Month: April 2021
Improving Water Quality in the Mississippi River Basin
The regulatory term in the U.S. Clean Water Act requires that state environmental agencies complete Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) assessments for impaired waters which should then be reviewed by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) (EPA, 2018). It should be the responsibility of each state to restore and protect our Nation’s waters, however this has not always been the case. Nationally there are 40% of assessed waters that do not meet these standards (Soupir, 2019) set forth by CWA due to the number of impaired waters because of excess nutrient related causes. Unfortunately, one of the biggest impacts, and widely publicized, consequence of this lack of action is the effects these impaired waters are having on the Mississippi River Basin (MRB). Iowa’s contribution has been tremendous to the increased dead zone of the MRB due to our agricultural practices. Lately it has been the trend for organizations to go in litigation with the government over the enactment of, or lack thereof, TMDLs in their state. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the repercussions of such actions and how it may actually affect CWAs intended purpose of establishing TMDLs. It is my belief that if the EPA begins to take action first, by taking such steps as a “pollution diet”, this may alleviate the need for some of the litigations in the first place.
The MSRB begins in northern Minnesota and spans 2,350 miles south to the Gulf of Mexico (EPA, 2018). The basin has hundreds of tributaries that include waters from parts of 31 states that drain into this basin. The MSRB is the third largest river basin in the world. The Basin provides a plethora of resources to the United States (U.S.) and helps facilitate commerce, tourism and fishing. Throughout history, this basin has been a staple that has assisted in the industrial revolution by way of steam boats, trade, damming systems, etc. The basin has also been a major source of water supply which assisted in the enhancement of agriculture, industries and the buildup of cities along the river. However, with the good there comes the bad. The production of a more industrialized and agriculturally sound country has caused a mass amount of waste to be in turn dumped, leaked and leached into the MSRB. Agriculture especially has caused large amounts of nutrients, due to nitrogen and phosphorus, to be discharged into the river systems which then leads into the Gulf of Mexico. The excess of these pollutants is the leading cause of hypoxia in the Gulf of Mexico. Hypoxia occurs when water near the bottom of the Gulf contains less than two parts per million of dissolved oxygen (EPA, 2019).
As of 2018, the hypoxia zone measured 2,720 square miles, which well exceeds EPA’s goal of reducing the zone to 1,931 square miles. The rate at which these nutrients are contributing to the larger water systems (Gulf of Mexico) is exceeding the natural capacity of the MRSB to remove nutrients. This hypoxia is negatively affecting marine wildlife and local fisheries in the Gulf. Unfortunately, Iowa is the leading contributor to the nitrate loads in the MSRB. According to a study that evaluated data from 1999 to 2016, Iowa was contributing in excess of 55% of the long-term nitrate load to the basin (Jones, 2018). Based on these current statistics and Iowa’s history of pollution contribution to the MSRB, the time has now come for the EPA to intervene the states behalf to clean up our waters and thus decreasing our contribution to the hypoxic zone in the Gulf of Mexico.
One of the biggest contributors to this overall problem, and one who should be the main stakeholder in this TMDL process, are those involved in agricultural production (farmers, ranchers, manufacturers etc.). A research article published in the Journal of Environmental Management discusses financial incentives farmers can receive by helping to repair the dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico. Partaking in tasks that decrease nutrient runoff in the MRB are possible by such land management practices that include restoring floodplain forests and wetlands, river management, utilizing cover crops or adopting a no-till practice on their fields. (Tallis, 2019). Although a farmer would want to make efforts towards a TMDL there can be challenges achieving these tasks for those involved in agricultural practices because to implement these initiatives they would initially lose money and must take land out of production (for some of the land management practices).
The second stakeholder I would suggest being involved in the TMDL process should be an environmentalist group such as the Iowa Environmental Council. One of their main purpose is to “develop and adopt solutions that are economical, sustainable and environmentally sound”. (Clean Water and Land Steward, nd). It is their belief that the EPA is decades behind on protecting the MSRB. Based on a report written by the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy (Sigford, 2016) they believe that the EPA has been aware of the nutrient pollution problem in the MSRB since the 1990s and has still not taken enough action to enforce TMDLs on individual states. Their concern is that the harmful effects of nutrient pollution is beginning to significantly impact Iowa’s recreational lakes and can cause adverse symptoms such as rashes, blisters, vomiting and asthma-like symptoms, etc., to persons who are exposed to these waters. Their biggest stance is that Iowa needs enforced water quality standards that address the causes of impairments (Dvorak, 2018).
Finally, an important stakeholder would be the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. The main goal for IADNR is to improve water quality and remove streams and lakes from the impaired list in conjunction with the section 303(d) of the CWA developed in 2011 (Berckes, 2015). IADNR’s approach to TMDLs was to analyze the situation the first 15 years by evaluating waters listed on the impaired list and then shifted to developing TMDL documents focusing on small lake watersheds that held specific local interests. After this, there were to be assessments. As of 2016, the IA DNR has prioritized TMDLs to address impairments on waterbodies with high nutrient related issues and eutrophic conditions such as algae, turbidity and pH.
Working together, the aforementioned stakeholder can successfully implement TMDLs for the state of Iowa waterbodies if they follow the EPA-developed strategies I will layout in this report. Each stakeholder has past work or experience that can be brought together to help reduce the amount of pollutants leaving Iowa waters draining into the MSRB. The first step in this strategy would be to use the list identifying waters requiring TMDLs created by the IADNR and then ranking sites on these lists in terms of prioritization (EPA. These first two strategies would involve knowledge from all stakeholders. IADNR has conducted research on this already, but the environmental agency and the farmers can assist in identifying how the list should be ranked according to community and land owner needs a capability. It is the State’s desire to foremost reduce the excess nutrient content that is running off into the MSRB, but for the community, their concern is also the aesthetics of our waterbodies, such as excess algae and turbidity. The IEC will have vast knowledge of public needs and wants and can bring this to the forefront when discussing priority ranking. Part of the first two strategies should be developing a timeline. The three stakeholders may have different timelines set in mind, but coming to a reasonable middle ground will force all parties involved to see all ends of the situation. The ultimate limitation for IADNR is resources, such as manpower and funding. By working together, these resources can be discussed and everyone involved can ensure that as the resources become available they are promptly utilized in the furtherance of the TMDLs.
A final strategy in the successful implementation of TMDLs would be to work together with State agencies, Tribes and the EPA to enforce more stringent laws, local ordinances and programs that are incentive-based in nature. (EPA,). One of the biggest problems with implementing TMDLs is that many stakeholders do not understand or realize there are incentives to implementing plans that promote the success of TMDLs. For landowners surrounding waterbody systems or whos pollution may contribute to the problem, they would have to acquire some significant losses to remedy the problem. Even if they wanted to, some cannot give up their livelihood to do so. However, if made aware of the incentives, such as tax breaks, reimbursements and funding available to them, they may be more willing to implement more land strategy plans.
By following my proposed course of action, the primary positive outcome would be better water systems within Iowa and a reduction of pollutants being dumped into the MSRB. Furthermore, there will be improvement to data needs, improving communications with stakeholders, more detailed TMDLs that can be used for implementation planning and better allocation of funds and resources of how to obtain further funding if that is a need. There can be improvement on how government agencies and the community focus their resources to encourage implementation of TMDLs. TMDLs can become more transparent to the public and other stakeholders not directly involved in the process due to the engagement of these groups, by the three stakeholders mentioned in this report, during the planning stages. Finally, if during the process of creating TMDLs, there are diverse groups working together there is no need for litigations to take place if they are all working towards the same goal, which would have been laid out before forming such a taskforce. Less litigation would equal better allocation of funds which would go towards the implementation of TMDLs instead of towards legal fees. Furthermore, it would be a better use of everyone’s time to focus more energy on the implementation of cleaner waters instead of fighting over who is responsible for ensuring this task is done.
References
- Overview of Identifying and Restoring Impaired Waters under Section 303(d) of the CWA. (2018, September 13). Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/tmdl/overview-identifying-and-restoring-impaired-waters-under-section-303d-cwa
- Soupir, M. (2019). Watershed management: Legislative basis and TMDLs [PowerPoint Slides]
- The Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB). (2016, September 09). Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/ms-htf/mississippiatchafalaya-river-basin-marb
- Northern Gulf of Mexico Hypoxic Zone. (2019, January 31). Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/ms-htf/northern-gulf-mexico-hypoxic-zone
- Jones, C. S., Nielsen, J. K., Schilling, K. E., & Weber, L. J. (2018). Iowa stream nitrate and the Gulf of Mexico. PloS one, 13(4), e0195930. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0195930
- Tallis, Heather, Polasky, Stephen, Hellmann, Jessica, Springer, Nathaniel P., Biske, Rich, Degeus, Dave, Weaver, Sarah Kate. (2019). Five financial incentives to revive the Gulf of Mexico dead zone and Mississippi basin soils. Journal of Environmental Management, 233, 30-38.
- Clean Water and Land Stewardship. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.iaenvironment.org/our-work/clean-water-and-land-stewardship/
- Sigford, K. (2016) Decades of delay: EPA leadership still lacking in protecting America’s Great River. Retrieved from https://www.iaenvironment.org/webres/File/Decades-of-Delay-MRC-Nov-2016%20(1).pdf
- Berckes, J. (n.d.). Long-Term Vision for Assessment, Restoration, and Protection under the Clean Water Act Section 303(d) Program(pp. 1-9, Rep. No. 1).
- EPA. (1996). Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program: TMDL program implementation strategy. Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-10/documents/2004_12_14_tmdl_strathp.pdf
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Improving Water Quality in the Mississippi River Basin. (2021, Apr 10).
Retrieved November 5, 2025 , from
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The Ketogenic Diet – Healthy Lifestyle or Unhealthy Lifestyle
The Ketogenic diet was initially called starvation treatment by two Parisian specialists in 1911. Starvation treatment was utilized on kids and grown-ups who asserted seizure side effects were not as terrible during treatment. Two Harvard doctors considered the impacts of the starvation diet in epilepsy patients and they saw seizure improvement inside two-three days. In 1924 Dr. Russell Wilder renamed starvation treatment to "Ketogenic diet." Dr. More out of control reasoned that by eating many fats, some protein and no sugars could toss the body into ketosis. By keeping the body from sugars, the body will consume fat which will build energy and result in weight reduction. At the point when the body goes into ketosis, epileptic seizures are diminished basically significantly. Typically, the estimations of how much protein an individual ought to eat depended on body weight. "Kids would eat 1 g of protein for every kilogram/body weight and 15 g of carbs a day and the excess calories in fat."
There are such countless new things about our physiology that have been introduced that weren't an issue in those days. For instance, what might be said about those people with diabetes? In an individual who has diabetes, ketones structure when there aren't sufficient carbs for energy, yet this frequently happens in light of the fact that there isn't sufficient insulin accessible to help move carbs from the circulatory system to the cells to be utilized for energy. You may be believing that it's valuable to consume fat for fuel. Be that as it may, for diabetic people, ketosis can immediately become hazardous on the off chance that it happens because of a proceeded with absence of insulin. Without insulin, fat cells keep on delivering fat into course and the liver keeps on siphoning out ketones. Ketones are acids so they bring down the pH of the blood, making it acidic and conceivably risky and perhaps perilous. Diabetes is just a single sickness of numerous that could accidentally influence the person.
Another issue that can emerge is the connection to renal issues. In an alternate report low protein diet supplements were regulated by a fundamental amino corrosive—keto corrosive blend for six to a year. Body weight diminished during the initial three months. Arm muscle periphery fell, bulk additionally fell in a few people. This eating regimen might slow the decrease in renal capacity in an extent of patients. Low protein eats less have been utilized for a long time for indicative alleviation of uremic side effects. While trying to further develop the uremic state different blends of fundamental amino acids and their keto corrosive analogs have been given as enhancements to counts calories low in nitrogen. As of late it has been asserted that low protein diets might slow the movement of renal disappointment. The proof for a defensive impact of a low protein admission is striking in trial renal disappointment created in rodents.
Various reports have seemed which propose there might be a comparative impact in people yet to the present time there has been just one endeavor at a planned haphazardly assigned preliminary in human renal infection. This investigation detailed that an extremely low protein diet enhanced by a fundamental amino corrosive/keto corrosive combination seemed to slow or at times totally end the movement of cutting edge renal disappointment. On the off chance that decrease in renal capacity can to be sure be eased back, they would end up being critical in both human and monetary terms. Albeit the eating routine can seriously block the individuals who are diabetic or are in danger for it, incidentally, it may associate in different issues, for example, decline the indications of renal disappointment. This could be a leap forward in find out about the eating regimen itself. However, with such countless advantages and disadvantages it is difficult to know without a doubt in case it is in reality useful for you, and furthermore who it is useful for. For instance, imagine a scenario in which you have a sickness going on the eating routine may exacerbate the situation, for sure in case you were absolutely solid however doing the eating regimen got another worry, for example, an abnormal hypersensitivity or another infection that you didn't realize you were in danger for. The issue with how new the eating routine is, isn't realizing the responses to any of those inquiries. However, likewise with any new thing that surfaces in our reality it begins with small steps and assuming it considers functional, it advances into something more noteworthy.
There are many examinations that are being done to take a gander at the impacts of the eating regimen both great and awful. One of many examinations that was done incorporated a gathering of stout people that went on the keto diet for 24 weeks, the outcomes were that the eating routine assisted the greater part with getting thinner quick and as it ended up, it likewise assisted them with bringing down their glucose and cholesterol levels. This examination showed that assuming you need to get in shape quick and arrive at solid degrees of cholesterol then this eating regimen is intended for you. In any case, a contention that can be made is that a hefty individual can get thinner rapidly in the event that they simply practice right and eat satisfactory segments of food. It is a lot simpler to see weight reduction in a bigger individual instead of a more modest one. It was tracked down that corpulent subjects with a high commonness of diabetes lost more weight during a half year on a starch confined eating routine than on a calorie-and fat-limited eating regimen. Which further proposes that stout people are bound to show the weight reduction. In any case, there were numerous contrasts between the gatherings and the length of the investigation.
Many examinations were accomplished for a somewhat brief timeframe so the discoveries were insignificant. This could be a direct result of how new the eating routine is, so there isn't a lot of proof on the examinations in each investigation, And on the grounds that it's so new we don't think a lot about the eating regimen so it tends to be hard to test. In years to come there will be more information about the drawn out impacts that the keto diet may have on your body. Likewise inside each investigation it is hard to decide the likelihood that the eating routine was not never really demanded models of the examination. This implies that it was conceivable that the people didn't burn-through the sufficient measure of calories and sugars that were needed for their weight in the preliminary. Of those individuals around that went on the keto diet, a great many people ate significantly less than they should and experienced issues remaining under their required carb consumption. A large part of the time individuals didn't have breakfast or lunch because of the absence of information on what is positive or negative it could be said that a specific food may have an excessive number of carbs and if the remittance is just 50 carbs a day they need to save those sums for another supper that is maybe more acceptable.
