Management and Leadership Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Management and Leadership - Case Study Example The company’s mission is to be the partner of choice for customers, employees, and business partners like investors (The Arab Human Development Report 112). They also have a mission to give to its customer’s superior technologies, quality products, and good services. They also focus on growth of the company and the addition of new values. The goals of the company include; providing good returns and growth to the investors input, satisfying every customer’s needs, building profitable relationships with partners and creation of favorable environments to the employees so that they can reach their goals (The Arab Human Development Report 29). Considering the company’s corporate strategy, the company, is set to have integrity in its operations, good communication channels in the organization and to other organizations, effective teamwork for better productivity of the business, accountability in each of the operations it deals in and aims at excellence in its o perations. From the report, it is evident that Lubna Olayan is a good leader to the company and has good management skills. She is seen to be recognized in many other different institutions for her quality management. This is due to her principles and organized corporate strategies (The Arab Human Development Report 122). Discussion Considering Blanchard’s situational leadership model description, Lubna Olayan’s leadership is using the delegating style (Maude 96). This is seen from what she says she believes in. She believes that the most difficult work should be given to the most competent person. This shows that she believes in delegating work to people provided she has confidence that the person will manage to deliver a quality job. This is also evident from what she said when she was asked about taking credit in the achievements they have had as a company (Maude 123). She said that she is humbled with what she has gained as a manager; she focuses on what she will a chieve tomorrow and so sets the plans for delegating duties. The success of a business depends on the overall efforts of each employee. For the Olayan financing company to continue growing and achieving its goals, Lubna Olayan will need to look for means of empowering his employees and managers so that the business will continue to succeed. Empowering the employees and managers, at the firm, will help increase employee trust and loyalty in the business. This is results from the idea that employees will know that the decisions they make will affect the company directly hence will look for means of making the best decisions. This will be healthy for the company as a whole (Maude 115). The other factor that will necessitate the empowerment of the managers and the employees at the firm is because Olayan is a person with a tight schedule, and cannot be available at all times to make decisions for the company (The Arab Human Development Report 61). Empowering employees and managers will e nsure that decisions can be made, even if, the overall leader is not at the business premises. This ensures all the company’s activities continue smoothly whenever Olayan is on errands. Empowering the employees also promotes innovation and creativity at the work place. This can help to develop new and better ways of solving situations. It can also be a channel of evaluating which employee is a better leader.

Song Analysis Essay Example for Free

Song Analysis Essay I mean post the scene of the caper, Like a loc, with little Ceas in a choke (uh), Toting smoke, we aint no mother$#@*in joke, Thug Life, %;amp;@! *s better be known, Be approaching, In the wide open, gun smoking, No need for hoping, Its a battle lost, I gottem crossed as soon as the funk is bopping off, $%#^@, I hit em up [Outro 2Pac] Now you tell me who won, I see them, they run (ha ha), They dont wanna see us, Whole Junior Mafia clique, Dressing up trying to be us, How the #$%@ they gonna be the Mob? When we always on out job, We millionaires, Killing aint fair, But somebody got to do it. Oh yah Mobb Deep (uh), You wanna #$%@ with us, You Little young @%$ mother#$! ^ers, Dont one of you ? %#*@s got sickle-cell or something, Youre fucking with me, %^amp;@#? You #%?! around and catch a seizure or a heart-attack, You better back the #$%! Up, Before you get smacked the %amp;^@ up, This is how we do it on our side, Any of you %#! amp;@s from New York that want to bring it, Bring it. But we aint singing, We bringing drama, *;amp;^$ you and your mother %$*@ing mama. Were gonna kill all you mother ^($#ers. Now when I came out, I told you it was just about biggie. Then everybody had to open their mouth with a mother ? #@$ing opinion, Well this is how we gonna do this: ;amp;%#$ Mobb Deep, ;amp;%#$ Biggie, ;amp;%#$ Bad Boy as a staff, record label, and as a mother ;amp;%#$ing crew. And if you want to be down with Bad Boy, Then ;amp;%#$ you too. Chino XL, ;amp;%#$ you too. All you mother ;amp;%#$ers, ;amp;%#$ you too. (take money, take money) All of yall mother amp;%#$ers, amp;%#$ you, die slow motheramp;%#$er. My four four (. 44 magnum) make sure all your kids dont grow. You mother;amp;%#$ers cant be us or see us. We mother amp;%#$in Thug Life riders. West Side till we die. Out here in California, ! amp;%#$, We warned ya, Well bomb on you mother amp;%#$ers. We do our job. You think you the mob, %$? #@, we the motheramp;%#$in mob, Aint nothing but killers, And the real amp;%#! @s, all you motheramp;%#$ers feel us. Our $#! % goes triple and four quadruple, You ! amp;%#$s laugh cause our staff got guns under they mother;amp;%#$in belts, You know how it is and we drop records they felt, You ! amp;%#$s cant feel it, We the realist, ;amp;%#$ em. We Bad Boy killers.

Aztecs Essay -- essays research papers

Aztec The Aztec Indians, who are known for their domination of southern and central Mexico, ruled between the 14th and 16th centuries. Their name is derived from Azatlan, the homeland of the north. The Aztecs also call themselves Mexica and there language came from the Nahuatlan branch of the Uto-Aztecan family.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Aztecs were formed after the Toltec civilization occurred when hundreds of civilians came towards Lake texcoco. Late families were unfortunate and were forced to go to the swamp lands. In the swamp lands there was only one piece of land to farm on and it was totally surrounded by more marshes . The Aztec families some how converted these disadvantages to a might empire known as they Aztec Empire. People say the empire was partially formed by a deeply believed legend. As the the legend went it said that Aztec people would create a empire on in a swampy place where they would see an eagle eating a snake while perched on a cactus which is growing out of a rock in the swamplands. This is what priests claimed they saw while entering the new land.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  By the year 1325 Their capital city was finished. They called it Tenochtitlan. In the the capital city aqueducts (piping) were constructed, bridges were built, and chinapas were made. Chinapas were little islands formed by pilled up mud. On these chinapas Aztecs grew corn, beans, chili peppers, squash, tomatoes, and tobacco. Tenochtitlan (the capital city) was covered in giant religious statues in order to pay their respects to the gods. In the Aztec religion numerous gods controlled an Aztec’s daily life. Some of these gods include: Uitzilpochtli (the sun god), Coyolxauhqui (the moon goddess), Tlaloc (the rain god), and Quetzalcoatl (the inventor of the calendar and writing). Another part of the Aztec religion was human sacrifices. For their sacrifices the priest would lay the man or woman over a convex (rounded) stone, then he would take a sharp knife and cut the victims heart out. They did this because they believed that good gods could prevent bad gods from doing evil things and they also believed that good gods got their strength from human blood and hearts so they had sacrifices in order to keep their gods strong. For major rituals warriors were sacrificed, for the warrior this was one of the greatest hon... ...eternity. The earth was thus created through fire and death; the earth mother had fallen, the moon goddess was dead, and her brothers slaughtered.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  And so is the story of the Aztec creation. They based their lifestyle on the examples set by the gods and goddesses in the story, thus they led violent lives. The Aztecs saw no wrong in torturing, maiming, and decapitating their neighbors for the gods. They were a savage people, and this savagery would be their downfall.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In 1519 Hernando Cortes` led over 500 men into Aztec territory in search of gold, what he found were the magnificent golden statues of the Aztec deities. The Aztecs believed him to be the representative for some white skinned god, and hence feared and respected him. It was not until they saw him melting their statues and shipping the blocks of gold to Spain that they acted. They attacked Hernanado and his men, and succeeded in driving them off. However, Cortes returned later with the support of local Indian tribes that hated the Aztecs for centuries of cruel treatment to defeat the mighty Aztecs and take the empire. This ended the Aztec civilization forever.

The Application of Utopia in Brave New World Essay -- Brave New World

The Application of Utopia in Brave New World      Ã‚   Aldous Huxley's Brave New World illustrates the loss of morality when established standards are replaced by amoral criteria.   In his novel, Huxley criticizes the practical applications of Utopia in actual society. Huxley's depiction of love, science, and religion support the ineffectiveness of implementing Utopia in everyday life.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In Brave New World, Huxley shows contempt for the human emotion of love.   The people that make up his imaginary society have no conception of love or any other passion, and actually scorn the idea.   Huxley believes that along with passion comes emotional instability.   The Utopian state cannot afford any kind of instability and therefore cannot afford love.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The destruction of the family is one example of the effect of Utopia's absence of love.   In a world of bottled-births, not only is there no need for a family, but the idea is actually considered obscene.   The terms "mother" and "father" are extremely offensive and are rarely used except in science.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Huxley uses Mustapha Mond, the World Controller, to portray the vulgarity when he explains the obscenity of life before Utopia to a group of students:    And home was as squalid psychically as physically.   Psychically, it was a rabbit hole, a midden, hot with the frictions of tightly packed life, reeking with emotion.   What suffocating intimacies, what dangerous, insane, obscene relationships between the members of the family group! (37)      Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In an earlier passage, Huxley shows the effects of Mond's explanation on one boy, "The Controller's evocation wa... ... without   religion or a god.   This belief is portrayed throughout the novel.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Brave New World presents a frightening view of a future civilization which has forgotten current morals and standards.   Instead of humans controlling science and their lives, science controls humans, and World Controllers decide all rules which are intended to mold society into a stable community.   Huxley's criticism of this community portrays the impractical application of Utopia in actual society.    Sources Cited and Consulted "Aldous Huxley:   Brave New World?"   http://www.huxley.net/ pp.   1-36. Birnbaum, M.   Aldous Huxley's Quest For Values.   Univ. of Tennessee Press, 1971. Firchow, P. E. The End of Utopia.   Associated Univ. Presses, Inc., N.J.:   1984. Huxley, Aldous.   Brave New World.   New York: Harper Collins, 1989.

