Wednesday, January 29, 2020
Personal Position paper on Psychotherapy Essay Example for Free
Personal Position paper on Psychotherapy Essay Introduction â€Å"People are always changed by disasters, and other life events, but they need not be damaged by them.†-John D. Weaver            When we study human behavior, specifically focusing on the development of personality and crucial to how a person or individual conducts him/herself, psychology offers a variety of dimensions. The concept of personality is central to our attempt to understand ourselves and others and is part of the way in which we account for the differences that contribute to our individuality. Psychologists have been particularly concerned with shaping of the personality in relation to genetic and environmental influences. We have been fortunate that the study of human personality has been thriving and fruitful. We can choose from as many models we can to help us see ourselves better and maintain good relationships.            In the course of our study, every individual counselor – therapist eventually develops his/her own approach in the therapeutic process. The path that the practitioner takes concerning his/her choice of approach or model depends a lot on his/her own personal preferences, personality and understanding of human nature. An eclectic approach is usually the direction that anyone in this field would take; however, certain emphasis is made on some specific positions simply because these are the dominant theories which help guide him/her in focusing the essentials of the process with the client. Though the attempt is said to be eclectic then, the therapist still has this open option to change or vary some details of his/her strategy along the course of the interaction or treatment phases. Discussion            There is a need for integration not only for its theoretical applicability but also for its practical usefulness. Presuppositions or philosophical conceptualizations are the pillars of any worldview, and to successfully establish a new one requires that changes or reinforcements be made at this plane. The integrative approaches were framed at this level so as to remove mental oppositions as they arise every time in one’s thoughts. When this is not adequately laid down, no audience can align their thoughts or understanding with what the author tries to convey. This paper is an attempt to convey a personal understanding of human behavior in the context of psychotherapeutic approaches that are modified for use by the author. It appreciates the accomplishments of the various approaches such as Behavioral, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Existential, Humanistic, Family Systems, Gestalt and Client-Centered developments in the profes sion. The following reflects the views of the author in the healing process of the mind and emotions. Key Concepts of My Approach            It is therefore expected that though at this point I value the primary theories or perspectives that I am thus enumerating afterwards, this also implies that I am open to the various developments that are expectedly to occur in my practice in the future. Since this is an eclectic approach at employing strategies I have found to be beneficial personally and that of others, I wish to mention many of these in the following statements. I am persuaded further that key elements or themes are found all throughout my own version of the approach. The smaller yet finer points come only in the between. For the thrust that this paper is taking, I wish to mention then my views individually, on Behavioral, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Existential, Humanistic, Family Systems, Gestalt and Client-Centered approaches. Behavioral Therapy            This model utilizes what is termed as the learning theory posited by Skinner and Watson and the rest of the Behaviorism school. It assumes that the principles in learning i.e., conditioning (Associative and Operant) are effective means to effect change in an individual. Generally, the thrust of this theoretical perspective is focused on the symptoms that a person is experiencing. Just as many of the errors of the patterns of behavior come from learning from the environment, it is also assumed that an individual will be able to unlearn some if not all these by using the techniques as applied based on the learning principles. To a certain extent I believe that this still works: reinforcements are effective to some extent and in some or many people hence I am incorporating this stance separate or distinct from the Cognitive-Behavioral approach.  In behavior therapy therefore, thoughts, feelings and all those â€Å"malfunctioning†an d unwanted manifestations revealed in one’s activities can be unlearned and the work of a behavior therapist. The basic concepts include â€Å"extinguishing†– utilized when maladaptive patterns are then weakened and removed and in their place habits that are healthy are established (developed and strengthened) in a series or progressive approach called â€Å"successive approximations. When these (factors) are reinforced such as through rewards in intrinsic and extrinsic means, the potential of a more secure and steady change in behavior is developed and firmly established (Rubinstein et al., 20074; Corey, 2004). Although few psychologists today would regard themselves as strict behaviorists, behaviorism has been very influential in the development of psychology as a scientific discipline. There are different emphases within this discipline though. Some behaviorists contend plainly that the observation of behavior is the best or most expedient method of exploring psychological and cognitive processes. Others consider that it is in reality the only way of examining such processes, while still others argue that behavior itself is the only appropriate subject of psychology, and that familiar psychological terms such as belief only refer to behavior. Albert Bandura’s social cognitive approach grew out of this movement. Banduras method emphasizes cognitive processes over and above observable behavior, concentrating on not only the influence of the person’s upbringing for example, but also observation, imitation, and thought processes (Plotnik, 2005). Cognitive-Behavioral            