Employee recognition has two aspects: the first is that it is timely and hinged on the successful accomplishment of certain behavior. According to Lawler and Worley (2006), employee recognition and rewards are the foremost concern for all human beings, quickly followed by proper management. The firm has faced increased employee turnover and lowered commitment to workplace goals. Whereas employees may not be able to bring their home to work, they often carry the feelings, frustrations, and daily challenges they encounter at home. It is important to ensure that employees take home mostly positive feelings about their work while dealing with the challenges may be difficult. It is important to note that the firm offers its employees a highly competitive payment and compensation package. However, low recognition and lack of a formal reward structure have increased employee frustration. Coupled with this, employees cannot appreciate their managers and leaders within the organization. This has made it difficult for managers to implement specific projects and establish high-performance teams.
It is important to note that it is not that the company completely lacks a recognition system. It is not uncommon for employees to receive praise from their managers for good effort and work completed. However, what lacks an actual formal structure to reward ad recognize high performance. Armstrong and Stephens (2005) point out that employees need to know the basis for recognition and reward. There must be criteria with which merit is established and recognized. Failure of a proper system means that rewards and recognition are haphazard and biased. While this could encourage and build up the morale of a few employees, it is most likely to lead to increased demoralization of the entire team. The first step of this project is to identify measurable behavior with the caution that a complete focus on measurement may lead to a criterion that does not merit key changes and behavioral structures. However, measurement provides the ideal foundation for building a merit system that is clear and recognizable to both the employees and the management. The criteria should also describe who is eligible for recognition or recovering the rewards. According to Güngör (2011), all employees who work with the company and are undertaking similar tasks requiring the same measurement and performance behavior should be eligible for rewards. The most discomforting aspect of any form of reward structure is the presence of ambiguity and biasness, which often demoralize even the most hardworking employees. It is better to have no reward system than to establish a system that is neither formal nor structured, opening opportunities for biasness, favoritism, and ambiguous rewards. The following steps will be taken into consideration when identifying and setting up the criteria system: · The project will form a committee made up of representatives of employees from all levels and departments. The main aim of the committee will be to provide advice to management about the possible effects of the reward system effects. The committee will also champion the reward system to fellow employees. This is likely to generate more excitement and support for the system.
Evaluation of the company goals and mission.
According to Hsieh and Chen (2011), reward systems not built on the company mission will likely draw the employee’s attention to company goals. The process should not define new company goals or encourage activities that though beneficial to the company, tend to draw the employees’ attention away from the main company goals. · Designing a criterion that allows everyone to win and be rewarded is vital for a successful reward system. Employees of all ranks, with different tasks and working in different departments, should all have opportunities to be rewarded either as teams or individuals. However, for this project, the reward system will focus more on rewarding positive behavior in individuals. It is expected that this will, in turn, translate to positive behavior in teams and departments.
2. Establish a method of recognition
In the past, the company has quickly focused on monetary compensation when recognizing high-performing employees. While for the short term, this is an ideal reward system for the long term, it is not only costly, but it also lacks sustainability. This project aims to encourage behavioral change that would, in turn, lead to high productivity and performance among the employees. Monetary compensation has often led employees to focus on the money rather than celebrating and making personal changes to improve performance. For example, the sales staff have become overly focused on increasing sales due to establishing a commission system that rewards each sale. However, the company still scores very low in the service orientation and customer care department. This, in itself, means that future sales will be more difficult. There are new forms of reward, and this project proposes recognition. Top among them is offering employees a selection of projects they would like to participate in. This recognizes their efforts, uses their unique skills, and provides a unique opportunity for career growth. It allows employees to challenge themselves continually so they do not become bored with the same routine. Other possible avenues include lunch with the management team and providing a flexible schedule for the employees in the short term, allowing them both rest and rejuvenation in time for participating in their next challenge.
Further, this project will focus more on individual rather than team recognition. The recognition that employees receive should not only be equal to the task given to them; it is also important to ensure that the task is equal to the qualifications and abilities of the employees. As suggested by Allen and Killman (2001), winning in the reward system should not be so easy that all employees can win, thus minimizing the quality of the reward system. In addition, it should not be as difficult so that no one can win; a striking balance should be established.
3. Communication and training on the reward system.
Most reward systems often fail because, on the one hand, employees are not aware of the reward system’s needs and nature. When the employees lack awareness, it is often common to imagine that such rewards are far from structured and thus haphazard even where there is a formal system of recognition. The first aspect of this project will focus on involving the employees in setting up the reward system. This will include the following: · Identifying behaviors that should be rewarded and given merit; thus, measuring such behaviors will not seem to constrict since the same employees have identified them. · Identifying the most desired type of recognition and reward. Employees can provide their most desired reward system. · Select the individuals who have met the criteria and deserve the reward and recognition. It is important to ensure that the final selection of the individuals should not be left to managers as they may be seen as emotional and biased. The second aspect of this step in the project will deal with the challenge managers have in applying the reward and recognition structure. Management will undergo formal training on the same to understand not just the nature of the reward system but also the need for the reward system so that they are more encouraged and confident in the application of the reward system. The idea is to give the managers open knowledge that is not just theoretical but rather practical, allowing them to address the challenges that come with applying and bringing to life the nature of the reward system. According to Shields *et al. *(2015), managers tend to shy away from reward and recognition structures simply because they lack the confidence that comes with possessing the right knowledge to apply the formal structures. They are, therefore, more comfortable with the informal structures, which are fraught with challenges and biasness.
Qualifications
I have three years of experience working in human resources. Although I have not been a manager before, I have understood the value of motivation and commitment in the workplace through my internship and early working experience as a human resource assistant in two large companies. The companies have allowed me to work practically and apply my theoretical knowledge in human resources. However, the same companies have offered me an open learning experience, where I have to understand some of the challenges encountered when the companies are attempting to build a committed team and human resources. My educational background has also given me ample opportunity to understand the fundamentals of human resource principles. Specifically, I have excellent knowledge of work planning, compensation packages, and reward structures. With this experience and knowledge, I am ideally qualified to spearhead the company project and bring together company resources to meet the project’s goals. With my successful background, I can leverage my presentation and communication abilities to find the right solution for this specific company, tailor-making a reward and recognition system that will encourage sustainable high performance and provide the company with a unique competitive edge.
Conclusion
A reward system will help to keep employees loyal to the company and determined to climb the corporate ladder. Reward systems do not need to be expensive. This project will lay the foundation of rewards by enhancing the importance of word-of-mouth praise and recognition by managers. However, such recognition will be based on a proper formal system. Further, each form of reward, whether words of praise or otherwise, will be closely followed by a properly times official letter of recognition.