Studies like this one show the continuation of studies to be fairly troublesome as it were that it's difficult to represent all factors and deciding the connections between the eating routine itself and the incidental effects it could have on the examination work force. In every one of the investigations that were discovered it would appear the keto diet had a lot higher weight reduction than that of different eating regimens. A hypothesis regarding why the ketogenic diet works so rapidly is that draining your glycogen stockpiling helps with losing water weight.2 This is expected in light of the fact that there is a one-to-two proportion among glycogen and water. Disposing of the glycogen would thus dispose of a ton of water put away in the body. However, that actually makes one wonder, for how long is it bravo? Contrasted and a low-fat eating regimen, a low-starch diet program would be wise to member maintenance and more noteworthy weight reduction. During dynamic weight reduction, cholesterol level expanded more with the low-sugar diet than with the low-fat eating routine. As per this, doing a high fat eating routine is awful for you cholesterol levels.
A ketogenic diet can likewise be low in fiber, nutrients and minerals, since entire grains, vegetables, leafy foods number of vegetables are beyond reach due to their carb content. Kids have consistently been instructed to follow the food pyramid (or my plate or whatever it is currently) to eat a sound, offset feast with right piece sizes. This includes eating an assortment of organic products, vegetables, entire grains, low-fat dairy, skinless poultry and non-singed fish, nuts and vegetables, and restricting red meat, immersed fat and desserts. These are needed for a heart solid eating regimen. This load of food varieties are important to give our bodies the right nutrients and minerals it needs to develop. Yet, limiting those food varieties would seriously affect the accessibility of those fundamental nutrients and minerals to our bodies. Many individuals on the keto diet require taking enhancements to give their bodies what they need. Future investigations assessing long haul cardiovascular results are required before a sugar limited eating regimen can be supported. No examination that was discovered kept going longer than a couple of years and there were extremely controlled gatherings who changed by a ton.
So is the ketogenic diet awesome? Well the issue is, is that there isn't sufficient data to say either yes or no. The spans of any investigation that was found was not long enough to decide the general expenses and advantages of doing the eating regimen. Indeed it might assist you with getting more fit rapidly however over the long haul it probably won't be so solid due to it's inclinations to confine your vital admission of nutrients and minerals and the consolation to do actual work. In spite of the fact that doing this eating regimen would yield higher outcomes over whatever other eating routine that was seen, I accept that it very well may be a quick and transitory arrangement however just for a brief timeframe of perhaps a couple of months. In any case, throughout extensive stretches of time, it could have likely unfavorable consequences for your body.
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Culture Wars: Art or Vandalism?
Art is the most powerful form of self-expression. But, what distinguishes art? And who defines it? The majority of the American population can argue that there is a fine distinction between what is recognized as art and what is considered vandalism. Confusion and uncertainty often arise when the topic of graffiti is introduced. Prevailing social stigmas often portray graffiti as an incentive for issues such as corruption, increased criminal activity, and the defacement of public and private property. Furthermore, many feel that graffiti removal and prevention efforts are a complete misuse of taxpayers' money. Michael Pernar, a notable adversary of graffiti, believes graffiti is indicative of decay and should be more heavily criminalized, according to his article ""Graffiti Taggers Are Just a Pain in the Arts."" Additionally, his proclaimed solution to the controversial art form is to outlaw all graffiti and to punish its creators to ultimately discourage recurrence. Despite such a stance, many view graffiti as a form of artistic self-expression, and a means of communication and conversation between designers and the general public. Proponents of graffiti more carefully differentiate between the various types of street art, and recognize that some pieces have remarkable merit and deserve such recognition. Some even believe graffiti should be included in school education systems as a way to cultivate individualism. Graffiti has remained a popular topic of debate in America since before the 1970's, and both individuals for and against graffiti have admirable arguments that need to be addressed.
Section II: Findings
Most argue that in order to prevent vandalism, people must recognize that there are many different types of graffiti, each with different motivations that drive graffiti's creations. There is a public need for further education about the significance of street art, and exposure to graffiti in its raw form could sway the opinions of those who still oppose it. For example, gang graffiti is the most notorious type of graffiti and the category into which most observers incorrectly classify all graffiti, where gangs seek to be deliberately destructive and instill fear. This specific form of graffiti typically incites fear because its opponents believe that gangs use graffiti as a means of symbolism and representation, and so any graffiti has the potential to bring about increased rates in gang activity, violence, and crime (G??mez 655). However, the majority of graffiti in cities is something completely different, where artists not only seek notoriety and respect, but also use it as an opportunity for artistic or social expression. Furthermore, because the origins of graffiti are rooted in the ghetto, opponents too often cite graffiti as a sign of urban decay (Hughes 34). Neither of these beliefs are true, as much of graffiti is done by non-violent individuals in wealthy neighborhoods or to successfully revitalize ghetto areas.
Although there have been many efforts to help eradicate vandalism, most comprehensive legislation and policies have been unsuccessful, by failing to account for the motivations behind graffiti. The National Graffiti Information Network estimated that in 1990 alone, municipalities spent four billion dollars to clean up graffiti and replace vandalized material. (McDonogh, 2013). Others believe that simply cleaning and repainting the graffiti is not enough ""bang for their buck"" so to speak, and believe that people should think more creatively if we want to see any direction. Carol West allocates for the implementation of mural arts programs in cities, such as the one Philadelphia founded, ""The Philadelphia Mural Arts Advocate."" These programs require necessary job skills such as teamwork, personal responsibility, respect of self and others, and creative problem solving. She states, ""Our community would be able to save money in the long run if graffiti is eradicated in favor of creative art. It would also save dollars if police officers don't have to pursue those indulging in destructive graffiti"" (West, 2012). Graffiti has become more costly to remove than it has been in inflicting damage to society.
While some people believe graffiti should be abolished as a whole, others stand by the idea that with additional education and greater social censure for unsanctioned graffiti, it can ultimately turn out to be beneficial for communities. As explained by the author of ""An Unselfish Act: Graffiti in Art Education,"" Laurie Eldridge,""Art teachers often ignore or refuse to acknowledge the pedagogical importance of pop culture which devalues students' knowledge and overshadowing their own lived experiences"" (Eldridge 21). Eldridge believes that the public perception of graffiti could be repainted to reflect a more positive message, rather than the taboo definition to which it is currently bound. She also underscores that it is important for the youth to find their voice and identity, and by adding graffiti into school systems, it encourages individualism through the development of their own styles. Similarly, in ""Street Art & Graffiti Art: Developing an Understanding,"" Melissa Hughes agrees that art education should not simply be teaching students about the formal and technical qualities of their production, but instead it must highlight the evolving social worlds of visual imagery as they constitute important attitudes, values, and beliefs of the forthcoming generation. She states, ""Street and graffiti art are occasionally avoided in the secondary curriculum, yet they have the power to foster new and different ways of learning for all students by encouraging students to explore notions of creative expression in urban, public areas including spaces not traditionally reserved for public art"" (Hughes 11). Essentially, she believes that by introducing non-traditional forms of art into the secondary art curriculum that adolescent students are able to engage with, street art and graffiti can help students become more aware of current social, visual, and cultural principles in their own perspectives.
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Culture Wars: Art or Vandalism?. (2021, Apr 10).
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Same Sex Marriage and Children
My goal though my research is to educate and motive community members that, same-sex couples can provide a great and safe home to the more than 670,000 children in foster care every day. (Overview of LGBT, n.d.) While it has regularly been utilized as a contention against same-sex adoption, studies have demonstrated that same-sex adoption does not negatively affect kids. Research demonstrates children raised by same-sex parents grow up as effectively as kids raised by heterosexuals. The extent of chronicled, legitimate, sociological, mental, social casework, and individual issues identified with reception by sexual-minority people and couples. All the research will become more relevant is that it gives a bit of knowledge and particular proposals to setting up exactly approved accepted procedures for working with a critical division of our general public, for treating all imminent and current guardians reasonably and similarly, and, maybe in particular, for expanding a still to a great extent undiscovered asset for giving families to youngsters who require them.
Same-sex adoption receptions are developing exponentially, and the social circumstance is evolving. The most critical advantage of same-sex adoption is the awareness that it is making in individuals' gradually change their generalizations and biases. On the off chance that there was more same-sex adoption, there would be more acknowledgment of various life decisions. Studies have demonstrated that kids are more impacted by their communications with their parents than by their parent’s sexual orientation. Same-sex couples receive and are typically more settled, extremely taught, and monetarily stable than the general public decision for adopted parents. Conflict theory is especially keen on the different parts of status in social position, the essential distinguishing normal for an individual found as far as race or ethnicity, sex or sex, age, religion, capacity or handicap, and financial status.
When we are investigating any component of society from this viewpoint, we have to take a gander at the structures of riches, influence and status, and the manners by which those structures look after social, financial, political and coercive influence of one gathering to the detriment of others. The HRC and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation together fill in as America's biggest social liberties association attempting to accomplish LGBTQ balance. By moving and drawing in people and groups, HRC endeavors to end victimization LGBTQ individuals and understand a world that accomplishes central decency and uniformity for all.
The Human Rights Campaign speaks to a power of in excess of 3 million individuals and supporters across the nation. (Advocating for LGBTQ, n.d.) As the biggest national lesbian, gay, swinger, transgender and eccentric social liberties association, HRC wants a world where LGBTQ individuals are guaranteed of their fundamental equivalent rights, and can be open, genuine and safe at home, at work and in the group. By inspiring and drawing in people and communities, (Advocating for LGBTQ, n.d.) HRC endeavors to end oppression towards LGBTQ individuals and understand a world that accomplishes basic decency and balance for all.
The HRC provides great resources and information for those seeking adoption, in the process or just feel over-whelmed by the guideline that the government is making it difficult to even adopt. My goals are to provide clear and positive view to legislators and communities that Same-Sex couple can provide great home to many children as well try to cast out many assumptions and stereotype of the LGBTQ community. While LGBT people are associated with irreligiousness, the Human Rights Campaign promotes the idea that an individual can be gay and religious.
Gay men molest children at far higher rates than heterosexuals. According to the American Psychological Association, children are not more likely to be molested by LGBT parents or their LGBT friends or acquaintances. (Schlatter & Steinback, n.d.) The Child Molestation Research & Prevention Institute notes that 90% of child molesters target children in their network of family and friends, (Being Gay, n.d.) and the majority are men married to women. Same-sex couples are more prone to be mentally ill and to abuse drugs and alcohol. (Schlatter & Steinback, n.d.) Several professional mental health association have stated that homosexuality is not a mental disorder. The American Psychological Association states that being gay is just as healthy as being straight and noted that the 1950s-era work of Dr. Evelyn Hooker started to dismantle this myth. (Milar, 2011) In 1975, the association issued a statement that said, (Milar, 2011) in part, “homosexuality per se implies no impairment in judgment, reliability or general social and vocational capabilities.”
At the point when the state decides to place kids in a fit home, it is in charge of guaranteeing the home is in the best interest of the child. This duty requires not only that the house be appropriate, but rather that it be the best accessible situation for the child. Different contentions have been made against setting kids with same-sex couples. As the social perceivability and legitimate status of same-sex parents has expanded, three noteworthy worries about the impact of same-sex parents on kids have been frequently voiced (Falk, 1994; Patterson, Fulcher and Wainright, 2002). One is that the kids of same-sex parents will encounter more troubles in the zone of sexual personality than those of heterosexual parents.
Another worry society has is children raised by same-sex couples will demonstrate unsettling influences in sex personality as well as in sexual orientation part conduct. There is no scientific evidence that parenting effectiveness is related to parental sexual orientation, same-sex parents are as likely as heterosexual parents to provide supportive and healthy environments for their children (Patterson, 2000, 2004; Perrin, 2002; Tasker, 1999); A third concerns is that same-sex parents kids will encounter trouble in social connections. I have not found anywhere proof to propose that same-sex couples are unfit to be parents or that psychosocial improvement among kids of same-sex parents is traded off with respect to that among posterity of heterosexual parents. Surely, the confirmation to date recommends that a same-sex parents homes are the same as those of heterosexual parent’s homes to help and empower kids' psychosocial development.
A standout amongst the most critical ways social change for same sex guardians is reflected is by changes in the laws, a large number of which, up to this point, criminalized homosexuality. Governments, while thinking about the customary religious convictions of their nationals, have started allowing gay couples an indistinguishable common and legitimate rights from heterosexual couples. This shows most social orders require various years to end up alright with social change for same sex couples. Notwithstanding laws with respect to marriage, different laws confining gay couples from having and bringing up youngsters are additionally being changed.
June 28, 1969 - Known as the Stonewall Inn Riot, NYC police raided the Stonewall Inn. During the raid some of the people within the community and patron began throwing things at the police as the arrest people from the club. What started off as a raid, ended in a violent riot which lasted five days. (Wolf, 2016) Despite the fact that the Stonewall riots didn't begin the gay rights development, it was an electrifying power for LGBT political activism, prompting various gay rights associations, including the Gay Liberation Front, Human Rights Campaign, GLAAD, and PFLAG. In 2016, President Barack Obama assigned the site where the riot once took place, Christopher Park, and the encompassing boulevards and walkways, a national landmark in acknowledgment of the region's commitment to gay and human rights. (LGBT, 2018)
In Obergefell v. Hodges, the federal court ruled that the Constitution guarantees a right to same-sex marriage, making it legal across all 50 states for same-sex couples to finally get married. (LGBT, 2018)
The only acceptable home for a child is where the mother and father are married to each other. The normal American family has traditionally been comprehended as a nuclear family with their more distant family living independently. Today a family is as yet predominant; in any case, it can never again be a correct social desire. For instance, half of America's children have step-siblings. Many more children are coming into this world to unwed moms or adolescents as the disgrace related with premarital intercourse has decreased. Besides, families are now same-sex couple. In this manner, same-sex couples with kids are ending up more typical.
In that capacity, the conventional model American family structure is presently seemingly more obvious among worker families. Children need a mother and a father to show them how to be a man or woman. Same-sex couples children grow up as effectively as children of heterosexual parents. Truth be told, not a solitary report has discovered that children of a same-sex couple to be distraught as a result of their parent’s sexual orientation. I believe good parenting isn't impacted by the sex of their parents but by the parent’s capacity to make an adoring and sustaining home a capacity that does not rely upon whether a parent is gay or straight.