Stay at Home Moms vs Working Moms

Many women have careers before they began their family. But once the first child arrives, it is time to decide whether to be a stay-at-home mom or to go back to work. There are many factors that go into this decision and it is different for every family. Making a decision to stay at home with the children or join the workforce can be a difficult process. I have been fortunate to experience being a stay-at-home mom for three years. I’ve come o realize the benefits of becoming a stay-at-home mom versus a working mom is having more time with the children, less stress, and it saves financially. One of the biggest and most obvious benefits of being a stay-at-home mom is the amount of time available to spend with the children. A stay-at-home mom is assured her children are being raised in a healthy, positive environment. Stay-at-home moms can expect fewer doctor bills, some children don’t come in contact with as many viruses and bacteria at home than at a daycare. If they do get a cold or the flu, the parent at home does not have to scramble to find care or ask for a day off of work. They are already at home with the child. Mothers at home have their busy days, but also have days where they spend time doing things just for the kids. They can go to the park at a moments notice. As a stay-at-home mom, I have the time to sit with my children and read books, play with race cars, and teach them the letters of the alphabet. Some benefits of being a stay-at-home mom is the mother is able to teach and educate her children, and have more consistent discipline. By staying at home, mothers can ensure that their children have the best start in life, by giving them the love and support they need. Staying at home can mean reduced stress to a slower, less frantic pace. While the world around us is going a million miles an hour, my children’s world is calm and stable. There is no morning rush to get everyone out the door and there are no chaotic evenings where we are not sure who is going to cook supper. I can give my children the time they deserve instead of cramming in time here and there. It is true that raising children can be stressful, but mothers who stay at home have less stress upon them than the working moms. Probably one of the biggest factors helping to decide if a parent should stay at home with the children is whether it is economically feasible. In many small ways, my being at home enables us to live on less (which means we have less income). Because I am at home, I have the time to keep track of our finances month-to-month and put together a detailed shopping list which helps keep our grocery bill to a minimum. Transportation expenses also often drops for stay-at-home moms. This can also decrease the premiums of auto insurance. A benefit of staying at home has the ability to save on or even eliminate the cost of child care. One of the most easily forgotten factors is taxes will decrease with the loss of that second income. After all, the decrease in taxes is not only in terms of dollars but also in the tax bracket. A stay-at-home mom eats out less often on average. Also the amount a stay-at-home mom spends on clothing generally goes down significantly. There is little need for a stay-at home mom to constantly buy new clothing. When a mother decides to stay-at-home, she can cut the hidden cost of work funds. Stay-at-home parenting is a full time occupation and definitely not and easy one. For my husband and I, we felt that taking a more active role in our children’s care, raising them up in the things we believe, and teaching and loving them for those precious early years would be beneficial to them. The best part of staying at home is setting my own schedule and getting to do fun things with my kids. Each set of parents has an idea of how they want their children to be raised. No one can raise children the way parents want except the parents themselves. There is a special bonding and interaction that grows and takes place between parents and children when either parent is able to stay at home. Sharing everyday life with kids, seeing them growing on a daily basis and giving the love and attention the need can make both parents and kids happy.

The curious incident of a dog in the nighttime Essays

The curious incident of a dog in the nighttime Essays The curious incident of a dog in the nighttime Essay The curious incident of a dog in the nighttime Essay Everyone has probably wondered once In their Lifetime about how life would have been with a disorder. Through this novel in the head of an autistic boy lives a child trying to express his emotions. The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time by Mark Haddam. Mark, the author of this astonishing novel describes how different life is like in an autistic childs mind. This novel is written in a way that normal novels are not. There are diagrams, footnotes and metaphors these elements show the reader how Christopher struggles with autism. Firstly, every author has Its specific style of approach to the audience, the way Mark has added diagrams in this novel to make it look like this is the way autistic kids write or describe it is very unusual. While explaining the Journey of Christopher life, diagrams are something he uses daily. First of all I made a plan of our street Like this(35). Len this diagram it shows a birds eye view of Christopher street. It states that Christopher uses diagrams to help him out on whatever he Is doing. So In this case Christopher Is going to go out and Investigate. So to help himself out, he drew a map of his street. Autism can be serious for some people but they have their ways in helping themselves succeed. Such as Christopher uses diagrams. Novels usually explain their plans in a written description whereas in this novel or maybe in an autistic mind it shows illustrations which makes it unusual. Also, a picture says a thousand words the author uses these diagrams/pleasures which clearly shows a message of the situation. And then I realized that there was nothing And I made a picture of It In my head Like 30). In this diagram It shows a mind map of what choices Christopher has to decide which place would be the safest for him. Most books have words and words and it gets boring, tiring and monotonous. The way Mark Haddam uses diagrams is interesting and no other novel uses this idea. It clearly explains the thinking and the struggle of life for the character. Secondly, each and every novel explains points or elaborates on them, Mark chose to do the same but with footnotes which makes It unusual. A. Not talking to people for a long title. Once I did not talk to anyone for five weeks(46). Novels are written in a way that makes things easier for the audience to read. In this novel Christopher likes to make everything detailed. He states points by elaborating on them more. This is probably because Christopher thinks that everyone notices details as well. He comes and states the points and adds a footnote so it is easier for the audience to understand. Also, the way the author, Mark Haddam write s about how an autistic person connote make a Judgment or decide on a simple situation, Is also unusual. People say that you have to tell the truth. But they do not mean this because you are not allowed to tell an old man that they are A normal or an non-autistic person will understand how to deal or what to do when they come in contact with an older person. If anyone comes into to contact and start a conversation with an older person and they state that l have become old no one would agree with them, but say no, you are still young. Mark has now come to a point In the novel where he be said because of autism. Thirdly, although Christopher does not seem to understand metaphors they are still seen throughout the book. A metaphor is a direct comparison without using like or as. We had a real pig of the day think it should be called a lie because a pig is not like a day(1 5). Mark Haddam uses metaphors in this novel but because Christopher is autistic he cannot understand the meaning of them like normal people do. Christopher thinks that a metaphors are lies and that they can never be true. This shows that the author, Mark the autistic minds of preserving metaphors. Marks writing explains about how Christopher takes metaphors as what it is. By imagining n actual apple in someones eyes. Whereas, for non-autistic people they would think it as you are special. Another reason that makes this novel unusual with the use of metaphors was Christopher did not like his name. My name is a metaphor, it means carrying Christ It was the name given to SST. Christopher because he carried Jesus Christ across a river But I do not want my name to mean a story(16). Mark has a very unusual way to describe the name given to Christopher. Due to autism Christopher does not understand that the story behind naming Christopher, Christopher which was actually nice and a proud feeling that you get named after such a good deed. Christopher takes metaphors the way they are meaning what was his name before he carried Jesus Christ? Basically, the way an autistic mind takes things are not the correct meaning. Therefore, while reading and discovering how an autistic mind works, Mark Haddam has written this novel in an interesting way yet unusual. Such as when he uses diagrams, footnotes and metaphors. Using diagrams, footnotes and metaphors s an interesting way Mark Haddam has shown the audience how an autistic child sees the world. Christopher uses diagrams as a navigator throughout his life. He likes to make everything detailed so its easier for the audience to understand his mind by using footnotes. And not knowing the real meaning of what a metaphor really means is not in the hands of an autistic child. The Curious Incident OF the Dog In The Night- Time by Mark Haddam illuminates a core of suffering through the narrowly focused novel in sights of a boy who has no words to describe emotional pain.

Lenin and the Revolution essays

Lenin and the Revolution essays Lenin said that it's possible to talk about creation of a Soviet Union (i.e. import of socialism) only when we are absolutely sure of socialism in our own country. Those who talk about restoration of the Soviet Union without having yet Soviet power in Russia itself, are not only being stupid, but criminal, because such a notion justified the colonial politics of Russian imperialism. We are fifty or a hundred years behind the advanced countries. We must make good this distance in ten years. Either we do it, or we shall be crushed. "You are poor and abundant, mighty and impotent, Mother Russia." The Bolsheviks policy concentration more on the Russian people, whereas Stalin cared more about Russias economy and agriculture The Bolsheviks were also against autocracy and hierarchy, and Stalin was an autocratic leader Note that nationalization and collectivization was not only Stalins idea, but the party altogether ... Stalin's "revolution from above" sought to build socialism by means of forced collectivization and industrialization, programs that entailed tremendous human suffering and loss of life. Bolsheviks wanted world socialism whereas Stalin focus socialism in one country Trotsky communist international Russias agriculture was at the same level in 1939 as in 1928 with a 40 million increased population. Stalin had man himself god like a personality cult witch was against the Bolshevik system seeing as they were against autocracy The state and media controlled everything the Russian watch heard of or read! This practice was going against Marxist ideology, Marx had written that slavery was uneconomic, because slaves had to be fed whether they worked or not and had no incentive to work. In this case how ever the cost of acquiring slaves was low and the supply was limitless and little money was spent on keeping them alive. The use of slave labor was extensive, because no ...