In the cognitive approach alone, the therapist understands that a client or patient comes into the healing relationship and the former’s role is to change or modify the latter’s maladjusted or error-filled thinking patterns. These patterns may include wishful thinking, unrealistic expectations, constant reliving and living in the past or even beyond the present and into the future, and overgeneralizing. These habits lead to confusion, frustration and eventual constant disappointment. This therapeutic approach stresses or accentuates the rational or logical and positive worldview: a viewpoint that takes into consideration that we are problem-solvers, have options in life and not that we are always left with no choice as many people think. It also looks into the fact that because we do have options then there are many things that await someone who have had bad choices in the past, and therefore can look positively into the futu re. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy postulated primarily by Ellis and Beck â€Å"facilitates a collaborative relationship between the patient and therapist.†With the idea that the counselor and patient together cooperate to attain a trusting relationship and agree which problems or issues need to come first in the course of the therapy. For the Cognitive Behaviorist Therapist, the immediate and presenting problem that the client is suffering and complaining from takes precedence and must be addressed and focused in the treatment. There is instantaneous relief from the symptoms, and may be encouraged or spurred on to pursue in-depth treatment and reduction of the ailments where possible. The relief from the symptoms from the primary problem or issue will inspire the client to imagine or think that change is not impossible after all. In this model, issues are dealt directly in a practical way. Coaching the patient on the step by step procedure of CBT is a basic and fundamental ingredient. Here the client is enlightened as to the patterns of his thinking and the errors of these thoughts which bore fruit in his attitudes and behavior. His/her thoughts and beliefs have connections on his/her behavior and must therefore be â€Å"reorganized.†For instance, the ways that a client looks at an issue of his/her life will direct the path of his reactivity to the issue. When corrected at this level, the behavior follows automatically (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). Psychodynamic Therapy            The Psychodynamic perspective is based on the work of Sigmund Freud. He created both a theory to explain personality and mental disorders, and the form of therapy known as psychoanalysis. The psychodynamic approach assumes that all behavior and mental processes reflect constant and often unconscious struggles within the person. These usually involved conflicts between our need to satisfy basic biological instincts, for example, for food, sex or aggression, and the restrictions imposed by society. Not all of those who take a psychodynamic approach accept all of Freud’s original ideas, but most would view abnormal or problematic behavior as the result of a failure to resolve conflicts adequately. Many of the disorders or mental illnesses recognized today without a doubt have their psychodynamic explanation aside from other viewpoints like that of the behaviourist, or the cognitivists. From simple childhood developmental diseases to Schizophrenia, there is a rationale that from Freud’s camp is able to explain (Kaplan et al, 1994). Existential Therapy            The Existential approach, as put forward by Nietzsche, Kierkegaard, Sartre, Heidegger, Rollo May, and Frankl, believes that the individual’s potential may lie dormant but that it is there waiting to be ushered in time. It recognizes that man is able to achieve great heights and that these are just waiting to be tapped not only by him/herself but that also when helped by a practitioner who is persuaded of this notion. It examines such major issues as free will and the challenges of exercising this free will, the issue of mortality, loneliness and in general, the meaning of life. The Therapy is effective when the practitioner works with elderly care and death and dying issues. It focuses on the individual needs but takes into consideration the significant relationships and the meanings they bring into the person’s life. Transcending the issues and problems are primary intentions of the therapist at the same time being realistic that certain limitations do exist and may hinder the process of recovery (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). Humanistic Therapy            Allport, Bugental, Buhler, Maslow Rollo May, Murphy, Murray, Fritz Perls and Rogers are those that helped usher in the Humanistic theory and consequent therapy. It holds in view the individual as possessing the options or freedom to choose, creativity, and the capability to attain a state where he/she is more aware, freer, responsible and worthy of trust. Because the human mind has immense potential, the approach assesses as well that forces from the environment bear on with the individual and depending on the interplay that occurs within the individual person, the result will either be destructive or constructive to the person. In sum, humanism takes into the perspective that essentially humans are good and not evil, and that the therapy facilitates by harnessing on the human potential through the development of interpersonal skills. This results to an enhanced quality life and the individual becomes an asset rather than a liability to th e society where he revolves in (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). Family Systems Therapy            This theoretical viewpoint has been the by-product of the works of Bateson, Minuchin, Bowen, Ackerman and many others. Usually done in pairs or by a team of practitioners, family systems therapy has its roots in behavioral and psychoanalytic principles. This model understands that the family is a unit and its members or any of its members with an issue or a problem must be addressed in the context of the family as a unit. It puts its emphasis on the relationships among the family members, their patterns of communication more than their individual