Financial Risk Management - 1763 Words

JONATHAN MUROMBA 2012178104 FINANCIAL RISK MANAGEMENT Management of Financial Institutions and The Banking Crisis Risk is uncertainty. The more risk one takes, the more he or she stands to lose or gain. One cannot expect high returns without taking substantial risks. The outcomes are thrown open to uncertainty. In general, when we talk about risk, we focus on financial risk. In financial terms, it is the risk that a company or individual could lose some or all of the original investment, possibly resulting in inadequate cash flow to meet financial obligations. All wise investments follow risk consideration. To be successful, every investor must be able to identify and understand the types of risk they face across their entire portfolio.†¦show more content†¦It had been widely known that problems with the banks in the US were due to the phenomenon of sub-prime lending for housing. Many of the loans had turned into toxic assets as borrowers failed to meet repayments. Similar to Northern Rock, the banks continued to give loans in this manner as they too chose to securitize their loans because this method of trading appeared so profitable. This was a highly successful mechanism to operate until the number of defaulters increased to the point where these assets began to turn illiquid. Investors started to avoid securities as it was now evident many were flawed. Moreover, Northern Rock in their quest for greater financial returns found securities that attractive they also invested in them. With trading slowing in the financial markets, many institutions began to react to the impending crisis by taking a more cautious approach to lending. In comparison Northern Rock were so focused on returning profits and generating growth that, at a time when monetary policy was tightening faster than expected, the bank had agreed to issue a tranche of mortgages at interest rates that were lower than those it had to eventually pay in the markets to finance them (The Economist, 2007, Lessons of the fall, 20/10/2007). In hindsight, this was a disastrous decision, which contributed to the impending shortfall in cash and ultimately the need to be bailed out. The managerial failings of NorthernShow MoreRelatedRisk Management : Financial Crisis1350 Words   |  6 PagesRisk management changed around the world since the bankruptcy of Enron in 2001 however, it was found by many that it was still not enough since the mortgage crisis of 2007 and 2008 took place after many risk management safeguards had already been put into place. One company emerged a leader among all others in what was failing in the mortgage servicing industry. The industry had sustained unprecedented losses and could be not able to deal with the ensuing financial meltdown that was about to occurRead MoreWhy Financial Risk Management Online917 Words   |  4 PagesHow to Find Financial Risk Management Online Financial Risk Management Ideas So as to make a genuine estate investment, you should gauge the risk involved. By managing financial risks, an organization can concentrate on its key activities as well as operations, instead of on forecasting rates of interest, exchange rates, and future commodity costs. In a practical manner, they are not capable of being a perfect market. Translation risks describe the changes within the value of the foreign assetRead MoreRisk Management Program For A Financial Institution . As1220 Words   |  5 PagesRisk Management Program for a Financial Institution As time has shown, financial institutions undertake an abundance of uncertainty causing unpredictable risk consequences. As a result, executives instill risk management programs to assist in managing the organizations risks so they align with the company’s goals. Commonly sought goals include legal and regulatory compliance, tolerable uncertainty, survival, business continuity, earnings stability, profitability and growth, social responsibilityRead MoreFinancial Aspect Of Climate Risk Management1040 Words   |  5 PagesFinancial Aspect of Climate Risk Management Climate change is a lethal and destructive force. In the recent past major climatic events like floods, tsunamis etc. have led to substantial destruction of wealth. Such events have highlighted the need of mechanisms for risk sharing of the losses and restoring the lost human and infrastructural capital. The climate change agreement declared on December 12, 2015 was one of the highlights of the year. It showcased the resolve of various nations in fightingRead MoreApplication Essay to The Financial Risk Management Program977 Words   |  4 Pagesgoal is to help a firm manage its financial risk by developing and applying effective risk management strategies. My long term goal is to lead an enterprise wide risk management program for a multi-national company. My experiences in IT Risk Services, Accounting Audit and Structured Finance Advisory Services at the Big Four firms helped shape my career goal and created a strong fascination for Financial Risk Management. These experiences taught me how risks affect organizations. I learnt howRead MoreFinancial Scandals Of Enron, Worldcom, And Tyco Occurred Risk Management1671 Words   |  7 PagesRisk Management After the major financial scandals of Enron, WorldCom, and Tyco occurred risk management became a high priority for companies. According to Brown, Steen, and Foreman (2009) risk management can be defined as the culture, processes, and structures that are directed towards taking advantage of potential opportunities while managing potential adverse effects† (p.547). To assist companies in the risk management process, companies are incorporating a risk management system, this helpsRead MoreCompany Risk Management : Pfizer Chief Financial Officer Frank D Amelio Said That Foreign Exchange Rates1105 Words   |  5 PagesIn January 2015, Pfizer Chief Financial Officer Frank D Amelio