Conflict theory portrays social orders as made out of gatherings competing for power. Each gathering ensures its own particular self-interests and battles to make its own social courses overwhelming in the public eye. (Learning, n.d.) Conflict theory relates to adoption rights of same-sex couples because it totally fortifies their hypothesis of social class battle. They have charged that dissent of the privilege to wed or allow same-sex couples to adopt fortifies the average status of gays and lesbians. Since the same-sex couples social class is being denied rights that the heterosexual class has benefit to, it is believed as the battle between those of a higher class and those of a minority class. Conflict theory also view same-sex adoption as a system for a building hypothesis that considers society to be a territory of imbalance producing strife and social change. This spotlights on the imbalances inside our general public and the contention that they cause between the advantaged and the impeded.
Characterizing the family structure of same-sex parent can be hard without proper knowledge. The most critical advantage of same-sex adoption is the awareness that it is making in individuals' gradually change their generalizations and biases. The most widely recognized same-sex family is step or mixed families. These are same-sex parents who had their blood related children in a previous heterosexual relationship. Now that they have come out, they made another family with their same-sex partner. Different sorts of family structures incorporate same-sex parents and couples having kids together. Both of these family may be made through adoption, however more much of the time conceptive innovation is being used. The HRC and the Human Rights Campaign Foundation together fill in as America's biggest social liberties association attempting to accomplish LGBTQ balance. By moving and drawing in people and groups, HRC endeavors to end victimization LGBTQ individuals and understand a world that accomplishes central decency and uniformity for all.
Acknowledging that same-sex couples can be great parents, by far most states don’t deny custody or visitation to someone base off of sexual orientation. State offices and courts now apply a, what is best for the child, standard to choose these cases. Under this approach, same-sex couples sexual orientation can't be the reason they can adopt unless it is shown that the child will be place in harm, a claim that has been routinely refuted by sociology investigate. Utilizing this standard, in excess of 22 states to date have enabled same-sex couples to embrace kids either through state-run or private appropriation organizations. (Stacey, 2006) The energy for LGBT correspondence hints at no abating. Moving general sentiment and developing political fearlessness are adjusting, bringing about significantly more prominent help for LGBT people and families. The memorable triumphs for marriage equality in the Supreme Court were noteworthy strides toward an all the more just society, however policymakers must remain concentrated on arrangements that will guarantee better wellbeing and brighter skylines for all LGBT Americans.
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Child Marriage in Niger
Child marriage is any formal marriage or any informal union in which one or both parties are under the age of 18, as defined by The Girls Not Brides organization. Niger has the highest prevalence rate of child marriage in the world. 76% of girls are married before their 18th birthday and 28% are married before the age of 15. Child marriage is most prevalent in Maradi, Tahoua and Zinder(girlsnotbrides.org 7).These girls are married off before they reach an age of maturity and are faced with challenges that they are not physically or mentally mature enough to adequately deal with. According to UNICEF, Niger has the 14th highest absolute number of child brides – 676,000. The majority of these child brides had no say in the decision to be married. They are forced to miss out on opportunities such as education which could’ve meant the difference between a better future or baring children at very young age. Factors such as poverty and gender inequality had driven the majority of these marriages. Child marriage continues to be a prevalent issue in Niger with 76% of girls getting married before the age of 18 and the country needs to do more to end the unethical practice.
Most child marriages occur under customary law. Customary law is “...the norms of conduct that are practiced in society because they have been accepted for a long time and are regarded as obligatory.” Parents will marry off their daughters because it is what was done by the previous generation and is seen as normal in the community. Customary law in Niger has enabled child marriage for many generations up to today. Because customary law developed in an age of patriarchy, some of its norms conflict with human rights and modern day values such as gender equality(Ndulo 10). While government legislation holds substantial power and influence over modern day society, it must reform customary law as well. Niger does have a minimum age requirement for marriage. Under the Civil Code 1993 girls can get married as young as 15 and boys can get married at 18(girlsnotbrides.org 7). However, with parental consent, girls can get married much younger.
The Nigerien government has taken steps toward ending child marriage. Niger has ratified the majority of national agreements relating to the rights of women and children. There are currently national policies that address or try to address certain aspects of child marriage. The National Policy on Nutritional Security addresses early pregnancy. The Ministry for the Advancement of Women and Child Protection created the National Gender Policy for Prevention and Management of Gender-based Violence strategy in 2017(Save the Children’s Resource Centre 12). One of the strategic pillars had addressed child marriage and created an action plan to prevent early pregnancies. However this strategy did not approach a solution to child marriage in holistic way. In 2014 Niger launched the African Union campaign to end child marriage. The theme was obstetric fistula which is an injury that can occur during childbirth. Obstetric fistula is most common among young mothers whose bodies aren’t developed enough to give birth. In 2017 a First Ladies’ forum on obstetric fistula was held in Niamey. As of 2018, the government is in the process of developing Niger’s first National Action Plan to End Child Marriage. Although the country has taken steps to end child marriage it’s policy makers continue to be influenced by certain islamic associations and influential people who don’t want to end the practice because of religion and tradition. Culture norms, prejudices and taboos surrounding child marriage also influence lawyers and politicians, as well as pressure of religious groups.(Save the Children’s Resource Centre 12) This kind of resistance has hindered initiatives to end child marriage such as the adoption of the family code and laws to protect girls in school.
There are currently many organizations fighting child marriage in Niger. In 2012 UNFPA(United Nations Population Fund) launched Action for Adolescent Girls. In this program, girls were provided a safe space to talk about their lives and daily challenges. During the sessions of Action for Adolescent Girls, girls learned about their rights and how child marriage was a violation of human rights. They also received lessons in literacy, numeracy, and financial literacy(UNFPA 15). This program provided a better alternative to girls instead of early marriage and better conditions for girls who had already married.
There are many drivers of child marriage in Niger. Gender inequality and tradition are the main causes. Women are expected to take on the role of a wife and that’s it. Because they are already limited to that path most parents will take them out of school to get married because a wife has no need for an education. This takes away the ability for the girl to financially support herself and makes her chances of escaping the forced marriage even slimmer. Most child marriages are organized by the parents and in most cases the girls have no say. They will marry off their daughters because it is customary, because it is what the generation before them has done and it is seen as normal in the community. They also believe that married girls receive a level of respect that is not received by single women no matter how successful they are(girlsnotbrides.org 7). Marrying a girl at a young age is also a way to prevent premarital relations. There are cases in which parents will get worried when the daughter communicates or forms a bond with a male outside of the family and will marry her off to prevent premarital relations.
Pregnancy before marriage is a source of shame for the family. In some areas such as rural Marake, girls will be married off before their first period since that is seen as loss of virginity which also brings shame to the family(girlsnotbrides.org 7). Parents will also marry off their daughters young because younger brides are seen as more respectful and obedient. Child brides are also likely to be second or third wife to a rich husband. Unfortunately if the child bride is the fifth wife she is likely to be part of a practice called wahaya. In wahaya the fifth wife is typically a slave and is trafficked among rich, older, urban males(girlsnotbrides.org 7). Poverty is also a driver in child marriage. Niger is one of the world's poorest nations. Over 46% of its population lives below the poverty line(The Borgen Project 14). Parents will marry off their daughters to ensure financial stability for her and to relieve themselves of the economic burden. But in the process they will take their daughter out of school and prevent her from receiving an education. By doing so they limit her opportunities for a lucrative career and many chances to financially support herself. According to the 2012 Demographic and Health Survey 57% of Nigerien girls aged 10-15 are not in school, often because wives are expected to stay at home. In some cases school isn’t an option at all. Education is not accessible for all Nigerien children as it is is in developed countries. There is a lot of gender discrimination which gets in the way of girls going to school. It can also be financially straining for the parents to send children to school(Educate a Child 4). It becomes difficult to pay for transportation,school fees, supplies, and books, especially since parents who live below the poverty line only make $1 per day. Children who live in urban/rural areas may not be able to attend school because there are no schools in the area.
Child marriage has many devastating effects. It enforces the cycle of poverty. When girls are married off they are immediately expected to stay home and bare children. This ends their education and any opportunities of financial independence or ability to have a lucrative career. Her children are then limited to only one source of income assuming the mother will stay home and the father takes responsibility to provide for the family. The limited source of income may affect the amount of education and opportunities her children will have which puts them at the risk of poverty, continuing the cycle. Early marriage can devastate a young girls physical and mental well being. Young brides are expected to prove their fertility and bare children whether they are physically and mentally ready or not. Statistics say that 35% of all adolescent deaths between ages 15 and 19 are caused by giving birth(girlsnotbrides.org 7). Obstetric fistula is one of the health risks for young mothers giving birth. 48% of women affected by obstetric fistula first suffered from it between ages 10 and 19. An obstetric fistula is a hole between the vagina and rectum or bladder that is caused by prolonged obstructed labor, leaving a woman unable to control urination or defecation(Fistula Foundation 6). Young pregnant girls run this risk more than older women because their bodies are under developed. The female pelvis reaches full width between ages 25-30 making those ages more ideal for childbearing(sciencedaily.com 13). Because the vast majority of the Nigerien population lives in rural areas, girls affected by obstetric fistula are far from quality medical care and emergency obstetric fistula. Home deliveries are common in such areas and the maternal mortality rate is among the highest in the world(Fistula Foundation 5). Maternal mortality rate is the annual number of female deaths per 100,000 live births related to pregnancy or caused by pregnancy and the management of it. In 2015 Niger had a maternal mortality rate of 553(Central Intelligence Agency 1). Another effect of child marriage is the mistreatment and abuse of young girls. Child brides are more susceptible to domestic abuse due to the power dynamic in the typical relationship child marriages create between a young girl and a much older male partner. Because the husband is much older he is easily able to assert more power over the young girl. It is hard for girls to escape these abusive marriages because violence against women is seen as normal or typical in Nigerien communities(Nigersnewestchild.weebly.com 11) . There are a lot of cases in which newly wed young brides will run away from their husbands and try to go back to the parents, but the parents will force her to go back. It’s also hard for women to get a divorce because they are not seen as equals under Nigerien law.
Supporters of child marriage will try and argue that marriage is the best option for young brides. Marriage provides financial security for girls. The reasoning behind that argument is that girls can’t provide for themselves and need a husband to take care of her. But that reasoning is flawed because girls are just as apt to take care of themselves as men are if they were offered the same opportunities. They perpetuate the problem and obstacles that lie between girls and self sustainability by spreading the belief that women are incompetent and are only fit to be wives. Supporters will also argue that it is custom and that custom can’t be changed. That argument is also flawed because everything changes with time. Reasons for which a custom was practiced in the past may not be practical now. Traditions may not line up with modern and changing values. Supporters will also argue that child marriage is beneficial to everyone because in addition to providing security to the child bride it also relieves the financial burden on the family. That benefit is only short term because once she is married off her education is curtailed along with her economic opportunities. This makes it harder for her to give her children better opportunities.
Then there are the religious reasons behind child marriage. The main religion of Niger is Islam. Religious supporters will try and argue that Ayesha married the prophet Muhammad right after reaching puberty. But their relationship was known for the mutual love, respect, and equality. That is not the case for current forced or early marriages. Ayesha was an assertive and intelligent. She become a great scholar of Islam with an authoritative role in public life. Those qualities would not be praised in a Nigerien girl today. They are judged on how respectful and obedient they are. According to the Quran the purpose of marriage is to create a successful union that promotes love, tranquility and mercy between husband and wife, and contributes to a healthy society. The Quran sets out basic conditions for marriage for example, both parties must consent. There has to be a mutual attraction, compatibility, and an agreement on terms of marriage between the spouses. Both parties have to reach physical maturity. Child marriages in Niger don’t call for any of those requirements. Child brides have little to no say in the planning of their marriages and during the marriage. The Quran does not support early or forced marriage so supporters who argue that Islam defends child marriage are inaccurate.
Fadi is a girl from Dosso who almost became a victim of child marriage. She is 15 years old and in the fifth grade. She goes the secondary school in the Yambar© village. According to Fadi’s mother, their village does not consider education important and think that marriage is the best thing for a girl. Fadi was happy to go to school and dreamed of getting a job after her education. She lived with her grandmother but went to visit her parents during the holidays. During a holiday a visit a man continually went to visit her father. Soon enough Fadi finds out that man is supposed to be her future husband and her parents have been planning out her marriage. The whole village knew about it except her. Fadi’s teachers learned about the arrangement and went to her house to try to talk her father out of it. The marriage was called off and Fadi was motivated to work even harder in school even though she was the top of her class. Her school is now planning to place a governing body to help students continue with their education. Fadi is grateful for the help of her teachers and wishes to educate her female peers on the dangers of child marriage and the importance of education.
Zeinabou who was from the Zinder Region of Niger, was 15 when her parents forced her to drop out of school and marry a much older man. Her husband physically abused her and tried to coerce her into sexual activity. She ran away many times but her parents always forced her to go back. After a month of relentless violence she moved back home and her husband divorced her. She ended up participating in the pilot phase of Action for Adolescent Girls. Again, this program provides a safe space to talk about life and struggles. It also provides lessons on literacy and mathematics and educates girls on human rights and why child marriage is wrong. Zeinabou wants to continue her studies to become a teacher.
Child marriage can be combated many ways. Education could be made more accessible to children living in rural areas. The government could set up some kind of feasible stipend to help cover school fees so parents have nothing to lose by sending their daughters to school and are able to afford her an education. The government could also create programs and initiatives to educate parents on the importance of education for their daughters. Another solution would be to replace current marriage laws with one that sets the minimum age of marriage to 18 for both girls and boys with no exceptions. The government must take the path Gambia has taken when it comes to making laws around marriage. Gambia has created laws that punish perpetrators of child marriage. Parents who force their daughters to marry before the legal age can face prison time as well as the groom and anyone else who knew plans of the marriage and did not report it to the authorities(Dailymail.com 3). Government officials who oppose child marriage must set an agenda to speak with religious leaders and engage with local communities. Because religious leaders ordain what behaviors are acceptable, they can influence change in their communities and challenge norms(Cislaghi 2). They perform and register marriages so they can check the ages of the bride and groom and help prevent early marriage. Fighting child marriage in Niger is not easy though. Gender inequality is ingrained in the culture and poverty is a big driver behind child marriage, an issue that is not so easy to solve.