traits and/or symptoms. The systems theory portion of the therapy indicates that whatever is occurring or happening is not isolated but is a working part of a bigger context. In the family systems approach then, no individual person can be understood when removed from his relationships whether in the present or past, and this is specially focused on the family he belongs to (Rubinstein et al., 200 7; Corey, 2004). Gestalt Therapy            Gestalt therapy has this goal of reducing if not removing the symptoms with the rationale that the individual has personal responsibility and that the here-and-now experience is thus very important. This two-fold emphasis on the present moment as experienced by the person and that another reality is that our existence is entangled actually with other aspects and parts of the environment. It is when we understand that we are related with other things that insights to our issues are achieved and help us in finding solutions to our existence. When we are free from the obstructions of things that are â€Å"unfinished†then we reduce the obstacles and enhance the opportunities to our optimal satisfaction and fulfillment and eventual growth (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). Client-Centered Therapy            Developed and known because of the works by one person – Carl Rogers – Client Centered Therapy focuses on the person who needs aid and his/her improvement depends on the client himself although with the facilitation and assistance of the therapist. The rationale for the direction of the therapy lies in the notion that humans basically possess the ability to move towards the fulfillment of his/her possibilities. According to Rogers, â€Å"Individuals have within themselves vast resources for self-understanding and for altering their self-concepts, basic attitudes, and self-directed behavior; these resources can be tapped if a definable climate of facilitative psychological attitudes can be provided†(Rogers, 1980, p 115-117 in Rubinstein et al., 2007).            This approach is very popular today and many therapists usually incorporate this model into their own eclectic method. Rogers identified three important concepts termed as conditions: these are congruence, unconditional positive regard and empathy. Many in the mental health circles have these in their day-to-day jargon. In the aforementioned conditions, a person moves toward what Rogers call â€Å"constructive direction†when these three conditions are afforded. The Role of the Therapist            I aspire to be a therapist – counselor whose practice is characterized as empowering and collaborative. By empowering, I understand the limitations of my role and as such I am constrained at the same time to impart my best knowledge and efforts to enable my client/patient to understand him/herself, and lead the treatment to the point where he/she is able to stand on his/her own without my help anymore. Further, it means that I recognize the patient or client as a person who is not only complex, he/she is also is imbued with the nature that inherently can heal, grow and mature. They contribute to the process, and their attitude towards the whole duration of the healing relationship is a crucial aspect to the attainment of their goals. The therapist then must remove by all means any barrier or obstruction to the achievement of goals especially when these come potentially from the therapist him/herself (that’s me). By collaborative, again because there are set limitations on my capacities, I recognize the availability and expertise of others in realms that I hardly know and that working with them, collaborating with them, gives my client more options, and provides him/her the best and comprehensive interventions that there is in the field. A therapy that is beneficial looks beyond my set style and preferences of diagnosis and treatment; it is progressive and seeks to enhance the initial strategies that had been established and continually expands oneself by learning and researching. Most importantly, by collaboration, my client is the most significant â€Å"collaborator†and that notion should not be missed all throughout (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). .            The effectiveness of therapy in counselling is dependent substantially on two factors; namely, the patient’s cooperation, and the expertise of the therapist. Many experts in the field of Psychology have observed the significant contribution of the client to the over-all process. The individual’s perception of the therapist is extremely crucial to the ensuing treatment. Without the needed initial positive perception of the therapist on the part of the one seeking treatment, the whole process will not generate a desired momentum that would set the entire scheme in a strategic stance. Of course, the expertise of the therapist is another major factor – actually, the other half – but it’s a given to the whole package of treatment (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004).            Since a â€Å"working alliance†has to be established first before the actual treatment is administered, there are important or vital considerations for this â€Å"working alliance†between client and therapist to occur, and this is in prà ©cis, the intentions of this paper. What we will be considering in this paper are the challenges that new therapists face as they practice their profession. The past baggage of the client.            