Video Games Affecting Children Essay Example for Free

Video Games Affecting Children Essay Video games around the world have become immensely popular, a multi-billion dollar industry. An industry which revolves around the wants and desires of children and teens. An industry with a creation of unique entertainment like no other. An industry that continues to grow rapidly. Hours and hours are spent each day by youths playing these games, but are they really good for them? Are they educational? Games which educate a child’s mind exist but they wouldn’t be as popular as your top seller shooting game. Nowhere even close. Here I am today to tell, to inform, and to enlighten parents on the dangers of letting your child play these violent games. As a child, I found that my parents seemed to push away all sorts of violent games, no matter how badly I wanted them. It didn’t seem to make sense at first but as I grew older, I saw the younger generation getting addicted to games like these and without doubt, showed a different behaviour and attitude. In this modern age, a child or teen is quite likely to have a gaming console or access to the internet or a friend who does. With these, they can play or access games which may contain violent content. As youths play these games in excess, they tend to act out what they may see or hear in front of their friends and family. It gives them a tendency to act aggressive and violent. They learn new things, like bad language. They may use foul language against their friends and possibly repeat violent stunts at home. These games are full of foul language, bloody scenes and criminal behaviour. It gives them a prospect for confrontation with peers, with siblings, with parents and even with their teachers. They engage in fights which in turn could cause possible decline in their studies. They could even brush aside their school work to sit in front of a television because it’s like an addiction to them. The question is: should parents be encouraged to disallow their son or daughter to be entertained by these types of video games? The answer is up to you, as parents. It is up to you to observe whether you see a change in attitude among your kids and if in a negative way, then you should take action in order for your child to behave in an appropriate manner among people. Games like these are everywhere, so your child will grow up in an environment where they will play them. Although, it is always recommended to look at the age rating of the game before you buy it, to see whether or not your son or daughter fits into the category of restriction. You can even set limits on how long they should be allowed to play games, just so they don’t get too involved with the theme of the game. It’s absolutely paramount for a child to grow up in a positive environment. In my opinion, games that involve the likes of drugs, bloodshed, criminal behaviour, foul language and violence should not be banned, but put into higher restriction everywhere. There should be more age limitations and games that involve hostility at a lower level. So parents, do you know what games your children are playing? Have a look.

Lee Silverman Voice Treatment :: Health, Parkinson’s Disease

Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT) is primary utilized as a voice treatment for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and attempts to increase vocal loudness and improve vocal function (Ramig L, Sapir S, Fox C, and Countryman S, 2001) (Countryman S, Hoehn M, O’Brien C, Pawlas A, Ramig L, and Sapir S, 2001). There has also been success in utilizing this treatment protocol for patients with dysarthria associated with stroke, and traumatic brain injury as well as children who have cerebral palsy and Down syndrome (Spielman, J Ramig L Mahler L Halpern A Gavin W 2007, )R., Theodoros, D., & Cornwell, P. (January 01, 2008), Marchant, J., McAuliffe, M., & Huckabee, M.-L. (January 01, 2008. LSVT was conceived in 1987 and has been extensively studied around the world since then (Countryman et. Al). LSVT is a very unique form of voice therapy in that it focuses on several very simple tasks that are designed to maximize the client’s phonation and respiratory functions. (Countrymen et al.) Spielman et all2007 indicated that the standard course of treatment was an extensive treatment schedule of one hour a day, four days a week, for four consecutive weeks. The basis of the treatment regime boils down to overcoming the perception among clients with PD that there is nothing wrong with their speech, and than utilizing intensive sensorimotor training to help them to recognize and use increased effort and louder speech in their day-to-day communication. (Ramig, L. O., Fox, C., & Sapir, S. (January 01, 2004)) Most research studies to test the application and success of LSVT seem to follow the same basic research methodology. Clients with PD are recruited from local support groups, through newspaper advertisements or contact with specialists in other related medical fields. (Countryman et al 2001) (Ramig et al 2001). The normal testing method appears to be randomized control group studies with clients being separated into groups that either receive LSVT or do not receive any voice related therapy, or groups that receive more traditional and less intense forms of vocal or respiration therapy (Ramig et al 2004)(Ramig et al 2001) (Countrymen S. 2001) (Constantinescu, G., Theodoros, D., Russell, T., Ward, E., Wilson, S., & Wootton, R. (January 01, 2011). Control groups can further be broken down into age and gender categories. Initially the clients all have their sound pressure levels are measured to establish a baseline reference point.

