What Is Psychoanalytic Therapy

What Is Psychoanalytic Therapy Psychotherapy Print What Is Psychoanalytic Therapy? The Process, Benefits, and Possible Downsides of Psychoanalytic Therapy By Kendra Cherry facebook twitter Kendra Cherry, MS, is an author, educational consultant, and speaker focused on helping students learn about psychology. Learn about our editorial policy Kendra Cherry Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on January 11, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on August 13, 2019 Alberto Ruggieri / Illustration Works / Getty Images More in Psychotherapy Online Therapy In This Article Table of Contents Expand Overview History Effectiveness Benefits Downsides Conditions Success Rates Other Treatments Finding a Therapist View All Back To Top Psychoanalytic therapy is one of the most well-known treatment modalities, but it is also one of the most misunderstood by mental health consumers. The goal of psychoanalytic therapy is to help patients better understand the unconscious forces that can play a role in current behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. This type of therapy is based upon the theories and work of  Sigmund Freud, who founded the school of thought known as psychoanalysis. What Is Psychoanalytic Therapy? Freud described the unconscious as the reservoir of desires, thoughts, and memories that are below the surface of conscious awareness. He believed that it was these unconscious influences that could often lead to psychological distress and disturbances. Psychoanalytic therapy looks at how the  unconscious mind  influences thoughts and behaviors. Psychoanalysis frequently involves looking at early childhood experiences in order to discover how these events might have shaped the individual and how they contribute to current actions. The History of Psychoanalytic Therapy Psychoanalytic theory grew out of the work of the famous psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud who began developing his therapeutic techniques in the late 1800s. In 1885, Freud began to study and work with Jean-Martin Charcot at the Salpêtrière in Paris. Charcot used  hypnosis  to treat women suffering from what was then known as  hysteria. Symptoms of the illness included partial paralysis, hallucinations, and nervousness. Freud continued to research hypnotism in treatment, but his work and friendship with colleague Josef Breuer led to the development of his most famous therapeutic technique. Breuer described his treatment of a young woman, known in the case history as  Anna O., whose symptoms of hysteria were relieved by talking about her traumatic experiences. Freud and Breuer collaborated on a book called  Studies on Hysteria  and Freud continued to develop his use of this talk therapy. This approach proposed that simply talking about problems could help relieve psychological distress. How Does Psychoanalytic Therapy Work? Psychoanalytic therapists generally spend time listening to patients talk about their lives, which is why this method is often referred to as the talking cure. The therapy provider will look for patterns or significant events that may play a role in the clients current difficulties. Psychoanalysts believe that childhood events and unconscious feelings, thoughts, and motivations play a role in mental illness and maladaptive behaviors. Techniques Used in Psychoanalytic Therapy Psychoanalytic therapy also makes use of other techniques including free association, exploration of transference, observing defenses and feelings patients may not be aware of, as well as  dream interpretation. The Psychoanalytic Process People undergoing psychoanalytic therapy often meet with their therapist at least once a week and may remain in therapy for a number of weeks, months, or even years. Through this process, the hope is that people will be able to gain insight and awareness of the unconscious forces that contribute to their current mental state. Treatment Can Be Intensive Patients may sometimes find that psychoanalysis can be quite intense and personal. It involves talking a great deal about past experiences, relationships, and feelings. This can also lead to feelings of discomfort as unconscious forces are brought to light. While the process can sometimes result in uneasiness, it can also be a great way to gain insight and deal with feelings that are difficult to put into words.?? Dealing With Unconscious Forces This approach to therapy often involves provoking emotional responses and overcoming defense mechanisms. Success often hinges on the ability to confront potentially stressful or triggering past experiences. Gaining insight into your feelings, behaviors, and experiences can help you better understand the unconscious forces that continue to exert and influence on your actions, your relationships, and your sense of self. Psychoanalytic therapy may also help you learn techniques for coping when future problems arise. Rather than falling back on unhealthy defenses, you may be better able to recognize your feelings and deal with them in a constructive manner. What Are the Benefits of Psychoanalytic Therapy? As with any approach to mental health treatment, psychoanalytic therapy can have its pluses and minuses. The degree to which these potential benefits and pitfalls influence the choice to use this approach depends on a variety of factors including the individuals preferences and severity of symptoms. In the last few decades, there has been significant research validating this approach’s benefits. The therapist offers an empathetic and nonjudgmental environment where the client can feel safe in revealing feelings or actions that have led to stress and difficulties in his or her life. Often, simply sharing these burdens in the context of a therapeutic relationship can have a beneficial influence. Furthermore, it has been shown that this type of self-examination can lead to continued emotional growth over time. What Are the Downsides to Psychoanalytic Therapy? As with all treatment methods, there are also potential downsides that should be considered. Costs