Many Nigerien girls who live in rural areas are suffering right now. They live in a society that is plagued with gender inequality and chances are that they will be married off young and not given the opportunity for an education. The mistreatment of them and the roles they are limited to is seen as normal. Although the Nigerien government has taken steps to end the immoral practice of child marriage, they must do more. The policymakers who are dragging their feet when it comes that issue need to wake up and reevaluate themselves and the gravity of the issue. They need to study the customs in their culture and think about why they developed and if they are necessary in the modern world. The arguments that have been made to defend child marriage lack reasoning and compassion for the young girls who are at risk of having their lives derailed. Child marriage robs innocent girls of their innocence and their potential for a better future. Politicians, community leaders, and religious leaders need to be educated on why child marriage is awful and violates human rights. They need reevaluate the customs of their cultures and their own values. They absolutely must engage with local communities to change the minds of parents who plan to marry off their daughters young. Child marriage is not the only issue they should address but gender inequality because not only is that a part of the problem but a huge problem by itself. When politicians take an active role in communicating with individual communities they can influence parents more effectively and how people think about child marriage and a girls role in society. More effort from the Nigerien government can change the future of the girls living in Niger and one day end child marriage.
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Child Marriage in Niger. (2021, Apr 10).
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Fashion Legend: Coco Chanel
Attention Getter: Fashion is a way of representing ourselves to the world/ people around us and it has been part of our world for so long that we've all seen many trends come and go. We also see many designers create new things every day.
Background: There are many designers that came from nothing and built a fortune later in life. I will be talking about Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel's life.
Audience Relevance: We all are part of the fashion world even if we may not think we are because we all follow different trends that we like and represent us.
Speaker Credibility: I am credible to talk about this because I am interested in fashion and designers. I was always involved with everything that was going on (updated) and I have also done research.
Thesis: Coco Chanel's work started out of a simple jersey and she turned it into millions of dollars. We can all create, we never know where our creations can take us.
Preview of Main Points: First, I will talk about Coco Chanel's early life when she was barely starting, then I will discuss her work, what she accomplished, and finally I will talk about her legacy / how fashion plays a role in people's life.
Sub-point A: She was born as Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel on august 19, 1883 in France. Throughout her early years of living she had a great life with both her parents. However when her mother passed away everything changed for her. She was put in an orphanage at age 12 by her father. There she was raised by nuns. They taught her many valuable things and one of those was how to sew. This was one of the skills she was very grateful of because it was something that changed her life in great ways.
Sub-point B: As I said Chanel was named Gabrielle at birth. However, everyone knows her as “Coco”. This nickname came from when she used to perform as a singer. She performed in many clubs and called herself Coco. Some say that she got the nickname from a song she used to sing but Chanel said it was a short version of cocotte which meant “kept woman” in French (Biography 2014).
Transition to 2nd Main Point: Coco Chanel accomplished many things during her lifetime. Sub-point A: When she was around 20 years old she started working with a businessman named Arthur Capel, who helped her create her first business in Paris. The first design of clothing she made was a dress which came from an old jersey all because it was cold outside. A lot of people asked her where she had got the dress, and she knew she had to create that dress again. It was one of her best successes that built her fortune.
Sub-point B: Later on Chanel introduced a new design. She used a color that was associated with mourning and made it look chic. This design was called “The Little Black Dress”. It became very iconic that people today are still interested in that look and people have made many designs similar to Chanel. Her designs were simple known as the “little boy look” because they were simple yet classy/ elegant. Chanel also introduced a suit that included a skirt and collarless jacket. Which changed things for women because they didn't have to keep wearing uncomfortable things likes corsets. This look is also still being worn today. Which means that fashion trends sometimes do stay for a long time. She is also known for her Chanel 5 perfume.
Sub-point A: Coco Chanel passed away January 10, 1971. Many people attended her funeral saying goodbye to one of the best fashion icons. In tribute many people wore her Chanel suits. There was also a broadway musical and a movie on the life of Chanel. Many people helped and contributed to make costume designs, wrote, wrote music and a book for the show. This was a great show that it received about 7 Tony award nominations. Many years later after Chanel's death, her company is one of the biggest and well known out there. It is said that it generates hundreds of million in sales every year. Her story is captivating that still many people continue to write biographies about her life.
Sub-point B: Fashion captures many things. It shows expression of a person (art, feeling, movement), culture, social and economic changes “expresses both modernity and eternity. It is something that identifies the now, and subsequently stays rooted firmly in history as an emblem of the people, the place, the time” (Schramm 2018) We can identify a generation based on what people wear or where they shop. We can see that it has a great impact on young generations for example in highschool most teenagers want to have the shoes that everyone has or clothes that are popular in the moment. It's part of a great business because if we don't buy, designers don't create new things, and when we buy they make more profit and target a certain generation with every new piece they make which can be clothing, shoes, accessories and jewelry.
Conclusion
Review Main Points: First I talked about Coco Chanel's early life when she was barely starting, then I discussed her work, what she accomplished, and finally I talked about her legacy and how fashion plays a role in people's life.
Restate Thesis: Coco Chanel's work started out of a simple jersey and she turned it into millions of dollars. We can all create, we never know were our creations can take us.
Memorable Closer: Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening. - COCO CHANEL
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Fashion legend: Coco Chanel. (2021, Apr 10).
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The Paradox of Fashion Industry
An article written by Lucy Hutchings titled Inspirational Fashion Quotes has a quote from, a founder of a famous clothing brand, Prada Miuccia and it was “What you wear is how you present yourself to the world, especially today, when human contacts are so quick. Fashion is instant language.” (2017 18) Imagine person walking down the streets wearing a luxurious Gucci shoes with a black leather Dolce and Gabbana dress, and a gold Rolex with a red Prada purse will immediately get everyone’s attention. What about someone with a plain white shirt with a regular blue jeans and a gray backpack with normal sneakers. Would anyone observe that person the same as the first option? The majority of the people will say that the first option will be more eye-catching because, the clothes are made from an expensive brand that many people. So, why do these people would prefer those expensive brands despite the costly price? Is it just for the gleam and shimmer for people to embellish themselves? Do they even realize the what kind of effect that the fashion industry is giving out to the world? Even though the fashion industry influences people to become more stylish and creative of what they wore, it has a negative impact such as racism, unjust labour, and environmental problems.
The unique movement of how tall models walk down the aisle with their special cloths are impressing. Many people enjoy watching the models perform on runways. Fashion show is the place where many fashion designers could openly show their creative artworks. However, being a model requires more than just having a special skill when they perform on stage. The models had to be in a specific race or color that the fashion designers prefered. An article from Fordham University School of law, Whitewashed Runaways: Employment Discrimination in the Fashion Modeling Industry says, “It is an industry where your appearance and oftentimes skin color not only determine whether you will be hired, but also whether you will move up in the ranks.” (Padula 2016 4) This issue will not give any opportunities for diverse races to become a fashion model. It should not be justified that only certain races could be a model.
Also, Dolce and Gabbana was about to run a fashion show, but according to a news article Dolce and Gabbana reportedly cancels Shanghai fashion show after racism accusations states, “Italian fashion house Dolce and Gabbana reportedly canceled a fashion show in Shanghai after being accused of racism in its promotions for the event.” (Handley 2018 1) The promoting video that they made was called, “Eating with Chopsticks”. The content was about a woman eating Western food with chopsticks, while a man is narrating over her. (Handley 2018 4). This became an enormous event that made a lot of Chinese people outrage and caused the cancellation of the fashion show. In addition, another Luxury brand known as Prada has been exposed of showing racism in their store display. An article from the Washington Post, Seriously, Prada, what were you thinking?:Why the fashion industry keeps bumbling into racist imagery states, “A display of expensive tchotchkes in the window’s of Prada SoHo boutique in New York included one style that recalled a Golliwog, the 19th-century blackface character with big round eyes and large red lips.” (Givhan 2018 2). The character Golliwog was meant for discriminating African Americans.
Imagine an African American looking at this figure while walking down the streets and realizing what it is. This will not give a pleasant impression for him or her. Also, a student from City University of New York wrote a research paper titled, Black Models Matter:Challenging the Racism of Aesthetics and the Facade of Inclusion in the Fashion Industry. The paper was about how African Americans were experiencing racism in the fashion industry, specifically in the paper, there was an illustration with an African American being called “Ghetto” and the Caucasian “High Fashion.”(Newman 2) All of these facts are proving that many different kinds of racism exists in the fashion industry. In the Bible, 1 Samuel 16:7 says “But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” This is the reason why the society should try to abolish racism in fashion industry.
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Sustainability Issues in the Fashion Industry
From an article called Inspirational Fashion Quotes has a quote from Gianni Versace, a fashion icon, and it said "Don’t be into trends. Don’t make fashion own you, but you decide what you are, what you want to express by the way you dress and the way you live." (Hutchings 2017 15) Many people like to shop different kinds of clothes for their own style. The diversity of the clothes and their sizes are mesmerizing. The clothes are usually manufactured by mass production. Mass production is when a factory mass produce its products as much as they can. There is an article called Workers’ Rights: Labor Standards and global trade, it goes over the important facts about how to deal with labor standards and global trades. The International Labor organization was established after the World War I. This was to abolish unjust labor and children labor (Burtless 2001 6-8) However, a lot of people do not think about how much labor it needs to satisfy the consumers. According to Labor remains a wrinkle in fashion industry’s supply chain quotes:
Labor issues are material to the fashion industry because "roughly 99 percent of apparel and footwear sold in the U.S. is manufactured outside the country, typically by independent suppliers." This is attributed to the fact that apparel companies enter into contracts with manufacturers which have the lowest manufacturing costs – significantly lower than the United States. In Bangladesh, workers are paid an estimated 24-cents per hour, compared with China’s $1.26 minimum wage. Labor practices, from a supply chain perspective, become especially critical for this industry due to prevalence of "sweat shops" in these manufacturing operations. Sweatshops have been described as the following: "any factory which may have unreasonably authoritative overseers, dangerous and unhealthy (both physically and psychologically) working conditions, and enforces long hours with low pay." (2017 3)
This quote explains that there is unjust human labor in producing clothes, and countless people are being tolerated in their own workplaces. It shows that those people are not getting enough money for them to have a steady maintenance and time to take care of their own family members. S Nayeem Emran and Joy Kyriacou, from Oxfam Australia, wrote What She Makes Power And Industry In The Fashion Industry. In pages through 12-16, it talks about Forida’s story about working for a clothing brand called H&M. If she makes a minimal mistake she will get scolded from the ambassador and feel embarrassed. Also, she does not earn enough amount of money to take care of her family, so, she is unable to provide insurance of the mosquito-borne viral disease like malaria. (Emran, kyriacou 2017) In detail, an article titled “Work Faster or Get Out” Labor Rights Abuses in Cambodia’s Garment Industry, deals with the issues about abusive labor in Cambodia. In the garment factory, when a woman was pregnant and could not work, the Cambodian government cut off her payment and fired her from work. (2015 1) Furthermore, the Cambodian garment factory has a terribly poor working condition. So, the government would constantly fire and hire people very frequently. (2015 4) Also, in depth, in other countries they are using child labor for making clothes. There is an article written by Peter Milsom, The Challenges dealing with child labour in the fast fashion or “McFashion” garment industry states:
Contrary to popular belief, these are not teenagers doing light work or after-school jobs: they work in dangerous and dirty jobs that deprive them of a childhood and their education. Some 73 million of these child labourers are between five and 11 years old. The ILO estimates that at least 6 million children are in forced labour, with many making textiles and garments to satisfy the demand of consumers in Europe, the US, and elsewhere. Though child labour is forbidden by law in most countries, it continues unabated in some of the poorest parts of the world. (2016 11-13)
It is clearly shown that people would know about these facts and still have ignorance. This is a very severe problem that is happening in the world right now and the society should be more concerned and worried about it.
A quote from Sustain Your Style states, “The fashion industry is the second largest polluter in the world.” (2017 1) Clothing is very essential for humans and it is a necessity for them. However, sometimes they buy plenty of clothes and still want to buy more and more. This led the world into fast fashion. The summary of an article called What Is Fast Fashion? says, before the 1800s, clothes were being produced slowly for the consumers and after the Industrial Revolution clothes were starting to produce in a much rapid speed. The society called it fast fashion. (Rauturier 2018 4) This is when the fashion company produces overflowing amount of clothes by a cheaper price. (Rauturier 2018 6) There are several problems within fast fashion.
When the garment company mass produces cheap and toxic textile dyes, it damages the surrounding environment. (Rauturier 2018 11-14) For example, polyester is a type of fabric and it derives fossil fuels and shed microfibers, that will intensify the plastic level in the ocean. (Rauturier 2018 11-14) Also, the faster the company manufactures the clothes the faster the environment will damage. (Rauturier 2018 14-16) This will not only damage our environment but also destroy wild animals and their habitats. In detail, the poisonous dyes will stream down the waterways and head to the ocean and influence the marine animals. (Rauturier 2018 14-16) An article from Sustain Your Styles called Fashion’s Environmental Impact, has a list of the deterioration of the environmental pollutions that are damaging the Earth and the following issues and specific details are directly quoted :
Water pollution. Wastewater contains toxic substances such as lead, mercury, and arsenic, among others. These are extremely harmful for the aquatic life and the health of the millions people living by those rivers banks. The contamination also reaches the sea and eventually spreads around the globe. . .(2017 2-4) Water consumption. The fashion industry is a major water consumer. Huge quantity of fresh water are used for the dyeing and finishing process for all of our clothes. As reference, it can take up to 200 tons of fresh water per ton of dyed fabric. . .(2017 4-8) Fashion and microfibers in our oceans. Every time we wash a synthetic garment(polyester,nylon, etc), about 1,900 individual microfibers are released into the water, making their way into our oceans. Scientists have discovered that small aquatic organisms ingest those microfibers. These are then eaten by small fish which are later eaten by bigger fish, introducing plastic in our food chain. . .(2017 9-13) Wastes accumulation. Clothing has clearly become disposable. As a result, we generate more and more textile waste. A family in the western world throws away an average of 30 kg of clothing each year. Only 15% is recycled or donated, and the rest goes directly to the landfill or is incinerated. . .(2017 14-18) Chemicals addiction. Chemicals are one of the main components in our clothes. They are used during fiber production, dyeing, bleaching, and wet processing of each of our garments. The heavy use of chemicals in cotton farming is causing diseases and premature death among cotton farmers, along with massive freshwater and ocean water pollution and soil degradation. . .(2017 19-21) Greenhouse gases emissions. The apparel industry accounts for 10% of global carbon emissions.The global fashion industry is generating a lot of greenhouse gases due to the energy used during its production, manufacturing, and transportation of the millions garments purchased each year. . .(2017 22-23) Soil degradation and desertification. The fashion industry plays a major part in degrading soil in different ways: overgrazing of pastures through cashmere goats and sheep raised for their wool; degradation of the soil due to massive use of chemicals to grow cotton; deforestation caused by wood-based fibers like rayon. . .(2017 24-25) Rainforest destruction. Every year, thousands of hectares of endangered and ancient forests are cut down and replaced by plantations of trees used to make wood-based fabrics such as rayon, viscose, and modal. . .(2017 26-27)
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Ancient Fashion
In Ancient Egypt fashion was a sign of wealth and upper class. However, their beauty had a more significant reason. For example, French researchers suggest that the ancient Egyptians' heavily painted eyelids did more than attract admirers—they also protected against eye infections. According to ancient Egyptian manuscripts, the eye makeup was believed to have a magical role, in which the gods Horus and Ra would protect wearers against several illnesses. Evidence from ancient Egypt in documents and artifacts showed that men and women from servant to queen all wore black and green powders around their eyes.i Fashin was very important to Ancient Egyptians, it was showed in the tomb scenes that the clothing and styles were worn and adopted by lower class people.