Assignment 1: Starbucks’ Strategy Essay

The purpose of this paper is to explore key elements for Starbuck pertaining to their success their approach to organizational culture and management’s role in the proven success it has experience globally. Next, to converse about decision-making strategies that Starbuck’s management has implemented to maintain it competitive position in the market place; share a competency that is used by management and why this particular competency assist in the company’s success regarding organizational culture. Lastly, share my opinion on long-term sustainability in the global industry; in addition could the company continue without Mr. Howard Shultz as CEO. Organizational Culture In business management it is imperative that strategies are created and implemented so the company can experience growth and increase there revenue; additionally they must consider competition advantage, short and long-term planning to continue to sustain their position in the market, include the global market if it is applicable. In looking at Starbucks as a company a global leader in their respected industry, management had to consider the business strategies previously mentioned. However, management additionally had to consider organizational culture as part as of their strategic planning, along with being culturally sensitive since they operate globally. According to research, â€Å"the concept of culture helps managers understand the hidden, complex aspects of organizational life† (Draft, 2012, p.75). When Starbuck’s management strategically design plans to for company success it requires them to look at various elements both internally and eternally. This is important because when dealing globally the must understand the beliefs, values, etc. before operating in a particular area. Furthermore, internally they have to ensure that their employees understand this information as 3 well; by doing this it will make the operation operate smoothly without any interruption to the operation. For instance, gaining an understanding observing things that are visible or tangible which can be critical to internal operation such as, observing employee, beliefs, values, and much more. This requires management to incorporate the company’s mission and vision so it will eliminate conflicts so the company can function, as management desires in order to be profitable and competitive in the industry. The other key element is to focus on external elements, which will attract consumers to their stores, which is important when competing in a global competitive market. An analysis must be conducted to understand the customer; competitor positioning, and marketing plans that will gain and allow the company to build its customer base; this may require understanding customs, symbols, locations, etc. Thus, will increase profits and reduce liabilities and risk. Based on research it describes adaptability culture in both internal and eternal segments. â€Å"Managers encourage values that support the company’s ability to rapidly detect, interpret, and translate signals from the environment into new behavior responses. (Draft, 2012, p.78). This type of understanding in organizational cultural behavior promotes achievement and consistency for Starbucks. Managerial Decisions Starbucks has been successful in their operation for many reasons because management is cognizant that customers need to feel welcomed and relaxed based on the facility layout and location. Additionally, this is back by employees who share in management’s beliefs and values. Furthermore, the company is effective because they offer a variety of products that caters to their customer base. Perhaps one of the best advantages that management offers to their customers are free services such as Wifi, reduced cost on music such as CDs and free musical downloads for electronic devices, along with diverse music that caters to all ethnic groups. Management effectiveness against their competitors depends on cost, technology, productivity, and much more. The long-term goal for any company is to increase profits and decrease there lost without compensating quantity over quality. This requires management to do business with quality producers of coffee from around the world so their customers can have a variety of good to select from. Additionally, the decision-making that management made to appeal to customers relies on technology and it has proven to be effective in their competitive advantage over the competition. Research suggests that, â€Å"technology should be acquired to support the company’s chosen competitive priorities, not just to follow the latest market fad. Also, technology may require the company to rethink its strategy† (Reid & Sanders, 2010, p.43). It is imperative that management continues to be innovative in this area because technology is always changing so they have to constantly look for ways to improve marketing, quality of products, and operational procedures. Key Management Competency A key managerial competency that managers should have at Starbucks understands that customer service and productivity enhances their capabilities as being global leader. The service that customers receive in a timely fashion will always be an important factor when operating a business, thus, having knowledgeable staff that understands the functionality of the operation will minimize wait times, products will be made to company standards, and much more. Furthermore, offering the customers more service that are free and accessible is a key capability that will help them to fit into various organizational cultures; the key is that customers are the priority; having great products; effective marketing and pricing strategies, and conducting a competitive analysis quarterly so they will know how to make adjustments that best suit the market conditions. Lastly and perhaps one of the biggest competencies management at Starbucks has and must maintain is good employees because they are an asset, they have the ability to take 5 directives, initiative, and produce a quality product that will keep customers satisfied and selecting them over the competition. These are all good competencies to have when operating a successful business globally. Long-Term Sustainability As a global leader in the coffee industry it can be said that the company has they proper structure and infrastructure to remain a leader globally even if the CEO, Mr. Howard Shultz were to be replaced. Senior management has a sound business plan in place that is long-term and it will maintain its profitability as long as the company keeps its core values, beliefs, etc. Along with this the company will have to be diverse in its operation and products. Furthermore, the business will continue to thrive as long as the employees embrace change and are given rewards to help to maintain a positive morale and atmosphere, especially when operating and interacting with customers daily. It is believed that long-term sustainability involves proper planning, along with this management must understand the organizational cultures both internally and externally and must be willing to adapt. Also, in order for long-term sustainability to occur management must make periodic marketing forecast and competitor analysis; always look for ways to improve and create new products; invest in better equipment and training for employees; make cost adjustments due to economic conditions, and much more. If the company continues to embrace and operate in this manner it will achieve long-term goals and objectives without the current CEO. Conclusion In closing, Starbucks is a global leader in the coffee industry and as previously mentioned, in business management it is imperative that strategies are created and implemented so the 6 company can experience growth and increase there revenue; additionally they must consider competition advantage, short and long-term planning to continue to sustain their position in the market, including the global market. One of the elements Starbuck’s understands the importance of organizational culture; the company has been successful with their management and training department to incorporate their beliefs, values, etc. into the skills needed to compete against others in the coffee industry and by doing this the company has been able to expand, and has experienced an increase in profits. This type of business philosophy is critical when continuing long-term in achieving goals and objectivities through effective business strategies. Also, management must be confident in decision-making and must be willing to adapt when there are changes in the market, this may include but is not limited to the following, making changes to symbols, slogans, etc. Finally, it is believed that Starbucks could continue to operate as a successful company if the CEO were to change. The company has a sound business plan and training program that appeal to internal and external components to organizational culture. Additionally, management in their operation comes from diverse backgrounds and the company has been able to capitalize on their innovative ideas and have implemented changes that have not only benefited the company but more importantly the customers globally. References Draft, R. (2012). Management (10th ed.). Mason, OH: Cengage Learning. Reid, D. & Sanders, N. (2010). Operations Management. An Integrated Approach (4th ed.). John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

