Ideological analysis of two different magazines Essay

Ideological analysis of two different magazines - Essay Example The magazine was founded in 1977. Acquired by Werner Media in 1986, it currently has a circulation of 1.7 million, and a web site that has approximately 2 million unique hits a month. Upon first glance of U.S. Weekly, the reader is bombarded with images of fashion, stereotypical beauty, and often current scandals in the entertainment world. Glamorous ideals promoting the everyday lives of the wealthy, and advertisements centered on makeup, lingerie, acne medication, and ads for television shows that are marketed to woman as well, make up the majority of the sponsors. On the cover of issue 629 March 5, 2007, there were three main pictures on the front cover. One was of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie walking their newly born and adopted children in dual strollers through the streets; below this was a picture of a very glamorous and happy looking newly coupled Kate Moss and Owen Wilson, both with bright blond hair, shiny white teeth and blues eyes. Next to these two small photos, was a hu ge leading photograph of Britney Spears with a partly shaved head and a lead title statement saying, Help Me. This cover page gives perfect insight into the magazines ideology, in that it shows what ideals the editors promote as well as what goes against their values. By U.S. Weekly degrading Britney Spears for shaving her head, as apposed to putting it in a positive light, or doing any genuine investigative/informative journalism on her motives, the magazine takes a definite stance. Using Spear’s image in this way is a combination of exploitative scandal, and the magazines way of taking a finite stance against her fashion decision, but it takes it even further. The fact that she cuts her hair is not treated as just a fashion mistake, but as a sign that she needs psychological analyses. Her personal and family life is put in question and she is virtually crucified by the magazine for simply cutting her hair. Of course, the hair she cut was the key

Symbolic interactionism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Symbolic interactionism - Essay Example Based on the relationship between the individual and the society, symbolic interactionism brings the issue of coordinated management of meaning. Individuals in a communication process tend to construct social realities of the world they create to shape them. The definition and management of meaning to reflect reality is a two-way process that is enhanced by effective communication. The things that individuals say matter because they are a reflection of their thoughts and implications of reality. Symbolic interactionism succeeds in the social perspective when people cease to violate the interpersonal expectations of other people and work towards conformity. Even when the definition of social interactionism was being made, the modern ways and theories of communication were still in place. Only those philosophers had not identified them, or none had talked about them openly. For instance, the theory of social penetration applies all the time in the communication process, whether or not the communicators are aware of the existence of the theory. At the same time, in order to socialize and interact in a healthy manner, symbolic interactionism only reflects the reality it claims to symbolize when there is a reduction of uncertainty in the socialization process and pathway. It is through the reduction of uncertainty that people can socialize and share experiences that are foundations for the formation of friendship. In any social perspective, there must be contradictions and understandings between people based on their symbolic understanding of reality, as coined by the philosopher and his students. Although people believe that they have the right to control and make their information confidential, social interactions require sharing of information and ideas as one of the primary ways of the development of friendship. The continuous aspect of communication and

Social Welfare Policy in the US Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Social Welfare Policy in the US - Assignment Example There was also an indication of the growth of private employment in a period of 54 months after the enactment of the Recovery Act by Obama and the Congress in February 2008. The second part looked into the effect of the recession on the economy, and it was notable that the GDP was far below what the economy was potentially able to produce. Job losses were never known before. With the recession ending in June 2009, the unemployment rate in August was still at 6.1% confirming high rates of unemployment. The distribution of jobs in the population fell to levels that had not been witnessed since the 1980s. The recession also caused a long-term unemployment rate rise to levels never witnessed in six decades with levels of 1.9% in August 2009. The labor market was considerably affected by the unemployment rate reaching 12.0 percent in August 2014. Job seekers exceeded job opportunities at times with seven people seeking employment for a single job opening. The last part considers evaluating the extent of damage of the recession if the financial stabilization and the fiscal policies adopted were not used. It has been recorded that the GDP would have decreased with the absence of the recovery act and at the same time, the rate of unemployment would have increased considerably an estimation of 0.1 to 0.4% higher in 2010 if the recovery plan was not adopted. The Strength of this policy is that it offers the employed with financial protection thereby making sure that they are not financially exploited. The policy helps maintain financial levels that can effectively better the lives of citizens through better incomes. The policy sets a minimum amount wage for other state governments and thereby universally protecting the citizens from poor pays. The Weaknesses of this policy is that employees may be compelled to raise their prices to customers in order to cover the high wages  making the policy less effective.  