Just like Ancient Egyptians, today’s culture is also obsessed with beauty, but the biology of the brain and how humans process beauty explains the reason. Anjan Chatterjee in his TED talk explains that our visual brain that is tuned to processing faces interacts with our pleasure centers to underpin the experience of beauty. These studies suggest that our brain automatically responds to beauty by linking vision and pleasure. These detectors that help us recognize beauty rise as we see something or someone beautitful.iii This natural response to beauty can influence humans to seek after beauty and try to become more beautiful.
However, he also gives two examples of how beauty can be stereotyped to two different classes, “beauty is good” and the ugly side of beauty. We automatically assume if something is beautiful it is good, or a person that has as good look is smart, intelligent, kind, hard working. Unfortunately, if someone has a minor problem with their looks are assumed to be less good and not as intelligent or smart or hard working. Because of the stereotype, attractive people receive all kinds of advantages in life. Given that they have good looks, they're regarded as more intelligent, more trustworthy, they're given higher pay and lesser punishments, even when such judgments are not warranted, whereas the uglier side is the opposite. We need to understand these kinds of implicit biases if we are to overcome them and aim for a society in which we treat people fairly, based on their behavior and not on their looks.
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Cultural Factors Influencing Fashion
Cultural factors shape the global marketing environment and also affect businesses in the fashion industry. Culture consist on education, religion, social statues, family and how people behave or perceive things. Culture in the U.K. can influence fashion trends and designers to create clothing that meets customer needs. According to an article on culture in the U.K., “the religion Christian Protestant faith, however, there has been a huge decline in the role of the Church in Britain since the middle of the last Century with less than half the population attending Church services or believing in God”(Commisceo Global 2019). Another example on cultural values is family, and according to the article, “divorce at one time was also unthinkable but in the last few decades it has become more acceptable”(Commisceo Global 2019). Cultural values consist on core beliefs and secondary beliefs. Core beliefs are strong beliefs we have acquired by other individuals as well as our surroundings and it is reinforced by society. In the other hand, secondary beliefs are flexible values which are open to change. Cultural factors have a major impact in consumer purchase power because it depends on customer’s beliefs and perception. Individuals use fashion and the clothes we wear identify our core beliefs, lifestyle and culture.
Cultural characteristics can affect marketing decisions in the fashion industry. This includes changes in secondary cultural values and persistence of cultural beliefs. It also includes how people view others, society, nature, themselves and organizations. For example, people may have a different perception on an organization and the organization’s views. Therefore, people will decline their loyalty toward the brand. Another example is people’s views on others. People may not necessarily agree with other people and their cultural values. Therefore, people would isolate themselves from others.
Burberry is an example of a transparent company who states their culture and values in their website for their customers, employees and partners. The company promotes equal opportunities for women, diversity, recognizes the LGBT community and workers are paid a living wage. According to Burberry, “Supporting the importance of diversity in business and society, in 2015 Burberry became a corporate member of OUTstanding, a UK not-for-profit professional network of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender executive” (Burberry). This shows how Burberry is able to maintain a pool of diverse customers from different cultures and lifestyles because they are transparent with their culture and values.
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Fashion Industry and it’s Affect on Body Image
The fashion industry has always been an influential establishment since the 1900’s and prior. There is no denying the impact fashion has on the fast trending world, as many different ages participate to stay up to date with what’s in and what is considered last season. In the early 1900’s the S-shaped figure was what was strived for with big, lavish clothing (Bowman,2017). Women wore corsets and bustles just to achieve such figure. Fast forward to the fifties when knee length skirts and a cinched waistline was the look; as women began to develop a sense of femininity, fashion took charge (Monet, 2018). Sweaters, flannels, and anything self made was the height of the nineties (Retrowaste). As fashion has progressed throughout time, it’s grasp on our society has grown off the charts. In particularly, millennials who are highly motivated to keep up, often find pressure in not being able to accommodate such high standards. This pressure comes with conforming to what society deems as beautiful, which many interpret to be skinny and undoubtedly flawless because of the models, celebrities, and influencers that stand before their eyes. This raises the question ‘Should the fashion industry reevaluate its standards to prevent body image issues?’
In the article written by Tabitha Farrar stated “ Thin-ideal media highlights the idea that thinness is a good and desirable thing to be, even if it is to a level that is potentially damaging a person's health.” Farrar herself suffered twelve years of anorexia, and now advocates for destigmatizing eating disorders.
Impressionable young adults feel the need to perfect themselves. This insecurity can lead to many things such as eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, and binging ,and purging (ANAD). In today’s society social media influencers, models, and anyone unnaturally skinny are the goals to meet for many teenagers. Young adults find a variety of ways to lose the unwanted weight from diet pills and laxatives, to vomiting, and rigorous diets. At least 30 million people of all ages and gender suffer from an eating disorder in the U.S alone (ANAD). ANAD is a organization called the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders in which they provide insight for people who don’t understand how much these disorders impact people's lives. Teenagers are highly stressed in this day and age, because of not only balancing school, home, and social life, but also finding a place to fit in. “My generation has grown up in a society that places an appalling emphasis on body image.” (Song, 2014). Isabel Song, a college student from UC Berkeley wrote a article on the heavyweight society has placed on the generation of millennials to look a certain way. Song being apart of this generation has heard and seen her age group grow up with insecurities due to excessive body shaming. The fashion community often only includes tall skinny women on the high fashion runways. Regardless, negative body image of women and men is not pleasant and it seems unethical that marketing firms should constantly place an unrealistic ideal in the faces of young people (Farrar 2014). Young adults and teenagers manifest this notion that only tall skinny women are beautiful and get the inspiration to change themselves, trying to reach the unachievable goals and standards of the fashion world. Although there are influencers that are not the typical slim figure such as any Kardashian, none of whom have a body type that can be achieved naturally, that does not change the situation of the fashion community promoting more skinny women and men as the ideal candidate.
Some may argue that fashion should sell clothes rather than creating a certain image for young impressionable minds, but body shaming is a serious issue and that as well includes all types of bodies. Dazed a fashion magazine asked five women who are “ challenging the status quo and paving the way in terms of how we think about inclusivity in the industry on tools for change, the difference between legislation and body policing and whether passing laws is the right way to shift body ideals” (Dazed 2016). With questions such as “Do you buy into the idea of ‘skinny-shaming’, where naturally thin girls are chastised for their bodies?” (Dazed 2016). One woman by the name of Caryn Franklin, A fashion commentator and professor in diversity for Kingston University responded with “Women all over the world are evaluated and even oppressed because of their appearance. Age, size, skin tone and even appearance of genitals are political issues. This is a much bigger issue.” (Dazed 2016). All bodies should be included in fashion not a specific type. Another women by the name of Charli Howard a model who was dropped for her size not being small enough said "I refuse to feel ashamed and upset on a daily basis for not meeting your ridiculous, unobtainable beauty standards” ( Cherrington 2015). Cast out for not being skinnier by the standards of the fashion industry . This issue is as well a problem with men as it is with women. The male body image suffers when men are exposed to images of unrealistic male bodies ( Mirror Mirror, 2019). Mirror Mirror is a organization that focus on eating disorders and what lead to such disorders. Many tend to assume that a healthy body is muscular build, but fail to realize a less toned body is still just as healthy. Will the vicious cycle that is the fashion industry continue to degrade women and men based on their appearance or will the fashion industry change to accept anyone and everyone?
On the other hand, the fashion industry has been working its way to including diversity into their fashion shows, catalogs, and advocating for healthier models. Fashion companies such as ModCloth eliminated their photoshopped photos by signing “The Heroes Pledge for Advertisers ” in 2014, then removed ‘ plus size ’ from the website, only to be replaced as ‘ all sizes ’ in 2015 (Geller 2017). Healthier lifestyles can arise from the fit examples that are prominently displayed. Sanne Vloet is a model from Switzerland; in a article posted by Kristine Boyd, Sanne was praised for her healthy food choices “ There is a common stigma that models only eat bland, boring food. Sanne proved her viewers wrong by showing what she eats in a day. These delicious, healthy recipes are full of ingredients that are going to help you feel satisfied and energized all day long! We love these recipes and are inspired to try these ourselves” (Boyd, 2018). In 2016, an overall 13% of the world's population was obese. Over 340 million children and adolescents aged 5-19 were overweight or obese in 2016 (World Health Organization, 2018). The World Health Organization provides insight on different types of conditions such as obesity which could be decreased. Social media influencers can set a example for teenagers that admire them to eat healthier. In fact there are people in the public eye who are quite known for healthy lifestyles. Rosie Huntington- Whiteley is a model, designer, and businesswoman who is very active and supports healthy living especially in her line of work. “The collection of sports wear is a natural move for the model, who is an outspoken advocate of fitness. She has recently spoken to ELLE about her passion for well-being, saying she regards the gym as a form of meditation—and she has the body to prove it” (McCabe, 2017). The idea that models liven unhealthy lifestyles to stay skinny is false, they just choose to eat healthier and work out more. Though in the end not everyone has the same body type working out, and dieting is different for every individual.
In my opinion teenagers are easily persuaded to feel a certain way. One comment on their physical appearance can impact them monumentally. This generation is quite involved in social media, and celebrities lifestyles. We have grown up admiring these flawless beings wishing to be like them. This can lead to self esteem lows, and the inspiration to change; teenagers want to revise themselves so much they lead to self harm to achieve these standards. Defining beauty itself is one's opinion, different cultures see beauty differently. Though segregating more than half of the population who do not meet the fashion standards is not necessarily correct. I am all for healthier lifestyles, but not when those lifestyles come from peer pressure from the communities around us. Me being someone who has experienced this self hate, and doubt because I look up to such beautiful people it is very hard to come to terms with your body. While constantly seeing skinny models, celebrities, and influencers being told they are the epitome of beauty, you hope to be like them. I do believe that the fashion industry is a main cause of body image issues because of how scarce the diversity is in the fashion community. The industry can pave the way for more self awareness for the next generation to come by promoting more diverse images of beauty and placing more emphasis on health rather than simply a certain look.
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Conflicts in Marriage and its Effects on Children
Introduction and Background
Many are the marriages with conflict which poses threat in the life of a home; will this have a negative effect on our children? Though our relationship is still intact, we have what we can only describe as a ""high-conflict marriage."" Is this likely to hurt our children? In life, everything depends on the way you approach and handle your differences. Believe it or not, it might be a good thing for your children to see you and your spouse having an argument, as long as you manage the condition in a respectful and in fine fettle way. It's a sad fact that few children ever have the opportunity to see their parents resolve a conflict in a positive and mutually satisfying manner. Instead, disagreements within a marriage all too often depreciate into roaring matches and character eliminations either that or they are suppressed and repressed. Children who have repeatedly observed these destructive responses to conflict are likely to be ill equipped to manage the disagreements that will inevitably arise in their own lives and relationships. This doesn't mean that they should make a habit of arguing in front of the children. There's room for discernment here. In particular, you should never voice a disagreement in front of a child who is the subject of that disagreement. This is not a mistake that even in the biblical records, a long human past of interpersonal problems and communication breakdowns. Adam and Eve, the first married couple, had a disagreement about the reasons of their sin in the Garden of Eden. Their children, children’s have had conflicts that led from century to century in family life till today.
Generally speaking, if there's to be any kind of positive outcome, the children should be old enough to understand what you are talking about and emotionally mature enough to grasp the concept that you can disagree with someone whom you deeply love and respect. Young child and grade-school children may misinterpret a spirited parental exchange as the unraveling of their world. They should rarely, if ever, witness a serious parental disagreement. Older children and adolescents, on the other hand, can learn something by watching two mature people settle an issue in a constructive fashion. Obviously, this isn't the place for a detailed exposition of all the principals involved in settling marital disagreements.
Divorce in marriage is the most conflicts phase of a married couple’s life. As adults, they might eventually get over the tough period, but children become a collateral casualty. Their minds are tender and can slip into a state of shock on seeing parents split forever. The adverse effects of divorce can be long-lasting on children and may impact their own relationships. Studies have shown that in the US, the daughters of divorced parents have a higher divorce rate than those of non-divorced parents. Children who witness a divorce could be disturbed by the thought of not seeing their parents together again. Among the immediate short-term effects of divorce on children are:
- Apprehension: The outcome of a divorce causes the child to become tense, worried, and anxious. Young children are more prone to it than the older ones since they are heavily dependent on both the parents. An concerned child will find it difficult to concentrate on his/her studies and may lose interest in activities that he once found enticing.
- Constant tension: According to some research studies in the diaspora, many children falsely consider themselves the reason behind their parents’ divorce and assume the responsibility to mend the relationship. This can lead to colossal stress and pressure on the young mind, which can have several repercussions like negative thoughts and nightmares.
- Attitude swings and irritability: Young children may suffer from mood swings and become irritable even when interacting with familiar people. Some children will go into a withdrawal mode, where they stop talking to anyone and shut themselves away. The child will become quiet and prefer spending time alone.
- Intense sadness: Acute sadness rushes through the heart and mind of the child. Nothing feels good in life, and the child may eventually plunge into depression, which is a long-term manifestation of this sadness.
- Dissatisfy and distress: Children of divorce may feel hopeless and disillusioned because they do not have the comprehensive passionate support from their parents. This situation can become worse if the child is looked after by a single parent with no access to the other parent.
- Behavioral and shared problems: A child is at a greater risk of developing violent and rebellious behavior when the parents’ divorce. He or she may lose temper at the drop of a hat and show no hesitation assaulting someone. In the long run, it may lead to the development of a criminal mindset, especially during the adolescent years. Studies show that most children of divorce display the characteristic traits of aggression and disobedience with varying degree of intensity. Extreme cases of these conditions make the child a social misfit.
