of the Central Party in building some thought works on socialism in China has been not effective. Moreover, they gravitate to some extent. Formerly, China firmly opposed globalization as it disrupts some global institutions. Today, China is one of the firm advocates of liberalization and globalization, opening its trading system to the world. Slowly but surely, the Chinese system has now been updating itself on the rule of law, adapting many foreign laws to transform its civilization. China’s success through globalization, which happened in a short time, has indeed uplifted the standards of living of many workers. With such economic success arising from the impact of globalization, China has learned some stressful and painful lessons adjusting itself. Some of the effects include the decline of state employment from 110 million in 1995 to 66 million in March 2005, the lost of 25 million jobs in the manufacturing establishments, and the consolidation of some 125 car companies to just six firms. Its recent economic growth has revived and revved up the economy of Japan and kept safe its neighboring countries from recession, which otherwise could have led to a risky global downturn. With the prevailing trend of globalization, the process has deeply influenced the study habits, culture, and consumption styles of the youth (ACYF). They now believe that English is a basic skill and reference for one to acquire a degree. As more and more Chinese youths go out to study abroad, more and more of them have returned home, which benefits their culture. The youths now could avail some entertainments made in the USA, Europe, and elsewhere via television, films, videos, and the internet. Even internet games or serial TV programs from Japan or Korea have become the favorite of young students. Young people now in China are learning more the facts of life, society, and world affairs through the said media. When educators, scholars, officials, and artists speak of culture, this includes both the physical and non-physical aspects. The physical or material aspects include sites, landscapes, monuments, buildings, and like objects whereas non-physical aspects include music dance, language, poetry, and the like, which have been associated with China’s social practices. The non-physical culture is China’s living heritage is passed from one generation to the other. In reality, one should accept the fact that culture cannot be easily isolated from the influence or effects of globalization (UICIFD). To conclude the work we should note that ideology is still alive in China. The Chinese communist regime didn’t decline its ideological absolutism. The Communist Party alone that possesses the universal truth and represents the fundamental interest of the people (Guo, 1995, p. 84). In fact, Mao Zedong thought or Deng Xiaoping theory was adapted by the post-Mao party leadership in accordance with the changes of the Chinas specific conditions. But this modification does not suggest discarding the fundamental principles and norms, but renovation within the same basic framework of development of Marxism. But post-Mao regime has cautiously modified some of Maos doctrines through the official interpretation of the sacred text (Guo, 1995, p. 84-85). As Feng Chen asserted, agricultural decollectivization in China was not an equivalent of â€Å"privatization,† but only the transformation of the rural economy into â€Å"a new type of collective economy, characterized by combining public ownership of the land with totally individualized operations of production† (Feng Chen, 1998, p. 82). To the post- Mao leadership, such an arrangement is defined as the separation of land ownership rights and land use rights (Feng Chen, 1998, p. 88). Land in China remains under public ownership. Reference List White, G. (1993). Riding the Tiger: The Politics of Economic Reform in Post-Mao China. Stanford, CA: Stanford University Press; London: Macmillan. Lynch, D. (1999). Dilemmas of Thought Work in Fin-de-Siecle China. China Quarterly, 157. Guo, S. (1995). Totalitarianism: An Outdated Paradigm for Post-Mao China? Journal of Northeast Asian Studies, 14 (2). Chen, F. (1998). Rebuilding the Party’s Normative Authority: China’s Socialist Spiritual Civilization Campaign. Problems of Post-Communism, 45 (6).

Polymer: The Glass Transition

Polymer: The Glass Transition Formulation Chemistry Polymer: The Glass Transition In the solid state, semicrystalline polymers exhibit both amorphous and crystalline morphology. The glass transition is a property of only the amorphous portion of a semi-crystalline solid. [1] The glass transition temperature, Tg, is the temperature at which the amorphous materials change between the glassy and rubbery form. 1.1 Amorphous and Crystalline Polymers The amorphous polymers consist of molecules that are oriented randomly, unlike the crystalline ones which have polymer chains packed in ordered, repeating patterns in the three-dimensional crystal lattice. However the glass transition is different to melting because only amorphous polymers undergo the glass transition. Melting is a transition that occurs in crystalline polymers when these chains are disoriented from the crystal structures and become liquid. A sample of semicrystalline polymer can be composed of both amorphous and crystalline portions, therefore it can have both a glass transition temperature and a melting temperature. 1.2 Glassy and Rubbery States Below Tg, the amorphous regions of a polymer are in a glassy state and most joining or contact bonds are intact. [2] The molecules may be able to vibrate slightly, but are virtually motionless in which portions of the molecule wiggle around. Therefore polymer is generally hard, brittle and rigid. As the polymer is heated until it eventually reaches its glass transition temperature, the molecules start to wiggle around. In inorganic glasses, more bonds are broken with increased thermal fluctuations; while in organic polymers, non-covalent bonds between chains also become weaker. By heating above Tg, there is long-range segmental motion where the polymer chains can move around easily. It is now described in its rubbery state which offers flexibility and softness for plastic deformation without fracture. Below Tg, the chains are firm and unbendable to relieve the force being applied. This is due to either (a) the chains are strong to resist the stress; or (b) the force applied is excessive for the motionless polymer chains to overcome, so the polymer sample will just break or shatter.[1] Such mobility with temperature is heavily dependent upon the â€Å"heat† content because Tg is a kinetic parameter. The Tg decreases with slower melt cooling rate. It is also affected by other factors listed in section 1.4. Heat is a form of kinetic energy that causes random motion of molecules and the pliability of polymer, in comparison to â€Å"cold† polymers which lack kinetic energy to move around and hence are brittle on cooling. Example of this behavior is the glass transition of chewing gum. It is soft and pliable at body temperature, characteristic of an amorphous solid in its elastic, rubbery condition. The gum then turns hard and rigid when it comes into contact with cold drink or ice cube in the mouth. 