References
Allen, R. S., & Kilmann, R. H. (2001). The role of the reward system for a total quality management-based strategy. *Journal of Organizational Change Management*, *14*(2), 110-131. Armstrong, M., & Stephens, T. (2005). *A handbook of employee reward management and practice*. Kogan Page Publishers. Güngör, P. (2011). The relationship between the reward management system and employee performance with the mediating role of motivation: A quantitative study on global banks. *Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences*, *24*, 1510-1520. Hsieh, Y. H., & Chen, H. M. (2011). Strategic fit among competitive business strategy, human resource strategy, and reward system. *Academy of Strategic Management Journal*, *10*(2), 11. Lawler, E., & Worley, C. G. (2006). Winning support for organizational change: Designing employee reward systems that keep working. *Ivey Business Journal*, *70*(4), 1-5. Shields, J., Brown, M., Kaine, S., Dolle-Samuel, C., North-Samardzic, A., McLean, P., … & Plimmer, G. (2015). *Managing employee performance & reward: Concepts, practices, strategies*. Cambridge University Press.
With a student-centered approach, I create engaging and informative blog posts that tackle relevant topics for students. My content aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.
Post-traumatic stress disorder commonly referred to as PTSD is defined as a psychological disorder that affects people who have gone through an event or experience in life that was traumatic and life-changing (Poole, 2016). According to Poole (2016), PTSD symptoms are defined by these particular factors such as flashbacks, acute anxiety, as well as hyper-arousal-disrupt which affect the normal functioning of an individual. PTSD is however classified and defined as a psychological disorder, only recently research has expanded its efforts in attempting to comprehend PTSD’s bio-molecular root cause and origin (Poole, 2016).
This analysis will focus on the Biopsychological aspects of PTSD bringing an in-depth understanding of the cause of PTSD, indicators, and factors that influence the trigger of PTSD, the pathological perspective as well as the diagnostic, treatments, and research technologies of PTSD. I chose this particular topic due to a personal experience through PTSD research which widely included the vast studies of Veterans, as well as couples, families, and subgroups of Veterans which include various eras of veterans.
PTSD in various disciplines holds different definitions according to the various disciplines’ perspectives and scope. Galazyn (2015) defines PTSD from a neurological perspective. Galazyn (2015) states that despite the underlying biological aspects consisting in the protracted as well as immediate trauma-related responses which are significantly complex, with research going back forty years focused on mammals including humans which have brought forth a demonstration of trauma especially in trauma that occurs earlier in an individual’s life cycle; thus presenting neuron-chemical effects and responses on the long run to the stressful events (Harvey & Pauwels, 2013). The effects consist of the level magnitude in regards to the catecholamine responses together with the extent and duration of the emerging cortical responses. Moreover, the neurologists state that PTSD consists of the involvement of a substantial number of biological systems, which include mesolimbic brain structures together with a range of neurotransmitters.
In psychology, PTSD is popularly described as “shell shock.” Harvey and Pauwels (2013) mention that the psychological perspective of PTSD presents the disorder as anxiety associated with mental health disorder which emerges more often than not after a stressful event of extreme levels. Harvey and Pauwels (2013) state that the psychological comprehension of PTSD was expounded and acknowledged that PTSD occurs and emerges after the occurrence of a traumatic event, and as such does not present a sign of poor character or weakness in an individual’s character. Furthermore, in the year 1980 PTSD was officially acknowledged as amongst the types of mental health disorders (Harvey and Pauwels, 2013).
Furthermore, research has proven distinct differences in the neuropsychological functioning that occurs between both PTSD and the control participants. According to Poulson (2017), a deep interest in a focus in the neuropsychological functioning in regards to PTSD emerged as a response to the PTSD patients’ individual complaints of issues with attention, memory, as well as concentration. Poulson (2017) states that various studies in the past decade have recognized the significant reduction in the performance level of the verbal memory as well as the learning in participants in regards to PTSD control participants.
Epidemiology
Regel and Joseph (2017) point out that a Biopsychological analysis from a PSTD survey within a large and representative community which is based on a sample of twenty-four countries has an estimation of the PTSD conditional probability of traumatic events in twenty-nine forms. The epidemiology of research for a Biopsychological analysis includes 33% in violence that occurred in sexual relationships such as childhood sexual abuse, rape, and intimate partner violence; 30% in traumatic experiences due to interpersonal-network such as a loved one unexpected death, a child’s life-threatening illness and even any other traumatic event which involves loved ones; 12% in interpersonal violence such forms of childhood physical abuse, being witness to interpersonal violence, a threat by violence and physical abuse; 3% to being exposed to organized violence such as an experience as a refugee, kidnapped, and a civilian caught up in a war zone; 11% in organized violence participation such as combat exposure, being witness to serious injury and death including the discovery of dead bodies, purposefully caused injury and death; 12% in traumatic events that are life-threatening such as the collision of a motor vehicle, natural disaster, and exposure to toxic chemicals.
Signs and Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Astorga (2015) documents that PTSD symptoms are more likely than not to begin within the first month of a specific traumatic event, however, there are cases where the symptoms may delay and instead appear several years after the occurrence of the event. Astorga (2015) mentions that PTSD symptoms implicate significant issues within the social and work situations as well as in an individual’s relationships. Astorga (2015) further mentions that PTSD additionally interferes with one’s capability to carry out their day to day activities.
According to Galazyn (2015), PTSD symptoms are classified into four distinguished groups; avoidance, intrusive memories, mood and thinking negative changes, as well as substantial changes in emotional and physical reactions. Galazyn (2015) mentions that it is vital to note that symptoms more often than not vary from one individual to another.
Intrusive memories as a symptom include recurring unwanted distressing memories involving the traumatic events, flashbacks, nightmares involving the traumatic events, and severity in physical reactions as well as emotional distress to situations that are reminders of the entire traumatic event (Ford & Courtois, 2014). Avoidance is a key symptom involves; attempting to completely avoid talking and thinking of the traumatic event, attempting to completely avoid activities, places, as well as people which are reminders of traumatic events.
Ford and Courtois (2014) explain that mood and thinking negative changes as a symptom includes; a tendency of hopelessness in regards to the future, negativity in thoughts about the world, other individuals and self, memory issues, significant difficulty in maintenance of close relationships, a feeling of detachment from friends and family, no interest in the activities once previously enjoyed, a difficulty in experiencing positive emotions and a feeling emotional numbness.
Poulson (2017) states that changes in both emotional and physical reactions, which is also referred to as arousal symptoms include; easy startling, constantly being on guard looking out for danger, self-destruction behavior for instance over speeding or drinking, sleeping troubles, overwhelming shame or guilt, angry outbursts as well as irritability and aggressive behavior.