- Trouble with relationships: When children grow seeing a marriage fail, they develop doubts about love and harmony in a relationship. They have trust issues and find it challenging to resolve conflicts in a relationship. Such children, as adults, will start any relationship with a negative mindset.
- Prone to substance abuse: Drugs and alcohol become the avenues for adolescents to vent out their frustration and anxiety. Research has shown a higher incidence of substance abuse in teens whose parents are divorced. Of course, there are other factors like the care provided by the single parent, which determine the adolescent’s tendency to have drugs. However, the probability of an adolescent succumbing to the temptation is considerably high. Long-term substance abuse has damaging effects on the well-being of the child.
- Depression: The feeling of sorrow and heartbreak caused by parents’ divorce can make a child slip into depression. Depression is a mental health problem, and children who witness divorce have a higher incidence of depression and social withdrawal. Researchers note that divorce can be a contributing factor in cases of bipolar disorder observed in children.
- Poor education and socio-economic position: The adverse psychological effects of divorce diminish a child’s interest in education. Children who experience the divorce of their parents show a drastic drop in their school grades. It can significantly impede a child’s ability to learn at school and college. A stunted progress in education hampers career prospects of the child as an adult, which make it difficult to have a decent socio-economic status.
On the other hand, divorce is not limited just to the parents but extends to the entire family. The effects are long lasting. Despite the downhearted associated with it, there is a positive way to look at divorce from a child’s point of view. The child no longer has to experience a tense atmosphere at home as their parents will no more quarrels. As they are no longer greeted by arguments, they return home from school or college with a positive mindset. It also ensures that the child does not wander away with a bad company to avoid badmouthing parents at home.
The deed is done and over. It means, the separated parents can now focus on the children as the task of getting divorced is completed. The child does not have to rely on pseudo-comforters like drugs and alcohol. When a child is free to shuttle between the houses of his both parents, then he may spend fruitful time. His interactions are no longer interpreted by an argument, and he can pour his heart out freely. It also gives each parent an opportunity to divide the responsibility equally, and still be the caring mom or dad that they have been. Research has shown that divorce can help a child study better and improve his grades since he no longer has the baggage of quarreling parents back home. What happens when you see your parents’ marriage fail? You get the best life lesson on managing relationships. Studies about positive effects of divorce have shown that children who witness the split of their parents can show maturity and patience while managing conflicts in their relationships in future. They communicate better and always strive to be good by not repeating the mistakes of their parents. This could be a positive way of looking at a divorce, if that is imminent. The child’s reaction to their parents’ decision depends on various factors such as the age of the child and gender. Divorce is a bitter pill for you and your children. But if you have no other option but to opt for it, make sure your kids are not affected in the melee. They have a long way to go in their life and your divorce cannot be an impediment to their growth. Divorce rates have climbed across the globe over the past few decades especially in Ghana and for that matter an increase of divorce rate among urban Centre’s is astronomical.
As you might expect, research has found that children struggle the most during the first year or two after the divorce. Divorce creates emotional turmoil for the entire family, but for children, the situation can be quite scary, confusing, and frustrating.
Statement of the Research Problem
In view of the evaluation of the background in the research study, we seek to assert the problem of the statement as to why and how and under what condition did divorce occur in the family? Were they (parents) not aware of the challenges leading to the conflict in future before they went into marriage life? There are many problems with divorce or broken homes which at the long run reflect on the performance of children in their upbringing. Some of these problems are;
- Assembly of a gap on the children’s existence because there is no adult to guide and direct their behavior and desires as they learn by imitation.
- There is increase in domestic work and redistribution of household chores, which leaves the children with little or no time for their studies
- Also, it has been observed that children from broken homes suffer some other problems such as non-provision of some basic material needs like food, clothing and learning material
- In security, step parent do not show much love and affection to their step children. Thus, these children suffer from mental retardation, personality improvement and are always miserable. They show behavioral responses like lying, stealing, building and playing truant in school.
Significance Of The Study
We pray that after findings from this research study we will elevate our audience of teaching them social doctrines. We are interested in the study of effect of divorce on the performance of children because whatever happens in the domestic home has an impact in the academic performance of children at school. It is necessary to educate the young children who are yet unmarried about the issues, conflicts and causes of divorce and their consequences on the them. It will also make young children to annihilate their parents. Findings from this study will aid children from parent who are being thought divorce in the understanding of problem experienced by their parents and give them assurance about their future. The prominence of this study is that the society as a whole will stand to profit greatly in the sense that, it will aim at transporting out the effects of marital conflict inflicted on people in the society and will have less marital and psychological problems and as such, they will be able to contribute their maximum prospects to the benefit of the public. This research will help the members of the society to acknowledge those things that bring about marital conflicts between married people so as to avoid divorce making reference to what St. Paul in 1 Corinthians 7 echoes and also quest to keep a simple eye and avoid competitive living.
Scope Of Study
The scope of the study covers the geographical location of the following town, Tema, East Legon, and other well-endowed estates in the Greater Accra religion of the republic of Ghana. To start with, it was not easy getting arriving at these facts. We had difficulties in collecting information because the people concerned felt reluctant to give useful information and time to attend to us. And the belief to keep secret family issues to only family members.
Literature Review
This research study seeks to provide a literature review of some of the social science findings related to the effects of marital interference on children in the Capital city of Ghana. The resurgence of Divorce and life in a one parent family are has grown astronomically following the canker in 1960s, divorce in Northern America was sporadic. However, with the advent of some legislative acts introduced on Divorce, which made divorces more privilege in our society and for that matter Accra in Ghana and allowed marriage breakdown as grounds for separation, has streamed deeply down to the Ghanaian married couples conscience thereby seeing it as normal and forgetting its implications on the sociocultural breakdown on the children and hence contributing to the menace of streetism in Accra and its environs as we experience today. According to sociologists and anthropologists across the globe, the divorce rate has increased more than quadruple in marriages and hence affects the child in his/her educational ladder, social wise, religiously, psychologically there is no point of concentration in the life such victims since they become vulnerable. According to the report, in the late 1980s, approximately 74,000 children became “children of divorce”
There has also been an increasing debate on the subject matter, even though series of suggested solutions has been propounded as well as recommendation gearing in the prenuptial period thus if there has been counseling therapy before the marriage was established noting the probable difference to occur in future.
Through our research review of the several literatures on this same study, it will examine how one strength best understand the concept of ‘best interests of the child’ by examining studies which attempt to tease out the effects of marital disturbance on children. Although the majority of articles are from various field of academia across the world, for the most part, similar results have been found in other countries and there is little reason to suspect that the experience of Ghanaian children would be substantially different. We seek to discuss the limitations connected with research conducted in this sphere.
In reviewing the conflicts in marriage life and its implications, which we are seeking to examine the effects of marital disturbance on children, three diverse research performances have generally been engaged: scientific valuations; relationships of children from divorced and unbroken families; and, thorough conversations with divorced families (Amato, 1987). Scientific valuations generally involve examining children of divorce who have been referred to various counselling or medical platforms. For instance, Wallerstein and Kelly (1975) scrutinized the effect of parental divorce by cross-examining parents and children referred to divorce counselling. Although scientific valuations provide a great deal of information concerning children from martially disturbed families, they focus on life-threatening cases and, therefore, the results cannot be generalized to the mainstream of children who experience marital conflict. In accumulation they present an almost invariably undesirable picture of children’s post-divorce regulation and it is these studies which outweighed in the early years of research on the effects of divorce.
Relative studies usually associate non-medical samples of children from families experiencing marital disturbance with children from unbroken families. These studies usually examine objective, measurable outcomes, such as academic achievement, emotional adjustment and self-esteem, through the use of tests or surveys. However, many of these measures do not allow an understanding of how separation and divorce are intuitively experienced and construed by parents and children. The third technique involves conducting thorough interviews with parents and/or children from divorced families in order to elicit the experiences from their own perspective. Problems associated with this performance include probable bias or misrepresentation of facts by those interviewed.
Children of divorce. Healy, Malley and Stewart (1990) also suggest that observed gender differences in adjustment to divorce may reflect the overuse of clinical samples rather than genuine gender differences. They argue that the undercontrolled behaviour of boys is more readily observed and, therefore, more likely to lead to clinical referral.
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Mandatory Community Service
Is community service a punishment? Since the twentieth century till now, community service duties and definition changed from one generation to another. Before community service was only through selective service law, which allowed the young men to delay it through science, marriage, or teaching. Young people avoided the Vietnamese war draft by volunteering to clean hospitals. The following generation rejected mandatory civic duty for their generation and the era of volunteerism started by emphasizing the simple act of charity.
[bookmark: _Hlk1862600]Source one. Today, according to Neil Howe and William Straus’s book Millennials Rising, the term “Service learning” started to appear with the newest generation of Americans “Millennial”. Studies show that community service express the true meaning of volunteering that lies in the individual will in helping others and by enforcing community service on high school students to graduate will make community service lose their real meaning and have bad impact on students. Today, the whole community especially the young generation who is so keen to serve the community more in many ways through volunteering, without the obligation of service learning. However, Howe and Strauss emphasized that five out of six Millennials “believe their generation has the greatest duty to improve the environment” and any extra “civic duties” will be accepted to accomplish any necessary change. Students who believe and understand the real meaning of service activities and want to develop themselves for many reasons to help the community, but certainly not for the school demands.
Source three supports Howe and Strauss conclusion, that freewill volunteering gives the best results by giving a real example of freewill volunteering, and how this kind of volunteering can allow the volunteer to see other option for his/her future career other than the ones he/she had planned for themselves. An article in Detroit News article describes how a thirteen years old young boy, John Prueter, started to volunteer when his great-grandmother was placed in one of the assisted living homes. Prueter had “always [been] close to” this love to his great-grandmother made him volunteer to remain close to her, also his honest work that came from his heart allowed him to discover the real meaning of volunteering and to discover more about himself. Volunteering helped Prueter to discover a new career he never thought about it, and that was nursing. The article emphasizes that freewill volunteering and honest work, will benefit the individual and the community too.
Source five agrees with the previous sources that mandatory service can not be productive and it will abolish the real spirit of volunteerism. Here the following two studies, which were published in the journal Psychological Science, emphasize that making community service mandatory “can have negative effects on students’ intentions to volunteer freely in the future”. Also, the same studies showed that the more the students get involved in the community service and not forced, they will be more likely “free choice” volunteer where they are unaffected by a mandate to serve as compared with a choice. Moreover, the concept of service learning is ""required"" to graduate from high school and to get into a prestigious college, that made many students became self-interest instead of becoming more selflessness.
Mandatory service supporters argue that it isn’t important if the student choose for himself or if it is obligatory, the most important is the spirit of the service.
Both sides of the debate have the same goal of “service learning” as both want to have a lasting experience but different ways to execute it. A clear example of volunteering when it is supported with “free choice” in service duties. That was clear in John Prueter story. He already knows that “his dream job…is working where he volunteers now”, that ensure that the best way of students to volunteer in the future is to give them the chance to experience that they are valuable. Those kinds of experiences will only come from encouragement, support and more importantly from their own freewill.
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The Environmental Costs of Fast Fashion
In today's world, fashion is one of the most used outlets for individuals to express their unique identities. The fast pace of the industry, that has trends moving in and out every day, allows for broad choices when expressing one's culture, sex, and social status. Social media has been a bridge for people to express themselves even further by sharing their fashion choices to the public eye. However, humans love for showing off how good they look is having a drastic impact on our environment. The effect of creating clothes, textiles and fibers are not seen as an issue on a large scale because these are things we use every day. There is not much thought put into where your clothing comes from. There is also not that much attention drawn to it because of the new trend of having clothing be one-hundred percent organic. However, these one-hundred percent organic outfits that are being worn are often only seen on the runways, and not in our local and chain stores. Humans have been creating their own clothes for forever. Over time some countries have decided to stick to making their clothing by hand and some countries have created huge factories to do it for them. The fashion industry's negative impact on the environment stems from the release of carbon emissions, dumping of toxic chemicals, using drinkable water for dyes and so much more. The fashion industry is one of the leading causes of pollution on our earth.
The reason that fashion is having such an impact on our environment is that it is always changing. The fashion industry is always competing to come up with the thing that is “in” and because humans are wired to think that they need to fit in to feel comfortable then there is always a large demand for new clothing thus creating what is called “fast fashion”. Fast fashion is when clothes are made cheap and quick so that stores like Forever 21 and American Eagle can keep their customers up to date on what is “in” for a little price. Clothing manufacture is one of the leading trades in the world because it is needed everywhere. Another part of fast fashion is the creation of things that everyone wears daily, for example, underwear and bras. Undergarments come out of large mass production factories that are constantly producing these items because we need them.
Aside from the mass production of fast fashion the fertilizers used for cotton production are affecting our streams, air, and soil. Because cotton needs large amounts of water in order to grow, there is an immense amount of runoff that is going into rivers and streams. Along with running into streams and rivers, many of the chemicals used in the pesticides and insecticides evaporate into the air when placed into the ground. The effect that these chemicals have on our water cycle does not stop at the runoff. Every time we wash a synthetic garment (polyester, nylon, etc), about 1,900 individual microfibers are released into the water, making their way into our oceans. Scientists have discovered that small aquatic organisms ingest those microfibers. These are then eaten by small fish and these smaller fish are later eaten by bigger fish introducing plastic in our food chain. Humans have also ingested this plastic filled water, although no effects have been shown yet. In the 1950s the Amu Darya and the Syr Darya, two rivers in Uzbekistan were diverted from the Aral sea to provide for the mass amount of water that is needed when growing cotton. Then this water that was used was dumped back into the Aral sea exposing aquatic life to all of the chemicals. Today, water levels in the Aral are less than 10 percent of what they were 50 years ago because of the large need for watering cotton. Women, men, and children who lived along this river and relied on it for life had to leave and relocate. This fresh water was completely stripped from this community and was made undrinkable.
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Two Great Theories of Cognitive Development
Jean Piaget's theory of cognitive development
Jean Piaget's theory of cognitive development expresses that children move through four different stages of mental development growing up. His theory focuses not only on understanding how children acquire knowledge but also on understanding the nature of intelligence. The stages of his theory are the sensorimotor stage, preoperational stage, concrete operational stage and formal operational.
Piaget had believed that children play a very active role in their learning process. They go through new experiences, they take mental notes on how things went, whether they liked the outcome or not, and they simply learn about the world in their own ways and at their own pace. As kids interact with the world around them, they are contently adding more and more knowledge to their brain, they build upon their existing knowledge, and adapt their previously held ideas to accommodate new information.