From any vantage point, the level of trust by client on his therapist, whether that perception is based on attractiveness, trustworthiness or as someone who knows what he may be dealing with in terms of credentials, are valid, and is the utmost concern of the helping relationship. Trust in the part of the client is necessary for the healing process. However, because the full ramifications of the issue almost always hinge on the perceptions of the client, the problems and hindrances need to be addressed or at least cited for clarity and deliberation at the outset of the relationship. As hinted above, the client may be bringing (emotional) baggage into their mutual involvement which may be due to prior engagements with other professionals in the therapeutic relations, whether positive or negative. Oftentimes, in many cases, these may be liaisons which were unsuccessful, distasteful or even traumatic for a few. The author pointed out that any form of future therapy will be affected due to these previous experiences, and it has to be dealt with right away at the outset (Horvath Luborsky, 1993, p. 4). The fitness of the therapist            By fitness, we mean sufficient, wide-ranging exposure, and right training to the kind of illness/es or disorder/s that he may be dealing. Even with years spent in the academe will not guarantee the development of skills in handling such complex and true-to-life situations or scenarios. At times, the theoretic skills acquired, instead of enabling the new therapist, may deter or hamper the process. This means to say that the therapist must possess more than head-knowledge; he should not allow his schooling to affect him to the extent that it made him conceited with no room for more learning especially when additional knowledge are available in the patient himself. He must also have the sensitivity to employ his gut-feeling to at times, direct the course of the therapy (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). Therapeutic relationships are almost always exhausting, but it will be an undesirable experience for the alliance partners when just one of them becomes disinterested, hence as Luborsky pressed that â€Å"reciprocity†must be established, cultivated or maintained until the relationship is terminated, hopefully because the client is well (Horvath Luborsky, 1993, p. 4). III. The Therapeutic Process            The therapeutic process is initiated by the therapist primarily as soon as the client or others who refer or brought the patient in for the assumed long haul of the healing relationship. It would be impossible to do all approaches at one time. By eclectic and as frequently emphasized, the usage of any of the methods will be dependent on the need of the patient, and other pertinent information that help guide which of these the therapist will be using. The therapist then is enjoined to be able to diagnose well; it is at this stage that any practitioner is well aware of the risks should he/she fail to diagnose properly the needs and or issues /problems of the client. However, as he/she matures and advances in the profession, many instances occur that the mistakes made in diagnosis are oftentimes corrected while at the treatment stage, hence the traits of flexibility and humility (admitting mistakes for instance) are valued highly in this pro fession (Rogers, 1980, p 115-117 in Rubinstein et al., 2007).            Employing the Behavioral, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Existential, Humanistic, Family Systems, Gestalt and Client-Centered Eclectic stance primarily involves the incorporation of distinct concepts within a single framework. The important thing is that of flexibility and resiliency on my part when to apply or implement which of the theories in the context of my client. It starts with the identification of specific problems and especially the root causes. When this is confidently achieved, the therapist is actually midway to attaining his/her goals which includes not only the relief of the symptoms that the sufferer is currently experiencing but especially the reduction of the occurrence if not altogether eliminated. The specific treatment goals are likewise essential and it helps in the remaining aspects or levels of the process. The diagnostic part by itself in most cases is considered therapeutic since many clients have experienced immediate relief; in the language of psychoanalysis, the â€Å"cathartic†effect is helpful already. In addition, another important ingredient in the process is to identify effective reinforcers which help people in crisis for instance or those in acute and chronic mental and emotional anguish to sustain their plan for change and control of their disorders. Helping the client set up a kind of self-help management program is a very effective strategy to pursue within the relationship (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). ~Identifying clients in crisis            Despite breakthroughs in scientific researches and the success of many crisis interventions by established churches, there are â€Å"fly by night†operations which prey on funding of private and government groups on such types of operations. There are those who minister lacking the necessary spiritual maturity and corresponding abilities in this kind of endeavor, hence the necessity of proper credentials to minimize abuses in the profession (Buttman, p.59). Crucial to the treatment or interventions of people in crisis is the identification of clients experiencing crisis in life. â€Å"Knowledge of the three core components of crisis intervention theory (a precipitating event, client perception of the event, and the client’s usual coping methods)†is essential in this kind of work (Walsh et al, 2005). The Goal of Therapy            Trauma inducing and crisis triggering situations have spiraled its occurrence and in its primacy in the US and in many other countries in recent years. Its broad spectrum ranges from the national disaster category such as that of Hurricane Katrina or the 911 terrorist strikes in New York, Spain and England, to private instances such as a loved one’s attempt at suicide, the murder of a spouse or child, the beginning of mental illness, and the worsening situation of domestic violence (Teller et al, 2006). The acute crisis episode is a consequence of people who experience life-threatening events and feel overwhelmed with difficulty resolving the inner conflicts or anxiety that threaten their lives. They seek the help of counselors, paramedics and other health workers in crisis intervention centers to tide them over the acute episodes they are encountering. These are defining moments for people and must be adequately addressed else they lead lives with dysfunctional conduct patterns or disorders (Roberts et al, 2006).            