Poulson (2017) further states that for cases of PTSD of children who are of the ages of six and below the symptoms may include; re-enacting of aspects of traumatic events via play, and nightmares which more often than not consist of of of various aspects of traumatic events.
PTSD Subtypes
Individuals experiencing PTSD may have a number but not all of the PSTD symptoms; however, PTSD may not share a similarity. Thus, Ford and Courtois (2016) explain that there exist very specific PTSD subtypes that may affect some individuals. Ford and Courtois (2016) further explain that these particular subtypes may be perceived as implications of the PTSD illness; however, those individuals who may be experiencing these subtypes may require different therapies as well as treatments to get better.
Ford and Courtois (2016) suggest that there exists about five defined PTSD subtypes; these include victim-related trauma, natural-disaster trauma, survivor trauma, perpetrator guilt, and PTSD which is not specified. Victim related trauma involves individuals who were victims of a particular criminal attack or witnessed a criminal attack that more likely than not involves physical violence (Ford and Courtois, 2016). Natural-disaster trauma is less likely to because of human activities and is minimal and almost no control such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and earthquakes.
Survivor trauma more often than not is associated with one antagonist and one victim; however, the event at times has several victims and not only one. Moreover, there are cases when only one individual makes it a survivor of the incident (Ford and Courtois, 2016). Ford and Courtois (2016) indicate that perpetrator guilt involves feelings and thoughts of helplessness when facing fear, however, individuals within this particular subtype had a portion of involvements to the traumatizing event; either through planning or participation which follows a deep realization that was entirely a huge mistake. Alternatively, an individual may find themselves entirely caught up in that particular moment, and later making a realization of the error they made days or even months later (Ford and Courtois, 2016).
Lastly, Ford and Courtois (2013) expound that PTSD which is not specified involves traumatic events that may emerge from ripples which may affect individuals hours or even days after a particular issue has already gotten a resolution. Individuals who experience this particular are those who are involved in cleaning up after a natural disaster such as tornadoes, those who do the collection of bodies from the crime scenes, those involved in comforting rape victims, or those who end up listening to loved ones discussing traumatic events. Ford and Courtois (2016) explain that these individuals are not direct witnesses to traumatic events; however, they are significantly affected by events they may experience as an aftermath of the traumatic event.
Pathology behind PTSD
PTSD pathogenesis has no standard definition. Poulson (2017) points out that the imaging studies have made the indication that trauma, as well as long-term stress, has the capacity to result in functional changes within the neuro-anatomic structures together with the neural networks. Poulson (2017) expresses that an individual’s sympathetic nervous system, catecholamine system, hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, as well as 5-hydroxytryptamine system significantly vital for effective stress response, a mood-regulating, together with awakening during the evolution and occurrence of PTSD. Research studies investigate the relationship that exists between PTSD and the neurotransmitters which result in controversial implications of a patient’s injury upon their body not entirely excluded. Patients who suffer from mental trauma which is caused by PTSD with no physical trauma in avoidance of the interfering elements (Poulson, 2017).
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of PTSD involves a doctor’s performance of a physical examination to identify medical problems which may be the root cause of a patient’s symptoms. The doctor will carry out a psychological evaluation which is inclusive of a discussion into an individual’s signs and symptoms as well as the events that led to its trigger. Thirdly, the doctor utilizes the DSM-5 criteria which are an American Psychiatric Association publication.
Diagnostic Criteria
The PTSD diagnostic criteria have altered relatively due to the American Psychiatric Association’s most recent edition ‘Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)’ (In Martin, In Preedy & In Patel, 2016). First of all, criterion A presents exposure to either one or more events which associates with threatened death or death, threatened or really serious injury, or even a threatened sexual violation. Moreover, these occurrences faced an experience in either one or more ways mentioned: Experiencing the event, witnessing the event therefore not occurring to you but another individual, learning and gaining information about a situation that occurred to a close friend or a relative who went through a threatened or an actual violent or accidental death, and lastly, experiencing a consistency and repeated exposure to a set of distressing and vivid details of a traumatic situation, for instance, a police officer constantly having to face cases about situations of child sexual abuse.
Martin, In Preedy, and In Patel (2016) state that criterion B focuses on an experience of at least one of the intrusive symptoms which are associated with a particularly traumatic event; In Martin, In Preedy, and In Patel (2016) explain that the intrusive symptoms are expected or unexpected involuntary, reoccurring, as well as the intrusive memories that are upsetting of the particular traumatic event. Secondly, a sequence of consistent dreams that are upsetting which has the contents of the dream about a particularly traumatic event. Thirdly, an occurrence of a particular type of dissociation such as flashbacks to create a feeling of the traumatic event reoccurring. Moreover, persistent and strongly influenced distress with the exposure to specific cues that are inside as well as outside an individual’s body which are connected to the traumatic event in question. Lastly, In Martin, In Preedy & In Patel (2016) indicates that a substantially strong bodily reaction such as increased heart rate which occurs when one is exposed to any form of reminder of a traumatic situation in question.
Criterion C according to In Martin, In Preedy & Patel (2016) involves often occurrences of avoidance of reminders which concerns the traumatic event, thus including; avoiding feelings, thoughts, as well as physical sensations which trigger traumatic memories of a particular event, avoiding specific places, individuals, activities, objects, conversations, activities and even situations which trigger traumatic memories of a specific event (In Martin, In Preedy & In Patel, 2016).
Furthermore, criterion D involves at least three amongst certain negative changes within mood as well as thoughts which were an occurrence and even worsen the particular traumatic experience traumatic event: For starters the lack of ability to substantially remember any vital aspect in regards to the traumatic event in question (Adams et.al., 2013). Secondly, Adams et.al. (2013) point out that, the persistence as well as elevated negative evaluations which concern you as an individual, others, and the world as a whole; for instance a statement such as “I am unlovable.” Thirdly, an elevation of the blame of others and self-blame in regards to the consequence of causes of traumatic events in question. Moreover, an emotional state that is negative such as anger, shame, and even fear which is pervasive, a significant loss of interest levels in the activities which one used to enjoy, a substantial feeling of detachment from other people, as well as the lack of ability to essentially experience positive emotions such as joy, love, and happiness (Adams et.al,2013).
Adams et.al (2013) further points out that criterion Estates that at least three amongst the mentioned changes in regards to arousal which either worsened or started the traumatic experience event; aggressive or irritability in an individual’s behavior, self-destructive or impulsive behavior, a feeling of constant “on guard” such as danger lurking around an individual in every corner otherwise known as hypervigilance, a heightened and startle response, a substantial difficulty in concentration as well as sleeping problems (Adams et.al., 2013).