Costs are often cited as the biggest downside of psychoanalytic therapy. Many clients are in therapy for years, so the financial costs associated with this treatment modality can be potentially very high. Time This  type of therapy  has had critics who claim that psychoanalytic therapy is too time-consuming, expensive, and generally ineffective. Some such as Noam Chomsky and Karl Popper suggested that psychoanalysis lacked a scientific basis. Misconceptions of this type of treatment are often connected to some of the earlier, more classical Freudian applications of psychoanalytic treatment. What Conditions Can Psychoanalysis Treat? Psychoanalysis may be used to treat a number of different psychological conditions. Some of the concerns that can be treated using psychoanalytic therapy include: Obsessive-compulsive disorderDepressionPsychosomatic disordersPhobiasAnxietyIdentity problemsEmotion struggles or traumaSelf-destructive behaviorRelationship issuesSexual problems People who are likely to benefit from this form of therapy are often those who have been experiencing symptoms for some time. Long-term symptoms of anxiety, depressed mood, and behaviors that have a negative impact on functioning and enjoyment of life are some possible reasons why people might choose to try psychoanalytic therapy. What Are the Success Rates of Psychoanalysis? While some critics have derided the success rates of psychoanalytic therapy, recent research suggests that this treatment modality can be an effective treatment for a range of issues.?? Psychoanalytic Therapy Is Effective at Symptom Reduction One review of the effectiveness of long-term psychoanalytic therapies found moderate to large success rates for reducing symptoms of a variety of psychopathologies. Another large-scale study looking found that short-term psychoanalytic therapy was effective for general symptom improvement. In addition to these general improvements, the review also found that the psychoanalytic treatment led to lasting improvements in symptoms of somatic symptoms, depressive symptoms, and anxiety symptoms. Psychoanalytic Therapy Leads to Lasting Improvements Patients who receive psychoanalytic treatment retain these gains and may continue to improve even after treatment ends. A 2010 review published in American Psychologist found that the scientific evidence supports that psychodynamic therapy was as effective as other evidence-based treatments. How Does Psychoanalysis Differ From Other Treatments? What makes psychoanalytic therapy different from other forms of treatment? A review of the research comparing psychodynamic approaches to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) identified seven features that set the psychoanalytic approach apart.?? The focus on emotions and how they are expressed. Where CBT is centered on cognitions and behaviors, psychoanalytic therapy explores the full range of emotions that a patient is experiencing.The exploration of avoidance. People often avoid certain feelings, thoughts, and situations that they find distressing. Understanding what patients are avoiding can help the therapist and client better explore why such avoidance comes into play.The identification of recurring patterns and themes in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. In some cases, people are aware of such repetitious actions but may be unable to break out of these unhealthy or destructive patterns. At other times, patients are not aware of how such patterns influence their behaviors.The emphasis on talking about past experiences. Other therapies often focus more on the here-and-now, or how current thoughts and behaviors influence how a patient functions. The psychoanalytic approach helps the patient explore their past and underst and how it affects both the present and future.The exploration of interpersonal relationships. Through the therapy process, patients are able to explore their relations with others, both current and past.The focus on the therapy relationship itself. Because psychoanalytic therapy is so personal, the relationship between the therapist and the patient is an important part of the treatment process.Exploring the patients fantasy life. Where other therapies are often highly structured and goal-oriented, psychoanalytic therapy allows the patient to explore freely. Patients are free to give voice to fears, desires, dreams, and other urges that they have never spoken of before. Tips for Finding a Psychoanalytic Therapist If psychoanalytic therapy sounds like it might be right for you, there are some things you can do to find a therapist in your area. The first step is to begin looking for a therapist who specializes in this form of treatment. How can you find a qualified psychoanalytic therapist? Talk to your doctor. Asking your primary care physician for recommendations is a good first step. Your doctor can also put you in touch with a referral service if needed.Ask a friend. Friends who have had a good experience with psychoanalytic treatment can also be another good source of recommendations.Look online. If you do not have a good referral from someone you know, there are a number of online therapist networks and directories that can point you in the right direction. Once you have identified a potential therapist, make a call to set up an initial consultation. During this consultation, you can further explore if psychoanalytic therapy is the right approach for you. A Word From Verywell Psychoanalytic therapy is just one mental health treatment approach that you may want to consider. This approach may provide benefits that might be well-suited to your particular situation, but always talk to your doctor or therapist to determine which  psychotherapy  method might be the most effective for your individual needs. Try Online Psychotherapy with These Online Therapy Programs

Factors influencing the various Compensation Packages - Free Essay Example