Quotes That Show Macbeths Intentions

Quotes That Show Macbeth's Intentions The motor that drives the tragedy of Shakespeares  Macbeth  is the lead character’s ambition. It is his primary character flaw and the trait that causes this brave soldier to murder his way to power. Early on in the famous play,  King Duncan hears of Macbeth’s heroics at war and bestows the title Thane of Cawdor on him. The current Thane of Cawdor has been deemed a traitor and the king orders him to be killed.  When Macbeth is made Thane of Cawdor, he believes that the kingship is not far off in his future. He writes a letter to his wife announcing the  prophecies, and it is actually Lady Macbeth who fans the flames of ambition as the play progresses. The two conspire to kill King Duncan so that Macbeth can ascend to the throne. Despite his initial reservations about the plan, Macbeth agrees, and, sure enough, he is named king after Duncans death. Everything that follows is simply the repercussion of Macbeths unbridled ambition. Both he and Lady Macbeth are plagued by visions of their wicked deeds, which eventually drive them insane. Brave Macbeth When  Macbeth  first appears at the start of the play, he is brave, honorable, and moral- qualities that he sheds as the play develops. He comes on the scene soon after a  battle, where an injured soldier reports Macbeth’s heroic deeds and famously labels him â€Å"brave Macbeth†: For brave Macbeth- well he deserves that name- Disdaining Fortune, with his brandishd steel,Which smoked with bloody execution,Like valours minion carved out his passageTill he faced the slave.(Act 1, Scene 2) Macbeth is presented as a man of action who steps up when he is needed, and a man of kindness and love when he is away from the battlefield. His wife, Lady Macbeth, adores him for his loving nature: Yet do I fear thy nature;It is too full o th milk of human kindnessTo catch the nearest way. Thou wouldst be great,Art not without ambition, but withoutThe illness should attend it.(Act 1, Scene 5) Vaulting Ambition An encounter with the three witches changes everything. Their premonition that Macbeth â€Å"shalt be king hereafter† triggers his ambition- and leads to murderous consequences. Macbeth makes clear that ambition drives his actions, stating as early as Act 1 that his sense of ambition is â€Å"vaulting†: I have no spurTo prick the sides onlyVaulting ambition, which oerleaps itselfAnd falls on the other.(Act 1, Scene 7) When Macbeth makes plans to murder King Duncan, his moral code is still evident- but it is beginning to be corrupted by his ambition. In this quote, the reader can see Macbeth struggling with the evil he is about to commit: My thought, whose murder yet is but fantastical,Shakes so my single state of man that functionIs smotherd in surmise.(Act 1, Scene 3) Later in the same scene, he says: Why do I yield to that suggestionWhose horrid image doth unfix my hair,And make my seated heart knock at my ribs,Against the use of nature?(Act 1, Scene 3) But, as was made apparent at the beginning of the play, Macbeth is a man of action, and this vice supersedes his moral conscience. It is this trait that enables his ambitious desires. As his character develops throughout the play, action eclipses Macbeths morals. With each murder, his moral conscience is suppressed, and he never struggles with subsequent murders as much as he does with killing Duncan. By the end of the play, Macbeth kills Lady Macduff and her children without hesitation. Macbeth’s Guilt Shakespeare does not let Macbeth get off too lightly. Before long, he is plagued with guilt: Macbeth starts hallucinating;  he sees the ghost of murdered Banquo, and he hears voices: Methought I heard a voice cry Sleep no more!Macbeth does murder sleep.(Act 2, Scene 1) This quote reflects the fact that Macbeth murdered Duncan in his sleep. The voices are nothing more than Macbeth’s moral conscience seeping through, no longer able to be suppressed. Macbeth also hallucinates the murder weapons, creating one of the play’s most famous quotes: Is this a dagger which I see before me,The handle toward my hand?(Act 2, Scene 1) In the same act, Ross, Macduffs cousin, sees right through Macbeths unbridled ambition and predicts where it will lead: to Macbeth becoming  king. Gainst nature still!Thriftless ambition, that will ravin upThine own lives means! Then tis most likeThe sovereignty will fall upon Macbeth.(Act 2, Scene 4) Macbeths Fall Near the end of the play, the audience catches a glimpse of the brave soldier who appeared at the beginning. In one of Shakespeare’s most beautiful speeches, Macbeth admits that he is short on time. The armies have amassed outside the castle and there is no way he can win, but he does what any man of action would do: fight. In this speech, Macbeth realizes that time ticks on regardless and that his actions will be lost to time: Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrowCreeps in this petty pace from day to dayTo the last syllable of recorded timeAnd all our yesterdays have lighted foolsThe way to dusty death.(Act 5, Scene 5) Macbeth seems to realize in this speech the cost of his unchecked ambition. But it is too late: There is no reversing the consequences of his evil opportunism.

Twelve Days in France and Italy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Twelve Days in France and Italy - Essay Example I learned that the French were quite different in temperament to the Italians and that I preferred the latter's approach to life. But I realized how open I am to the cultures of others, and how much I enjoy learning about them. Our first stop was the French capital, Paris. We arrived there late on a cold, rainy night and I remember how amazed I was, staring out of the window at the colorful Paris avenue, the famous Champs Elysee. As the bus moved through the city, I was impressed with the bustling yet organized activity, and the marvelous architectural structures, like the Arc de Triomphe, the famous museum of the Louvre, and eventually, I saw the Eiffel Tower. Everywhere, lights twinkled through the rain, as if all the city was alive with gentle movement. We had dinner that night in the Eiffel Tower's restaurant and I ate a typical French chocolate crepes. This was my first experience of French cuisine, so I had to take the opportunity and taste it. After dinner, I remember gazing with awe at the incredible lights of the perfectly laid out city of Paris. At last, I was capable of understanding why people refer to Paris as the "city of lights." On our way back to the hotel, I admired the reflection of the E iffel Tower's lights in the River Siene, and this has been an enduring memory of the beauty of the place, for me.The next morning we went to the famous Louvre Museum. It was incredible to see the variety of art that it contained; from ancient Christian sculptures, to the modern, contemporary paintings of Picasso. The museum provided countless artistic perspectives, showing life as seen from and within different cultures. ... Of course, I remember the Mona Lisa, it would have been impossible not to visit the Museum and not take time to gaze on her face.After having lunch at the Louvre, I decided to take a cup of coffee in a nearby restaurant. While in the coffee shop, I was impressed by the French people's elegance and courtesy. However, it seemed strange that it was so silent there. There were no televisions or radios blaring out noise, and people sat alone, having their coffee. Everybody in the coffee shop was silent, reading newspapers - some were even writing poetry. It was certainly very different from my Puerto Rican culture. The people in my country usually have their coffee in groups, listening to the radio or the television news. My impressions of the city were first, how beautiful and well-designed it was, and next, how calm and orderly the place, people and activity there appeared. After spending another five days in Paris, during which my first impressions were confirmed, we headed to our next destination, Italy. Rome was very different from Paris. On our way to the hotel, I could see, far away in the distance, the astonishing structure of the Roman Coliseum. The city was certainly a lot older than Paris. But I was delighted by the way in which the modern and ancient combined, with a lively, more vibrant 'buzz', going on, more chaotic than Paris, but people seemed happy. I was wondering how, in ancient times, the Romans could have constructed such amazing buildings, still standing and intact, after thousands of years. It was magnificent to be able to view all this history and grandeur. We arrived later in the afternoon, exhausted from the long journey. The group

Administering the School Budget Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Administering the School Budget - Essay Example This objective is extremely essential as it negates possible fund embezzlement. Without proper financial management, the school administrative would enormous losses. (Brimley et al, 2008).In an education set up, there are three most influential financial functions. These include auditing, budgeting, and accounting functions. Although, the functions are separate, discrete, and distinct operations, nonetheless they have close relationships. They are the required financial activities that provide a reliable fiscal data, information, accountability, and guidance to government funds allocated to public school programs. Budgeting is the system through which the funds allocated expenditure is particularly determined and approved. Accounting takes care of money organization by use ledger that standardizes the spending. Financial accounting, for the state and local school system applies the coding system, to enable financial auditors analyzes the school spending, and makes sure that the legal procedures and appropriate use of public funds.Budgeting is a vital tool for the school districts. It ensures the successful operation of the local and state public schools. Nonetheless, effective budgeting paves way for significant mission planning opportunities, achieving the educational goals and objectives, and improving administrative operations. As such, financial loss is considerably evaded. This allows the state to gain confidence of the running of public schools. As a result, government disburses more financial aid to these schools for effective learning (Brimley et al, 2008). Additionally, it creates a positive image of local schools to the public thereby enhancing beneficial relationships. Therefore, attracts potential stakeholders to donate for the local school funding programs. More technically, a budget is a statement presentation of the total amount of school spending, and the necessary resources required to run the program and an approximation of the revenues that c overs the expenditure. The education system has experimented many organizational budgets that aim at eradicating financial losses. This ensures that the students are well catered for, and child misses the essential education. No leaving trails can be experienced in the future with proper financial budgeting. Leaving trail is deviating from the path of practice (Brimley et al, 2008). The incidences of fund misuse are substantially minimized when a thorough budgeting program is set for the public schools. It provides clear, authentic education system responsibilities that help achieve high standards of education. The local schools often take the basic objective budgeting systems alongside the program budgeting systems that zero in to the required school objectives. These programs narrow down the possibility reports of child education fund misuse at the local level. The activities are particularly done with the aim of linking the budget system to school goals and objectives but simulta neously devolving a budgeting system at the local education level (Brimley et al, 2008). Budgeting at the school level helps track costs and school spending to ensure accountability and responsible spending. Budgeting performs crucial functions for most of the district schools. The budgeting system at the school level organizes public spending along the basic functions and proper management of the system. This includes student care and support, student’s transportation to school, administration functions but not limited to school operation, staff and nonstaff support (Brimley et al, 2