Furthermore, Adams et.al (2013) states that phase F which is also criterion F involves the symptoms mentioned above to persist for a time period of one month and more. Whereas criterion G consists of symptoms that exhibit considerable distress as well as substantially interfere significantly with quite a several various aspects of an individual’s life. Lastly, criterion H determines whether or not the defined symptoms are a result of other factors and not a medical condition and even a type of substance use.
Martin, In Preedy & In Patel (2016) states that the DSM-5 PTSD diagnosis requires one to attain the following factors; criterion A, in criterion B at least one symptom or more, in criterion C at least one symptom or more, in criterion C at least three symptoms or more, in criterion D at least three symptoms or more, and both criterion F and H. Martin, In Preedy, and In Patel (2016) further explain that there are two key specifications; the dissociative and delayed specification. Martin, In Preedy & Patel (2016) expounds that dissociative specification additionally to meeting the criteria for diagnosis, someone experiences a high level as a reaction to specifically trauma-related stimuli; first depersonalization which involves an experience of having a perspective of an outsider as well as detachment from oneself. Secondly, derealization which involves the experience of distance, unreality, or even distortion. On the other hand, delayed Specification consists of entire diagnostic criteria that remain not met till about a time period of six months or more after the traumatic event occurs, however, the symptoms on-set may occur almost immediately.
Treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Treatment of PTSD enables one to regain a substantial sense of control one has over their own life. PTSD’s primary treatment is essentially psychotherapy, although it also includes medication (Poole, 2016). Poole (2016) states that a combination of these treatments enhances the improvement of one’s symptoms through; educating one on skills to efficiently address one’s symptoms, assisting one to enable better think of the world, others as well as themselves, educating one on means of coping with possible symptoms which may emerge, and treatment of another issue which more often than not are associated with traumatic experiences, for example, anxiety, depression, or alcohol and drugs abuse.
PTSD with treatment
Once under PTSD treatment, a PTSD patient tends to seek out essential support from other individuals including family as well as friends (Harvey & Pauwels, 2013). An individual also finds an appropriate support group right after the traumatic event in question. Moreover, once one begins to undergo treatment a PTSD patient begins to eventually learn how to feel good in regards to their own actions when facing danger. Harvey and Pauwels (2013) point out that, in the long run, a PTSD patient begins establishing and implementing positive coping strategies to enable them to get over the traumatic event and even getting life lessons from the experience. Lastly, an individual gains the capacity and capability to effectively act as well as respond to situations despite having the feeling of fear.
PTSD without treatment
Harvey and Pauwels (2013) explain that when PSTD is prolonged without treatment it begins disrupting an individual’s entire life, beginning from their jobs, relationships, health, and even their enjoyment of day to day activities. Harvey and Pauwels (2013) further explain that PTSD may significantly increase an individual’s risks to exposure and development of other mental health-related problems, including anxiety, depression, drugs, and alcohol abuse, suicidal actions, and thoughts, as well as eating disorders.
Risk Factors of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Scientists have discovered and defined several risk factors that may present a prediction of an individual’s likelihood of PTSD development (Galazyn, 2015). According to Galazyn (2015), an individual’s risk factors are classified into three distinguished categories; the pre, peri, as well as post-traumatic stages.
The pre-traumatic stage involves the history of an individual before undergoing trauma; these risk factors consist of genetics, age, sex where women face a higher risk than their men counterparts, mental health history, personality traits such as being an introvert, and prior trauma (Ford & Courtois, 2014). Ford & Courtois (2014) explain that the peri PTSD stages involves the time during the trauma it, therefore, includes the exposure level, the intensity of the trauma, and the perception of the traumatic event. Lastly, the post-traumatic stages involve the period after the traumatic event. Ford & Courtois (2014) expresses that these particular risk factors involve situations that are immediately available right after the traumatic experience.
Current Treatment Options
PTSD is a condition that could be treated, there are various PTSD proven treatments including;
Future Research Areas in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD to date has been treated through the utilization of mental health counseling as well as medication management, however, there are new treatments that are currently undergoing research today. Amongst the PTSD experimental treatments includes; MDMA with therapy, accelerated resolution therapy, virtual reality treatment, and even cannabis with therapy.
PTSD screening and diagnosis have exponentially improved in recent years. The current assessment methods are highly effective in the identification of PTSD severity in regards to PTSD symptoms as well as PTSD discrimination from the other psychiatric disorders. It is highly vital for PTSD treatment planning as well as monitoring of the outcomes. Increasing knowledge in regards to PTSD etiology as well as pathologic processes is appreciated through functional impairment which is carried out through the assessment of clinical interviews, performance-based measures as well as self-improved instruments.
Conclusion
All in all, quite a several PTSD screening tools that are well-validated together with diagnostic technologies are now in existence. Moreover, effective and highly efficient psychological as well as pharmacological PTSD treatments are substantially accessible and available. Unfortunately, even with these great advancements, quite a several PTSD patients including the veterans are unable to receive these treatments. Furthermore, future research should base significantly more focus on efforts to ensure these treatments are delivered to those in need.
PTSD is not a segregated issue that discriminates; rather it can hit any individual. PTSD does not choose a particular race, background, age, or even income level. Furthermore, PSTD is not secluded to soldiers only; it also falls on ordinary citizens. Not to mention that it may arise from a sudden trauma or a number subsequent series of traumatic events. Therefore, it is vital to creating awareness of the implications and importance of an in-depth understanding of PTSD to help anyone and everyone.
References
Adams, B. D., Davis, S. A., Brown, A. L., Filardo, E.-A., Thomson, M. H., Centre des sciences pour la sécurité (Canada),, & R et D pour la défense Canada,. (2013). Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in emergency responders scoping study: Literture review.
Astorga, D. M. (2015). Educating veterans on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Brewin, C. (2003). Posttraumatic stress disorder: Malady or myth?. New Haven: Yale University Press.
Courtois, C. A., & Ford, J. D. (2014). Treating complex traumatic stress disorders: Scientific foundations and therapeutic models.
Ford, J. D., & Courtois, C. A. (2016). Treating complex traumatic stress disorders in children and adolescents: Scientific foundations and therapeutic models.
Galazyn, D. F. (2015). A training workshop on veterans and complex trauma post-traumatic stress disorder: A grant proposal.
Harvey, J., & Pauwels, B. (2013). Post Traumatic Stress Theory: Research and Application. Hoboken: Taylor and Francis.
In Martin, C. R., In Preedy, V. R., & In Patel, V. B. (2016). A comprehensive guide to post-traumatic stress disorders.
Institute of Medicine (U.S.). (2008). Treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder: An assessment of the evidence. Washington, D.C: National Academies Press.