1.3 Glass Transition vs. Melting The differences are outlined in the table below: Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Theories and Treatment Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Theories and Treatment Introduction Modern cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) grew out of the merging of behavioural therapy, developed in the 1950s to 1970s, and cognitive therapy developed in the 1960s (Graham, 2004). Broadly, it attempts to deal directly with a clients manifest symptoms through both cognitive and behaviour strategies. Cognitive theories target particular irrational beliefs which are thought to be the source of behavioural and emotional problems. Historically, CBT is well-established in the treatment of anxiety disorders, but has only been adapted more recently for use in psychosis (Tarrier, 2002). This essay will first examine the theory and practical treatment of generalised anxiety disorder (GAD) using CBT. Then the treatment of psychosis will be considered in the same way, but concentrating on the similarities and differences to the treatment of anxiety. CBT Treatment of Generalised Anxiety Disorder The main feature of GAD is excessive and uncontrollable worry (Wells, 2002). The DSM-IV states that for a positive diagnosis of GAD, the worry must occur more days than not over a period of six months (American Psychiatric Association, 1994). The DSM-IV also lists a number of somatic and cognitive symptoms which include, for example, muscle tension. A variety of different treatments have been used for GAD including both directive and non-directive therapies. Fisher Durham (1999) examine the effectiveness of different treatment methods and the number of clients making a full recovery. The most successful treatments in their meta-analysis were CBT which achieved a recovery rate of 51% and applied relaxation which achieved a 60% recovery rate. To understand how GAD is treated using CBT, it is necessary to understand the model of worry that it is based upon. Beck (1976) produced the most widely referenced model of anxiety which links emotions and thinking. In this model it is the patients thoughts and images relating to anticipated danger that immediately precede, and cause, anxiety attacks. In appraising their environment, anxious patients overestimate both the likelihood and severity of a negative event occurring and so take defensive action (Blackburn, 1995). Under the umbrella term of CBT a number of different approaches to treating GAD have been used. They normally focus on two main factors: cognitive work aimed at challenging the clients beliefs and thought processes as well as behavioural work teaching anxiety management strategies (Wells, 2002). Borkovec (2002) describes the cognitive aspect of CBT as focussing on how the client perceives the world and attempting to move this onto a more accurate footing. Generally, this is done by eliciting how the client is perceiving events in an anxious way. Then, the client is encouraged to apply logical thought processes to their own perceptions to challenge the way they are thinking. The therapist attempts to supplant these original thought processes with cognitive interpretations that do not lead to increased anxiety. Clients are usually given homework in which they attempt to identify anxiety attacks, what preceded them and what followed them. Hopefully, by demonstrating to the client that their catastrophic predictions do not occur in reality, it is possible to break down the automatic negative thoughts. Some researchers have been critical of this basic cognitive approach as it does not focus on meta-cognitive factors (Wells, 2002). A revision to the model has been added by Wells (1995) who introduces the distinction between Type 1 and Type 2 worry. Type 1 worry is that referred to above the worry about physical symptoms and external events. Type 2 refers to worrying, as it were, about worrying: meta-worrying. Type 1 worrying is dealt with in approximately the same manner described above, but greater focus is given here to Type 2 worrying. Type 2 cognitive interventions focus on two factors: the uncontrollability of the worrying and appraisals and beliefs about the dangers of worrying. Once negative meta-cognitions have been elicited, they can be challenged and worked with in the same way as before. An example of this type of metacognition is that a client can believe that worrying is harmful because it increases blood pressure and thereby this is harmful to the body (Wells, 2002). The therapist would address this by explaining that occasional high blood pressure is not associated with chronic health problems. The second aspect in treating anxiety by CBT is the use of behavioural strategies (Borkovec, 2002). This involves teaching the client techniques for relaxing their body such as meditation, progressive muscle relaxation and relaxing imagery. Clients are encouraged to practice these techniques even when they are not anxious so they feel comfortable with their implementation. In addition, in some circumstances clients will be exposed to situations which make them anxious in order to provide realistic practice opportunities (Borkovec, 2002). A further type of behavioural strategy employed is a stimulus control method. This involves the client in deciding on a period of the day in which worrying will be carried out, carrying out monitoring of their daily worrying, and trying to only worry in the designated period. Then, in the designated period of worrying, clients practice their cognitive skills. Two other techniques used are behavioural activation strategies encouraging the client to engage in more pleasant activities and imagery rehearsal techniques which involve practicing new responses to environmental cues likely to cause worry (Borkovec, 2002). CBT Treatment of Psychosis Unlike the symptoms of anxiety which can be stated relatively succinctly, the experiences of those with psychosis vary to a large degree. Those with schizophrenia-spectrum disorders, for example, can suffer from hallucinations, delusions, perceptual anomalies as well as some associated problems like depression and anxiety itself (Garety, Fowler Kuipers, 2000). The CBT therapist will, therefore, be targeting a greater variety of symptoms than with anxiety, and usually over a much longer period: perhaps three or more times as many sessions as for anxiety. The use of CBT in psychosis was nevertheless developed from the techniques used to treat conditions like depression and anxiety (Tarrier, 2002). CBT