The Global Significance of the Middle East Essay

The Global Significance of the Middle East - Essay Example The global significance of the Middle East in a broader sense is defined by religious, economic, and political factors. This religion has enormously contributed in past global civilizations. Its economic hub has benefited uncountable nations through the resources held in this region. Most importantly, the emergence and spread of Islam, and the rise of terrorism threats have placed Middle East at a critical global focus. A notable example here is the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the U.S2. Essentially, the political organization of the region has continued to inform the region’s global influence. The realized global significance of the Middle East is based on its strategic location, resources held, and its relations with the rest of the world. The region is rich in oil and natural gas, resources that drive a great deal of people’s lives globally. Its location also stands in a path that offers global connectivity through transport. Most importantly, linking of a number of countries in Middle East with terrorist activities has made the region significant to consider. Religious and political scrutiny of the region has attracted global attention. Middle East’s global significance has strained its ties and relations with some countries, while streamlining those of its allies. This has resulted in variant views and perspectives regarding this region. Proof of terrorism emanating from the region could justify such strained relations. However, global interdependence holds the significance of Middle East as a positive

My Education Process Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

My Education Process - Essay Example My education process has illuminated the fact that education can change an individual. The skills and knowledge acquired empowers a person and can acquire a job in his area of study and thus earn a living. Moreover, interaction with many individuals who share different perspectives earns one different attitude that affects one's way of thinking and executing issues. I have been able to be more tolerant of other people’s values and beliefs thanks to education. I have been able to live beyond the values indoctrinated in me by my family background.Education is a process that comes with many experiences. I have witnessed many events and deeds that have turned as of public interest.My interaction with teachers has always come with issues that go beyond the classroom. Having the documentary Capturing the Friedmans into account, one would realize that both teachers and learners are vulnerable to experiences that would change their lives forever. In this particular context, we learn t hat some learners go through sexual abuse, a crime that Arnold Friedman is accused of committing(Jareck, 2003). While teaching computer lessons, this teacher takes advantage of the learners and records some child pornography as alleged. The imprisonment of the Friedmans sheds some light on the many elements that are characterized by the education process. One’s education process is a life commitment that is characterized by knowledge, skills, new attitudes, beliefs, values, and habits that define his personality.

The Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade - Research Paper Example The trans-Atlantic slave trade has normally been considered only regarding the adults. However, now children’s experiences are also being counted. According to an estimate, children made up one-quarter of the African slaves made to migrate to America. In spite of this big number there is indeed a lack of sources and apparently, no importance is given to what the children experienced, leaving their voices unheard. Enslavement Children were very unwilling to participate in the slave trade and in spite of their age they saw themselves captured and in imprisonment after the war. The women, children and the older people became particularly vulnerable after their men were killed during the war; the ones who were spared death were then ransomed or even sold as slaves. After military expeditions, there were commercial caravans that actually brought textiles and imported goods and traded the slaves with those. Another way of acquiring slaves, particularly children, was through kidnappi ng and this method was more common in certain regions in West Africa. The kidnapping was done when the kids were away from their parents or guardians, maybe simply playing outside, working in fields or taking a calm walk. This was not the only way, however, and the traders even bought children from their families who were more than willing to â€Å"sell† them for money since they were desperate for money and food. Still, others were pawned or bargained for by their parents or used to repay debts or given to be acquitted of any crime they or their family members might have committed. Weak children were also sometimes sold and so were the ones whom their parents thought brought them ill luck. The upcoming events after the capture were a nightmare for the slaves. The traders sold off some children to be sent for the coast while others were sold many times. Several of these kids remained within Africa only and became slaves to whoever bought them. Many others could not survive th e sea route. The ones who were able to reach the coast alive were taken to a factory or post where merchants bought them and kept them inside prisons with the other slaves. These children were then completely stripped and their bodies were rubbed with palm oil. Many times their heads were also shaven. After the merchants had bought their slaves they â€Å"branded† them in order to make sure that their â€Å"property† does not get mixed up with someone else’s and they are able to distinctly make out which their cargo is. The brand was normally a symbol on their chest or back. The Middle Passage According to the slave traders the individuals less than 4’4’’ in height were considered to be children and these children were permitted to stay on the deck with the women. These deck people were, on rare occasions, given certain favors such as giving them old clothes, teaching them how to play certain games or even how to sail. Some children, however , did not play or eat while others preferred to stay with the women and cry all night. If a child was taller than the specified height he was automatically kept with the adults and there they were treated like an adult too. The conditions there were worse and there was no concept of hygiene. If they cried or did not eat or sleep they were punished harshly.  

My Education Process Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

My Education Process - Essay Example My education process has illuminated the fact that education can change an individual. The skills and knowledge acquired empowers a person and can acquire a job in his area of study and thus earn a living. Moreover, interaction with many individuals who share different perspectives earns one different attitude that affects one's way of thinking and executing issues. I have been able to be more tolerant of other people’s values and beliefs thanks to education. I have been able to live beyond the values indoctrinated in me by my family background.Education is a process that comes with many experiences. I have witnessed many events and deeds that have turned as of public interest.My interaction with teachers has always come with issues that go beyond the classroom. Having the documentary Capturing the Friedmans into account, one would realize that both teachers and learners are vulnerable to experiences that would change their lives forever. In this particular context, we learn t hat some learners go through sexual abuse, a crime that Arnold Friedman is accused of committing(Jareck, 2003). While teaching computer lessons, this teacher takes advantage of the learners and records some child pornography as alleged. The imprisonment of the Friedmans sheds some light on the many elements that are characterized by the education process. One’s education process is a life commitment that is characterized by knowledge, skills, new attitudes, beliefs, values, and habits that define his personality.

Goals Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Goals - Essay Example I also aspire to become a successful individual by earning due recognition as an expert in the field in which I'm passionate. And in order to prepare myself for a successful career ahead I have set for myself, some goals which I intend to achieve in due course. 1. Lose 15 pounds of Weight: Today's life is full of activity, tense moments, stressful working, competitive environment etc. which calls for a physique fit enough to take long hours of working together with a host of other activities. I have the fortune of growing in a jolly good environment which helped me gaining a few pounds more. Though I am fit enough to work for hours together, but I sincerely feel that I need to control my body weight so that in the years ahead the backbone doesn't have to bear excessive load. I plan to lose about 15 pounds of my body weight within the next one year, which will help me in finding the professional look. In the corporate world, physical appearance also matters, but for a young female it becomes an added advantage if she could maintain the balancing act. I am aware that even to lose the weight I need to consult dieticians and experts, so that I could do it in a manner acceptable to my body and I could sustain the slim and trim look for a long p eriod ahead. 2. To be 'Well Read' and Read Critically: Internet and IT are the buzzwords today.