said that foreign exchange rates will hurt 2015 sales by $2.8 billion, or 17 cents a share, if the dollar remains at its current high levels. Pfizer operates like most MNCs by most likely utilizing hedging to reduce the volatility spawned by fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. But what you really need to understand is that there are risks involved in FX hedging itself. Most analysts tend to prefer long-term hedging over short-termRead MoreFinancial Risk Management8063 Words   |  33 Pages------------------------------------------------- Financial Risk Management using Derivatives; A case of selected financial institutions in Uganda ------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------- ------------------------------------------------- Abstract The RAP examines the management of financial risks using derivative instruments in the selected financial institutions in Uganda. Three key researchRead MoreReviews on Financial Risk Management3553 Words   |  15 PagesReview on Financial Risk Management Tianshu Hou FMRM 0811 Dec. 2011 〠Outline】 I. Introduction II. The definition and types of financial risk III. Risk management and the theoretical foundation IV. The process of financial risk management V. The challenges faced by the modern financial risk management theories 〠Abstract】 Financial risks are exposures of uncertainties for those participants in financial market. Financial risks can be divided into four categories: market risk, creditRead MoreDerivative Financial Instruments Employed For Risk Management948 Words   |  4 PagesDerivative Financial Instruments Employed for Risk Management Credit Risk Derivatives may be traded either via an exchange (exchange traded) or alternatively, privately negotiated contracts, which are generally alluded to as Over The Counter (OTC) derivatives. Exchange traded and OTC-cleared derivative contracts have downgraded Macquarie’s credit risk as their counterparty is a clearing house, accountable for the handling of risk management for their members to guarantee that the clearing house

Graduation Speech My Heart Swelled With Delight Essay

Upon recognizing that a primary course requirement of Orientation to Education 206 would ensue an opportunity to conduct field experience — my heart swelled with delight. I am genuinely appreciative of the opportunity to have gained veritable experience of teacher-student interaction and teaching in an actual classroom. Expressly, I primarily conducted my research and experience at the newly opened Michael R. Hollis Innovation Academy in Ms. Brewer and paraprofessional, Ms. Byrd’s pre-kindergarten class. I attended the school with an open, yet full heart willing and ready to take on the issues of the world. With this in mind, my initial impression of the school was comprised of a layered but greatly optimistic analysis. To illustrate, the environmental climate of the school appeared to be refined, clean, spacious, caring and warm. Due to the fact that the mission and visions for the school were visibly shown with great emphasis — them being: â€Å"Collabora tion, Communication, Creativity, Empathy, Self-discipline, Perseverance† — indeed, I felt that I was in the right place. Furthermore, the overall culture of the educators can be characterized as inviting and friendly. Likewise, the students were open to communication, well behaved, and operated as if they had frequent visitors. I realize that in order to gain an holistic and accurate depiction of the school’s environment, it is important that I understand its foundational background. Accordingly, HollisShow MoreRelatedStephen P. Robbins Timothy A. Judge (2011) Organizational Behaviour 15th Edition New Jersey: Prentice Hall393164 Words   |  1573 PagesDiversity Management Strategies 56 Attracting, Selecting, Developing, and Retaining Diverse Employees 56 †¢ Diversity in Groups 58 †¢ Effective Diversity Programs 58 Summary and Implications for Managers 60 S A L Self-Assessment Library What’s My Attitude Toward Older People? 40 Myth or Science? â€Å"Dual-Career Couples Divorce Less† 47 An Ethical Choice Religious Tattoos 51 glOBalization! Images of Diversity from Around the Globe 54 Point/Counterpoint Men Have More Mathematical Ability Than Women

Learning Styles, Motivation and on the Job Training Free Essays

The first learning style is sensing vs. intuitive learning style. Sensing learners like learning facts and solving problems by well established methods. We will write a custom essay sample on Learning Styles, Motivation and on the Job Training or any similar topic only for you Order Now Unlike intuitive learners, sensor learners resent testing on material that has not been explicitly covered in training. (p 169) Intuitive learners often prefer discovering new relationships and can be innovative in their approach to problem solving. They dislike repetition and are better at grasping concepts than sensor learners. Unlike sensors, intuitive learners don’t like courses that involve a lot of memorization and routine calculations. In order to get the most out of training, sensor learners need to be intuitive learners at times and at times intuitive learners need to be sensor learners. The trainer can help the sensor learner by organizing the training by using a problem first method. Intuitors can be more difficult to train especially if the training involves a lot of memorization. The trainer can help these people by creating incentives such as a game with a reward for memorizing certain key points of the training. Next there is the visual vs. erbal learner. Visual learners remember best what they see, pictures, diagrams, flowcharts and demonstrations. 