is generally used in addition to powerful antipsychotic medications and is aimed at helping clients to better cope with their psychoses. CBT has been investigated in a number of different patient groups, the largest body addresses those with chronic conditions that are treatment-resistan t, with studies generally finding it to be effective (Sensky et al., 2000). More recent studies have found it to be effective in acute and recent-onset schizophrenia (Lewis et al., 2002). The theoretical model for CBT in psychosis is necessarily much broader than that used for anxiety. While the relations between thoughts, feelings and behaviour are important, these have to be set against wider issues. The causes of psychosis are usually multi-factorial and thought to stem from the social environment, biological vulnerability and psychological processes (Garety et al., 2000; see also the stress-vulnerability model: Strauss Carpenter, 1981). In order to reach an effective case formulation, therefore, the therapist needs to examine the confluence of these different factors along with the clients stresses, vulnerabilities and responses. Like anxiety, at the centre of the cognitive model of psychosis lies the idea that the therapist can address all the different types of symptoms by examining cognitive processes. One example Garety et al. (2000) point to was made by Frith (1992), which claims that symptoms of thought insertion are a result of deficits in normal cognitive self-monitoring processes. Similarly, the anxious component of psychosis is seen as resulting from maladaptive appraisals. At heart, the theoretical model of CBT for psychosis relies on the same fundamentals as that for anxiety: that making the client aware of these problematic thought processes will provide some relief. Where it differs theoretically is that it is addressing a wider variety of factors social and biological as well as psychological and so the treatment has to reflect this fact. Turning now to the practical aspects of CBT for psychoses, Garety et al. (2000) outline a six-stage process. The first involves building and maintaining a therapeutic relationship. This was taken for granted in the discussion of anxiety because, to a therapist, this is a given. With psychotic clients, though, there are significantly greater barriers to the building of a therapeutic relationship. The client may well suffer psychotic symptoms during sessions as well as being paranoid about and suspicious of those trying to help them. The second stage is providing cognitive-behavioural coping strategies for the positive symptoms of psychosis (Garety et al., 2000). Similarly to anxiety treatment, this might include reality testing on delusional thoughts, self-monitoring of symptoms and using distraction and withdrawal (Phillips Francey, 2004). The third stage involves attempting to understand the experience of psychosis. Here, the therapist attempts to bring together strands from the clients life and experiences and link them to their psychotic symptoms. Further, however, the therapist also looks to provide some sort of normalisation to the already high level stigmatisation associated with psychosis. This third stage in treating psychosis differs considerably from the treatment of anxiety, which generally does not address wider social issues in depth. Fourthly, the therapist will specifically examine hallucinations and delusions (Garety et al., 2000). This will often be hard as the client will have developed a series of beliefs that are heavily reinforced. These are addressed using standard CBT techniques such as those used in anxiety. Where the approach for psychosis differs, however, is that attempts to change long-held thoughts are not made until well into the therapeutic process and the therapists manner is slower and softer. In addition, compared to CBT for anxiety, there is less emphasis on the patient generating their own alternative interpretations, and more on the therapist providing them. Some clients may not even agree their beliefs are delusional and so the therapist has to work within the boundaries set by the client. The fifth aspect of CBT for psychosis as laid out by Garety et al. (2000) focuses on depression, anxiety and negative self-evaluations. Those suffering from psychosis will often have low self-esteem. This can be the result of long-standing negative self-evaluations which can be targeted by cognitive therapy techniques of reviewing how they arose and then providing a challenge to the thinking. Both depression and anxiety are also treated in this way. Finally, Garety et al. (2000) look at issues of social desirability and risk of relapse. Throughout therapy, the therapist is looking to the future and helping the client to think about their short and medium-term plans. While Garety et al.s (2000) model is influential, it should be noted that the treatment of psychoses, like that for anxiety, is not monolithic there are a variety of different formulations and approaches. Some focus more on particular aspects such as the delusions or coping strategies. Garety et al. (2000) argue, however, that many treatments are now becoming more integrated in order to address the wide range of symptoms in psychosis. Outcomes and Comorbidity The outcome research varies across different types of psychosis and so it is difficult to compare with anxiety outcomes. A further complication is the different methods used and the rapidly developing nature of CBT as an intervention. Psychosis is certainly harder to work with than anxiety because of the sheer number of factors involved and, as a consequence, the outcomes are generally not nearly as good as those for anxiety. One clear similarity between the CBT treatment of psychosis and that for anxiety is their comorbidity in psychotic disorders. Looking across bipolar disorder, schizoaffective disorder and schizophrenia, Cosoff Hafner (1998) found 43% to 45% of psychotic patients had a form of anxiety disorder. Indeed, in their sample, Cosoff Hafner (1998) found that, even though anxiety disorders are often responsive to treatment, none of the patients had been treated for it. Research has questioned whether anxiety might be a dimension of a psychotic disorder like schizophrenia while others suggest they form a subgroup of the patient population (Braga, Petrides Figueira, 2004). Supporting the dimensional view, Lysaker Hammersley (2006) have found a relationship between both delusions and inflexible thought (characteristic of psychosis) and higher levels of social anxiety. Further, looking at schizophrenia in particular, Braga, Petrides Figueira (2004) argue that much of the research shows better outcomes for those treated for comorbid anxiety. While the repertoire, order and specific implementation of techniques used in CBT differs between psychosis and anxiety, the therapeutic relationship will be central to success in