Managing Change in Complex Environment Essay Example for Free

Managing Change in Complex Environment Essay History and Background Introduction The United States Postal Service (USPS) is an independent government organization that generates income through mail services. It is currently the second largest civilian employer in the United States. Its primary task is to deliver mail around the country, at a standard price, regardless of geographic location. Over the last two centuries, the USPS has evolved into an efficient organization that financially sustains itself through its delivery operations. With a monopoly on the delivery of non-urgent mail, the USPS provides delivery service of about 40 percent of the worlds mail, or approximately 200 billion pieces of mail annually. Starting in the 1990s, the USPS faced increased competition from rival package delivery and courier services, as well as the Internet. Presently the USPS is facing a financial collapse. The USPS needs to undergo an essential and systematic change in order to maintain its significance in the 21st century. History/Background On July 26, 1775, members of the Second Continental Congress appointed a Postmaster General giving birth to the Postal Department of the United States. The mission of the U.S. Postal Department was much the same as today, process and deliver first class and non-urgent mail to individuals and businesses within the United States. Congress passed various laws that grant the post office a â€Å"statutory monopoly† on non-urgent First Class Mail and the exclusive right to put mail in private mailboxes. Although these laws grant the USPS a market advantaged they also restrict its ability to compete with rival package delivery and courier services, as well as the technological innovations. How it got started The Post Office Department has origins in America dating back to the 17th century, when there was a need for mail between colonial settlements and intercontinental exchange of information with England. In 1775, the Continental Congress named Benjamin Franklin as the first postmaster general and chairman of a committee empowered to make recommendations for the establishment of a postal service. On September 22, 1789 the post office became a new government branch of the United States. At this time there were 75 post offices and approximately 2,000 miles of post roads. The USPS was critical to national welfare and pivotal in facilitating communications for military, congressional representation and newspapers. From the very beginning, the USPS financed operations from revenue it earned and Congress gave it a monopoly to be the only courier service to deliver mail. Key points in evolution The main focus and the efforts of postal officials from the foundation of the Post Office to the present day have been finding the best methods of transporting information and directing mail. For example, in 1791 George Washington stated that that the importance of the postal routes had increased because the country wanted to distribute knowledge of governmental laws. Also, between 1791 and 1861, the U.S increased from 3.9 million to 31.4 million square miles and postal roads grew from 1,875 to 240,595 miles. The Board of Governors of the USPS sets policy, procedure, and postal rates for services rendered. Of the eleven members of the Board, nine are appointed by the President and confirmed by the US Senate. The nine appointed members then select the Postmaster General, who serves as the boards tenth member, and who oversees the day to day activities of the service as Chief Executive Officer. The ten-member board then nominates a Deputy Postmaster General, who acts as Chief Operating Officer, to the eleventh and last remaining open seat. The USPS is often mistaken as a government organization but it is legally defined as an independent establishment of the executive branch of the Government of the United States. Environmental context The external environment elements that significantly influence the USPS are the United States political system, workforce unions, changing technology and market forces. United States Political System In 1970 the U.S. Postal Department evolved into the USPS through the implementation of the Postal Reorganization act. This act required the USPS to be a â€Å"self-sufficient organization within the U.S. Government†. It also added an additional regulatory body into its chain of command, the Postal Regulatory Commission (PRC), but did not make any modification to the Postal Department’s Board of Directors or regulatory congressional statutes. The USPS Board of directors is charged with directing the USPS through the control of expenditures, reviewing practices, long term planning and setting policies and service standards. The PRC has 5 commissioners, appointed through the executive branch and confirmed by the Senate, who have the authority to reject, modify and approve any USPS initiated congressional recommendations. Since congress alone retains the authority to change USPS’ rates, service frequency and employee benefits, any market related changes from the Board of directors is routed through the PRC and congress for consideration. Pressure from Unions There are 4 unions representing around 90% of the USPS workforce: National Association of Letter Carriers, American Postal Workers, National Rural Letters Carriers Association and National Postal Mail Handlers Union. These organizations have successfully contracted collective bargaining agreements for its members for compensation and benefits that have come to exceed the USPS’ ability to maintain with its current revenues. These labor unions are very influential in weighing in on most of the decisions that affect the well-being of the USPS labor force. Presently USPS employees enjoy 79% coverage of their health care costs; the most of any federal agency. Strategic challenge Over the years the USPS has transformed its operating model and is now set up and mandated to operate like a business entity generating its revenue through the sale of postal products and services. The largest issue with the current business model of the postal service is its lack of flexibility essential for a business in a dynamic market. Specifically the USPS has not been able to organizationally adjust to a large decrease in the demand for first class mail service has resulted in decreasing net revenue in recent years. Congressional Influence The USPS congressional charter came with both benefits and operating constraints. Among the constraints the USPS is obligated to provide a uniform price for its services regardless of the geographic location and dispersion of its customer base. The USPS is obligated to deliver six days a week to every mailing address regardless of its mail volume. Additionally the USPS is required to provide free mailing service to the blind and facilitate voting for overseas military personnel. A significant amount of the USPS’ operating costs comes from its requirement to pre-fund retiree health benefits (RHB) for future retirees. Key Issues The USPS is suffering from the combined effects of declining mail volume from new technology and increasing labor costs resulting in a loss of net revenue. These declines are projected to extend into the future. The addition of a significant number of new addresses in the United States each year increases the USPS’ operating costs although volume is decreasing. Business Model While the USPS has enjoyed the benefits of the monopoly on first class letter mail services that congress has bestowed, it has a stagnant business model that prevents the USPS from being able to adapt in the face of technological innovation and other market forces that affect its bottom line annually. The major source of revenue for the post office is the postage it charges for first class and non-standard mail. The advance of modern information systems such as email, smartphones, online banking, and other digital communications decreased the demand for traditional mail services. Compounding this issue is the basic economic principle of supply and demand. New technologies offer cheaper substitutes for the services that the post office provides. Stakeholders Postal Workers – The USPS employs more than 500,000 employees making it second only to Wal-Mart as the nation’s largest civilian employer. While every employee is represented by a labor union, employees are legally restricted from striking. Labor Unions The USPS unions are old, influential and politically connected. Collectively, these unions continually fight for increased employee pay, living allowances and health care benefits. Postal Regulation Commission (PRC) The PRC serves as the middleman between the USPS board of governors and congress. The PRC can reject or modify requests before they reach congress for final approval. Congress Members of Congress exercise control over many aspects of the USPS operations including approving the markets for which it competes as well as representing the interests of its constituents whenever the USPS requests changes to its business model. Public Consumer One of the mandates of the post office is to provide mail service of all addresses. The number of addresses has increased by nearly 18 million nationwide in the past decade and continues to climb as the country recovers from the past recession. A vast majority of the consumers are congressional constituents to whom member of congress are responsible. Competitors The USPS monopolizes, via congressional mandates, the delivery of first class mail, non-urgent mail and small packages. As such it faces very little direct competition from other businesses. However, the USPS has seen significant decreases in its mail volume over the years. The decreased volume of mail is directly related to the global acceptance of technology and use of digital communications which displaced traditional USPS services. Market Forces The USPS full time workers cost the USPS 80% of its revenue. Although they still enjoy a monopoly on first class mail, they are in direct competition with smaller, more efficient, companies who deliver large packages and urgent letters. Strategies Used What it Does Now The USPS has improved its efficiency and effectiveness through both technology and reorganization. The USPS made significant investments in the late 1990’s in fuel efficient vehicles and new facilities as well as a $15 million advertising campaign to improve its image as a progressive and modern organization. A decade ago it took 70 employees one hour to sort 35,000 letters. Today in an hour, only two employees process an identical volume of mail. Though the number of addresses in the nation has increased by nearly 18 million in the past decade, the number of employees who handle the increased delivery load has decreased by more than 200,000 (Potter 2010a). It launched delivery confirmation service and priority mail in order to compete with competitors. The USPS now operates more than 31,000 post offices and the largest vehicle