Poole, H. W. (2016). PTSD, post-traumatic stress disorder.
Poulson, Melodie. (2017). Become Educated on Ptsd: Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome. Xlibris Corp.
Regel, S., & Joseph, S. (2017). Post-traumatic stress. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Soreq, H. (2010). Stress – from molecules to behavior: A comprehensive analysis of the neurobiology of stress responses. Weinheim: Wiley-VCH.
With a student-centered approach, I create engaging and informative blog posts that tackle relevant topics for students. My content aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.
The Autobiography of Malcolm X as told by Alex Harley
Introduction
Malcolm X is one of the most significant figures in the history of America. Based on his interviews with Malcolm X, Alex Harley, in his work “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” writes about the days of Little Malcolm, later Malcolm X, and afterward El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz. The civil rights activist, Muslim leader, and anti-integrationist recounts his life story from childhood to his transition to a Muslim leader. Once referring to himself as “the angriest Black man in America”, Malcolm X talks about how he came to appreciate the brotherhood of all humankind after converting to Islam. It is his tenacity and intellect that got him out of prison and propelled him to be the extraordinary figure the world now sees him as.
Reading this book would make one rethink the general belief: that Malcolm X was just a radical racist whose main aim was to get rid of all whites. This autobiography is an eye-opener to how the inherent racial discrimination in America operates and shapes those it is directed to; Blacks. Understanding that racism exists and sympathizing with its victims is one thing, but it is another thing to see it through their eyes. Experiencing a lot of hardships as a child-his father’s death and institutionalization of his mother-Malcolm X was forced to use his wits to live as a hustler and a thief (Malcolm, 2015). As he states, he was raised in the “tolerant” North where he battled not with mass killers and Jim Crow laws, but with the “death-by-a-thousand-cuts” type of racial discrimination (Malcolm, 2015). I believe that this is the kind of racism that makes up the mainstream dynamic between African Americans and whites in America.
His thirst for wisdom is one trait I admired about Malcolm X. He is a great example of how self-education can be efficient and transformative at the same time. He says, “I have often reflected upon the new vistas that reading opened to me. I knew right there, in prison, that reading had changed forever the course of my life. As I see it today, the ability to read awoke inside me some long dormant craving to be mentally alive” (Gillespie, 2010). Living the hood-life where he was forced to be a hustler and a thief, it was not long before imprisonment caught up with him. In human behavior. In her quote, “…the mind shapes itself to the body, and, roaming round its gilt cage, only seeks to adorn its prison, he did not serve time as time served him while in there. His brother introduced him to Islam and he heeded to one of the religion’s fundamental requirements: to read.
In as much as embracing peace and non-violence is advocated as the best way to address issues, I believe there is no need for created the need to ensure production of safe, quality and healthy products based on predetermined standards as indicated by Jaffee (2000). freedom of speech if one is not willing to listen to contrary opinions. I agree with Malcolm X’s ideology; that sometimes to get what you want, you need to make some noise (Gillespie, 2010). It is interesting how he was unapologetic about his views; condemning the demeaning “equality” of the North as ruthlessly as the transparent inequity of the South, occasionally being regretful of his words but never retracting them (Malcolm, 2015). It is inspiring how well Malcolm X analyzed the race issue in America. It is amazing how eurocentrism is established in the world but people do not realize just how deep it is.
Also interesting about the biography is Malcolm X’s conversion from a born-Christian, to the Nation of Islam and finally becoming an ordinary Islamist. His account of his journey to Mecca was particularly helpful as it marked a complete change in his life (Cone,2012). Amazingly, while this biography is being written, Malcolm X is at a turning point in his life that is ridding him of his anger and hatred towards white people and leading him to recognize that it is the American culture he is supposed to fight and not the people (Marable, 2011). This is a life change that costs him everything including his life.
However, there are some parts of Malcolm X’s ideology that I do not quite resonate with; particularly his view about women which ironically denies their humanity. I get angered especially at seeing that Malcolm X views the female sex in the same way white people view Africans. It is especially sad when he says, “any country’s moral strength, or moral weakness, is quickly measurable by the street attire and attitude of women” (Marable, 2011). This is an objectification of women that is unfortunately still existent in some parts of the world today. Nonetheless, my disagreement with him in this aspect does not change my appreciation of his importance.
Conclusion
Malcolm X’s biography offers a chance to observe the various examples of human strength. As a young boy from a small family whose father died and mother got institutionalized, Malcolm X hustled and offered protection to his siblings. As a prisoner, he realized the vitality of education and he took up reading which turned him into a literal sponge for knowledge. Malcolm X’s life continues to be a cause for global controversy and awe, as we continue with the fight for human rights and equality.Introduction
Malcolm X is one of the most significant figures in the history of America. Based on his interviews with Malcolm X, Alex Harley, in his work “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” writes about the days of Little Malcolm, later Malcolm X, and afterward El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz. The civil rights activist, Muslim leader, and anti-integrationist recounts his life story from childhood to his transition to a Muslim leader. Once referring to himself as “the angriest Black man in America”, Malcolm X talks about how he came to appreciate the brotherhood of all humankind after converting to Islam. It is his tenacity and intellect that got him out of prison and propelled him to be the extraordinary figure the world now sees him as.
Reflection of the Autobiography
Reading this book would make one rethink the general belief: that Malcolm X was just a radical racist whose main aim was to get rid of all whites. This autobiography is an eye-opener to how the inherent racial discrimination in America operates and shapes those it is directed to; Blacks. Understanding that racism exists and sympathizing with its victims is one thing, but it is another thing to see it through their eyes. Experiencing a lot of hardships as a child-his father’s death and institutionalization of his mother-Malcolm X was forced to use his wits to live as a hustler and a thief (Malcolm, 2015). As he states, he was raised in the “tolerant” North where he battled not with mass killers and Jim Crow laws, but with the “death-by-a-thousand-cuts” type of racial discrimination (Malcolm, 2015). I believe that this is the kind of racism that makes up the mainstream dynamic between African Americans and whites in America.
His thirst for wisdom is one trait I admired about Malcolm X. He is a great example of how self-education can be efficient and transformative at the same time. He says, “I have often reflected upon the new vistas that reading opened to me. I knew right there, in prison, that reading had changed forever the course of my life. As I see it today, the ability to read awoke inside me some long dormant craving to be mentally alive” (Gillespie, 2010). Living the hood-life where he was forced to be a hustler and a thief, it was not long before imprisonment caught up with him. In human behavior. In her quote, “…the mind shapes itself to the body, and, roaming round its gilt cage, only seeks to adorn its prison, he did not serve time as time served him while in there. His brother introduced him to Islam and he heeded to one of the religion’s fundamental requirements: to read.