both treatments. Factors that Beck Emery (1990) highlight include trust on the part of the client in the therapist, a collaborative approach and a focus on educational issues. Conclusion The treatment of both anxiety and psychosis with CBT is based on identical underlying principles. Theoretically, both approaches involve focussing on the types of attributions and automatic negative thoughts the client is experiencing as well as aspects of behaviour. Similarly, both approaches require a strong therapeutic alliance in order to be successful. The practical implementation of each intervention is, however, tailored for the disorder. The client suffering from psychosis is likely to have a much wider range of symptoms to deal with and, as such, CBT for psychosis generally takes longer and addresses more complex issues. Part of this will involve the therapist in attempting to understand and interpret the experience and causes of psychosis. This is in contrast to CBT for anxiety which will focus more on problem solving. There is evidence to suggest, however, that anxiety forms a part of certain psychoses, and in this situation its treatment should form part of a wider integr ated approach. Finally, outcomes in CBT for psychosis are generally more modest than in anxiety as psychotic symptoms are considerably more challenging for the therapist. References American Psychiatric Association (1994) Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (4th ed.). Washington DC: American Psychiatric Association. Beck, A. T. (1976) Cognitive Therapy and the Emotional Disorders. New York: International Universities Press. Beck, A. T., Emery, G. (1990) Anxiety Disorders and Phobias: A Cognitive Perspective. Cambridge: Perseus Books. Blackburn, I. M. (1995) Cognitive Therapy for Depression and Anxiety. Oxford: Blackwell Publishing. Borkovec, T. D. (2002) Psychological aspects and treatment of generalized anxiety disorder. In: D. J. Nutt (Ed.). Generalised Anxiety Disorder: Symptomatology, Pathogenesis and Management. London: Taylor Francis. Braga, R. J., Petrides, G., Figueira, I. (2004) Anxiety disorders in schizophrenia. Comprehensive Psychiatry, 45(6), 460-468. Cosoff, S. J., Hafner, R. J. (1998) The prevalence of comorbid anxiety in schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder and bipolar disorder. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 32(1), 67-72. Fisher, P. L., Durham, R. C. (1999) Recovery rates in generalized anxiety disorder following psychological therapy: An analysis of clinically significant change in the STAI-T across outcome studies since 1990. Psychological Medicine, 29, 1425-1434. Frith, C. D. (1992) The cognitive neuropsychology of schizophrenia. Hove: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates. Garety, P. A., Fowler, D., Kuipers, E. (2000) Cognitive-behavioural therapy for people with psychosis. In: B. Martindale, A. Bateman, M. Crowe, F. Margison (Eds.). Psychosis: Psychological Approaches and Their Effectiveness Putting Psychotherapies at the Centre of Treatment. London: Gaskell. Graham, P. J. (2004) Introduction. In: P. J. Graham (Ed.). Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Children and Families. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Lewis, S. W., Tarrier, N., Haddock, G., Bentall, R., Kinderman, P., Kingdon, D., Siddle, R., Drake, R., Everitt, J., Leadley, K., Benn, A., Grazebrook, K., Haley, C., Akhtar, S., Davies, L., Palmer, S., Faragher, B., Dunn, G. (2002) A randomised controlled trial of cognitive behaviour therapy in early schizophrenia: acute phase outcomes in the SOCRATES trial. British Journal of Psychiatry Supplement, 43, 91-97. Lysaker, P. H., Hammersley, J. (2006) Association of delusions and lack of cognitive flexibility with social anxiety in schizophrenia spectrum disorders. Schizophrenia Research, 86(1-3), 147-53. Phillips, L. J., Francey, S. M. (2004) Changing PACE: Psychological interventions in the prepsychotic phase. In: P. D. McGorry (Ed.). Psychological Interventions in Early Psychosis: A Practical Treatment Handbook. Chichester: John Wiley and Sons. Sensky, T., Turkington, D., Kingdon, D., Scott, J. L., Siddle, R., OCarroll, M., Barnes, T. R. (2000) A randomised controlled trial of cognitive- behavioural therapy for persistent symptoms in schizophrenia resistant to medication. Archives of General Psychiatry, 57, 165-172. Strauss, J. S., Carpenter, W. T. (1981) Schizophrenia. New York: Plenum. Tarrier, N. (2002) Cognitive-behaviour therapy in the treatment of schizophrenia. In: H. Hafner (Ed.). Risk and Protective Factors in Schizophrenia: Towards a Conceptual Model of the Disease Process. Berlin: Steinkopff Verlag. Wells, A. (1995) Meta-cognition and worry: A cognitive model of generalised anxiety disorder. Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapy, 23, 301-320. Wells, A. (2002) Cognitive therapy for generalised anxiety disorder. In: F. W. Bond (Ed.) Handbook of Brief Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. Chichester: John Wiley and Sons. Southwest Airlines: Culture, Values and Operating Practices Southwest Airlines: Culture, Values and Operating Practices Rollin King planned to start low cost airlines that would shuttle passengers between San Antonio, Dallas and Houston. This idea came in his mind due to the complaint of businessmen about the delay of airlines. When all airlines were in losses at that time the Southwest Airlines were earning profit. It was because of the business strategy. They offered lowest and simple charges to get passengers to their destination on time and Muse wanted his executive team to be willing to think independently instead of worked on the institutional practices. One of the things that attract me a lot that there was a plan of profit sharing with senior employees that was first in the airline industry (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). What grade would you give Southwest management for the job it has done in crafting the companys strategy? What is it that you like or dislike about the strategy? Does Southwest have a winning strategy? Southwest airlines performed successful in the airlines industry. The company demonstrated the ability to quickly dominate markets. Here are some strategies that were really appreciable: Product Positioning Strategy: Southwest airlines carefully projected its image in front of customers and competitors. It offered ticketless travelling by not assigning seats to the passengers so that they could reach the destination on time (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). Price Strategy: Southwest airlines had offered the lowest domestic airlines charges. There was a plan of profit sharing with senior employees that was first in the airline industry (instituted in 1973) (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). Promotion Strategy: Southwest airlines wanted to concentrate more on