fleet in the world, with an estimated 218,684 vehicles. What They Want to Do Concerned with increasing costs and decreasing revenues, the USPS petitioned for the following changes: * Stop Retiree Health Benefits prefunding – in 2011 the prefunding amount exceeded net operating losses. * Retirement System Overpayment – In 2010 Government Accountability Office disputed overpayment freezing approximately $6.9 billion. * Delivery Frequency – Shifting from six to five days weekly delivery would save approximately $3 billion annually. This measure is supported by 75% of USPS consumer base. * Change prices – Mandates currently cap the USPS ability to adjust to market conditions dynamically. * Restructure labor costs – Current collective bargaining decision do not consider the USPS financial health yet mandate compensation and benefits to be paid at levels comparable with private sector organizations with the burden falling on the taxpayers. * Consolidate infrastructure – A proposal in 2009 to close 3,000 postal outlets to reduce excess capacity yielded only a closure of 157 following consumer complaints and congressional intervention. Part II Diagnosis Lewis (2011) states that the USPS’ problems are a result of a restrictive business model and its inflexibility to operate in a dynamic market place. As stated earlier, the USPS response to this problem is a direct plan to cut expenses and increase revenues to overcome their mounting deficit. Although this plan does address the USPS’ immediate insolvency concerns, it fails to address their underlying issues. Through the use of Senge’s system approach and the McCaskey’s Organizational Design model, this paper will expose USPS’ root problems. Strategic Issues/Strategies/Goals-Objectives The USPS’ strategic issues are a loss of revenue due to declining mail volume, extensive costs due to a bloated and expensive unionized-workforce and the use of an outdated-legislatively constrained business plan. Their proposed strategy to mitigate these issues centers on cutting their expenses, consolidating infrastructure, renegotiating labor cost/employee benefits and increasing rates. In addition, the USPS intends to evolve their business plan to incorporate technological innovations. This strategy aligns with their long term goal of providing a â€Å"trustworthy, dependable, reliable and secure means to communicate on a national level† (Lewis, 2011), by implementing a long term sustainable business model that promotes flexibility and economic growth in a dynamic market. Environment In FY11 the USPS’ total revenues were $65 Billion dollars while their total expenses were $75 Billion dollars. Under congressional law the USPS is required to be a â€Å"self-sufficient government agency†. Under this direction the USPS is obligated to cover its costs without government assistance. The USPS does this by generating revenues from a monopoly market while operating more like a private business then a government agency. Its government backed monopoly advantage comes with extensive congressional restrictions on rates, delivery procedures and labor benefits. The USPS’ monopoly restricts the direct competition in the delivery of first class mail, use of specific delivery routes and personal mailboxes. It does not protect the delivery of urgent mail and large packages. FedEx and UPS are direct competitors in this market and have a competitive advantage due to their efficiencies, technological innovations and ability adapt to market needs. Key Success Factors The USPS’ key to success is their ability to meet their customer’s needs, generate enough revenue to cover their costs , maintain the flexibility to adjust in a dynamic market and optimize a scalable infrastructure that facilitates the efficient and economic delivery of their services. Task Requirements There are multiple ways that mail is accepted into the delivery process. For the purpose of observing the USPS organizational structure, the simple method of customers placing the mail in their residential, or post office, curbside mailbox will be examined. In either case this process begins and ends with the customer sending or receiving mail at a mailbox. The mail item is received by the postal carrier, and then consolidated at the local post office, where it is inspected manually or automatically checked for correct postage. It is then routed to a hub for delivery to a particular region in the country. The mail is then sent to a final processing plant where it is sorted for the specific route for delivery. Finally the mail is sent to the distant end post office for delivery to the end customer. The mail is moved in a linear manner between each node in the process chain. Along the interdependency continuum of the USPS’ functional units we observed a sequential relationship. Throughout the process each entity produces an output that is a necessary input for the next link in the chain. The USPS’ key to success in this linear process is the secure delivery of mail for a nominal fee. For their part, the workers must be honest and ensure mail is properly safeguarded as it makes its way through each step in the chain. The workers only have to be ‘good enough’ for their specific task in the process. This means that there is very little incentive for them to innovate or make improvements to the process from within. Any efficiencies gained, in any one link in the process, are not readily propagated throughout because of the sequential nature of the process. Because of the nature of change within the organization, and the employee compensation structure, their only incentive is to maintain the status quo. This analysis is represented in the interdependency/coordination mechanism model below. The analysis shows a misalignment between the levels of interdependence between the functional units and the coordination mechanism used. The USPS coordinates through rules and regulations. Using the systems approach of focusing on successes rather than the failures of the organization, we compared the USPS current coordination level to its closest successful competitor, FEDEX. As depicted FEDEX has a coordination level that aligns with it level of interdependency. The preferred and optimal approach is to align the organization’s level of interdependency horizontally with the coordination mechanism. The USPS needs a higher coordination mechanism to match the current level of interdependence in order to facilitate efficiencies in the system. Process/ Systems Snowfall and showers may not be able to stop postal carriers from their appointed delivery routes, but their financial problems may halt at least 50% of all postal offices. The U.S. Postal Service, weakened by a public turning to digital communications, is down 22 percent in volume from just five years ago, a decline which is expected to continue, driven in part by rigid competition from carriers such as FedEx and UPS. The Postmaster General has responded with a list of cost-cutting proposals, such as eliminating Saturday delivery and closing up to 3,700 local post offices which would be replaced with automated centers operating out of local businesses. The Postmaster General has also proposed laying off as many as 120,000 workers, and pulling workers out of more costly federal pension plans. Pre-funding retiree benefits has cost the Postal Service $21 billion in the last three years. The underlying issue is that all those moves cannot be made without congressional approval. In order to make these immediate and dramatic changes, the Postal Service would require access to its own funds as well as the authority to act as its own corporation. The transition from a government ran entity to a privatized organization requires Congress to give the USPS flexibility to take action and make changes without all the bureaucracy. The below modified Senge Model (Limit to Growth) demonstrates how the USPS is constrained from making changes. In short, the USPS is limited by congress to making quick and reactive changes that focus on the problem rather than the underlying issue. Creating change and making it work are all resisted by a condition called the â€Å"Status Quo† and the USPS is no exception. USPS employees feel protected under the current unionized culture. They feel threatened by the prospect of losing benefits and are unwilling to pay the high personal price necessary for change. We have demonstrated that this change is necessary for the long term health of the organization. The real question is, â€Å"does the current status quo fit the new change requirements?† An organization in dire need to make radical adjustments to become current cannot be fixed with antiquated congressional imposed constraints. PART III Change Management Plan The USPS acknowledges its need to cut costs and increase revenue. It believes this will fix the problems. USPS starts to address this by taking reactionary measures, but fails to take the necessary steps to address the root issue. We argue that there is a more fundamental problem within the USPS organization which requires a systems approach to identify and solve. Senge says â€Å"it is impossible to change the system from inside the system.† By â€Å"complicating up† the USPS management structure we identify the core problem and faults in its system. Due to the short time needed to enact this change we propose a top down approach that pushes change while mitigating assumed employee resistance such an approach will generate. Our plan uses the Lewin and Kotter models to shape the USPS organizational transition. Through the Lewin model we identify a three phase approach to address changes that simultaneously focuses on employee and organizational issues. Throughout each p hase an information plan is propagated to employees to facilitate transition to the next phase. Conclusion The bottom line is that the USPS current costs of doing business outweigh its current methods of productivity. Without changing the strategic management model, the USPS will continue to lose revenue and be unable to react effectively to market demands. Its proposed cost cutting solutions only scratches the surface of the underlying problem of restrictions on organizational management and coordination. Our uses validated organizational change models. We justify our plan which uses the Lewin model and shows a close association to Kotter’s organizational change model. Our plan leads the USPS to long term success, maintains its relevance in today’s market and allows it to make appropriate changes through periodic reevaluations. References Lewis, T., Montgomery C., Shuler, J. , (2011), The US Postal Service , Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, CA. Senge, P., (1990), The Fifth Discipline, Doubleday Publishing, New York 15May 2012: http://about.usps.com/news/national-releases/2011/pr11_124.htm 15 May 2012: http://www.cato.org/pubs/journal/cj31n1/cj31n1-9.pdf 19 May 2012: http://www.referenceforbusiness.com/industries/Transportation-Communications-Utilities/United-States-Postal-Service.html