In as much as embracing peace and non-violence is advocated as the best way to address issues, I believe there is no need for created the need to ensure production of safe, quality and healthy products based on predetermined standards as indicated by Jaffee (2000). freedom of speech if one is not willing to listen to contrary opinions. I agree with Malcolm X’s ideology; that sometimes to get what you want, you need to make some noise (Gillespie, 2010). It is interesting how he was unapologetic about his views; condemning the demeaning “equality” of the North as ruthlessly as the transparent inequity of the South, occasionally being regretful of his words but never retracting them (Malcolm, 2015). It is inspiring how well Malcolm X analyzed the race issue in America. It is amazing how eurocentrism is established in the world but people do not realize just how deep it is.
Also interesting about the biography is Malcolm X’s conversion from a born-Christian, to the Nation of Islam and finally becoming an ordinary Islamist. His account of his journey to Mecca was particularly helpful as it marked a complete change in his life (Cone,2012). Amazingly, while this biography is being written, Malcolm X is at a turning point in his life that is ridding him of his anger and hatred towards white people and leading him to recognize that it is the American culture he is supposed to fight and not the people (Marable, 2011). This is a life change that costs him everything including his life.
However, there are some parts of Malcolm X’s ideology that I do not quite resonate with; particularly his view about women which ironically denies their humanity. I get angered especially at seeing that Malcolm X views the female sex in the same way white people view Africans. It is especially sad when he says, “any country’s moral strength, or moral weakness, is quickly measurable by the street attire and attitude of women” (Marable, 2011). This is an objectification of women that is unfortunately still existent in some parts of the world today. Nonetheless, my disagreement with him in this aspect does not change my appreciation of his importance.
Conclusion
Malcolm X’s biography offers a chance to observe the various examples of human strength. As a young boy from a small family whose father died and mother got institutionalized, Malcolm X hustled and offered protection to his siblings. As a prisoner, he realized the vitality of education and he took up reading which turned him into a literal sponge for knowledge. Malcolm X’s life continues to be a cause for global controversy and awe, as we continue with the fight for human rights and equality.
With a student-centered approach, I create engaging and informative blog posts that tackle relevant topics for students. My content aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.
Feminism is introduced by Mary Shelly with the emergence of numerous issues that began emerging in the Victorian age. The Victorian age was the beginning of England’s vast range of changes as well as difficulties. The Industrial Revolution resulted in drastic changes in the living conditions of the citizens; eventually, this resulted in a drastic change within the economy, it brought an overall change to the economy, changes ranging from the industrial sector up to the agricultural sector. Furthermore, the Victorian Era marked significant progress as well as great achievements. The religion, as well as faith within society, placed unrealistic values and roles for the women. Stevenson through the ‘The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’ presents no female characters who stood out as a primary or major character within the entire narration. Whereas women faced a significant struggle in the fight for liberation, to free themselves from the male-dominated society, the Victorian men experienced a level of fear and saw the feminist who fought for personal liberties as a great threat. However, Stevenson within his novel had a great level of influence from Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel ‘Frankenstein’, therefore Stevenson tends to pay homage towards Shelley throughout his novel at various points. The nature of rebellion portrayed by Mr. Hyde’s presented a threat to equality’s balance with the English society. Furthermore, horror escalation in Stevenson’s novel highly depended on the rise in the level of women’s oppression.
According to CzyżEwska, Urszula, And Grzegorz, the higher the level of oppression amongst the women in Stevenson’s novel, the higher the level of horror experienced by the characters (19). CzyżEwska, Urszula, And Grzegorz further explain that Stevenson tends to channel Frankenstein (19). CzyżEwska, Urszula, And Grzegorz state that leaving out and silencing the woman’s voice through the absence of a female character creates alienation of femininity (21). Thus, portraying a level of hypocrisy within the male characters in the book, influencing the level of sinful and purity. Thus, Stevenson’s ‘The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’ could have a comparative analysis to Shelley’s Frankenstein particularly because both books tend to present a characterization of their women as useless, passive, as well as disposable; thus presenting both similarities and comparisons.
Feminism as by Robert Louis Stevenson ‘The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’
Stevenson’s ‘The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde’ entails numerous strong opinions and stands. Roth points out that the narration is centered on humanity’s conception as a related dual within right and wrong, nature, good and evil as well as joy and despair (6). Roth mentions that Stevenson adopts the employment of particularly intertwined narrative methods and techniques; for instance, foreshadowing, flashback, and even suspense. Stevenson portrays an invitation to readers to substantial bring forward questions on the Victorian’s late period value system about temperance.
First of all, quite a several critics have emerged in concern to women’s non- existence within the novel. It brings up the issue of non-existing equality nor intimates about the primary characters within the book, standing a literary aspect as well as a factor within Stevenson’s life as well as a social-cultural aspect. Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde present a dramatization of the inherent weaknesses brought about by the social organization of the late period of the Victorian era. The weakness brings about a level of emotions that are pre-oedipal, oedipal as well as unsolved which present a level of threat towards the probabilities within the society (Rose, Brian & Stratos 8). Stevenson’s relationship with a woman of your peer risks being involved with both their homoerotic as well as homosocial nature and should be therefore be avoided (48). Stevenson states that “…man is not truly one, but truly two” (Stevenson, p.48); thus, presenting substantial and alarming gender issues during that particular era. Stevenson presents a problem where he creates a world where men are unable to comprehend issues that may arise in their lives, particularly because he created a world that presents no interactive relationship that may exist between women and men. A community that is male-dominated and centered creates an environment that is highly oppressive of the female voice and women as a whole (Rose, Brian & Stratos, 11).
Nevertheless, Rose, Brian, and Stratos mention that Stevenson manages to present women in his novel through three primary aspects within the late Victorian era; the socio-cultural aspect, the level of energy in feminism as gender in both sex and sexuality, and lastly, the Oedipus complex aspect (11). According to Rose, Brian, and Stratos, these aspects enable Stevenson to express feminism in the exploration of crucial times throughout the male-centered novel (13). Thus, the feminine elements tend to be expressed in mannerisms that are ambiguous as well as subtle. Comprehending the bibliographical together with the socio-cultural interpretation is enhanced through Stevenson’s clear reflection of feminism as a gender issue.
First of all, Stevenson presents women as a humble counterpart to the male population in the socio-cultural aspect. Stevenson presents a community that is celibacy; he created male characters who had a slight relationship with their female relatives as well as friends. Furthermore, the small number of female characters appearing ephemerally, Stevenson further places their names as well as backgrounds to remain mysterious and unknown to the reader. A young girl who came from a poor family, who Hyde had knocked down and trampled on with their paths cross particularly as intersection, a number of her female relatives who were indignant, a maid who witnessed the Jekyll killing Sir Danvers Carew, the landlady to Hyde’s Soho, the maids together with the cook at Jekyll’s household, and lastly, the woman who was selling matches at the streets.