Outbreak of Aspergillus fumigatus Infection Case Study

Outbreak of Aspergillus fumigatus Infection - Case Study Example The first fatality was that of an 85-year-old female who had been admitted was admitted to the hospital in January 1995 for complications associated with chronic renal failure due to nephrosclerosis. Once the infection was discovered in her lungs, the patient's condition declined rapidly despite antibiotic regimen. A postmortem exam revealed Aspergillus hyphae in both sides of the lungs. The next fatality was that of a 49-year-old female suffering with Wegener granulomatosis who was admitted in February 1995 for cough and fever. Once the infection was discovered in her lungs, the patient's condition declined rapidly even though immunosuppressive treatments were reduced and antituberculotic therapy instituted. A postmortem exam revealed the Aspergillus infection had spread through the lungs to the heart and into the brain. The near-fatality was that of a 65-year-old male admitted in February 1995 with chronic renal failure due to renal vascular disease for severe malnutrition. The infection was never discovered in the patient's septum but his condition improved with liposomal amphotericin therapy. The patient achieved nearly complete regression in 10 weeks. The study shows certain strengths. The investigators admit the findings are inconclusive especially since they did not test air. They warn that hospital construction or renovation work near immunodepressed patients should alert physicians to the possible presence of A. fumigatus. Likewise, the

Sales and Financial Forecast Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Sales and Financial Forecast - Essay Example ocate resources where they are most needed in an order of priority, and this would allow one to control the business cash flow instead of the cash flow controlling them. The strategy would be to use sales promotion campaigns and advertising through posters at least 5 hours per day to create awareness of the product in the upper market areas of New York. Below is a sales and expense forecast that would be expected to be incurred in selling a new cosmetic brand from a small enterprise to the upper market New York. It is expected that these products are sourced directly from the warehouse already packaged in bundles. Sales promotion $ 300 (marketing and selling are different concepts and some products might be offered free to customers who meet certain criteria as a sales promotion strategy, including posters for advertising) The four Ps in marketing mix will affect the sales. With the 3 well trained employees in sales and noting that the upper New York residents and visitors have a high purchasing power, and that the sales will increase with time as customers have the awareness of the new cosmetic

Write a 125 words for each question Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Write a 125 words for each question - Essay Example On the other hand, Romania remained largely unaffected. It wasn’t until the leader of the Communist Party returned from a state visit to Iran that the people came out in protest. Mikhail Gorbachev realised that the Communist states were struggling financially and needed more openness with the West. President Ronald Reagan supported military groups who opposed communism in their own countries. His ideas became known as Reagan Doctrine. 2. The Christian right first started in response to the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which outlawed discrimination against women and blacks. Another reason was the liberal culture of the 1960s, and was motivated by fear of social breakdown. The Christian right had an increasing role in American politics and vocally supported particular candidates (usually Republican) by producing voter guides and distributing them to conservative Christian churches. The Christian right gained exposure between the 1960s and 1980s through increased Christian television p rogramming. Jimmy Swaggart was one of the most famous televangelists of the 80s; by 1983 he had more than 250 television stations broadcasting his program. Other televangelists, such as Jim Bakker, were criticized for preaching prosperity doctrine and acquiring considerable wealth.