The Platt Amendment and US-Cuba Relations

The Platt Amendment set the conditions to end the United States military occupation of Cuba and was passed at the end of the Spanish-American War of 1898, which was fought over which country should oversee the governing of the island. The amendment was intended to create a path to Cuban independence while still allowing the U.S. to have an influence in its domestic and international politics. It was in effect from February 1901 until May 1934.   Historical Background Prior to the Spanish-American War, Spain had control over Cuba and was profiting greatly from its natural resources. There are two major theories as to why the U.S. entered war: promoting democracy abroad and gaining control of the island’s resources. First, the War of 1898 was popular with Americans because the government promoted it as a liberation war. Cubans and the well-known liberation force Cuba Libre began revolting against Spanish rule much earlier, in the 1880s. Additionally, the U.S. was already involved in conflicts with Spain throughout the Pacific in the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico, citing the European nation as an imperialist and undemocratic power. Therefore, some historians and politicians theorize that the war intended to promote democracy and extend the reach of the Free World, and the subsequent Platt Amendment was intended to provide a pathway to Cuban sovereignty. However, keeping Cuba in the U.S. sphere of influence had great economic and political benefits. In the 1980s, the U.S. was suffering one of the greatest economic depressions in its history. The island had tons of cheap tropical agricultural products that Europeans and Americans were willing to pay high prices for. Further, Cuba is only 100 miles from the southernmost tip of Florida, so keeping a friendly regime protected the nation’s national security. Using this perspective, other historians believe that the war, and by extension the Platt Amendment, was always about increasing American influence, not Cuban liberation. At the end of the war, Cuba wanted independence and self-government, whereas the United States wanted Cuba to be a protectorate, a region with a mix of local autonomy and foreign oversight. The initial compromise came in the form of the Teller Amendment. This stated that no country can permanently hold Cuba and a free and independent government will take over. This amendment was not popular in the U.S. because it seemingly barred the nation’s annexation of the island. Though President William McKinley signed the amendment, the administration still sought annexation. The Platt Amendment, signed in February 1901, followed the Teller Amendment to give the United States more oversight of Cuba. What the Platt Amendment Says The Platt Amendment’s primary stipulations were that Cuba became unable to enter into treaties with any foreign nation other than the U.S., the U.S. has a right to intervene if it is believed to be in the island’s best interest, and all conditions of the amendment must be accepted in order to end military occupation. While this was not the annexation of Cuba and there was a local government in place, the United States had much control over the island’s international relationships and domestic production of agricultural goods. As the United States continued to expand its influence throughout Latin American and the Caribbean, Latin Americans began to refer to this style of government oversight as â€Å"plattismo.† Long-Term Impact of the Platt Amendment The Platt Amendment and military occupation of Cuba is one of the leading causes of later conflict between the U.S. and Cuba. Opposition movements continued to expand across the island, and McKinley’s successor, Theodore Roosevelt, put a U.S.-friendly dictator named Fulgencio Batista in charge in hopes of countering the revolutionaries. Later, President William Howard Taft went as far as to say that independence would be completely out of the question if the Cubans continued to rebel. This only increased the anti-U.S. sentiment and propelled Fidel Castro to the Cuban Presidency with a communist-friendly regime after the Cuban Revolution.   Essentially, the legacy of the Platt Amendment is not one of American liberation, as the McKinley administration had hoped. Instead, it stressed and eventually severed the relationship between the U.S. and Cuba that has not normalized since. Sources Pà ©rez Louis A. The War of 1898: the United States and Cuba in History and Historiography. University of North Carolina, 1998.Boot, Max. The Savage Wars of Peace: Small Wars and the Rise of American Power. Basic Books, 2014.