In the integrated or eclectic approach the goal of the therapy is not just relief to the patient or client. Although an immediate relief is very helpful, this may not always be the case in most illnesses. The goal as mentioned in the preceding pages is to provide long-term reduction of the symptoms and the occurrence of the disease altogether if possible. The management then is not impossible but neither is this easy. Specifically, the counselee or patient must want to heal or believe that there is going to be curative effects in the process. It presupposes that he/she must learn to trust the therapist in his/her capabilities as well in leading or facilitating the changes or modifications. It is very much essential that (in the perspective of a cognitive-behaviorist) that the client understands ownership to the deeds and choices in thought patterns he/she made are crucial to the recurring or occurring condition that s/he experiences (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004).            Moreover, the identification of specific treatments or interventions according to the diagnosed issue will be accommodated and implemented based on the chosen treatment modalities fit with the therapeutic approach utilized. It may be a single modality based on a single approach (e.g., learning principles and desensitization for a patient with specific phobias) or it maybe a combination of many modalities (CBT, Rogerian, Phenomenological, or Family systems) (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). The Nature of the Relationship between the Therapist and the Client            The client throughout the process is a person in need of help and support and this reality is throughout reinforced in the process until the need to terminate the relationship. The therapist is the helper, who ushers the client to discover insights into his needs and problems and until the client is able to stand on his/her own the therapist aids him/her in more ways than one. Because of usual and common abuses that either the client suffers or that the therapist at times undergoes, definite boundaries are set in place at the outset. This must be established at the initial stage and from time to time emphasized to mind either of the parties in the limits of the relationship. The therapist is guided by morality and ethics of his/her profession in the proper exercise of his/her duties and bound by law to implement this in the process and make this known as well to the client. The therapist terminates the relationship readily or refer the cli ent to another competent practitioner should the limits be reached and the relationship has become unrealistically difficult for either of the two parties. Best Practices for Techniques            Techniques or the utilization of various modalities come in a variety of forms and each when employed has the potential to meet the individual’s needs. The modality of choice at particular client/patient depends on such considerations as family support, financial constraints or financial capability, the patient’s preference, diagnosis, and age of patient (Rubinstein, et al., 2007). Employing the cathartic method, teaching the client to examine his/her thought patterns, to discern the errors of judgment and gain insight into him/herself, and to handle with patience the whole process are fundamentals in the process. When the therapist is able to shift effectively in various standpoints and enables the client to gain a better, realistic and eradicate unrealistic expectations of the self and others, they are both on the way to achieving wholeness and healing that which the client so need and aspire. This requires practice, or con stant training and endurance on the part of the therapist (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). VII. Methods of Therapy            Every theoretical approach has its own assumptions. In the psychodynamic theory, the following three assumptions help guide a student of human behavior or an expert in this field determine the underlying factors that explain the overt manifestations of specific behaviors. These assumptions therefore, help guide the diagnosis of the presence or absence of mental illness. They are the same assumptions that guide the therapist in choosing what treatment that will better help heal, cure or alleviate the symptoms.            These assumptions are: â€Å"There are instinctive urges that drive personality formation.†â€Å"Personality growth is driven by conflict and resolving anxieties.†â€Å"Unresolved anxieties produce neurotic symptoms†           (Source: Kaplan et al, 1994).            The goals of treatment here include alleviating patient of the symptoms which specifically works to uncover and work through unconscious conflict. The task of psychodynamic therapy is â€Å"to make the unconscious conscious to the patient†(â€Å"Models of abnormality†, National Extension College Trust, Ltd). Employing the psychodynamic viewpoint, the therapist or social scientist believes that emotional conflicts, or neurosis, and/or disturbances in the mind are caused by unresolved conflicts which originated during childhood years. In the psychodynamic approach the treatment modality frequently used includes dreams and free association, at times hypnosis (as preferred by either the therapist or by the client). The therapist actively communicates with the client in the on-going sessions. The scenario appears that a given patient may have up to five times a week session and runs up to five years in length (Rubinstein et al., 2007).            The methods of therapy incorporate the methods of the eight models. In Behavioral Therapy – the development of behavioral skills that encourage effective actions which is done through incorporating principles in learning or classical and operant conditioning. It utilizes shaping, modeling and such concepts as behavior modification, counterconditioning and exposure, and systematic desensitization.  Behavioral or action therapies utilize insight just as much as the psychodynamic model. Just as the cognitivebehavioral model also recognizes the concept of insight as well, this is only a matter of emphasis or focus. In behavioral/cognitive-behavioral therapies the focus is on the modification or control of behavior and insight usually becomes a tangential advantage. Techniques include CBT through such strategy as cognitive restructuring and the current frequently used REBT for Rational Emotive-Behavior Therapy where irrational beliefs are eliminated by examining them in a rational manner (Corey, 2004; Davison and Neale, 2001). Whereas in insight therapies the focus or emphasis is on the patient’s ability in understanding his/her issues basing on his inner conflicts, motives and fears. Techniques then include reflection of feelings and free association; the former as employed in the clientcentered therapy and with the latter in psychodynamic therapy. Cognitive Strategies are utilized to promote functional thoughts which are likely to result in adaptive and healthy habits (Corey, 2004; Davison and Neale, 2001).            