The main purpose of this project is to describe about compensation packages and factors influencing in this packages. And also discuss the impact of staff turnover and the employee absenteeism ratio which effecting the organisational productivity. Bangladesh is a developing country. According to UNDPs Human Development Report 2007/2008 Bangladeshs rank is 140th out of 177 countries. In Bangladesh, 40% of total population lives below the poverty line. In other report of Bangladesh Garments Manufacturer and Exporters Association (BGMEA), 2007 it shows that garments sector provides maximum export (76%) of total export in Bangladesh and 1.7% of total population of Bangladesh is working in Garments industries. Ready made garments exports mainly are doing in the European market US market. The ratios of exports are 49% to European Market, 33% to the US market rest (18%) to other countries. In a report shows that due to a strong demand for skilled labour combined with insufficient wage and discontinuity of payment, dissatisfaction of job, bad attitude in job etc. there is high level of migration of workers between factory to factory, and the average turnover is around 20% and absenteeism ratio is also increasing. Methodology: Secondary data is the main source of d ata of this project. I collected information from internet, journal about Bangladesh labour issue, some local magazine and newspaper, and books of human resource management. This project is based on exploratory research. I share my personal experience in based on my previous work. Literature Review: According to Bratton (2007) Reward refers to all of the monetary, non-monetary and psychological payments that an organization provides for its employees in exchange for the work they perform. So, reward can be wages, pay, money, recognition, compensation, psychological contact, promotion, etc. according to Human capital centre tool box series rewards can be anything which is receiving something in exchange for services or actions. However, the worker is getting return from their employer for the work done, can be describe as rewards and rewards is used for various terms or purpose. Earlier reward used only as the term payment (Torrington et al, 2005) but currently it find as bein g too narrow in extent people do not accept only financial form as a reward on the return of their work, they like to take non-monetary and recognitions for their work (Bratton Gold, 2007). And I used compensation the term as motivational factor. The term compensation is broadly used in the American literature alternative to reward (Torrington et al, 2008; Armstrong, 1998 cited on Bratton Gold, 2007). Moreover, the design of reward systems depends on two factors i.e. economic and social factors. Nowadays managers are forced to improve labour productivity and the quality of the products and services based on the local consumer tastes and different local markets. A better social environment between management and other employees of the organization and employee believe and organizational loyalty, all work to the concept of high-commitment-high-performance work coordinations reward which positively helps to improve the performance of the firm (Paauew, 2004 cited on Bratton Gold 2007). Kessler (2001) identified reward role as performance-related pay which plays vital system within the workforce. Paauwe (2004) state that reward management can be interrupt by the social and psychological factors and reward is a significantly essential in lead to system of impartial distribution. And helps to decision making by creating a employees conception of equality and reliance (Boselie et al, 2001). Due to problematic nature of pay system Brown (1989) describes that the reasonable management of compensation is necessary for the involvement of the adequate management, it is not prerequisite to be satisfy. (Bratton Gold, 2007) Furthermore, Bird and Beechler (1995) cited in Briscoe Schuller (2008) established that employee performance (e.g. morale and turnover rate) in firms that successfully adopted the strategic fit concept was significantly better than in firms that did not do so. Although managerial performance (e.g. profit margin and sales) was also better, the d ifference was not significant. The concept of fit refers mainly to the close linkage of HRM strategies and business strategies in ways that will help retain and motivate employees. Yes it is very good point retain and motivation of employee, as because every organisation aim is finding way to keep there employees. Motivation is one of them; it can be two types money and appraising employee. In most of the case money is main motivational factor for the employee especially in Bangladesh. The reason why money is the main factor then we can see from table 1 about the monthly income of average employee is low and there life status is not much standard based on there income and expenses. So they always looking for better opportunity when ever they got good offer from other company they migrate or switch the company. Main body: Compensation System Analysis: Saiyadain (2006) describes that I am only marking my time in this organization till I get a better paying jobÃÆ' ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¦[4] Financial compensation represents a part of total reward system in an organization. Even though for the overall satisfaction of the employees money still plays a significant, more constant and more difficult role. The major responsibilities of HR managers are to give compensation or pay employees for their work and increasing structures of compensation packages. As because a good pay packages helps the organization for talent hiring and retaining employees for long time that necessary for the high productivity (Saiyadain 2006). Determining Compensation: According to Saiyadain (2006) to set the compensation structure is the most complicated and time consuming activity of HR manager. This decision is depends on a numbers of variables which are discussed as bellows: Trade Union: Trade union is one of the im portant variable in determining the levels of compensation because they always pushing organization and force to pay better compensation for the employees. Hiring and retain talent: Better pay structure works