Looking At How Children Are Affected By Alcohol Social Work Essay

Looking At How Children Are Affected By Alcohol Social Work Essay The aim of this project is to consider literature and research in Northern Ireland, the UK and worldwide surrounding the relationship between alcohol problems and parenting capacity. Alongside this I wish to map existing service provision for children who are parented by a caregiver who has an alcohol problem and draw on recommendations made by the research evidence. I will highlight relevant Policy and Legislation in relation to reducing risk to children via the Hidden Harm Government report. The implications of this report will be discussed in relation to service provision and the Northern Ireland response. Substance misuse has a clear and direct impact on those connected to the misuse.. the biggest indirect impact is often felt by the children or young people (HHAP, DHSSPSNI, 2008: 2). Nevertheless Kearney et al (2000) in Hayden (2004) point out that the issue is underestimated and insufficiently recognised in social work caseloads. Approximately 250,000 350,000 UK children have a parent with an alcohol problem (Alcohol Concern, 2000). Parental alcohol misuse is associated with a greater occurrence of emotional and behavioural problems throughout childhood and into adulthood (Kroll and Taylor, 2003). According to evidence from Tunnard (2002) social work caseloads have seen parental alcohol problems feature significantly for some time, with around a quarter to a third of allocated cases being families with parental substance misuse (Forrester and Harwin, 2008). Parental functioning may be affected either whilst the parent is intoxicated, hung over or pre-occupied with sourcing their next drink, making them physically and/or emotionally unavailable to the child (Beckett, 2007). At the acute end of the spectrum, substance misuse is over-represented in cases of severe abuse and child death (Reder and Duncan, 1999, in Forrester Harwin, 2006). To analyse the impact parental drinking problems have on children I will explore literature and research from both international and UK perspectives. However it should be noted that methodological weaknesses were evident in some of the studies. For example, there was less focus on womens drinking patterns and it was difficult to comment on pre-schoolers as children were collectively grouped together. Tunnard (2002) notes how there are more UK studies regarding drug than alcohol problems. Scaife (2008) notes how many studies referred to substance misuse rather than drug or alcohol, making it difficult to separate the two and how research ignored fathers at times, focusing gender specifically on mothers. Many studies were also carried out on small numbers of families who had volunteered to participate, this therefore does not account for involuntary service users or those who have not yet recognised their drinking to be problematic. A single definition of alcohol problem is unclear in many studies making comparison between them problematic. Nevertheless, what is clear from the literature is that parenting coupled with an alcohol problem can result in damaging outcomes for children in terms of emotional development and behaviour (Kroll and Taylor, 2003). Misuse of alcohol by parents places children at increased risk of serious harm. It does not follow that such harm is inevitable (Forrester Harwin, 2008: 1520). What I therefore want to avoid suggesting in this project is that misusing alcohol does not automatically infer poor parenting. To do so would serve to reinforce the oppression faced by those with alcohol problems and further heighten barriers to engagement with addiction services. Prevalence of the problem Research by DHSSPS (2008) uncovered that in Northern Ireland 72% of adults drink alcohol, 62% of which drink at least once weekly. 8% of drinkers consume alcohol daily or almost daily, however only 4% identify themselves as heavy drinkers. Local information is limited but it is estimated that one in eleven children in the UK are living with someone who has an alcohol problem and as the result of parental substance misuse approximately 70% of young people are looked after and 40% are on the child protection register and (HHAP, DHSSPSNI, 2008). Brisby et al (1997) propose that approximately 35,000 children in Northern Ireland are living with a parent who is a problematic drinker, with 800,000 in Wales and England and 85,000 children in Scotland. Throughout the United Kingdom, alcohol is readily available and is a socially accepted pastime in peoples lives. Alcohol Concern (2009) reports that due to most adult problem drinkers being part of a wider family the likelihood of this negatively impinging on children is excessive as it is estimated that 1.3 million children are affected. Dore et al (1995) in Hayden (2004) estimate that between fifty to eighty percent of parents known to social services in the USA experience problems with substance misuse. However, it should be noted that differences exist in the treatment of addiction in the UK and USA as the former is focused on Harm reduction social models with the latter being exceptionally disease oriented (Scaife, 2008). This literature review aims to: Investigate what bearing a parental drink problem has on children. Consider the effects on childrens overall development, by studying literature from a sociological and psychological perspective. Examine literature from Northern Ireland, the UK and international sources to establish the influence a parental drink problem can have on a childs well being. Analyse the Government response to families of problematic drinkers by inspecting Northern Ireland and UK policy. Summarise services provided to meet the needs of problem drinkers, identify gaps in current practice and make evidence based proposals for meeting such need. Tunnard (2002) establishes that throughout research there is a clear message that parental problematic drinking is capable of resulting in behavioural, developmental and emotional effects on children. Being placed in an addictions team last year ignited my interest in how alcohol impacts on the entire family and during my final placement learning opportunity in family and child cares Gateway service I found parental problematic drinking to be commonplace amongst new referrals. This, coupled with previous personal experience provided me with a desire to gain a full understanding of the bearing this has on children. I anticipate that this piece of work will enhance my insight in the area and better prepare me for pursuing a Family and Child Care social work role. Alcohol problem in context Various terms are utilised in relation to the concept alcohol problem which causes concern due to the creation of overlap. Tunnard (2002) observes that many studies combine alcohol and drug misuse into the broad term substance misuse. However what does explain the issue well is Tunnards, (2002:8) definition: consumption of alcoholic drink that warrants attention because it seriously and repeatedly affects the drinkers behaviour. Recommended daily quantity guidelines have little bearing as it is not quantity which leads to the repeated affect on behaviour. The American Psychiatric Association utilises the definition of: the maladaptive pattern of use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress characterised by the display at anytime during a one year period of one or more of a specified set of symptoms (Tunnard, 2002:8). Laybourn (1996) studied parental drinking patterns and assessed the effects on the children, finding opportunistic drinking and binge drinking to be the most challenging to families; these most affect routines and parental availability (Tunnard, 2002). Cultural Historical perspectives Bancroft (2007) argues that to address alcohol problems effectively through practice and policy we first need to consider historical and cultural dynamics. Alcohol, which was referred to in biblical times and before, has undoubtedly been a feature of society since the beginning of time (Room et al, 2005a). It is evident that all societies make use of intoxicating substances, with alcohol being used as a social activity (SIRC, 2000). Norwegian research by Skog, (2006) points to the fact that alcohol has been a feature in most cultures since time began despite its consumption varying over the years due to periods of prohibition through the 19th and early 20th centuries. Indeed, the cornerstone of civilisation- agriculture was thought to be utilised in order to harvest grain for the production of beer as much as for bread (SIRC, 2000). The pervasiveness of problematic drinking is not thought to be directly related to consumption. One only has to enter a public house in Northern Ireland on a Friday or Saturday night to observe countless people using alcohol to socialise and drink well above the recommended levels when doing so. The difference being that the majority of these people can control over their intake and can choose to stop in the morning. Marmot (2004) points out that there has been a 50% rise in alcohol consumption over the past 50 years, with approximately 25% of the British population drinking more than recommended levels. It is evident that there has been a rise in the trend to consume alcohol, with problems in connection to drinking including self-harm, suicide, early mortality, homelessness, crime and mental health problems. The National Health Service information centre (2009) reported that the complete household spending on alcohol rose by 86% from 1992 to 2007. Following this period alcohol was 7 5% more affordable than in the eighties, highlighting the trend of it being increasingly affordable and prevalent. Heath (1998) purports that in countries similar to Ireland where there is a high incidence of people experiencing social and psychiatric problems the intake of alcohol is relatively low. However when compared to Italy or France where alcohol use alcohol is high, social and psychiatric problems are less prevalent. Heath (1998) also points to cross-cultural research which implies that behaviours demonstrated as a consequence of alcohol consumption are shaped by cultural and social aspects rather than the chemical effects of alcohol (SIRC, 2000). Difficulties problem drinkers encounter are therefore not necessarily as a result of the alcohol they consume, but cultural factors relating to societal norms, beliefs, and attitudes towards drinking. In every culture, whilst drinking rules are set in place by Government they remain surrounded by self-imposed norms and regulations regarding who may drink what, when and how (SIRC, 2000). Furthermore alcohol may be used as a sign of status; consi der the idea of vineyards, fine wines and champagne for example. Placing some of the blame for alcohol-related behaviours onto society raises questions about how to tackle the issue effectively. This may mean challenging beliefs about the effects of drinking which would not hold favourably with social work values of respect, empowerment or anti-oppressive practice. Regardless of the apparent correlation between parental substance misuse and child care anxieties, British research on the issue remains extremely limited (Tunnard 2002). Contrastingly, American research on the same topic has been plentiful and is thought to be explained by the rise in the use of Cocaine in the United States throughout the 80s. In many states there was a doubling of children being taken into care between 84 and 89 as a consequence of parental substance misuse (Freundlich, 2000, in Forrester Harwin, 2006). However, it is difficult to apply American conclusions to Britain, as families live in different social circumstances and in varying degrees of poverty. As previously alluded to Americas approach to addiction is disease orientated, largely ignoring external causal factors, in contrast to Britains social model whereby an individuals social context is taken into consideration. Psychological Sociological viewpoints Velleman Templeton (2002) estimate around 8 million families live with the effects of a family drink problem, however Kroll (2004) points out that the needs of children of alcoholics are often invisible. Alcohol presents two faces to the family. One face that is of a beneficial and healthful beverage that fosters warmth and intimacy. The other face is that of a potentially hazardous potion that jeopardises ones family through conflict, violence and deprivation (Leonard Eiden, 2007: 286). Moos (2006) purports that strong attachment to a substance misusing parent may increase the possibility of the behaviour being modelled. Kelley et al (2004) studied American college age men and women and found that those who had alcoholic parents were increasingly likely to have an anxious/avoidant or defensive attachment in later life, additionally having an unavailable parent was though to create repetition of poor relationships in adulthood. Bancroft et al (2004) found that children had an awareness of their familys drinking problem, despite parents believing their children were not aware of their alcohol use. They established that parents felt they were still caring for their children as their material needs such as food and clothing were met, whilst most parents cared about their children they were not caring for them. A Danish study by Christensen (1997) in some ways mirrored Bancrofts in relation to parents thinking their children did not have knowledge of their problem. The children were aware and at times felt in some way responsible; they were unable to identify a support network for themselves and usually did not tell although many wished for a break or some form of respite. Parents went to great lengths to ensure their childs physical needs were met yet failed to see the emotional neglect caused by their drinking. Moe et al (2007) studied American children aged 7 to 13 who attended a programme for children of pr oblem drinkers. They found that children benefited from knowing the truth about their parents problem and addiction in general as this assisted them in feeling less to blame. The young people also related abstinence to being a positive factor in having a good life. A Scottish study (Laybourn et al, 1996) which looked at the perspectives of 20 children who were parented by a problem drinker further confirmed how aware children are of their parents drinking. Children expressed their general sadness, worry and anxiety about their parents alcohol problem and talked of how they witnessed outbursts of drunken violence. Alcohol is a disinhibitor, which can reduce an individuals ability to control violent impulses (Beckett, 2007: 126). Some young people adopted the role of care giver for the parent or for siblings and at times acted as an arbitrator or confidant and they spoke of either being late for school on a regular basis or not attending at all. A number of these children believed they would benefit from meeting other young people in similar circumstances (Laybourn et al, 1996). Velleman (2002) recognises how children may experience psychological and behavioural problems alongside physical effects. Family roles and routines are often disrupted su ch as school attendance, communication, special occasions and meal times. The young person may become the carer, protector or mediator within the family (Tunnard, 2002) and have difficulties in relation to trust. It is common for children to have to grow up too soon and effectively miss out or have unresolved developmental stages due to caring for themselves and siblings whilst parents are unavailable (Kroll Taylor, 1998). Lynskey et al (1994) in a New Zealand study found conclusive evidence suggesting adolescents with problem drinking parents were at increased likelihood of experiencing mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, behaviour problems and are at increased risk of going on to