Client-centered therapy avoids the imposition of goals on the patient or client during therapy. It is the client who takes the lead in the session and of the conversation. It is the job of the therapist to create the conditions conducive to the client’s positive judgment of those experiences that are intrinsically satisfying to the client. The ‘goal’ then is to reach the point where the client desires to be a good and â€Å"civilized person.†Unconditional positive regard enhances this atmosphere however, and although the goal may be difficult to achieve, unconditional positive regard eventually, according to Rogers, encourages even the â€Å"`unbehaved†to conform or even transform (Corey, 2004; Davison and Neale, 2001). Gestalt therapy techniques on the other hand, include the I-language, The Empty Chair, Projection feelings, Attending to Nonverbal Cues, and the Use of Metaphor (Corey, 2004; Davison and Neale, 2001).            The techniques may sound a lot like pulling â€Å"this and that†from one’s tool box but in practice it is far from whimsical and impulsive. There is given time to much thought and analysis per client and an evaluation in between is mustered in order to be kept on track according to the specific goals that had been established at the outset. Here, professionalism counts and much of the efforts poured into every patient’s benefit.            In order to avoid what Corey says as a syncretistic and hodgepodge type of â€Å"eclectism†a theoretical rationale must be underpinning in the overall approach of the therapist (Corey, 2001, Article 29 in Lazarus, 1986, 1996; Lazarus, Beutler, Norcross, 1992). This means that I as the therapist must establish firmly my own worldview, which contains my value system, and communicates this at the outset to the client and intermittently in the therapeutic process.
Tuesday, January 21, 2020
Behavior Theories Essay -- Psychology Psychological Essays
Behavior Theories      The wide study of human beings has led psychologists to the development of many theories explaining the elements that cause a persons behavior and attitude. In this paper I would like to reflect upon some of the theories we studied such as: the cultivation theory, social learning theory, the attribution theory, and the cognitive dissonance theory, and relate them to my life and surrounding environment.      I’d like to first start off with the cultivation theory (also keep in mind the social learning theory, it is of the same nature). For those unfamiliar with this theory it states, the more media one consumes the more likely he or she will perceive the world as scary place. Now to be totally honest my views about violence in the media and its affects on people were pretty firm. I never agreed with this idea whatsoever. Because I myself watch a ton of violent programs and listen to probably the most controversial music today, it was hard for me to accept that this media was supposedly inflicting harm upon others physically and mentally, when in no harmful way did it affect me. I always felt that people who were â€Å"unintentionally†affected by the media and act out violently because of certain programs or music just needed a basis for their stupidity or in other words a cheap excuse. I just believe that if a child is persuaded into burning the family couch resulting in the death of his little sister because he saw it on a past episode of Bevis and Butthead, then I feel that child is unstable. It's not the content of the media we need to examine its the child that needs to be picked apart and dissected. I have yet to experience a personal situation like this in my life the only cases I can relate to are the ones put on display on TV and in the papers. Everyone has their own individual thoughts and mind frames, some choose to be leaders, while others choose to be followers, who do you think is more likely to be persuaded by the media? But I would like to say that after studying both the cultivation and social learning theories in class, I have been able to open up and accept that â€Å"some†media content can and has had a negative affect on â€Å"some†people. The most interesting thing that I never really thought about until after the discussion of these theories was learning that people are more likely to copy act ions that receive positiv... ...ated. This is one of the biggest problems among us college students today’s, drinking and driving, when are we going to realize its stupid. The answer to that would be Guys you know I don’t like drinking and driving BUT I’ll do it this one last time. When my friends and I go out we always try to have a DD, but a lot of the times being around people that are drinking and acting goofy, is very persuasive in getting that person to drink. Now what. Well now the parties over and everybody’s drunk, so who’s going to drive, obviously someone who was not willing to in the first place because they felt its not smart. But you know how quickly alcohol can change that, â€Å"I’ll drive I’m fine, no really I’m fine I only had about twelve beers, I can barely walk or talk, but I’ll drive.      In conclusion, I would like to say that learning about these theories and their meanings and differences has been totally interesting and helpful to me, honestly. I think its pretty cool to know a little bit more about people and why they act the way they do, particularly my family and friends and even myself. It has and will allow me to make better judgements about situations and the behaviors of others. Behavior Theories Essay -- Psychology Psychological Essays Behavior Theories      The wide study of human beings has led psychologists to the development of many theories explaining the elements that cause a persons behavior and attitude. In this paper I would like to reflect upon some of the theories we studied such as: the cultivation theory, social learning theory, the attribution theory, and the cognitive dissonance theory, and relate them to my life and surrounding environment.      