Looking at the first stage of development which is the sensorimotor stage which is looked through the ages of birth to the age of two years old. The sensorimotor stage is where the infant knows the world through their own movements. The infant knows the world through their own movements and perceptions. They learn through basic actions such as looking, listening and sucking on their pacifier or even their bottles and such. They also learn through their hands as the feel and grasp onto things. Infants begin to learn that items and the things around them continue to exist even though they may not see them. Which was believed by developing this was an important element because then they can begin attaching names and words to objects. Children also begin to learn that their actions can cause things to happen in the world around them.
During this earliest stage of cognitive development, infants and toddlers obtain knowledge through sensory experiences and manipulating objects. Children not only learn how to perform physical actions, such as crawling and walking, they also learn some language from those who interact with them and around them. The sensorimotor stage is where children go through a period of dramatic growth and learning. As children interact with their environment and learn through basic reflexes, senses and motor responses, they are always discovering how the world around them works.
As they grow into the ages of two years old through the age of 7 we see the preoperational stage. In this stage, the children begin to think symbolically and learn to use words and pictures to represent different objects. Children at this stage also tend to only think of themselves and they struggle to see things from the perspective of others. As they may have already developed a bit of language it is in the preoperational stage where it is an emergence of language. Children become much more skilled at pretend play during this stage of development, yet still think very concretely about the world around them.
Soon after we hit the concrete operational stage between the ages of 7 through 11 years old. During this stage, children begin thinking logical and organized about concrete events and begin to understand the concept of conservation. Children also begin using inductive logic, or reasoning from specific information to a general principle. While they may still be very concrete and literal about their thinking, they become much more efficient at using logic. Children in the concrete operational stage, become better at thinking about other people’s perspectives and begin to understand that they have different thoughts when compared to others and that not everyone necessarily shares their thoughts, feelings, and opinions.
Through all, we hit the formal operational stage which is from the age of 12 years old and up. Some major characteristics and the development changes here are that the adolescent or young adult begins to think abstractly and reason about hypothetical problems. Teens begin to think more about moral, philosophical, ethical, social, and political issues that require theoretical and abstract reasoning. They begin to use deductive logic, or reasoning from a general principle to specific information.
The final stage of Piaget's theory involves an increase in logic, the ability to use deductive reasoning, and an understanding of abstract ideas. At this point, people become capable of seeing multiple potential solutions to problems and think more scientifically about the world around them.
It is important to note that Piaget did not view children's intellectual development as a quantitative process; that is, kids do not just add more information and knowledge to their existing knowledge as they get older. Instead, Piaget suggested that there is a qualitative change in how children think as they gradually process through these four stages. A child at age 7 doesn't just have more information about the world than he did at age 2; there is a fundamental change in how he thinks about the world.
Erikson's theory
Moving forward we can also look at Erik Erikson who was an ego psychologist and developed one of the most popular and influential theories of development. Erikson's theory centered on psychosocial development rather than psychosexual development. The stages that make up Erikson theory are stage one, trust vs. mistrust, stage 2, autonomy vs. shame and doubt, stage 3, initiative vs. guilt, stage 4, industry vs. inferiority, stage 5, identity vs. confusion, stage 6, intimacy vs. isolation, stage 7, generativity vs. stagnation and stage 8, integrity vs. despair.
Erikson believed that personality developed in a series of stages. Where it described the impact of social experience across the whole lifespan. Erikson was interested in how social interaction and relationships played a role in the development and growth of human beings. Each stage in Erikson's theory builds on the preceding stages and paves the way for following periods of development. In each stage, Erikson believed people experience a conflict that serves as a turning point in development. In Erikson's view, these conflicts are centered on either developing a psychological quality or failing to develop that quality. During these times, the potential for personal growth is high but so is the potential for failure.
Stage one, trust vs. mistrust occurs between birth and one year of age and is the most fundamental stage in life. This is because, an infant is dependent, developing trust is based on the dependability and quality of the child's caregivers. At this point in development, the child is utterly dependent upon adult caregivers for everything that he or she needs to survive including food, love, warmth, safety, and nurturing. Everything. If a caregiver fails to provide adequate care and love, the child will come to feel that he or she cannot trust or depend upon the adults in his or her life. If a child successfully develops trust, he or she will feel safe and secure in the world. Caregivers who are inconsistent, emotionally unavailable, or rejecting contribute to feelings of mistrust in the children under their care. Failure to develop trust will result in fear and a belief that the world is inconsistent and unpredictable.
Stage two, autonomy vs. shame and doubt takes place during early childhood and is focused on children developing a greater sense of personal control. At this point in development, children are just starting to gain a little independence as they start to perform basic actions on their own and making simple decisions about what they prefer. By allowing kids to make choices and gain control, parents and caregivers can help children develop a sense of autonomy. Erikson believed that toilet training was a vital part of this process simply because learning to control one's bodily functions leads to a feeling of control and a sense of independence. Other important decisions include gaining more control over food choices, toy preferences, and clothing selection. Children who successfully complete this stage feel secure and confident, while those who do not are left with a sense of inadequacy and self-doubt. Erikson believed that achieving a balance between autonomy and shame and doubt would lead to will, which is the belief that children can act with intention, within reason and limits.
Stage 3, initiative vs. guilt takes place during the preschool years. At this point in psychosocial development, children begin to assert their power and control over the world through directing play and other social interactions. Children who are successful at this stage feel capable and able to lead others. Those who fail to acquire these skills are left with a sense of guilt, self-doubt, and lack of initiative.
Stage 4, industry vs. inferiority takes place during the early school years from approximate age 5 to 11. Through social interactions, children begin to develop a sense of pride in their accomplishments and abilities. Children who are encouraged and commended by parents and teachers develop a feeling of competence and belief in their skills. Those who receive little or no encouragement from parents, teachers, or peers will doubt their abilities to be successful. Successfully finding a balance at this stage of psychosocial development leads to the strength known as competence, in which children develop a belief their abilities to handle the tasks set before them.
Stage 5, identity vs. confusion takes place during the teenage years. This stage plays an essential role in developing a sense of personal identity which will continue to influence behavior and development for the rest of one’s life. During this stage, children explore their independence and develop a sense of self. Those who receive proper encouragement and reinforcement through personal exploration will emerge from this stage with a strong sense of self and feelings of independence and control. Those who remain unsure of their beliefs and desires will feel insecure and confused about themselves and the future. Ego identity is the conscious sense of self that we develop through social interaction and becomes a central focus during the identity versus confusion stage of psychosocial development. Our ego identity constantly changes due to new experiences and information we acquire in our daily interactions with others. As we have new experiences, we also take on challenges that can help or hinder the development of identity. Our sense of personal identity is shaped by our experiences and interactions with others, and it is this identity that helps guide our actions, beliefs, and behaviors as we age.
Stage 6, intimacy vs. isolation which starts at early adulthood when people are exploring personal relationships. It was vital that people develop close, committed relationships with other people. Those who are successful at this step will form relationships that are enduring and secure. Those who have a strong sense of personal identity tend to develop intimate relationships. Those with a poor sense of self-do tend to have less committed relationships and are more likely to suffer emotional isolation, loneliness, and depression.
Stage 7, generativity vs. stagnation takes place during adulthood, we continue to build our lives, focusing on our career and family. Those who are successful during this phase will feel that they are contributing to the world by being active in their home and community. Those who fail to attain this skill will feel unproductive and uninvolved in the world. Care can be achieved when this stage is handled successfully. Being proud of accomplishments, watching children grow into adults, and developing a sense of unity with life partner are important accomplishments of this stage.
Stage 8, integrity vs. despair is the final psychosocial stage that occurs during old age and is focused on reflecting on life. This is the point where people look back on the events of their lives and determine if they are happy with the life that they lived or if they regret the things they did or didn't do. Those who are unsuccessful during this stage will feel that their life has been wasted and will experience many regrets. The individual will be left with feelings of bitterness and despair. Those who feel proud of their accomplishments will feel a sense of integrity. Being successful this phase means looking back with few regrets and a general feeling of satisfaction. These individuals will attain wisdom, even when confronting death.
Conclusion
All in all, we capture two great theories of development, through them both we see great points, but I would have to side more with Erik Erikson. This is because I believe that things happen out of the cause of something else. Growing up I can see how far I have come and can relate to Erikson theory through all stages.
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Cognitive Development in Preschool Years
Have you ever wondered how someone so young begins to know and understand so much? It is amazing that we, as human beings, begin to learn so much at such a young age. This is not an easy process though, it takes time and effort. There are a few factors that play a role in a preschooler’s cognitive development, such as care outside of the home, understanding the types of learning, language development, and understanding key points under Piaget’s approach to cognitive development and the information processing theory. All of these play a role in understanding cognitive development in the preschool years.
Care Outside of the Home
As you may already know, cognitive development or learning, starts at a very young age in children and is influenced by many factors in this world. For preschool aged children, there are various ways the children’s cognitive development can be affected by the numerous varieties of early education. Robert Feldman, author of the book Discovering the Life Span, points out the diversity in care outside of the home. Feldman comments on how there are child-care centers, family child-care centers, preschools, and school child-care. Feldman also states that “most research suggests that preschoolers enrolled in child-care centers show intellectual development that at least matches that of children at home, and often is better” (Feldman, 2018). An observational study done by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development led to the conclusion that child care quality predicted cognitive outcomes. It suggested that by improving the quality of child care for children, it would improve the children’s cognitive and achievement outcomes (Duncan, 2003). Feldman also notes that many preschoolers enrolled in some type of child care are typically more verbally fluent, show memory and comprehension advantages, and also achieve higher IQ scores than those who are not enrolled in some type of child care (Feldman, 2018).
Most children in child care will receive these benefits if the quality of the child care is high-quality and not low-quality. Feldman also discusses different aspects within the child care program that make it high-quality. Just a few of these include well trained care providers, health and safety standards being followed, an enhanced language environment, and a carefully planned out and coordinated curriculum. When choosing which child care facility, one is going to send their children to, each person should take into consideration the aspects that make a child care center a high-quality one. From this, one can see how child care outside of the home has various benefits on preschool aged children and on their cognitive development.
Types of Learning
There are two main types of learning, formal and informal, that can have tremendous effects on preschool aged children and their cognitive development. Feldman discusses both formal learning and informal learning. Formal learning is typically learning through early education programs, whereas informal learning is learning through the media. Children who experience some type of formal learning have clear cognitive and social benefits. These children also show better intellectual development, such as being more verbally fluent, showing memory and comprehensive advantages, and even achieving higher IQ scores. As well as showing better intellectual development, children who receive formal learning often have advantages in their social development, such as more self-confidence and independence. On the other hand, informal learning can cause children to make incorrect assumptions about characters when watching TV because of their inability to remember certain details of the story. Preschoolers are also unable to understand the different forms of messages they may see on the TV and are unable to separate fantasy from reality (Feldman, 2018).
Nikolay Veraksa, a professor and psychologist, claims that there are three types of capacities that children use in their activity and how they develop. The first is that children use modelling, which means that they learn to recognize natural occurrences though observation and using sign tools. The second is that the children use symbolization, which means they use symbolic tools, such as painting and stories to understand these events and express their attitudes toward them. The third is a combination of both, it uses both of these tools to transform reality in a more meaningful way. Veraksa states that “these three ways of regulation give rise to three types of cognitive capacity; normative, symbolic and transformational” (Veraksa, 2011).
Language Development. Language development is an important part of a preschooler’s cognitive development. Robert Feldman claims that “language blooms so rapidly between the ages of the late 2s and the mid-3s . . .” (Feldman, 2018). Feldman also reports that the way a child combines words and phrases to form sentences, also known as syntax, doubles each month and “by the time a preschooler is 3, the various combinations reach into the thousands” (Feldman, 2018). Feldman comments that also by the age of three, preschoolers are able to use plurals and possessive forms of nouns, ask and answer complex questions, and also learn the principles of grammar. Although the preschoolers may make some mistakes when using the correct forms of grammar, it is rare (Feldman, 2018). There was another study done on whether or not preschool children with specific language impairment, SLI, exhibit shape bias in word learning. The study found that children with typical learning exhibited shape bias but children with SLI did not. The study also showed that children with SLI did not exhibit shape bias because of their inability to learn simple paired visual associations (Collisson et al. 2015).
Language development contains two types of speech, private speech and social speech. Feldman discusses both private speech and social speech. Private speech is a type of speech where children are speaking to themselves, and while this might seem silly, it actually serves an important function in preschooler’s cognitive development. By using private speech, children are able to use it as a guide to try out new ideas, facilitate their thinking, control their behavior, and also reason with themselves when thinking. Private speech can also lead to the children learning or practicing pragmatics, which is being able to communicate with others effectively and appropriately. Through this, they are able to learn the basics of conversations, such as taking turns, sticking to a topic, and knowing what to say and when to say certain things. Preschoolers also develop social speech, which is a type of speech that is directed toward someone else. Children begin to want to have conversations with others, and have other people listen to what they have to say and also understand what they are saying, rather than speaking for their own entertainment. Like in private speech, pragmatics is also used in social speech. These two types of speech show how preschool aged children begin to enhance their cognitive development through their developing language (Feldman, 2018).
Piaget’s Approach to Cognitive Development. Robert Feldman acknowledges that Piaget placed the preschool years, which he believed to be a time of both change and stability, into the preoperational stage. The preoperational stage is the stage between the ages two and seven where the children’s symbolic thinking grows, mental reasoning emerges, and use of concepts increases. Children in this stage of cognitive development become '. . . better at representing events internally and less dependent on sensorimotor activity to understand the world around them” (Feldman, 2018). Feldman points out that symbolic function, “the ability to use a mental symbol, a word, or an object to stand for or represent something that is not physically present,” is a key aspect in preoperational thought (Feldman, 2018).
Piaget also discusses centration and conservation. Feldman notes that centration is where children focus on one aspect of a stimulus and ignore the other aspects. Centration often leads to inaccuracy. One example of this is if you have two rows of pennies in front of a preschooler and one row has 10 pennies, all close to each other, and the other row has 8 pennies but is more spread out, the child will likely pick the row that looks longer when asked which row has more pennies. Even though the children understand that ten in more than eight, they ignore their understanding of quantity and focus on appearances. Conservation, on the other hand, is the understanding that quantity is unrelated to physical appearances. Once conservation is mastered, the children will be able to focus on the relevant features of the situations (Feldman, 2018).