customer preference and benefits. It encouraged its employees to dress casually at work and this created a positive image in front of the customers. (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). Digital Media Promotion: This was a first airline that developed a web site and online booking facility (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). One drawback of southwest airlines was that it was taking 6 to 12 rounds in a day. Fuel, air frames and diesel were very costly and southwest airline were not fully boarded. Hence the revenue generation was minimal and the airlines could not make sufficient profits (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). QUESTION 3 What are the key policies, procedures, operating practices, and core values underlying Southwests efforts to implement and execute its low-cost/no frills strategy? Some policies for the low cost are: The company was operating only one type of aircraft having 737 seats which minimized the spare parts, inventories, maintenance training, and proficient improvement. The company offered ticketless journey which eliminated the expenses of printing and processing paper tickets. The company was serving airports near metropolitan areas and medium sized cities that minimized fuel cost and helped to reach destination on time. Southwest was using point-to-point scheduling of flights instead of hub-and-spoke system which was more efficient in comparison with the later. Southwest didnt have first class section in any of the flights and offered only beverages and snacks (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). QUESTION 4 What are the key elements of Southwests culture? Is Southwest a strong culture company? Why or why not? What problems do you foresee that Gary Kelly has in sustaining the culture now that Herb Kelleher, the companys spiritual leader, has departed? The company provided free and satisfied environment to the employees. It had positive, innovative and simple culture which contributed to the growth of the company. (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). Garry Kelly was appointed as vice chairman of the board of directors in 2004. There are some problems that I foresee when Gary Kelly has sustaining the culture: Other rival airlines can copy their spirit and culture that can be problem for the company. Gary was applying changes according to his taste and the company was facing continuous changes. Hence it became difficult to survive in rapidly changing environment. There was no market stability because of the rapidly changes environment (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). QUESTION 5 What grade would you give Southwest management for the job it has done in implementing and executing the companys strategy? Which of Southwests strategy execution approaches and operating practices do you believe have been most crucial in accounting for the success that Southwest has enjoyed in executing its strategy? Are the any policies, procedures, and operating approaches at Southwest that you disapprove of or that are not working well? The southwest management should get the highest grade in my opinion. Employees maintenance has been crucial in accounting for the success of southwest airlines. The strategy of lowest price with accommodation was very tough but the southwest airlines made it easy (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). I disapprove due to the following reasons: Southwest should try to expand its existing route. They didnt have Miami International airport as hub even though it is a city of population with a large number in and out flights. Another policy was that the fat people had to take two tickets for being able to sit comfortably in the airline. This was embarrassing to the people who were overweight (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). QUESTION 6 What weaknesses or problems do you see at Southwest Airlines as of mid-2010? There were some problems that came in the mid of 2010 at the southwest airlines: It depended on only one producer. Southwest was running only one flight of 737 seats there must be some optional flight. Booking of flights became difficult because southwest had eliminated the intervention of agents because of commission amount. Southwest were only focusing on the economy class but have no attention towards business class who were willing to pay for their seats. Money was not the big issue for them (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). QUESTION 7 Does the Air Tran acquisition make good strategic sense for Southwest? Southwest have a very distinctive and unique culture. The Air Tran acquisition put significant risk. Southwest has one type of plane 737. With the acquisition of Air Tran it started flying the 717 to Mexico and the Caribbean. It was a big shift for southwest (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). The main base of Air Tran was Atlanta that was a huge delta hub while southwest had started to fly their flights out of the United States. This proves that the acquisition made a good sense not only in business perspectives but also for maintaining the cost effectiveness of the service (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). QUESTION 8 What strategic issues and problems do Gary Kelly and Southwest executives need to address as they proceed to close the deal with the Air Tran acquisition and contemplate how best to integrate Air Trans operations and Air Trans employees into Southwest? Some problems that need to address Gary and the southwest executives are: Southwest needed to incorporate Air Tran employees into the culture of Southwest that was serving good customer service, lowest costs and lowest charges. To analyze the level of Air Tran employees and the Southwest employees. They have to look on the opportunities and try to enhance business share. They have to analyze that how to conduct flights outside the United States (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008). QUESTION 9 What recommendations would you make to Gary Kelly and Southwest executives as the company heads into 2011? The following are the recommendations for the company: The company has to work on the long term goals. Strategies should be made in accordance with the fuel prices which usually act as a barrier to conventional business growth. Provision should be made for reservations to be performed directly on the site of southwest.com without any intervention of third parties. There must be opportunity for internet marketing. The management of the company should start travelling outside the United States for increasing the market shares. The turnaround time should be improved. The prices of the services should be kept as low as possible. Offering of different types of seating classes with different rates should be helpful for increasing the revenue (Arthur A. Thompson, 2008).