I’d like to first start off with the cultivation theory (also keep in mind the social learning theory, it is of the same nature). For those unfamiliar with this theory it states, the more media one consumes the more likely he or she will perceive the world as scary place. Now to be totally honest my views about violence in the media and its affects on people were pretty firm. I never agreed with this idea whatsoever. Because I myself watch a ton of violent programs and listen to probably the most controversial music today, it was hard for me to accept that this media was supposedly inflicting harm upon others physically and mentally, when in no harmful way did it affect me. I always felt that people who were â€Å"unintentionally†affected by the media and act out violently because of certain programs or music just needed a basis for their stupidity or in other words a cheap excuse. I just believe that if a child is persuaded into burning the family couch resulting in the death of his little sister because he saw it on a past episode of Bevis and Butthead, then I feel that child is unstable. It's not the content of the media we need to examine its the child that needs to be picked apart and dissected. I have yet to experience a personal situation like this in my life the only cases I can relate to are the ones put on display on TV and in the papers. Everyone has their own individual thoughts and mind frames, some choose to be leaders, while others choose to be followers, who do you think is more likely to be persuaded by the media? But I would like to say that after studying both the cultivation and social learning theories in class, I have been able to open up and accept that â€Å"some†media content can and has had a negative affect on â€Å"some†people. The most interesting thing that I never really thought about until after the discussion of these theories was learning that people are more likely to copy act ions that receive positiv... ...ated. This is one of the biggest problems among us college students today’s, drinking and driving, when are we going to realize its stupid. The answer to that would be Guys you know I don’t like drinking and driving BUT I’ll do it this one last time. When my friends and I go out we always try to have a DD, but a lot of the times being around people that are drinking and acting goofy, is very persuasive in getting that person to drink. Now what. Well now the parties over and everybody’s drunk, so who’s going to drive, obviously someone who was not willing to in the first place because they felt its not smart. But you know how quickly alcohol can change that, â€Å"I’ll drive I’m fine, no really I’m fine I only had about twelve beers, I can barely walk or talk, but I’ll drive.      In conclusion, I would like to say that learning about these theories and their meanings and differences has been totally interesting and helpful to me, honestly. I think its pretty cool to know a little bit more about people and why they act the way they do, particularly my family and friends and even myself. It has and will allow me to make better judgements about situations and the behaviors of others.
Monday, January 13, 2020
Wild Animals As Pets
According to HSUS, the human society of the United States, wild animal trade is a multi-billion business, following to drugs and weaponries on the black market. It is a fifteen billion dollar industry in America alone. Keeping wild animals as pets not only risks your life but the people around you too. Not to mention, the animal itself and the environment. There has been numerous cases where the animal has been killed, neglected, and where they have unsatisfied its basic needs.Exotic animals deserve to live in their natural habitat where they are most happy; consequently more legislation needs to be enacted that restricts and makes owning wild animals illegal. The five worst common wild animals that are kept as pets are Primates, large cats, venomous snakes, bears, and coatis. There are many reasons why these would make terrible pets such as the animal can injure you or even kill you. Some big cats at first might be cute to play with while they are young. However once an adult, it ca n end up being very aggressive.Furthermore, instinctive behavior and behavioral disorders are normal, you can never know what to expect from them. It takes time to domesticate an animal, taming dogs and cats took centuries. They simply do not do well with people like ordinary pets do. There was a case where a two-hundred pound pet chimp in Stamford, Connecticut, fiercely attacked a woman he had been well known for years, leaving her severely wounded with most of her face ripped off. The woman, Charla Nash of age 55,was visiting her friend, Sandra Herold, who owned the chimpanzee.The chimps name was Travis, who was a famous figure downtown, who had performed in TV advertisements and frequently modeled or snapshots at the shop ran by his proprietor. Sandra aggressively tried to get Travis off, but she was no match for a two-hundred pound ape. So she called for help, shortly, the police had come. Once they had arrived Travis ran away, the police went in search for him and shot him, but then he had ran away again. The police ultimately picked up a hint of blood leading to the household and discovering him deceased.Charla had to go through a twenty hour, multiple face transplant operation and is blind for life. Outbreaks like the one in the Charla Nash case wouldn’t of happened if wild animals were kept in their natural habitat. Keeping the animal is just bad for the animal itself. Some owners will have the exotic animals teeth or claws detached, not only does it hurt the animal but it is cruel. How does a bird feel if it can’t soar in the sky? Even if an animal does keep its entire body parts, the minimal room it has as related to the wild regularly generates insanity, depression, and vicious behavior.Such psychological problems can be often seen as a mutilation in such as tearing fur or feathers off their limbs. Most people who own wild animals keep them in a cage or captive. Cages are prisons to animals. Animals held confined cannot wander, fly, cl imb, pick a spouse or live at will. They are imprisoned, hampered, and isolated. They are stripped of regulation over their natural lives! Also, having medical maintenance for the animal is very hard. Some owners are afraid to bring their wild pet to the vet because it is often banned to have them in the first place.Additionally, various exotic animals hide the signs of sickness, and the majority of people wouldn’t even know what indications to look for. Lastly, finding an appropriate veterinarian could require a visit to the wildlife park which can be quite expensive. There are also significant environmental aspects to take in mind. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals informs that newborn animals are the most wanted and produce dealers the biggest profits. Poachers will generally slaughter the defensive mother so that it's easier to capture the baby, furthering the stimulation of the extinction rate of countless already endangered animals. While some exotic pets have been created in confinement, many wild animals are taken straight from their inherent homes.The pressure of being violently removed from their families causes certain animals to pass away before they even get to a private residence. Removing exotic animals from their natural environment, like the tropical rain forest or African savannas negatively disturbs the ecosystems, which, confirming from the ASPCA, depend on those species to advance the life progression of vegetation and maintain animal populations in check.There are fairly a couple national laws that disallow the exportation and federal transmission of certain wild pets in the United States. These consist of the imprisonment of Wildlife Security Act, the Wild Bird Conservation Act and the Endangered Species Act. Furthermore, numerous states have limitations on the possession of exotic pets. According to the ASPCA, these regulations vary immensely from one state to another state and can estimate from to tal sanctions to merely demanding a license.Internationally, the Settlement on the Global Trade in Endangered Species of Plants and Wildlife standardizes the import and export of vanishing species. In a somewhat different disposition, animal benefit establishments like the human society of the United States have established assemblies like the Species Survival Network to endorse wildlife fortification and educate communities about the endangerments of wild pet ownership. Though, despite these legislations and a humanitarian purpose, the exotic pet trade is still a thriving industry.
Sunday, January 5, 2020
How the Post Treatment of Muslims is a Witch Hunt - Free Essay Example
Sample details Pages: 2 Words: 483 Downloads: 6 Date added: 2019/08/16 Category History Essay Level High school Tags: 9/11 Essay Did you like this example? Studies show every one in twenty-five defendants who are sentenced to death in the United States are later found innocent (Gross). Many people are wrongfully accused. Throughout history, groups of people are targeted with inaccurate information and are accused of crimes they did not commit. This is called a witch hunt. After 9/11, Muslims lives are a constant witch hunt in the United States. Muslims experience hate crimes, public humiliation, and constant investigation after the 9/11 attacks.        Muslims have, and still, experience hate crimes from other religions and ethnicities. On September 19, 2008, two non-Muslim Americans were arrested for repeatedly vandalizing and damaging cars parked outside of a Muslims house. They broke windows, windshields, and the metal bodies of the cars (US Newswire). Also, in January 2017, another hate crime was committed. A man was arrested for robbing a mosque, the house of worship for Muslims, and setting it on fire. One of the members of the mosque, Abe Ajrami said, I hope people understand that this is not something we watch on TV or read in the newspaper. This is something we live daily (Suhay). Statistics show, in 2000, before 9/11, there were twelve reported assaults against Muslims in America. In the year 2016, post 9/11, there were 127 (Kishi). Muslims do not deserve all the hate they receive. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "How the Post Treatment of Muslims is a Witch Hunt" essay for you Create order        Not only do Muslims experience hate crimes, but they also deal with public humiliation. In a Chicago grocery store in 2009, a white woman pulled down a Muslim womans hijab (headscarf) and muttered something about the shootings in Texas, assuming her religion had something to do with them. Another incident is a Muslim was harassed by a security guard in a bank in Illinois. Muslims also have special screenings in airports and are checked more closely. Also, during the 2008 presidential elections, Americans were uneasy when they heard Barack Obama could have been Muslim, showing how prejudice Americans are towards them (Williams). Public humiliation shouldnt be a struggle for Muslims in their own country.        Another way Muslims lives are a witch hunt, is their lives are constantly investigated. The NYPD spied on Muslims in New York, and throughout surrounding schools, colleges, and communities after 9/11. Also, in New Jersey, the NYPD visited mosques, schools, and Muslim owned restaurants and shops, collecting information. The NYPD took pictures and videos of the Muslims everyday lives, making sure they were not doing anything suspicious (CNN Wire). Throughout the United States, Muslims fear their sermons and discussions at mosques are monitored and surveillance (Williams). Overall, Muslims have to live in fear from the constant investigation.        In conclusion, post 9/11 treatment of Muslims is a witch hunt because of hate crimes, public humiliation, and constant investigation throughout their lives. The Muslims are presumed guilty for things they did not do and could not control. There have been many witch hunts throughout the world over many decades including the Holocaust, the Salem witch hunt, and McCarthyism. Could there be more in the future?
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