Also in the preoperational stage there is egocentric thinking, which is thinking that does not take into account the viewpoints of others. Preschoolers have egocentric thinking because they do not understand that different people have different perspectives on things. Feldman states that “egocentric thought takes two forms: lack of awareness that others see things from a different physical perspective and failure to realize that others may hold thoughts, feelings, and points of view that differ from theirs” (Feldman, 2018). Egocentrism can be used to explain why preschoolers talk to themselves, and why they ignore what others are saying to them. Piaget’s approach to cognitive development led to many observations and details about preschoolers’ cognitive abilities.
Information Processing Theory. Robert Feldman claims that the information-processing theory illustrates the most dominant, comprehensive, and accurate explanation of cognitive development in children. The information-processing theory shows that preschoolers have a well-developed understanding of numbers and are able to count fairly systematic and consistently. This theory also discusses the memory capabilities of preschool aged children. Most people’s earliest memories in life do not occur until after the age of three and depending on when an event occurred, determines the accuracy of the memory. Unless the memory is vivid or meaningful, most people do not remember it into later life, they may only recall the memory for six months or a year.
Not only does a preschooler’s memory fade, but it may also not be completely accurate. This is because it may be hard for preschoolers to remember a specific time that it had happened. Often times preschoolers’ memories are organized into scripts, which are broad representations of events and the order in which they occur. Scripted memories are often times less accurate than unscripted memories. As well as a preschooler’s memory being able to fade and not being completely accurate, a preschooler’s memory can also be susceptible to suggestion, meaning when adults ask them questions that are highly suggestive, attempting to lead a person to a certain conclusion, or the same question multiple times, children are more likely to make mistakes. Feldman reports that “according to information-processing approaches, cognitive development consists of gradual improvements in the ways people perceive, understand, and remember information” (Feldman, 2018). Feldman also notes that this view shows that preschoolers are able to process information more efficiently and with greater sophistication, and are able to grasp complex problems and that this is what constitutes cognitive development.
Culture also plays a role in influencing cognitive development. Instead of only focusing on individual performance, Vygotsky focused on social aspects of development and learning, and the child’s social and cultural world as the source of cognitive development. He believed that children learned cognitive strategies from adults and their peers, who could present new ways of doing things, and also provide assistance, instruction, and motivation. Children are able to grow up and function on their own because of the guidance that adults and their peers gave them. One’s culture and society shapes the nature of specific cognitive advances. Feldman also emphasizes that “unless we look at what is important and meaningful to members of a given society, we may seriously underestimate the nature and level of cognitive abilities that ultimately will be attained” (Feldman, 2018). From this, we are able to see the importance of social interaction on cognitive development and understand that children’s cognitive development is affected by their parents, peers, other members of society, and also cultural factors.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are various components that go in to understanding cognitive development in the preschool years. These include care outside of the home, understanding the types of learning, language development, and understanding key points under Piaget’s approach to cognitive development and the information processing theory. There are many aspects a child has to go through when becoming cognitively developed in his or her preschool years. Now we are able to see how someone so young is able to learn and understand so much at such a young age.
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Physical and Cognitive Development in Early Childhood
Abstract
During early childhood, a child experiences various cognitive and physical changes. Children from two to seven years old develop quickly within the blink of an eye. Their developmental stage at this age mostly focus on physical and cognitive growth. A child motor skill increases during this stage due to their fast growing of the brain, especially the frontal lobe. They become stronger and leaner throughout the years. Though not every child develops at the same level, but children this age knows their alphabets, numbers, and colors. According to Piaget, children from two to seven years olds begins to characterize the world around them with images. They begin to have some reasoning and asks lots of questions. Their vocabularies have tremendously increased from when they were smaller. Children at this age knows first and last names and can identify the opposites of things like close/open or day/night.
Keyword: motor skills, early-childhood, physical development, cognitive development.
Physical and Cognitive Development in Early Child-Hood 2-7
Why is a child early life so important? Which year is considered the most important year in child's life? The first few years of a child life can help predict how the rest of his or her life will be. It was proven that children adapt more quickly during their early years (the importance of early years, Nelson, 2006). According Dr. Dippesh Masuria in 2015, by the age of five years-old a child brain has already developed by 90%. Parents needs to provide an exciting environment for their kids. Their brain at this stage is like a sponge, they take in information very quickly. Their main way of learning is through playing. Being physically active will help improve their gross motor skills.
All children grow differently, they grow and develop at their own pace. At the age of two to three years old, an average child will gain about 6 pound every year and grow at least two to three inches taller. Growing up, my mom used to always tell me stories about when I was little. She mentioned that by seven months old I had already taken my first steps. When I had my daughter, it was a different outcome. My daughter didn't walk till she was about sixteen-month old. I thought something was wrong with her. I took her to the doctor's office and he confirmed that everything was fine, and that she would start walking on her own time. But being the worry wart that I am, I was still devastated. Fifteen percent of children under the age of seven may have some difficulties in some areas of development (Sally-Anne McCormick, (2016). I had to learn the hard way that parents or guardians needs to let their child reach their milestones on their own. And now my daughter hardly sits in one place, she's always on the go.
Children grow dramatically between the ages of three to seven years old. Around this stage they start to develop eye-hand coordination. Their body coordination increases but they can still fall easily, and they love and enjoy playing around with other kids. They're very eager to learn and experience new things, therefore they tend to ask lots of questions. According to Gild Band Center, by the age of three to five years old, children vocabularies can increase from 900 words to about 10,000 words or more. By 6 to seven years old they have a receptive language of about 20,000 vocabulary words and they tend to understand some terms like end, beginning, same.
A child primary developmental group is family. Families plays an important role on a child cognitive and physical growth. They provide an environment in which the child gain knowledge from. As Vygotsky said, a child cognition growth is based on his or her support system. Parents or guardian are the main ones that needs to build up the child and gives them structure. Promote their overall developments.
The first few years of a child life can help predict how the rest of their lives will be. A parent and child relationships are very important at any age, but it is extremely important for a 2-7-year-old child to have a close relationship with his or her parents. Their brain at this age develop faster than at any other time. Whatever a child learns throughout the first few years he/she will take that experience with them for the rest of their lives, whether it was something negative or positive. They gain knowledge by what they've experienced throughout their early childhood.
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How Environmental Factors Shape Cognitive Development in Children?
A child’s early years of life, determines how well they will mature, and if a change occurs in their environment then the negative effects of could heavily impact them in adulthood. Poverty is a major environmental factor which will heavily impact a child’s cognitive development. A study posted in the early childhood educational journal of new york states that “Early childhood poverty is a prevalent social issue, both in the United States and in the wider international community”(Sharkins, Leger, and Ernest(2017). Poverty can heavily impact a child, being in a situation where they aren’t receiving the proper resources, they will end up malnourished and will lead to them not developing well in terms of muscle development and skeletal structure. A article from the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health of London states that “chronic malnutrition during childhood can be detrimental for children’s cognitive development in later Life” (Zhang, Chandola(2017). Because of a lack of programs for these children and initiatives To bring more awareness of programs to help them, children and their parents suffer as a result. A study in the new york journal of prevention science states that “The families of young mothers are often characterized by poverty and limited academic and occupational opportunities for both child and mother” (Baudry et al.(2017).
Literacy, Basic arithmetic, and critical Contribute significantly to a child’s cognitive development; if children do not get a proper education then their cognitive development will be negatively impacted. Which is why it is important to ensure children and their parents have access to the tools they need. Researchers state that “In all cases, there is a strong tendency for the children of adolescent mothers to be considered at high risk from a psychosocial perspective, making this population a public health concern”(Baudry et al.(2017). Therefore promoting a stable environment which will in turn promote proper cognitive development should be the prime goal in the coming years.
Another factor that impacts Child cognitive development is how well a mother is taken care of and takes care of herself. As More research has been circulating more freely over the past years, an emphasis on education of Mothers. Teaching them about the risks posed to their child if they put certain things into their Body. And how it can negatively impact their child has to also become the focus of researchers and psychologists. In the case of prenatal care, mother’s need to be healthy, and should consider the risk of being a unhealthy weight. A study done in London states that “maternal pre-pregnancy obesity is one of the most common modifiable risk factors associated with the higher maternal and perinatal adverse outcomes”(Adane, Mishra, Tooth(2017). They go on to say that findings from the study suggest that“children’s general cognitive ability and nonverbal ability scores, as measured by the differential Ability Scale at the age of 5 years, were significantly impaired in those children born to obese mothers”(Adane, Mishra, Tooth(2017).
Though these factors are detrimental and can have long lasting effects on children, there are ways to lessen further damage by allowing for early intervention. In a study published in the new york journal of prevention “Recovery from early stunting is possible, in particular for girls and this can lead to improvement in cognitive development”(Zhang, Chandola(2017). “Additional research using context-appropriate clinical diagnostic measures of major depression needs to be conducted to further explore the association between child cognitive development and maternal depression”(Liu.et al(2017) In future studies researchers and psychologists should look into other factors that can impact cognitive development in addition to poverty, malnutrition, and prenatal disorders. There should be more extensive observations focusing on poverty and how children who are lgbt can be impacted more by this factor, primarily because their parents will disown them and being destitute and without the resources to survive on their own.
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Cognitive Development Research
Introduction
This paper is related to find out the cognitive development of a child by using conservation tasks. Cognitive development can be referred to as changes in the personality by going through problem solving, decision making and remembering from childhood to become an adult (Wertsh, 1990). Conservation task can be termed as a test to check the ability of a child to see or observe changes when an object goes through some physical transformation (Buckingham, 1979). In this paper, we have performed a fieldwork by taking a child and then two conservation tasks were performed with him. After getting information from him about the task, we were required to state that he is at what stage of cognitive development. For this task, I selected a child named John was seven years old. He seemed very energetic and observant so I decided to test his cognitive development. He lives in my neighborhood and I don’t have any direct relation with him. After that, I was required to select two conservation tasks to proceed further.
Conservation Tasks
I was free to choose any two conservation tasks for analyzing the child’s ability so I did. My selected two conservation tasks are as follows:
1) Water task: In this task, we were to present two identical water filled cups with the same amount of water to the child. After the confirmation from the child that water in both cups is same, we were to move towards the second step of the task. In this step, we took water from both cups and poured it in two cups with different shapes. One cup was wider and shorter and second was narrower and taller. Obviously, level of water would be higher in a narrower one. Now the child was required to answer that which cup has more water.
2) Block task: In this task, we had a different block and were to make equal piles with the blocks and child would confirm that both piles have equal blocks. After that we laid down the blocks in line, intentionally by giving spaces in one line, we made one line longer than the other. Now the child was to answer that which line has more blocks.
I selected these two conservation tasks and at the playground near our home, I performed this task to give the child a casual environment and to relax his mind.
Analysis
As mentioned above that I selected a boy who was seven years old, I first performed a water task with him. When I asked from him that in which cup, water is more, he answered that in the longer one, which is obviously a wrong answer. He claimed that up with a higher level of water has more water. I asked him if he is sure then he was very confirmed about his answer and did not want to even reconsider it once. He was a lot comfortable during the task as he was enjoying all this setting. When I was pouring water in different bowls, he was very excited and wanted to help me as well. He liked doing things at all times.
As far as the second task, block task is concerned, John answered it correctly. He counted the blocks and was able to conserve the amount of the blocks. He picked up the point that if one line is longer than it doesn't necessarily mean that it has more. It is important to state here that materials in both tasks were different from each other. A difference between these two specific studies or tasks was that the placement of the observer, child and note-taker. In the first task, note taker was sitting in front of the John and in the second task, he was sitting behind him.
After that, I told him about Heinz Dilemma and asked that if Heinz did right or wrong when he stolen drug. He answered that he did right as he wanted to save his wife. In his view chemist was a bad person who refused to give that drug for the sake of money. I told him that every drug has a cost and no one gives it free of cost then he replied that his wife was in pain and he was begging for his life but chemist was demanding more money.
Results
Results or outcomes of these tasks lead us toward knowing the cognitive learning status of the child. John, the 7-year-old second grader, was entering the concrete operational stage and it was due to the fact that he was able to conserve the blocks, but he was not able to conserve the water. Additionally, the child was motivated and excited to learn new things and he also wanted to participate in exciting activities. He was showing adaption to the world of experiments dealing with their developmental stages. These both aspects are part of Piaget's theory which is related to children learning and their cognitive stages.
Another important part of Piaget's theory, that was present in this case was the interaction and involvement of the physical means of the experiment and with other people. John shows textbook signs of the pre-operational stage by showing how he remembers what a snake, building, castle, and 'J' look like. He also shows this stage when seeing how he can use the remainder of the blocks from the 'J' to make an 'A' resulting in a more complex figure. He was also able to remember that what he wants to say instead of using hand to make us understand. According to Erickson’s theory of development, we can state that he is entering the next level of cognitive learning that is one of the multiple classifications and deductive reasoning (Muuss, 1988). I observed this multiple classification when was spreading the blocks into categories simultaneously. He also showed deductive reasoning when he saw the red light of the tape recorder on and he instantly inferred that he was being recorded. He also was unable to test his hypothesis that the amounts of water were different as indicated by Piaget in the same theory (Wadsworth, 1996)
Kohlberg has provided morality development theory and, in the light, if his theory. John is at the level 1 which is Pre-conventional morality. As far as the stage is concerned, he is at stage one, which is Obedience and Punishment Orientation. In this stage, children think that if you don’t obey anyone, you will be punished, and also the behavior of one person is the result of other person’s behavior (Duska, 1975).
Conclusion
In conclusion, it can be stated that this experiment was extremely beneficial based on the fact that we were able to see the cognitive levels of children first hand, and not out of a textbook. I performed tasks with the child directly and observed changes in his behavior and emotions. I was also able to see how we interact with the children for future reference and how one should address the individual needs of each child in our classroom, keeping aside their developmental levels. Understanding the cognitive abilities of any child is very important. It is important for different reasons and the main reason is that by knowing these abilities, family and teachers can observe that either he is developing properly or not. If any child is not helping in such tasks then no doubt, he needs more attention and focus.
People around him should spend more time with him and try to involve him in different activities. A teacher can motivate such child by showing and pushing them towards better examples. Sometimes it happens that children get bored with easy and routine work and they started having behavior problems. These problems can be solved by giving them some challenges work, it will sharpen their mental abilities and will make them active. From conservation tasks, understanding a child’s development is important so that the teacher can treat the kids accordingly and understand the children better and help those who need it. Conclusively, knowing a child’s conservation abilities are very important to teachers as it will help to see what the children know and how they have developed. This will ultimately allow them to tend to the individual child’s needs and to help the child where he needs the assistance.
Cite this page
Cognitive Development Research. (2021, Apr 09).
Retrieved November 5, 2025 , from
https://studydriver.com/2021/04/page/7/