169 Verbal learners get more out of words; both written and spoken. Visual learners are among the easiest to train. There are a wide variety of materials available to supplement lectures for the trainer to use to engage the visual learner. The trainer can help the verbal learner by having handouts of the presentation available or providing paper in which the trainee can summarize the presentation in his/her own words. Sequential learners vs. global learners. Sequential learners gain understanding when things are presented step by step. The global learner is one who needs to see the whole picture before being able to absorb the details. The sequential learner can be helped by providing a copy of the lecture material with blank spaces for the sequential learner to fill in key terms and definitions. The global learner can be helped by explaining how each new module fits in with the overall purpose of the training. Active learners vs reflective learners. Active learners need to do something. They can be helped by applying the information, discussing it, or explaining it to others. Reflective learners prefer to think about the new information before applying it. â€Å" Let’s try it out and see how it works† is how the active learner might respond. The reflective learner on the other hand might say, â€Å" Let’s think it through first†. The active learner can be helped by the trainer by being placed in group settings. They have a particularly hard time sitting in a lecture and taking notes. The reflective learner, however, prefers working alone so it might be beneficial to give this type of learner questions to answer at the end of each training module. One of the most frequently used training methods is on the job training (OJT). Compare and contrast the characteristics of an informal OJT program with that of a formal one. Before the advent of training classrooms, on the job training was the most predominant form of training.. This was commonly referred to as apprenticeship. Master craftsmen passed on their skills to novices who worked alongside of them Today, on the job training is used primarily for teaching new technology or increasing skills in the use of current technology. Informal OJT consists of using more skilled co-workers or supervisors to train the less skilled or less experienced employee. The informal OJT has not been thought out or prepared (p 236). The workers generally learn on a trial and error basis with some feedback from supervisors or coworkers. It is also done on an ad hoc basis with no predetermined content or process. With informal OJT there aren’t any objectives or goals and trainers are often chosen on the basis of their technical expertise not their training ability because they haven’t had any formal training on how to train. This creates more room for error because the trainers are often inconsistent and may even be introducing methods that are not approved by the organization. Formal OJT programs are just the opposite. They have a carefully thought out sequence of events. Like informal OJT the trainee gets to observe the trainer performing the job related tasks. Unlike informal OJT, the procedures involved in the tasks are discussed, before, during and after the training. In formal OJT, the trainee does not begin performing the tasks until the trainer feels that they are ready to do so. The trainee is given more and more of the job to perform as he/she masters the each skill necessary to perform the task. Because a trainer is used who is not only experienced with the task but trained as a trainer, the company can be assured that the new employees are learning the tasks more quickly and systematically than in an informal training. Another advantage is consistency of training. The company can be sure that all of the workers performing the same tasks in any of the company departments or locations will be performing in the same manner. With formal OJT, inputs and outputs can be assessed to determine if any modifications need to be made to the training. Describe four factors that should be considered when developing an effective computer based training (CBT) program. One of the biggest factors to consider is the cost of the program. Developing a CBT can be a costly endeavor. Costs of the program include the wages of the course developer as well as the wages of the trainees while they are taking the program (p 276). Then the organization must also consider the costs of the hardware and software needed to conduct the training. The company must then weigh these costs against the number of trainees that will be using the program and how often the program will be needed as well as the frequency of updating the material. The second factor to consider is the control of material and the training process. Because the content is built directly into the program, the company has complete control over the content of the learning material that all trainees are getting. This is advantageous for companies with multiple locations because it allows for consistency in the training. Also, the trainees are moved through the training process based on their understanding of each training module. The trainees can also start and stop the training rocess which allows for minimal disruption in production. CBTs can help employees enhance their knowledge. The CBT can present the facts in several different formats and presentation styles. It also can provide a variety of modules to show the employees how to apply the knowledge to their actual job. Analyze the three things an organization should do to motivate a trainee before the trainee attends training. An organization can have one of the best training programs available, but if the trainees are not motivated they will not learn. When conducting a training program, it is important to remember that the trainees all have different learning styles. Each of the trainees will have a different learning style than the others. Most likely they will have a combination of the sensing/intuitive, active/reflective, visual/verbal and sequential/global learning styles. Because of this it is important to remember that a variety of training methods be incorporated into the training and it is also important to remember that there will be modules of the training that will be more effective for some trainees than others. How to cite Learning Styles, Motivation and on the Job Training, Essay examples