Changing Nutritional Requirements for Children

Changing Nutritional Requirements for Children HEALTH PROMOTION AND DEVELOPMENT UNIT Ubah A adan 1. The food for babies in the United Kingdom is normally set on particular guidelines, which must be followed in order for the babies to develop in a normal and healthy way. The First six months. Infant normally feed on breast milk or infant formula. For the first six months breast milk is most nutritious and highly recommended. It contains a unique mix of fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, lactose, amino acid, enzymes and others. Important factors that combine they make perfect food for babies, its nutritious and easy for digestion. It has every thing baby needs, Brain development, healthy growth and protection from illnesses. If the mother chooses not breastfeed the baby, best option available is infant formula. Introducing solid food to the baby should only start after six months. It’s recommended by health practitioners and also the government policy in the UK, but if the baby feels hungry so often weaning can start before six months but only with foods recommended by an infant nutritionist. There are foods which must be avoided at all cost for example: shellfish eggs fish liver nuts wheat and gluten seeds unpasteurised and soft cheese salt sugar honey and whole nuts 6 to 9 months When the weaning is started a baby’s diet should include the following types of foods: milk and dairy fruit and vegetables meat and fish egg and beans pasta and rice starchy foods There are many types of prepared baby foods and cereals that have been specially designed for babies, but these foods can also be easily prepared and pureed at home with the use of a food blender, frozen individually into ice cube trays and used as needed. 9 months + The recommended guidelines for servings of solid food portions at this age are: 2 servings per day of meat, fish, eggs or pulses 3-4 servings per day of fruits and vegetables 3-4 servings per day of potatoes, bread and rice Formula or breast milk can still be given along with healthy fruit and cereal snacks. VITAMINS The Department of Health advises that although children should get the required amount of vitamins from their food, they may be lacking in vitamin A, C and D which can be supplemented in the form of vitamin drops. Vitamin A: helps children to see in dim light, supports and strengthens the immune system, and ensures healthy skin is maintained. Vitamin C: helps with the absorption of iron, and supports the immune system. Vitamin D: helps to strengthen bones, and assists with the absorption of calcium. 2. TYPES OF FOOD THAT SHUOLD BE AVOIDED BY YOUNG CHILDREN There are many different food types which are considered to be unsuitable for babies and young children. Parents and childcare providers must be very careful the food that is cooked for the children, and the once that is ready made. SALT Babies don’t need salt. Their kidneys are too immature to cope with any added salt; even the small amount of salt can damage their kidneys. Therefore salt should never be added to any food that is cooked for a baby. The guidelines provided by the food standards Agency for salt consumption for children are: HONEY Honey contains bacteria which can produce toxin in a baby’s intestine leading to infant botulism which is a very serious illness. It’s best not to give babies honey until they over 1 year old. Honey is a sugar so avoiding it will also help to prevent tooth decay. SUGAR Baby doesn’t need sugar by avoiding it you will prevent tooth delay and unnecessary weight gain. Sugar causes tooth decay in young children and can be easily prevented. By avoiding sugary drinks and snakes you will help to prevent tooth decay. Children should be encouraged to drink milk and water. NUTS Whole nuts including peanuts should not be given to the children under the age of five, as they can choke on them. As long as there is no history of food allergies or other allergies in the baby’s family they can consume peanuts once they are six months old as long as they are crushed or grounded. LOW FAT FOODS Fat is an important source of calories and some vitamins for babies and young children. It’s better for babies and young children under 2 to have full fat milk, yogurts and cheeses. After the age of two; amount of fat in diet can be gradually decreased. EGGS Eggs can be given to children over the age of 6 months, yolks and whites should be well cooked to reduce the risk of salmonella infection. RAW SHELLFISH Raw shellfish can increase the risk of food poisoning and are considered to be potentially allergenic foods it also harbours salmonella bacteria. So it’s best to avoid it. SWORDFISH, SHARK AND MARLIN It is best to avoid these foods as the amount of mercury in these fish can affect a baby’s growing nervous system. 3. SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMEN AND CULTURAL REQUIREMENTS When children come together at meal or snack time everyone should be eating the same foods. However, there are some circumstances in which some children cannot eat the same foods. For example of some special dietary needs including: Sugar in all forms may be limited for a diabetic child. Fats and cholesterol may be limited for overweight children. Specific foods or additive may cause allergic reactions in some children. Cultural or religious preference may restrict specific foods. Any dietary needs should be identified and documented and it’s important that staffs are trained in the importance of sticking to these needs or restrictions. Some food allergies can be life threatening all staff should know the specific food or ingredient restrictions, possible consequences and symptoms of food reactions and recommended first aid. Any dietary requirements should be gained from parents and recorded and any food allergies documentation should be request from the child’s doctor. Some children in child care have cultural and religious food preferences the child care provider and the parents need to work together in order to make sure that children with especial dietary needs receive appreciate foods. Examples of some cultural and religion practice: When recording special dietary requirements, there are many types of information that should be documented for example: child’s name parents name and address emergency contact emergency instructions should ingestion of an allergic food occur necessary medication doctor or health professionals name address, telephone number parental and childcare provider signature In the case of emergency medication being required the childcare provider should have this information documented on a separate medical form and keep the medication in a locked container. A Child record form for a new child joining a home at child care setting with specific dietary requirement may look as followed: 4. CHILDHOOD CHRONIC DISEASES There are many health problems during infant and childhood, but mostly they are mild and they do not interfere with their daily life and development. For some children however chronic health conditions affect everyday life throughout their childhood, Including asthma, diabetes, cystic fibrosis and cerebral palsy. 1. ASTHMA Asthma is a long term condition that can cause a cough, wheezing and breathlessness. The severity of the symptoms is different from person to person. Approximately 1 in 10 children being affected asthma in the UK. The cause of asthma is not fully understood, however trigger can bring symptoms of asthma, and anything that irritates the airways brings on symptoms of asthma. These are different from person to person and people with asthma may have several triggers. Triggers include house dust, animal fur, pollen, tobacco smoke and others. Asthma is caused by inflammation of the airways these are the small tubes called bronchi which carry air in and out of the lungs. If you have asthma the bronchi will be flamed and will be more sensitive than normal. Asthma may also affect children emotionally as the attacks may be frightening them. 2. DIABETES Diabetes is life long conditions that cause persons blood sugar level to become too high. In the UK approximately 2.8million people are affected by diabetes. There are two types of diabetes type 1 and type 2. *Type1 is usually diagnosed in adolescence and is controlled insulin injections. * Type 2 is usually diagnosed in adulthood and is controlled by diet and tablets. Symptoms common to both types of diabetes are weight loss, feeling very tired and feeling very thirsty and urinating frequency. 