Moreover, the worrying absence of characters of the female population as well as the concomitantly of the violence absence that was against them standing as a “negation,” that can be entirely perceived as a type of violence. Thus, presenting a view that is panoramic amongst the Victorian females within standing socio-cultural aspect. Stevenson places all the female characters at a substantially low social status and is perceived as a design that could bring a submission to the men as well as giving implications with their impersonality. Furthermore, Stevenson explicitly presents women within the margins of the society and the story, thus enabling his narration to conform to the aspects of his social values and norm; as well as representing his individual social conflict.
Secondly, CzyżEwska, Urszula, And Grzegorz point out that women stand in a level of vulnerability in both the economic as well as social aspects, thus tarnishing women’s status throughout the Victorian Era (23). The religious beliefs of the time encouraged and motivated the subordination of women; thus significantly contributing to domestic as well as societal abuse. These set beliefs led the men populations to create justifications for their unnecessary violence against their counterparts. Particularly because the Victorian era was marked as the period of the significant religious following (CzyżEwska, Urszula, And Grzegorz 24). Therefore, since the Bible tends to support the submission of women it leads to men having the impression that it was from the beginning of creation their God-given right to have control over their women, and therefore physical violence in the name of making corrections was accepted with the society.
Just as indicated in Stevenson’s narrative, ‘One little man who was stumping along eastward at a good walk, and the other girl of maybe eight or ten who was running as hard as she was able down a cross street. …the two ran into another naturally enough…the man trampled calmly over the child’s body and left her screaming on the ground (9).’ Moreover, the little girl forced by the level of discrepancy with gender power, trying to evade any form of conflict due to her coalition with Hyde ran as fast as she possibly could. Enfield who was a witness to this particular scene claimed that Hyde was just “at a good walk”, he further states it was natural to have the clash. Thus, proving the solidarity amongst the men (Rose, Brian & Stratos 23). The level of violence portraying a very clear displaying of the Victorian woman’s spiritual as well as physical and spiritual repression, thus exposing that the more they were submissive the more the violence was exposed.
Thirdly, Stevenson indicates a level of coordination between the feminine as well as masculine creates a subversion towards each other’s identity, thus presenting an implicit sensually based sexual relationship (47). For instance, Jekyll a conservative bachelor at fifty years old particularly remains socializing with his male peers. Jekyll has no girlfriend, wife, or even a fiancée, and from a substantially early phase within life indulged in his own pleasures during the night- time he found an uncomfortable inconsistency in his substantially own cherished public image (Stevenson 47). However, we are left in dark as to what specifically was his night pleasures. Women’s role in sex, as well as sexuality, represents entirely the feminine energy. Even with no mention of major characters of the female population; as well as indirect association with the men throughout the narration, Stevenson strategically uses the shifts of roles between the men and women thus creating a sense of an environment substantially flexible to change towards bisexuality.
All in all, Stevenson is perceived as a firm believer of the Victorian Era social norms through his despicable sidelining of all female characters; whereas he also stands with a level of resilience during his time through the inducement of incestuous aspects in his work.
Feminism as by Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein discovers the gender-based issue of identity through the creation of an abnormal monster set in an otherwise tranquil society. The unfamiliar nature under which the Monster Frankenstein was born together with his successive experiences acts as a counterpoint to the focus of female gender in British society as they are now core in enhancing the stability of the social order that prevailed other than being just a mere companion to the men.
From the beginning, the male gender shows disinterest in domestic matters and they single-mindedly pursue their goals. Contrary to this the female gender is directly linked to domestic matters, also, the female’s gender is portrayed in a compassionate light in correspondence to Victorian Ideals of women as matrimonial caregivers. The description of Elizabeth Lavenza as “docile and good-tempered (66), yet “gay and Playful” (66) these seemingly inconsistent qualities highlight Elizabeth’s role as a model Victorian woman with a solitary duty of providing attention to the family.
It is clear throughout the novel that Elizabeth’s self-sacrificing nature is shown through how she is focused on ensuring the happiness of others whereas she forgets entirely about herself (73). This shows that woman is completed relegated to the background of the Victorian social environment. Further to this, the phrases “gentle and affectionate disposition” describes Elizabeth as the one whose role is not the only caregiver for the family but also as the one with maternal qualities. The repetition of “Affection” shifts the attention to the mutual strand of a tender as well as warm nature which is universal among the female characters in Frankenstein.
Following the hyper-idealized depictions of the woman, Shelly goes ahead to elucidate the essential influence of such maternal figures. The fact that Frankenstein admits that “no creature could have more tender parents than (he did)” (65) suggested that childhood can only be complete with parental care and attention which is contrary to his first experience which was characterized by being “poor miserable and helpless” which in real sense translates to noticeable poverty of maternal nourishment and nature.
It is important to note that the female nurturing presence is indicated in the Frankenstein cry of how “no Eve soothed [his] sorrows, or shared [his] thoughts; [he] was alone” (145), this stresses not only the lengthy seclusion of the monster since birth but also precisely how the affection he needed will only be provided with a female companion.
At its backbone, Frankenstein is a legend who explores the apparent consequences and possibilities when the limits of nature are breached and confronted by humanity. However, by instilling its characters with conservatively gender-specific traits, the roles of the female gender of the nineteenth century in the British society is illustrated by Frankenstein as being beyond what presume which is a simple accessory to them. Insofar as women are fundamental to the nurturing of the loved ones together with the children Shelly elevates the female gender as not only vital for maternal significance but also as very essential to men’s social roles.
Conclusion
In both Shelley’s and Stevenson’s narration women during the Victorian era are defined by the level of struggle they faced with the high level of oppression from their male counterparts, thus creating the firm arise for feminism. The women in both narrations had their voices silenced and placed on the sidelines, especially in Stevenson’s perception of society. The women thus struggled substantially to fight for a voice, for liberation to try and free them from the male-dominated society. The Victorian men feared the feminist who fought for personal liberties as a great threat. Both books present and proved that with the rise in the oppression of women, there was a substantial rise in the horrific aspects that would simultaneously occur. Therefore, both Shelley’s and Stevenson’s narration portrayed the dire need for feminism and unity and strength amongst the women in society to fight towards equality.
Works Cited
Brackett, Virginia. Mary Shelley. , 2016. Print.