Something Simple Great free essay sample

Greeting cards. They sound simple, right? For most kids, this idea consists of a 99-cent Hallmark birthday card, an awkward school photo tucked inside their annual family Christmas letter, or maybe the obligatory thank-you note to their Great Aunt Marge for their â€Å"Ill be sure to put it to great use†  ­dollar-store birthday present. For me, greeting cards mean a considerable amount more. Since I was old enough to hold a crayon and a pair of scissors, I have crafted hundreds of specialty cards for almost everyone in my life. Whether for a birthday, anniversary, Christmas, or the deliberate-excuse-to-make-people-feel-lonely-day every February 14th, I was sure to create a masterpiece. In addition, my perfectionist qualities would ensure that my work would be incredibly articulate. I spent hours locked in my room, scrambling through my cluttered drawers of colored pencils, markers, glue, string, and multi-colored packs of construction paper in order to find the absolute right tools to generate a card that was nothing short of perfection. We will write a custom essay sample on Something Simple Great or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The reason? My creations put smiles on the faces of loved ones. They brightened the day for many friends and family when they were clearly able to see, for a moment, that someone cared. While my grandmother bravely fought Alzheimers and her memory was quickly slipping away, I knew my cards brought her back to the days when she remembered my name. When my mother was suffering through countless rounds of chemotherapy and radiation battling Stage 4 breast cancer, my little masterpieces made her lips curl into a loving smile. And when my mother passed away, my family was also the recipient of hundreds of thoughtful cards, helping me to learn first-hand the power a simple handwritten note can have. Constructing and formulating these cards has been my niche for over a decade. Even as a teenager, it allows me to get my creative juices flowing, which can sometimes be hampered by my crazy schedule of classes and SAT preparation. I am known for and praised for this in my circle of loved ones. Once combined with other parts of my life, including being a three-sport athlete, class president, a theater lover, a member of chemistry club, and a die-hard Syracuse basketball fan, it is one of the many pieces that make up the puzzle of my life. Now, as I look into my kitchen drawer filled with dozens of my cards from over the years, it is apparent how much I have changed. One card, a creation for my older brothers eleventh birthday, uses the mature  ­elements of Crayola crayons and pink glitter, while a recent one with a striking design was placed under my  ­family Christmas tree this year. It contains three-dimensional aspects including faux poinsettias, gold embellished rope, and seasonal holly. The drastic difference between the two makes me realize how much I have grown in the years separating the two creations. I have developed in my academic prowess, traveled to many parts of the world, led my peers in the classroom and on the playing field, and lost some of the most significant people in my life. So much has changed, yet here I am, still doing something that I love for those I care about most. Now, Im not going to lie and say that making greeting cards has been a paramount learning experience in my life or that it has educated me about a deep psychological connection with the world. However, it has taught me not to sacrifice something I love just because I have grown older. It has  ­always been an ideal example of sticking to who I am. As I look ahead to the next four years of my life and beyond, I am incredibly eager to find something new to add to my repertoire that I am not only known for, but that I also love.

Uncle Tom’s Cabin Persuasive Essay Example For Students

Uncle Tom’s Cabin Persuasive Essay Uncle Toms CabinHow AccurateFew books can truly be said to have altered the course of history, and even fewer can be said to have started an entire war. Uncle Toms Cabin, written by Harriet Beecher Stowe was one novel to do both. Abraham Lincoln said to Harriet Beecher Stowe upon meeting her, So this is the little lady who made this big war. Uncle Toms Cabin had a tremendous effect on early 19th century thoughts of slavery, stirring abolitionist support in the North. The novel is a realistic, although fictional, view of slavery with the images of brutal beatings and unfair slave practices. After reading Uncle Toms Cabin thousand of Northerners became impassioned for the anti-slavery cause. Uncle Toms Cabin helped eventually, to turn the tide of public opinion against slavery in the 19th century. We will write a custom essay on Uncle Tom’s Cabin Persuasive specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now This controversial novel was initially written to question slavery, convince people of its immorality and to promote the abolitionist cause. The novels rendering of the slave holding South is not entirely an accurate interpretation of what it was like though. Beecher overexaggerated and overlooked several facts in novel, especially pertaining to the practice of slave trading. To have her readers empathize more with the slaves, Beecher put the worst stories in and the cruelest practices of the slave trade. Although most of Uncle Toms Cabin is very close to the reality of slavery, many aspects of the slave trade were portrayed inaccurately (Taylor). One of the first miscalculated aspects of the slave trade is the reason for Southern states involvement in the interstate slave