Gay and Lesbian Youths Essay Example for Free

Gay and Lesbian Youths Essay Past evidence indicates that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) youths have continued to face excessive discrimination in schools. Present literature indicates that LGBT youths also face increased risks for various health issues that include suicide attempts, drug abuse, homelessness, harassment and poor performance at school. In spite of increased clear visibility regarding the discrimination of gay and lesbian people, LGBT youths in schools have continued to encounter excessive social, institutional as well as legal discrimination. In deed LGBT youths have been known to be the most vulnerable subgroup in the bigger LGBT group. Due to the high level of homophobia in the American society, youths who are struggling with the sexual orientation identification are faced with tremendous challenges and they lack support from basic supporting systems that are available to those who are heterosexual. Given that it is estimated by Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (2004) that the population of gays and lesbians is between 3% and 10%, it can be deduced that a small number of youths in schools are LGBT or are still not sure of their sexual orientation. This research paper papers aims at reviewing gay and lesbian youths in schools. Munoz-Plaza, et al (2002) quoting Robinson (1994) explains that the prevalent social stigmatization of gays and lesbians is blamed for the numerous social and health issues that have disproportionately affected LGBT youths. Munoz-Plaza, et al (2002) further explains that that a lot of researchers have specifically centered on the absence of social support structures for gay and lesbian youths in schools. Yet, classrooms have been identified as being the most homophobic place compared to other social institutions. Heath status of gay and lesbian youths in schools Munoz-Plaza, et al (2002) states that studies have repeatedly indicated that gay and lesbian youths are specifically at increased risk of committing suicide, being verbal and physical abused, abusing drugs, contracting sexually transmitted infections, becoming homelessness and resorting to prostitution. At the same time their performance at school is bound to drop. Citing a study carried out by U. S Department of Health and Human Services, Munoz-Plaza, et al (2002) states that the study established that suicide was the leading cause of deaths of gays and lesbian youth in schools. More so that study found that gay and lesbian youth were 3-6 times more possibly to try suicide compared to heterosexual youths, in deed gays and lesbian youth accounts for over 30% of all youth suicide cases. Taylor (2000) agrees with the finding of this study by affirming that past offers proof that LGBT youths are likely to commit suicide. However, he clarifies that studies on this subject have linked increased risk of suicide to stress arising from the sexual orientation aspect. Taylor (2000) explains that general studies on this subject indicates that individuals who have less social support and poor relationship with their families, partners and peers are most likely to attempt suicide than those whose relationships are strong and intact. Apart from suicide, it was also established that LGBT youths are also at risk of experiencing other social as well as health problems. In a study that focused on more than 130 gay and bisexual male youths, it was found that 76% of them used alcohol while 25% abused cocaine (Routherum-Borus, et al, 1994). In comparing these findings with heterosexual male youths, Routherum-Borus, et al (1994) established that only 49% of heterosexual youths used alcohol while only 2% abuse cocaine. At the same time studies have also found that rates as high as 42% of runaway youths are LGBT, this implies that there is a great connection between runaway behavior LGBT, in away that those youths who are gay or lesbian are likely to runaway from their homes. At the same time this runaway youths are likely to turn to prostitution. Indeed in a study carried out by Taylor (2000) where he reviewed studies on male prostitution among youths, he established that many studies have established that out of three male prostitutes, two were gay or bisexual. More so, youths who are identified as gay or lesbian are particularly susceptible to being harassed both physically and verbally. In reviewing a study done on violence perpetuated on LGBT youths in schools both junior and high schools, Munoz-Plaza, et al (2002) explains that 35%-50% of youths in these schools did report that they had been harassed, threatened or had experienced some kind of violence. In another study done by Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (2004) 2,000 LGBT youths were interviewed across the country, the study established that nearly 50% of males as well as 20% of females reported being harassed either verbally or physically in school (both junior and high schools). LGBT youths lack social support Studies on key life changes for example, the loss of a partner or a loved one, indicate that social support as well as social networks can assist an individual to