3. CYSTIC FIBROSIS Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition in which lungs and digestive system become clogged with the thick sticky mucus. Symptoms start in early childhood and include cough, chest infections and poor weight. There is no cure for cystic fibrosis so the aim of the treatment is to ease the symptoms and make the condition easier to live with. Treatments include therapies, diet, medication, exercise and physiotherapy to remove mucus from the lungs. 4. CEREBRAL PALSY Cerebral palsy is a general term covering a number of neurological conditions that effect a child’s movements and coordination. Neurological conditions affect the brain and nervous system. Cerebral palsy is caused by damage to the brain which normally occurs before, during or soon after birth. It is estimated that 1 in every 400 children in UK is effected by Cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy can put a great deal of strain on the body which can cause problems in later life. There is no cure cerebral palsy but the many of treatment can help relieve symptoms and increase child’s independent and self-esteem. These include physiotherapy, occupational therapy and medications. GUIDED ACTIVITY https://osclinks.com/84 https://osclinks.com/85 https://osclinks.com/86 https://osclinks.com/87 https://osclinks.com/88 https://osclinks.com/89 https://osclinks.com/90 https://osclinks.com/91 https://osclinks.com/92 https://osclinks.com/93 https://osclinks.com/94

The Feminist Movement and Linda Tripp :: Essays Papers

The Feminist Movement and Linda Tripp Several weeks back in class we discussed women’s roles in politics today. Linda Tripp has become a political figure whether she likes to think of herself in that manner or not. When you work for the pentagon or in any governmental venue whatsoever you are marked by the lines of politics for the rest of your life. My studies have shown that Tripp has tired to downplay her political role. That was a difficult task when she was posing as the friend of the President’s mistress at the same time as she was recording their personal telephone conversations for Prosecutor Ken Starr’s use. Linda Tripp therefore plays an important role in the political environment of today’s society. Tripp plays a dual role as a woman and a political figure. She is a person of great name recognition and thus she is a representative of women in our society. I think this is where the problems with Linda Tripp begin. Tripp has changed the political and societal construction of women’s’ role's, as we know them today. Her attempts to identify with other women have only perpetuated the difficulties that women have had with in the political system. As a young woman in our society, I find it difficult to ignore the impact that Tripp has had on women in our society. I am becoming ever more involved in the political realm and find it very challenging. The class in which we discussed women’s roles in politics in the nineties represented how important and relevant gender issues continue to be within social and political movements. From that class, I remember hearing several persuasive arguments and examples from the women in the class in regards to how difficult it can be to be involved in political issues today. The pressures of being a woman are sometimes subtle and often not felt instantaneously. The need to work harder and do better in order to prove ourselves competent to our fellow male counterparts is sometimes not realized by women until we have reached a personal limit. In reaching that limit we can look around and sometimes I feel we may have lost a lot in trying to achieve some of the same things that men in our so ciety are raised to do. I think Linda Tripp has reached that limit and has lost personal values. Her fame has not been of positive persuasion to the

The Significance of Chapter 34 in Jane Austens Pride and Prejudice Ess

The Significance of Chapter 34 in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice 'Pride And Prejudice' is a 19th Century romantic novel written by Jane Austen in 1813, it presents a true representation of society's expectations towards marriage and love at the time. It focuses on two central characters Miss Elizabeth Bennet and Mr Darcy and their love-hate relationship. Elizabeth the second eldest daughter of five sisters is an intelligent woman with a lively disposition, strong-minded determination and a woman who religiously sticks to her principles. As Mr Bennet says describing his daughter, "'Lizzy has something more of a quickness then her sisters.'" Mr Darcy on the other hand is an extremely handsome man but unfortunately very proud and detached and his character is considered rather aloof and disagreeable. "He was the proudest most disagreeable man in the whole world." In 'Pride And Prejudice' Jane Austen shows the reader how Elizabeth overcomes her prejudice of Mr Darcy's pride. Marriage at the time when the novel was written was perceived very differently to how it is thought of today. Getting married was seen as a necessity to gain financial security for the female, it was more of an arrangement, a business proposal to benefit both sides of the party. Love was not a prerequisite and nor was being in love a suitable reason to get married. As in the marriage talks with Elizabeth and her friend Charlotte Lucas, Charlotte sums up her view and every other woman's view on marriage. "'Happiness in marriage is purely a matter of chance.'" The reason for this being is that after a father died in the family the house and the land were meant to go to the oldest son, or in Mrs Bennet's case Mr Bennet's cou... ...ion is the incentive for Mr Darcy to write the letter to Elizabeth to try and change her opinion of him. "'Did it soon make you think better of me?'" Even at the end of the novel Elizabeth admits the profound effect that the letters had on her. "She explained what its effect had on her had been, and how gradually all her former prejudices had been removed." After the events of chapter 34 Mr Darcy's character changes significantly, because of Elizabeth he has overcome all his selfish and overbearing character traits which prevented her from loving him which was what he truly wanted as he was attracted to the "'liveliness'" of her mind. "'You taught me a lesson, hard indeed at first, but most advantageous. By you, I was properly humbled.'" This lesson he would have never learnt or experienced if it weren't for her refusal in the proposal of Chapter 34.

The Grapes Of Wrath: Description Al Joad And The Setting :: essays research papers

The Grapes of Wrath: Description Al Joad and the Setting Al Joad is a fairly skinny guy of medium built who starts out being a cocky, self-conceited character. His only justifiable reason for acting cocky is that his brother, Tom, killed a man and went to jail. Al respects his brother and thinks of him as a man for having killed another man. The fact of the matter is that Tom was only acting in self defense. After a man came after Tom with a knife, Tom hit him over the head with a shovel, and killing him in the process. Al would receive complements all over town from people who recognize him and being the brother of a man that was a killer. As soon as Tom Joad comes home from prison, Al is a changed person. He is no longer cocky and he almost resents his brother coming home so soon. As the Joad family is forced to leave their home land and travel to California, Al takes on a great responsibility. His job is to drive the family and take complete care of the truck that they are driving. Al takes his job very seriously and gets upset when anything happens to the car. Emotionally, I would say Al has become very strong throughout the novel. He starts out pretty depend on the "glory" of his brother, but he takes his responsibilities seriously. I see Al as being a crucial character later in the novel. He is the kind of person that needs motivation from the start, but once he gets going, he won't stop. Setting Description Oklahoma could best be described as one large dustbowl. All rain has ceased to fall. The dry wind wisps through the air and gathers dirt. If you listen closely enough, it sounds as though there are people moaning whenever wind is present. The heat is so humid that any source of water is dried up, and the plants wither away. All of the corn crops are gone as well as all other crops. The dirt is like sand; it has no moisture or fertilization.