trade. Stowe depicted Kentuckys involvement in the slave trade due to the poor soil of the region and economic ties with the practice. She implied in the beginning half of the novel that many Kentuckians resorted t o being bondmen in the slave trade due to the infertile land of the Bluegrass Region. On the contrary, Kentucky where the bulk of the slave trade was supposedly concentrated has long been blessed with great fertility. The high phosphorus content and the goodly depth of soil results in land favorable for cultivation (Levy). Stowes explanation for why Kentucky became involved in the slave trade was misguided. She also inaccurately displays the importance of the slave trade in the Southern economy. She makes it out to be a big business and in common place among many traders. In the novel Stowe starts chapter ten with Tom about to be sold off to the slave trader Haley. His whole family knows that Tom has been traded and is devastated about the situation. Stowe comments on the hardships of slave life and the fear of being sold at a moments notice when she states in her narrative voice that many of the fugitives confessed themselves to have escaped from comparatively kind masters, and tha t they were induced to brave the perils of escape, in almost every case, by the desperate horror with which they regarded being sold South,a doom which was hanging either over themselves or their husbands, their wives or children.She goes on to say that there is a lot of money to be made by the industry. In a later section she depicts a slave warehouse where she reiterates the fact that the slaves are horrified to be sold. She goes on to further saying that many slaves are sold many times in their lives for whatever reason. Briskness, alertness, and cheerfulness of appearance, especially before observers, are constantly enforced upon them, both by the hope of thereby getting a good master, and the fear of all that the driver may bring upon them if they prove unsalable. True, many Southerners relied on slaves for their livelihood and at the time the biggest business in the South was agriculture. But the actual amount of people that made money of slaves was less than Stowe depicts. Ou t of the $61 million invested on slave property in 1840s Virginia, the state brought in less than 3% profit on the investment capital (Levy). The truth of the matter was that slaves were not a good investment. An estimated 75% of the slave trade in the upper South was superannuated, sick, women in unfit condition for labor, and infants unable to work ( Taylor ). Bondmen werent that important, and in fact their numbers were seeing decrease at the time Stowe published Uncle Toms Cabin. The total percentage of bondmen in Kentucky population had stood at 24 percent of white males in 1830, but by 160 it saw its decrease to 19.5 percent. The South didnt rely on slavery for profit and the few that did didnt make that much money at it. One of the incorrect stereotypes in Uncle Toms Cabin was the depiction of what the public thought of slave traders. One description of a trader in chapter 12 was O, but nobody thinks anything of these traders! They are universally despised, never received int o any decent society.. Stowes generalization of them is mostly true. The general public did not approve the slave trading business or, for that matter a majority of the prominent slave holders. One slave owner in Kentucky stated that, to be called such a lowly creature as a negro trader was the last word of opprobrium to be slung at a man. Stowe makes the readers think that Slave traders are the scum of the earth and that everyone hates them. One of the inaccuracies that Stowe uses in Uncle Toms Cabin is why exactly a slave was sold. First of all she has Tom having three different owners throughout the course of the book. In one statistic it was shown that the average slave had one owner in their life, with less than 40% of the slave population having three or more masters in the course of their life (Taylor). One or more of the following factors dictated the sale of a servant: When such a sale was necessary to settle an estate. Much like that of St. Clares after he died, he didnt p ut anything in his will about them so Marie sold them to the warehouse. When a slaves delinquent behavior necessitated his or her disposal, they were also sold. When the owner was in dire need of money for the payment of debt, they were also sold. This is seen with Mr. Shelby at the beginning of the book. He owes a large sum of money to Haley so he is forced to sell Henry and Tom. Also when a captured fugitive slave is unclaimed for one year, or simple desire of material gain. Stowe had depicted two in one lifetime of a slave, this is an over exaggeration of the circumstances of trade (Levy). It wasnt a delicate issue, and owners didnt trade their slaves unless absolutely necessary. Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote a stunning portrayal of slavery at the time she wrote the story, and in doing so included the worst stories she could find. Although she conveys many truths about certain aspects of the industry, she also overexaggerates what slave trading was like. She made traders out to be far crueler then many were. She also wrote about the importance of traders in the economy, although they had very little. Even though exaggerated the grim portrayals of slavery helped to fan support across the nation for abolitionism. So although she exaggerated her facts, Stowes rendition of slavery accomplished exactly what she had planned for it to do and thankfully too. Without this book we might not have awakened to the evils that the system promoted. Words/ Pages : 1,270 / 24

Adhd as a Social Construct Essays