cope with the stressors of life. In deed several writers have reviewed past literature that link social support and social networks in relation to morbidity as well as mortality (Munoz-Plaza, et al, 2002) Social support is comprises of four varying behaviors; these are emotional support that is given in as love, trust caring and listening; Two, appraisal support that is given as a positive feedback; Three, instrumental support, given as tangible resource such as financial aid, time and labor; And four, information support, given as advice and ideas Munoz-Plaza, et al (2002). Consequently, it has been established by there is lack of social, support for LBGT youths at home, within the community and also at school. This results in social isolation experienced by many LGBT youths at school and back at home. It’s against this background that a lot of literature associates social isolation in LGBT youths with increased risk of many of these LGBT youths. In a study that was done by Munoz-Plaza, et al (2002) to determine social support of LGBT youths in schools, participants reported that family members were less supportive than non-family members. According to the study, both heterosexual and LBGT friends and peers provided emotional support to LGBT youths, however, the emotional support offered by heterosexual friends and peers was limited. Those friends and peers who were also LGBT apart from offering emotional support they as well offered valuable informative and appraisal assistance. However, it was also established that many LGBT youths in schools do not disclose their sexual orientation to their parents when they are still schooling thus they reported that their parents offered very minimal assistance of any form concerning their sexuality. Another major problem that LGBT youths in schools suffer is identity and it interplays with sexual orientation and social support. As Taylor (2000) points out the basic role of high schools is assisting teenagers in forming a sense of individuality through the adoption of social customs. Teachers, coachers, counselors as well as administers in school strive for youths in schools to maintain heterosexual model of sexuality as the normative way; such a standpoint is in direct conflict with sexuality orientation of LGBT youths. In addition LGBT youths in schools have pointed out that it’s a hard struggle for them to identify the sexuality both internally and externally. This is because of the overwhelming negative responses that homosexuality attracts both at home and schools. The difficult in expressing their sexuality makes the LGBT youths to feel alienated from the society. As one gay student reported by Munoz-Plaza, et al (2002) said, growing up, made him feel that he was different from others in some way. He further explained that he knew what he was feeling about his fellow guys or the opposite sex was usually different what his friends felt. Munoz-Plaza, et al (2002) explains that such difference is normally related to reported inability of â€Å"fitting in† together with their peers and thus being alienated. Bullying of LGBT youths in schools In addition to challenges that LGBT face because of their sexuality, gay and lesbian teenagers in schools are forced to deals with daily bullying in schools in form of harassment, violence and threats that they receive day by day. LGBT youths are called anti-gay slurs for example â€Å"homo†, â€Å"sissy† or â€Å"forgot†. In a study carried out by Savin-Williams (1994) it was established that a gay or lesbian student may hear these words 25 times each day. Even more disturbing, a study on LGBT in schools, established that 30% of gay youths in schools in only one year were injured in one way or another merely because of their sexuality (Savin-Williams, 1994). How LGBT youths are mentally affected Ryan and Futterman (1997) states that, gay and lesbian youths are particularly at high risk since, their anguish directly results from hatred as well as prejudice surrounding them. But, don’t suffer because of their sexuality orientation. The distress that LGBT youths suffer is likely to make them attempt suicide, in deed as it has been stated before LGBT are twice likely to attempt suicide compared to heterosexual youths. How LGBT youths are academically affected LGBT youths in American schools are usually subjected to extreme bullying that they end up not performing well in school and they drop out earlier thus not getting enough education (Ryan and Futterman, 1997). LGBT students in schools are more likely to skip some classes or because of fear, intimidation, and property destruction directed at them (Savin-Williams, 1994). In supporting this observation Savin-Williams (1994) affirms that a study by Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (2004) established that 20% of LGBT students had skipped classes in period of one month due to fearing for their safety. It has been established that the rate of LGBT students dropping out of schools is over three times the national standard for the heterosexual students. In school, when LGBT students are bullied they many of them feel that they do not have a place or anyone to turn to. Ryan and Futterman (1997) explains that according to a number of surveys done previous, 80% of LGBT students reported that they did not know any helpful adult at their schools. Family aspects and religion Gays and lesbian youths who grow up in families that have strict religious background are prone to experience discord between their spirituality and their sexuality. At times their quilt feeling overwhelms them. Sadly, in American schools, the religious rights prevent the school systems from tackling the same issue of LGBT. Thus, as Taylor, (2000) asserts homophobia is widespread in schools, and teachers who could have assisted keep quite for fear of being sacked. Harm reduction The high cases of suicide, stress disorder and drug abuse among LGBT youths in schools is a clear indication of internalized homophobia which, results from a LGBT youth growing up with minority sexuality in heterosexist society. The effects of internalizing the rejection that this group faces are loss of self assurance that most likely leads to high-risk behaviors like drug abuse (van Wormer and McKinney, 2003). Strategies of addressing LBGT in schools Due to the risks that gay as well as lesbian youth are bound to suffer, gay and lesbian problems ought to be tackled in middle schools. In order to assist teachers in this attempt the following suggestions are offered. Teachers are knowledgeable and dedicated to young youths Teachers have to learn more and understand well issues of homophobia, gay and lesbian history. This information can be found in books, journals, and the internet. Through this understanding they will able to be objective and assist those LGBT students without prejudice (van Wormer and McKinney, 2003). Curriculum changes Whenever it is appropriate, teachers could incorporate information regarding gays and lesbians individuals who have made major contributions to the society, Such as, Socrates, Virginia Woolf, Leonardo da Vinci and others (van Wormer and McKinney (2003). Through, discussing the contribution that such great gay and lesbian people made, it will assist the LGBT students to feel more optimistic and less isolated about their future. Fostering a caring and sensitive climate In addition, van Wormer and McKinney (2003) asserts that, teachers are not just supposed to assume that each student is a heterosexual, on the contra they need to use a language that is all inclusive that is sensitive to gay and lesbian individuals; For example, using words like date instead of boy/girl friend and spouse instead of wife or husband. In addition, owing to the extensiveness of homophobia within American schools, teachers and other staff should be sensitive to gay and lesbian students’ requirements. Creating Safe and respectful environment As Howard Taylor (2000) explains, schools ought to provide a safe as well as a respectful learning atmosphere for every student. When bullying and other forms of harassment are permitted to occur, it impacts everybody. It is understood that many schools violence and shootings such as the Columbine school shooting are contributed by bullying. Teachers, school administrators as well as other students who ignore bullying of LGBT students in their schools contribute to the problems endured by the LGBT students. On contra, those LGBT students who are given support and understanding of their sexuality report that they feel a sense of belong to the school they are in. Conclusion Gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youths usually start experiencing their sexuality identification during their adolescent years just like the heterosexual youths. These are normal developmental processes and though they could affect the student’s development as well as achievements, they are not a symptom of mental disorder, sickness, or emotional problems. However, many LGBT students in schools experience a number of obstacles and problems that include being harassed both physically and mentally, being isolated, being denied social support all because of sexual orientation. Schools counselors warn that these issues result in LGBT being at high risk of, stress, poor performance at school, kipped class, dropping out of school entirely, or even attempting suicide. Thus, schools are encouraged to create an enabling and safe atmosphere for LGBT students in schools to prevent such incidents. References Gay, Lesbian and Straight Education Network (2004): The 2003 National School Climate Survey: The School Related Experiences of Our Nations Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Youth: New York; GLSEN. Munoz-Plaza, C; Quinn, S and, Round, K (2002): Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender Students: perceived social support in the high school environment. High school journal 85. 4 p 52-12 Robinson, K (1994): Addressing the needs of gay and lesbian students: the school counselor’ role; The school counselor, 41; p, 326-330 Routherum-Borus, M, et al (1994): Sexuality and Substance use acts of gay and Bisexual male adolescents in New York city; Journal of Sex Research; V. 31; 47-56 Ryan, C Futterman, D (1997): Lesbian and Gay Youth; Care and Counseling; Adolescent Medicine State-of-the-Art Reviews, 8(2).