Culture Assessment Essay

A widely accepted definition of organizational culture is it is the shared meanings, artifacts, values, beliefs, norms, and assumptions that dictate how an organization works and its existence (Cameron & Quinn, 2006). Organization culture is shaped by more than one element; say individuals’ life experiences, background, education levels and so fourth. Undoubtedly, leadership also plays a critical role in defining what culture prevails in the organization and their actions have a major influence on how the rest of the organization follows suit. (Robbins et al, 2000) Additionally organization culture defines the strategies that a firm uses in handling things like competition, growth, resource management and the like. (Goffee & Jones, 1996) A good assessment of the cultural orientation of a firm makes it likelier to promote interorganisational network and also implement changes that encourage member participation and productivity. The key indicators of organizational culture include organization structure, power and managerial styles, ways in which members of the organization interact and do their jobs among others. This paper takes a look at FedEx Corporation and gives a summary of the type of organization culture at FedEx, its benefits, hindrances as well as the recommendations of the company. Company overview FedEx Corporation is a large company headquartered in the US that deals in printing, courier services and logistics as well as cargo airline services. This company has been named one of the top 10 most admirable companies by Fortune magazine two years in a row. Since its founding in 1971 it has grown from humble beginnings a leader in air courier industry. Its brands include the FedEx home delivery, FedEx smart post and FedEx freight east and west, FedEx services among others. Its chief competitors are DHL, TNT, UPS, BAX Global and USPS. The company employs over 250,000 workers and has a net income of approximately 1. 8 billion dollars in 2006. Culture assessment The organization culture at FedEx blends various kinds of organization culture but perhaps the most predominant culture is flexibility discretion and dynamism. This has been its major strategy of staying ahead. To support this, FedEx takes pride in their ability to adapt to change so as to enhance effectiveness and competitiveness. (Cameron & Quinn, 2006, p. 34) This it achieves by combining innovation, knowledge sharing, high experience and team work in its key strategies to attaining competitive advantage. A good illustration of FedEx external focus is evident in the numerous deliveries of relief supplies that FedEx made to hurricane Katrina victims for free in 2005, earning it more customers and goodwill. Adhocracy orientation at FedEx is fostered at top level management down to the junior staff. The CEO of FedEx encourages employees to be trend setters and nonconformist and dare to take calculated risk. The management encourages employees to be all ears on current events and look for opportunities. The guiding philosophy is that an innovation failed is better than a thousand years lost in risk averse dealings. Innovation at FedEx is held with high regard and employees are rewarded handsomely for developing fresh ideas. The management supports viable projects from employees financially or otherwise. This is one reason why FedEx distinguishes itself as an evergreen company in the air courier industry. This culture is underscored when creative attempts that fail are rewarded as well as the successful innovations. The familiar slogan ‘absolutely, positively gets it there overnight’ is made real by the culture ingrained in the employees towards importance of customer service, efficiency at work, speed and accurate scheduling. This culture leverages FedEx for competitive advantage. Basically, the FedEx corporate culture emphasizes urgency, speed and teamwork, exceeding customers’ expectations, initiative, flexibility and active listening (O’Reilly, Tushman & Michael, 1997) Aside from the flexible nature at FedEx, it also adopts an outwardly and sensitive approach to the environment that it operates. Competitiveness fosters the company to always look for opportunities to expand and grow. While the opposite of this culture is to foster integration and unity within the organization as well as knowledge some elements of this culture are also present at FedEx. This is because FedEx emphasizes high skills among employees. Employees at FedEx are highly learned individuals as the company only picks the best of the best. Working ones way up the corporate ladder requires that ones knowledge base also increases. In addition, the internal focus of FedEx organizational culture provides an appropriate environment that enables employees to grow and exercise their skills as seen in the various training and task assignments delegated to employees. In order for knowledge sharing to be maximized then division of labor, job enrichment, team building and so forth have to be conducted regularly (Murray, Poole & Jones, 2005) some aspects of these are present at FedEx. FedEx corporate culture values hard work and rewards such appropriately. It also disregards discriminations and fosters equal opportunities for its employees in areas of promotion, transfer and recruitment. The hands off team oriented management style promote progressive and diversified work culture. Communication is a key strength for FedEx organization culture and regular surveys on employees’ views on the job are taken to monitor and modify areas of universal discontent. Notably, the employees at FedEx are highly experienced and skilled individuals. The culture therefore is based on letting employees be free agents who direct their jobs in their own direction. The management ensures that employees are proactive and take initiative to learn from mistakes of others. The employees are not reprimanded or penalized for slip-ups rather management takes the blunder as an opportunity to teach the rest. Most of the tasks done at FedEx are assigned to teams which are given sufficient power and authority to fulfill their responsibilities and be accountable for the results. Seemingly this is the reason behind the great success of FedEx. The benefit of the cultures present at FedEx is that the company is maintains its competitiveness amid intense competition from the competitors. Additionally, it deals with fewer conflicts, fewer staff turnover and enjoys increase in employees’ job satisfaction, higher performance less resistance to change, higher productivity and better customer service and so forth. The hindrances of this kind of organization culture are that it requires major investment in time and money. The management needs to be patient with employee mistakes which are most times costly. Additionally it is difficult to monitor this practice in the FedEx Company because of the large workforce and the busy schedules that the employees have. Conclusion The organizational culture at FedEx has both benefits and detrimental aspects although many are the benefits. In the competitive faced paced industry that FedEx operates their culture seem most fitting. Perhaps the only thing that I would improve is the hierarchal structure and the communication channels for free flow of information and faster decision making throughout the organization.