misuse substances themselves. The study pointed to over fifty percent of the participants being affected in one or more of these ways. Further New Zealand research by Connolly et al (1993) found that nine year olds whose parents are problem drinkers displayed greater behavioural problems in school in comparison to their peers and 13 these behaviours manifested themselves at home rather than school. Taylor et als (2008) UK study found that issues of guilt and low self-esteem may result in parents feeling undeserving of treatment as they internalise the negative opinions of others. This in turn has potential to create a negative effect on the welfare of their child(ren) as when parents disengage they may be decreasing the help their child receives. Social learning theory proposes how a parents problematic drinking may affect their child: Substance use originates in the substance-specific attitudes and behaviours of the adults and peers who serve as an individuals role models Moos (2006:183). In addition, Parental alcohol use predicts youngsters beliefs in the positive effects of alcohol, which is associated with earlier initiation of alcohol use and subsequent alcohol misuse Moos (2006:185). Vellemen Orford (1999) point out that the problems children face at home may be as a result of disharmony and family conflict rather than the parental drinking problem per-se. Children can feel responsible for this discord and powerless in avoiding and controlling the situation (Kroll, 2004). As social workers we need to be aware of how issues such as domestic violence and financial problems may be interconnected with an alcohol problem. Between 2004 and 2005 3,442 children called Childline regarding a family alcohol problem (Childline, 2006), 44% of whom primarily cited physical abuse as a result of their parents drinking. Furthermore, children tended to speak about the effect of the alcohol problem such as domestic violence or physical abuse before mentioning alcohol. Childline also reported that many callers were talking about caring for their younger siblings, often missing school to do so. Finances were regularly an issue for these children, particularly as there was not always enough money left over to buy food. They described feelings of confusion, worry and of embarrassment of their parent, evidently focusing on the adults feelings rather than their own. Such feelings have the potential to create social isolation for children as they may fear bringing a friend over to play. Alcohol misuse may be coterminous with, or mask, other deficits in parenting, or other relationship problems. Unless tackled, relapse is likely, even if the programme is initially successful (Sheldon McDonald, 2009: 220). Forrester Harwin (2006) noted the strong relationship between substance misuse and domestic violence with 64% of adults who experience such abuse having a family member who has a problem with alcohol. Velleman Orford (1999) established that children living with parental alcohol misuse are likely to find themselves siding with one parent or another by keeping secrets and are five times more likely than their peers to be pulled into parental disagreements. Although no systematic database exists evidence suggests that children are more likely to live with mothers who have problems drinking. Children reported that the feelings of fear and embarrassment were more evident when the parent was female in comparison to the parent being male (Scaife, 2008). The traditional role of a mother is perceived by society as a nurturing care-giver. As a result many children find it hard to accept the shame and embarrassment of their mother having an alcohol problem and can feel let down as a result (Bancroft et al, 2004). In addition, Bancrofts Scottish study (2004) concludes that children had mixed feelings of pity and anger in relation to their parents. Their voices indicated elements of abuse and neglect, coupled with violence, school disruption, unpredictability, role reversal and parental absence. Many young people were cooking for themselves and caring for siblings on a regular basis. Bancroft et al (2004) found that this group of children found Y oung Carers Groups a source of support. Taylor et al (2008) also observed children taking on parenting roles in their UK study. Forrester Harwins (2008) study drew the conclusion that children who were not removed from the family home had poorer outcomes (39%) compared to those who were removed (56%). They also found that girls tended to be more resilient than boys who had a tendency to internalise problems. Children of alcoholics can develop coping strategies and resiliency (Fraser et al, 2008) and go on to look forward to a bright future: while parental drug/alcohol use can fracture parent-child relationships, the damage need not be permanent if parents can resolve their substance-use problems (Fraser et al, 2008: 18). Fraser et al found that many children in their UK study saw Social Workers as important people; keeping their word and believing in the children was highly valued. Parents in this study recognised the damage to their children to include withdrawal, poor school attendance, and behavioural problems; they stated how social services need to provide adequate training for staff in recognising the effects of substance misuse. They cited family upbringing, peer influence and/or specific traumas and tragedies in their lives as triggering their drinking problem. A North American study by Tracy Martin (2007) conclude that children are a motivating factor in parents seeking help, with many being supported by their children aged 6 to 11. Forrester Harwin (2008) noted that in studying 100 families, where minor or decreasing levels of alcohol misuse was evident, children remained in the family home and care proceedings began much sooner with drug misuse compared to alcohol misuse. This highlights the somewhat lenient view society and in turn, social services have on alcohol. It is perceived as normal to utilise alcohol for social purposes, indeed Room (2005b) argues that alcohol holds a high status, for example in the UK or USA speaking of a champagne reception elicits thoughts of pro-social behaviour. Policy Legislation The Children Act (2004) and The Children (NI) Order (1995) established concepts of Child in Need and Significant Harm, highlighting a Trusts legal obligation to identify such notions and safeguard a childs welfare through the provision of services to families. However the pertinent deliberation in all family alcohol misuse cases is not to lose sight of the fact that the welfare of the child is paramount. The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) ensures that the paramountcy principle is upheld and affords children the opportunity for their voice to be heard. Since the Children Act was implemented the UK has focused social services input on supporting families. The implications of which are apparent in Supporting the Families (1998), Every Child Matters (DfES, 2003), Every Child Matters: Next Steps (DfES, 2004) and Every Child Matters: Change for Children (DfES, 2004). These Green papers set out a National framework for meeting the needs of children, supporting families, foc using on prevention and minimising risk. Murray Shenker (2009) argue that despite these Every Child Matters papers endeavouring to protect and sustain child welfare, policy still fails to acknowledge the distressing influence on family members. In addition, Murray Shenker further argue that Englands Harm reduction strategy overlooks the need to respond to families affected by problem drinking; instead focusing individually on the drinker. Although being criticised for over-focusing on dugs rather than alcohol, the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs Hidden Harm report (2003) recognises how Children deserve to be helped as individuals in their own right (Hidden Harm, 2003:18). Its key messages include acknowledging that services need to work together, treating the parent will benefit the child and that substance misuse affects children of all ages. It recommends that decreasing harm should be the objective of policy and practice and that prompt identification of affected children should be a priority. In addition it stresses the importance of multi-agency collaboration and joint training and resources. Local government have begun to recognise the need to tackle alcohol problems and have generated a Regional action plan: The New Strategic Direction (NSD, 2006-2011) for alcohol and drugs, the overall aim being to reduce drug and alcohol related harm in Northern Ireland. A particular feature of the New Strategic Direction (NSD) is the identification of two themes. These are: children, young people and families and adults, carers and the general public. DHSSPS (2006, NSD: 1.6.1). A further important objective is to ensure that adult addiction services work in collaboration with childrens services to provide a shared policy agenda to improve the lives of young people living with substance misusing parents or carers. The Northern Ireland report- our children and Young people, our shared responsibilities (2006) saw the inspection and consequent reform of child protection services and implementation of Regional Safeguarding boards. Relevant recommendations further highlighted a need for increased inter-agency strategies responding to alcohol and drug misuse and its impact on children. It points to the need for increased inter-agency training and the importance of engaging and consulting with children and families. The 10year Northern Ireland strategy- Our children and Young People, our pledge (2006) identified 6 outcomes expected for all children, including safety and stability which are important factors to be considered when working with young people affected by alcohol in the family. Service User Perspectives Throughout the research, there were various harrowing quotes from children demonstrating their feelings towards their parents which go some way in summarising what they are going through. For example: My mom always told me, You dont tell anyone about what goes on at home, if you tell anybody you wont be living with me anymore so I never told. My life seems like one big secret. Its hard to trust people now (Murray, 1998: 526). A young girl aged 8 goes on to state: I would love my mum to stop drinking but I know she wont (HHAP, DHSSPSNI, 2008: 4) A mother agrees: There should be more family type services addiction affects everyone in the family and this needs addressing (HHAP, DHSSPSNI 2008: 4) I grew up feeling ashamed, frightened, lost, guilty and lonely; feeling unconfident, unsafe, unlistened to, unprotected, unloved, unlovable; feeling there was no-one there, inside or out. (The words of actress Geraldine James: Guardian extract, McVeigh (2010) Through my placement in Family and Childcares Gateway Service it was evident that alcohol was a feature of many referrals. Two service users I worked with spoke of how they had been affected by a family drinking problem. Ms A was removed from the care of her parents in her early teens as they both had problems with alcohol, resulting in Ms A experiencing neglect. She told me of how poor her home circumstances were and how, looking back, she could not believe how long social services permitted her and her siblings to live there. Nevertheless she spoke very warmly of her mother and how of much of an effect her death had on her. Ms Ms husband had a severe alcohol problem and still does; she divorced him when her youngest children were born but recognises the impact his behaviour had on her older children. Ms M experienced domestic violence when he was drunk which was witnessed by the older children. She states how clearly she can see the difference in her older and younger children due to them not having had their father present in their lives. She talked to me about how he would disappear for days, sometimes weeks, leaving her and the children worrying about his whereabouts. Local and Regional Resources There are a number of services and resources operating throughout the voluntary and statutory sectors in Northern Ireland and the UK which aim to support problem drinkers and their families. In order to better prepare workers, Eastern Board training Taking the Lid off supplies staff with training on examining the effects of addiction on the entire family. Trust Community Addictions Teams also utilise Taking the Lid off booklets to assist problem drinking parents in seeing the problem from the perspective of other family members. Service users may be referred to in-patient treatment at Downshire hospital or Carlisle House, for example. Whilst the focus of these resources is on getting specialised help for the parents, as pointed out in the regional HHAP (DHSSPSNI, 2008), assisting them will in turn help the children. AA meetings and Trust addiction team group work programmes afford parents the opportunity to meet with others in the same circumstances and provide a mechanism for workin g through their issues. The Dunlewey centre offers some support and counselling for children, alongside working with their parents on the Key to Change Programme. A book called Rory has been launched by ASCERT, Barnardos, SE Trust and Public Health agencies (BBC News, 2010). This aims to raise awareness of the issues of drinking in the family home and demonstrates to children that it is all right to talk about it. The Barnardos PHAROS service operates in The Eastern Board area, working on supporting and treating families affected by substance misuse, whilst the Dove House Hidden harm project supports children by offering respite and resilience work. The Ego project in the Western Board supports young people at risk of hidden harm via one to one counselling. Within the Eastern board, EDACT operates sub group meetings to allow representatives from voluntary and statutory addiction services to discuss concerning issues and prevent overlap of services. Alateen operates in the UK and Ireland for young people age d 12-17, allowing them to share their familiarity of living with a family member or friend who has an alcohol problem. The regional headquarters is based in Lisburn, with services including a helpline and meetings, sponsored by AA members. Despite these services showing signs of beginning to understand the needs of children it is evident that the focus remains on the adult receiving help. For the majority of services the parents need to be identified and engage with services themselves in order for the children to avail of any assistance. In addition it was clear whilst talking to Social Workers in Gateway that awareness levels need to be raised regarding the type of services available to children and the importance of recognising the effects on them. Whilst the provision of services is essential, Zohhadi et al (2004) point out a number of potential barriers to family engagement with treatment including a lack of parental recognition of their problem and insufficient knowledge of available services. Social stigma creates an added element of secrecy resulting in families feeling marginalised. Society negatively stigmatises alcoholics therefore entering treatment may mean further marginalisation (Room, 2005b). Children r isk normalising their parent(s) behaviour and as consent is required to work with them parents may not permit this for fear their child disclosing the full extent problem and being removed by social services. Taylor et al (2008) noted difficulties in engaging children if parents do not consent and how engagement can lead to the parent feeling labelled. Recommendations and Conclusions It is apparent from the reviewed literature that being parented by a problem drinker has a variety of psycho-social effects on children. A more holistic, systems approach needs to be employed whilst supporting families as other issues tend to take preference ov