Adhd as a Social Construct Essays Adhd as a Social Construct Essay Adhd as a Social Construct Essay This research paper will discuss what ADHD is and why it is that there are those who think it was invented instead of discovered. It will also investigate the reasons why social construct theorists believe that the diagnosis of ADHD does more harm than good and actually diverts from the real issues that children face in their development in this day and age. Also explored will be the case against the social construct theory and why some who argue that the social construct theory is viable are ignoring a very real and possibly debilitating mental disorder. Despite the fact that ADHD is constantly in the news for one reason or another, there is no consensus on what it actually is and as more time goes by and more information is collected the more confusing the topic. Since ADHD has no definitive way of being diagnosed then the question remains what it is that is being treated and why medication is being prescribed, sometimes for life, for something that cannot be proven to fundamentally exist? Is this diagnosis simply as a result of the changing times or the fact that as a society will are all expected to conform to a standard set of behavior or else deemed lacking in some way? Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD is a common psychiatric condition that affects both children and adults. It is more likely to be diagnosed in childhood and in more boys than girls are said to have this disorder. There is debate as to whether children can outgrow their symptoms or whether it continues into adulthood or whether it is just a behavioral problem that will just go away as more adults than every are being diagnosed. Symptoms of ADHD include but are not limited to: hyperactivity, lack of concentration, day dreaming, impulsiveness and restlessness. In ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) the individual is usually described as a daydreamer and in AHD (attention Hyperactive Disorder) the individual is deemed restless or high spirited. Treatment for this disorder range from increased exercise and a diet that does not include carbohydrates and sugar to medicinal intervention in the form of methylphenidates and amphetamines such as Ritalin or Adderall. There is no one test for ADHD – a diagnosis is reached upon by the doctor after having had parent and teacher reports and from interaction with the child or adult. One of the main reasons that the diagnosis of ADHD remains so controversial in many medical circles is the fact that there is no one definitive way in which to test for it. Most of the time the conclusion that an individual (usually a child) has ADHD is as a result of parent reporting and/or teacher intervention. Some would argue that this makes the whole process subjective instead of objective and therefore does more harm than good especially since once a child is put on medication it is recommended by many doctors that he/she continues to take it into adulthood as the symptoms will not decrease or stop over time. Considering the fact that the pharmaceutical industry has a lot to gain from recommending the prolonged usage of drugs for ADHD and there are no studies showing the effects of the long term use of the methylphenidates and amphetamines commonly used, it is only natural that there should be queries into whether the disease actually exists or if it is possible that it could be something else all together. Although there are many who say that the conclusion that hyperactivity is relative and opinion may thus vary from one medical practitioner to another there are those that say there is evidence that it is present in some who have ADHD and the proof is in the brain structure and function and in the DNA composition. This combined with environment leads to what is known as ADHD because it is a multi faceted disease and to try and pin it down to just one cause would be futile and would result in tunnel vision as far as treatment goes. There is evidence to show that severe hyperactivity in children leads to serious developmental stagnation and misdiagnosis or non diagnosis of behavioral disorders such as ADHD leads to educational and occupational failure, inability to have nurturing relationships and stagnation in adulthood. In fact, is estimated that most addicts like gambling, alcohol and drug have some form of ADHD. Experts who agree with this school of thought are adamant that to claim that ADD is a social construct would only hurt those who suffer from it and delay or deny them the treatment that they so desperately need. It must be noted however, that the proponents of ADHD as a social construct are not opposed to getting to the bottom of the reason why an individual might be hyperactive, distracted and unable to concentrate. What they are against is the label itself which they believe will lead individuals into a mentality that they are somehow defective and need to be on medication for most of their lives. What they do advocate for is a strengthening of the family unit and a more child centered way of life. Social construct theorists conclude that in modern western culture factors uch as loss of extended family support, family life being increasingly busy, a cultural system that emphasizes individuality and competition and increased stress from the school systems all contribute to what can otherwise be termed as ADHD symptoms. They conclude that it is for this reason that ADHD was not prevalent until the Industrial Age when people’s lifestyles drastically changed – there was no longer enough play space and increased schooling pressures became increasingly problematic for children who were boredom intolerant. Children put in this unnatural environment coped by either tuning out (ADD) or becoming restless (ADHD). Social construct theorists believe therefore that it is not a medical intervention that is needed but a cultural one. An example of where a cultural intervention is needed is in some western school systems whereby there is intolerance for what can be termed as â€Å"active