CzyżEwska, Urszula, And Grzegorz Głąb. “Robert Louis Stevenson Philosophically: Dualism And Existentialism Within The Gothic Convention.” Roczniki Filozoficzne. 62.3 (2014): 19-33. Print.
Rose, Brian A, And Stratos E. Constantinidis. Transformations Of Terror: American Dramatizations Of Stevenson’s “The Strange Case Of Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde” And The Dramaturgy Of Anxiety. , 1993..
Shelley, Mary Wollstonecraft, 1797-1851. Frankenstein, Or, The Modern Prometheus: The 1818 Text. Oxford; New York: Oxford University Press, 1998. Print.
Stevenson, Robert Louis. Strange Case Of Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde. S.L.: Blurb, 2017. Print.
With a student-centered approach, I create engaging and informative blog posts that tackle relevant topics for students. My content aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.
The kind of information the media portrays about mental health in most cases leads to these perpetrators being labeled as crazy. This leads to a lot of negative effects on the victims with mental illnesses. In reality, an individual with mental illness is most likely a victim in almost all cases. When a violent criminal is labeled crazy, there is a spread of a certain dangerous stereotype that brings about a complicated relationship between mental illness and criminality. How the media portrays people suffering from mental illness always lead to trivialization or stigmatization (Cohen, 2011). All and every form of media for example television, magazines, newspapers have received a lot of criticisms for disseminating inaccurate and negative descriptions of individuals with mental illnesses. Mental illnesses like schizophrenia lead to more disruption to society than to those with it and these people should be isolated from the rest.
The first article I will analyze in this assignment is the article in the Health Communication Journal that was published in 2007 by Pavelko and Myrick. Mental illness patients suffer a lot from overgeneralization as portrayed by the media whereby, every individual with a particular disease is expected to show the same signs and symptoms. For example, it is assumed that every person suffering from depression is said to be suicidal and all those suffering from schizophrenia suffer from hallucinations. Having the same type of mental illness does not guarantee the same symptoms. As much as to one individual it might cause hallucination; to another person, it might bring about memory loss. For example, the assumption that all those suffering from schizophrenia hallucinations are so wrong as in reality, just between 60% and 80% of individuals with schizophrenia undergo auditory hallucinations while a very small number undergo visual hallucinations (Gauntlett-Gilbert, & Kuipers, 2013).
The media should not make mental illness look like a societal issue on the contrary; they should view it as a personal and individual issue. This is because most people who get this kind of information from the media tend to blame the person suffering from the illness. Most people do not understand that a person does not choose to have these mental illnesses. Just like accidents, depression, schizophrenia, and many more mental related health issues cannot be controlled. If only the media could consider that these illnesses cannot be avoided before feeding the public information about them, then people would be more aware of the facts before judging and blaming those with the illnesses. It is with sadness that the media portrays and shows the public that this illness is unrecoverable and untreatable. Mental illnesses with the right medication and care are treatable and the media should avoid releasing such misleading information to the public.
The fact that the media ignores that most people with mental illnesses would love to keep their conditions personal and not disclose them to everyone is heartbreaking. Mental health issues in most cases are never recognized. When the media exposes particular characteristics of a certain mental illness, the symptoms are made public and there is the disclosure of one’s mental health state and therefore the sickness they were not willing to tell everyone, becomes known to all. The facts and the unsupported information that the media portray lead to stigmatization of the affected individuals. For instance when they portray mental illness as a non-serious issue and a non-severe illness then it actually makes those with the illness not taken seriously. Therefore, many of the affected hide the extreme effects it has on them. The media oversimplifies mental illness. A very good example is, it portrays that those suffering from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder to be too much concerned and worried about perfectionism and cleanliness (Chorley, 2018). When they do this, the patient’s obsessive thoughts that make them do these are ignored. These people should be taken seriously and any slight impact they have should be observed keenly.
Ignoring their symptoms and overlooking them does not make it any better for them. No matter how slight change there is, they should be noted and preferably a doctor should be consulted. Not taking their illness seriously, judging them, and blaming them is not a wise move as it makes them not open up and seek help from physicians. This can cause suicides to most victims. Making assumptions and giving the public such information should be avoided by the media at all costs. In some cases, the media indicates the symptoms of mental illnesses as beneficial. A very good example of a beneficial portrayal is in the Monk series. In this show, the protagonist who is a detective is suffering from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder pays very close attention to all the details given and in return, he uses the information he gets to solve different crimes. This in return helps him advance his detective career. People should understand that those with mental illnesses are just like normal human beings and should be treated with love and care. They need it just as much as we do.
With the use of media channels, individuals without disabilities tend to mock people with disabilities by using terminologies of mental health. For example, people use the hashtag OCD (#OCD) frequently on Twitter to describe the cleanliness of a particular place or an organization. People do not realize how much they affect those suffering from these conditions. They cause stigma to them and make them very uncomfortable no matter the age of a person. Imagine opening Twitter as a person with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and the first thing you find is #OCD, how would you feel? People should avoid being insensitive at all costs. These are people’s brothers and sisters and they are going through a tough time the least they need is acceptance, support, and love. The media should control what they show to the public and try being in these people’s shoes. We all cannot be the same we are different and people should understand that.
In Entertainment by Media in 2012, the article named Portrayals of Schizophrenia was analyzed and it was found that almost 41 movies that had been released in the year 1990 and 2010 had Schizophrenia depictions. In these movies, most of the actors portrayed signs and symptoms of schizophrenia. In most cases, they showed delusions which were followed by visual and auditory hallucinations. Some characters also portrayed violent behaviors towards others and themselves. The causes of schizophrenia were noted and a quarter of these movies indicated that the main cause was various traumatizing events in a person’s life. The movies that showed treatment methods indicated that psychotropic medications were the most frequently used. These movies were very helpful in educating people about these mental illnesses. This is an example of what and how people should live. People should be the positive change someone needs in their lives and not the pain in it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the media should think deeply and consider how what they post affects those individuals who have mental illnesses. People should be aware that the symptoms of mental illnesses are different in various people and should not expect every person with that illness to have the same symptoms. How the media portrays people suffering from mental illness always lead to trivialization or stigmatization and this should really be put into consideration before goes public with particular information. What a person posts, might cause stigma to the affected person and make them very uncomfortable no matter the age of a person. We as the people should stop blaming these conditions on the affected persons. On the contrary, we should give our full support no matter what.
Chorley, S. K. (2018). Negotiating Organizational Identity with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Gauntlett-Gilbert, J., & Kuipers, E. (2013). Phenomenology of visual hallucinations in psychiatric conditions. The Journal of nervous and mental disease, 191(3), 203-205.
With a student-centered approach, I create engaging and informative blog posts that tackle relevant topics for students. My content aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed academically and beyond.
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