children†. Though social construct theorists do agree that on some level there could be biological factors what may be the reason that a child or adult is inattentive what they argue is that the school system and society has failed to integrate them and has chosen instead to set them aside and label them as disordered. Different methods of learning instead of the rote memorizing of facts where all individuals are supposed to learn the same thing at the same time and at the same pace will result in an environment where those with different learning styles are made to feel welcome instead of feeling like failures because they do not fit in. In this way, social construct theorists and their opponents are in agreement when they say that a multi pronged approach should be used in tackling and handling behavioral problems. Those against the social construct theory have long been advocates of more open classrooms and more flexibility as pertains to school settings and educational purposes in order to help those who have been diagnosed with ADHD cope with their symptoms. Along with medication, they also stress the importance of getting exercise and having a balanced diet so as not to exacerbate the effects of the disorder. Medication is only part of the solution, not all of it. one point of contention between those who support the social construct theory and those who oppose it is the over and under diagnosis of the disease. Social construct theorists claim that this is because there is no proven way that one can test for the disease and therefore the diagnosis will tend to fluctuate depending on race, social standing, gender, cultural differences and geographical location the theorists claim that if ADHD were are real mental disease the discrepancies would not be so high and so varied. In studies done all around the world, what is known to western countries, especially the United States as ADHD behavior is seen everywhere. What differs is the interpretation of an individual’s action. In some countries and cultures active children are considered the norm or even encouraged. Even in societies where obedience is expected of all youngsters, there are less likely to attribute it to a mental disorder and more likely to claim it is growing pains, simply a stage that will pass. Even the methods used to diagnose ADHD are different – in America the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 4th Edition) while in Europe the ICD-10 (International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems 10th Revision). This results in 3-4 times fewer diagnoses in Europe than in the United States. Part of the conflict between those who say that ADHD is a real mental condition and those who say that it is a social construct is that there is really no general consensus on what ADHD really is or how to diagnose it. What both sides do agree on is that behavioral problems left untreated will often end up hurting not only the individual affected but all those around him/her and later on, society in general. Social construct theorists in general tend to be against the label of ADHD with the claim that it is one that is stuck with an individual for life and may thus hinder his/her development with pills serving as crutches. They also say that the diagnosis tends to be prevalent in cultures where passivity and order are highly valued. Those who disagree saying that leaving the problem untreated will put those suffering from the disorder at unnecessary risk and stagnate their development. Part of the conflict seems to be what one group thinks the cause should be and/or the treatment required if any. It is important to note that social construct theorists are usually not the same as those who say that behavioral problems are just a result of bad parenting and one should not spare the rod in rectifying the problem. They are not saying that behavioral problems do not exist, just that the cause, treatment and effect should be different.. Whether or not ADHD is a social construct is a debate that is not likely to end any time soon and a resolution is not anywhere in sight. Social construct theorists will always argue that until ADHD is shown to be a true disorder instead of collection of traits then the label should not be used as it hinders more than it helps. On the other hand, those who say that ADHD is a true disorder are more likely to claim that not giving the disorder a label is very detrimental to the individual concerned. There are those who say that ADHD being a real psychiatric disorder being a social construct are not mutually exclusive. This means that thought they do be lieve that ADHD exists they do not think it is as prevalent as the pharmaceutical companies and the media make it out to be. Any behavioral problem that cannot be pinned down and diagnosed is bound to have its opponents and ADHD is one of them. Even those who do claim that it is a valid medical diagnosis and not just a label used to describe behaviors that fall outside the prescribed societal norm do admit that it is multi faceted and multi layered and no two individuals have the exact same symptoms. Social construct theorists on the other hand cannot dismiss the fact that behavioral disorders must be identified and dealt with even though they may not agree with the treatment prescribed or the reasons given for the behavior. With research still being done and studies being carried out it will be a while before any reasonable and scientifically viable conclusion can be reached that will validate either side. As with any mental condition that is difficult to diagnose, it is impossible to have all interested parties come to the same conclusion as it is highly individual and a form of treatment that works for one may not work for another. The very fact that the discussion is taking place and that the debate goes on could be of benefit to all interested and concerned parties. References Barkley, R. A. , Cook, E. H. Jr, Diamond, A. , et al. (2002) International Consensus Statement on ADHD. Clinical Child and Family Psychology Review, 5, 89 –111. [CrossRef][Medline] Breggin, P. (2002) The Ritalin Fact Book. Cambridge, MA: Perseus Publishing. Meltzer, H. , Gatward, R. , Goodman, R. , et al (2000) Mental Health of Children and Adolescents in Great Britain. London: Stationery Office. Moll, G. , Hause, S. , Ruther, E. et al (2001) Early methylphenidate administration to young rats causes a persistent reduction in the density of striatal dopamine transporters. Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology, 11, 15 –24. [CrossRef][Medline] Prout, A. James, A. (1997) Constructing and Reconstructing Childhood: Contemporary Issues in the Sociological Study of Childhood. London: Falmer Press. Sayal, K. , Taylor, E. , Beecham, J. , et al (2002) Pathways to care in children at risk of attention-deficit deficit hyperactivity disorder. British Journal of Psychiatry, 181, 43 –48. [Abstract/Free Full Text] Schachar, R. Tannock, R. (2002) Syndromes of hyperactivity and attention deficit. In Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (4th edn) (eds M. Rutter E. Taylor), pp. 399 –418. Oxford: Blackwell. Sproson, E. J. , Chantrey, J. , Hollis, C. , et al (2001) Effect of repeated methylphenidate administration on presynaptic dopamine and behavior in young adult rats. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 15, 67 –75. [Abstract/Free Full Text] Taylor, E. Sandberg, S. , Thorley, G. , et al (1991) The Epidemiology of Childhood Hyperactivity. Maudsley Monograph No. 33. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Taylor, E. , Chadwick, O. , Heptinstall, E. , et al (1996) Hyperactivity and conduct problems as risk factors for adolescent development. Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 35, 1213 –1226. [CrossRef][Medline] Timimi, S. (2002) Pathological Child Psychiatry and the Medicalization of Childhood. Hove: Brunner-Routledge.

Georgetown Cupcake Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Georgetown Cupcake - Essay Example Introduction The paper intends to provide an overview of an American bakery company, i.e. Georgetown Cupcake’s current status in the market, their history, along with the products and services they offer to satisfy the needs of the customers. The study also analyses the marketing strategies of Georgetown Cupcake. The study further concentrates on the weaknesses and threats of this organization with the intention to develop an effective market plan. History of Georgetown Cupcake Georgetown Cupcake was established by the two sisters, named Katherine Kallins and Sophie LaMontagne in Georgetown, Washington DC. These sisters are very passionate about preparing the cupcakes and designing them beautifully to turn them as artful and delicious as well. Both the sisters were encouraged and inspired by their grandmother to commence Georgetown Cupcake and hence they established it on February 2008 as decade’s first and the single cupcakery (Georgetown Cupcake, â€Å"The Cupcake Sisters†). Georgetown Cupcake maintains a healthy relationship with their community participating in most of the events in their neighborhood. Georgetown Cupcake also supports the national charitable organizations and the local charitable organizations too. They have already earned sustainable goodwill in the US market as their products are also loved and praised by their consumers. Thus, the organization has also earned substantial customer satisfaction within its short-term performance (Georgetown Cupcake, â€Å"The Cupcake Sisters†). They have donated more than 10,000 pieces of cupcakes to charitable organizations and other charitable causes. Georgetown Cupcake assists the government in reducing the unemployment rate to an extent. They offer various facilities and benefits to the employees serving them with health insurance amenities, paid vacations and sick leaves, along with invitations to special occasions and events. Georgetown Cupcake also praises and gives awards to the employee s on the basis of their performance and tends to encourage and motivates them for their better contribution to the productivity of the organization (Georgetown Cupcake, â€Å"The Cupcake Sisters†). The Market Scenario of Georgetown In Georgetown, Georgetown Cupcake faces competition from other well known bakery organizations. Some of the major competitors in its target market are Baker and Wired, Georgetown Scoops and Sprinkles. The community of Georgetown is observed to be enthusiastic cake lovers. At times, experts have also observed that the bakery market dominates other junk food markets. Moreover, the product seems to be cost effective to the consumers as well as easily available as stated by the residents of the Georgetown. Besides, another reason behind the growth of the market is that a standard cake consumes thirty five to forty minutes to be baked, whereas the cupcakes consume hardly ten to fifteen minutes to be baked. On the similar context, according to the bakers , the standard cakes requires a certain span of time, i.e. at least one hour to be decorated for final presentation, whereas cupcakes take only 20 minutes to be made consumable (Key, â€Å"Cupcake-Mania Sweeping the Streets of Georgetown†). Georgetown Cupcake has already acquired a large market share than the other competitors. For instance, in US, a huge amount of customers await in the queues in front of the shop to purchase the cupcakes. Georgetown Cupcake is well reputed as DC cupcakes among tourists visiting the city. However, Georgetown Cupcakes can also be observed to possess certain advantages along with few disadvantages in relation to its organizational operations. For instance, one of the competitors of the organization, i.e. Georgetown Scoops claims that they bake the best cupcakes in town. They have also applied a