significant role in the organization to attract and retain talent employee. A good compensation system helps to influence a great number of applicants where organization may get the opportunity to select the best candidate among them. Region-cum-industry basis compensation: In Bangladesh context organization has to determine compensation structure based on the region-cum-industry. Organization cannot afford to pay less than region-cum-industry due to chance to lose the employees for their better opportunity. And on the other hand organization they are not allowed to give high compensation because the pressure of the other organization. Job security: Some times employees are looking for good reputed organization where jobs are more secured. And they are not giving prefe rences which are providing high compensation but hire-fire is the regularly happened in the organization. Ability to pay: Ability to pay is also a factor in determining the compensation. Sometimes organization is not affordable to pay high compensation due to the size and profitability of the organization. The Civil Rights Act 1964 or Equal Pay Act: The civil rights act which is determine the standard minimum wages of the employee based on living expenses and life status. This law also covers not to discriminate man or woman in the workplace who are doing same values and equivalent job. Methods for Determining Compensation: Saiyadain (2006) describes there are two broadly uses methods for determining compensation such as salary survey and job evaluation. These are discusses as follows: 1. Salary survey: HR manager can determine compensation by conducting a survey in similar industries for similar positions. It is quick and less expensive way to determine compensation. Th is survey could be done at two levels such as organizational and professional levels. In the organizational level the HRM department responsibility to undertake a study to find out equivalent compensation package in the similar industries. They can collect data from different source for example checking with HR managers of similar industries, collect information about compensation packages from newspaper advertisement and electronic media including websites for related jobs in similar industries. In addition HR department also can arrange a formal salary survey to determine compensation. However organization can determine compensation with the help of professional consultants who are expert in this sector. They use variety of technique to suggest compensation package (Saiyadain 2006). 2. Job Evaluation: Bloom (1998) cited on Torrington et al. (2002) describes job evaluation is a systematic process designed to aid an establishment in establishing differentials across jobs within a single employerÃÆ' ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¦ The culmination of this appraisal process is a hierarchy of jobs denoting their relative complexity and value to the organization. This method is the way to build up a connection between the employee contribution and compensation for this contribution. It is a good method to evaluate employee skills and also helps to show the best performance in a job. Job evaluation is the best way to observe the outcomes of skills, capabilities, measures the responsibilities and work environment which is closely related to the best performance. Basically it does not set the value of job but it gives foundation for it. And this is a performance appraisal technique which helps to improve the job descriptions and requirement (Saiyadain 2006). According to Saiyadain (2006) there are four methods of job evaluation. These are ranking method, job classification, point system and Factor comparison system. These methods are discusses as below: Ranking met hod: This method is the simplest method of job evaluation. In this method the whole job is being categories based on the difficulty level. For example in garments industries employer segments operator in 4 different levels such as Tr. Operator, Jr. operator, operator and Sr. operator. They categories based on the skills and experience but there is not specific way to indicate the performance levels. It is only showing the difficulty levels of the jobs. Job Classification: This method is identifies the classes, categories and grades of job. This is a grading systems of job for example in garments industries there are some operation which are important for making garments but normally anybody can not do that process with maintaining target. In this method it classified or grades the operation such as A grades, B grades, and C grades operation and performance ranges such as above 80% is very good, 60% 79% good, 40% 59% average and below 40% is poor. This is the good method of clas sify operators grades. Point System: It is a most practical method of job evaluation as because operator in garments industries may have variety of skills. Each segmented operations are important in the garment industry with 100% target and this is important for the company productivity. One operator can do several good categories operation with 100% target or some average operations with 100% target but on the other hand one can do several good categories operation but only can give the 60% 80% target in that case point system is the best way to evaluate operators performance and influence to improve their performance. Factor Comparison System: This is a complicated and expensive method due to it required consultation of professionals and specialists for judgment and assessment of jobs. In this method it compared the money value of one factor in one job with the money value of the same factor in other job. This is a more suitable method because it is structured based on the well-known compensation systems (Saiyadain 2006). Labour turnover analysis: Some consultants, academics and management gurus states that There are no longer any jobs for lifeÃÆ' ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¦[3] Torrington et al. (2002) argued about the impact of staff turnover rates is depends on the organization to organisaiton. In some organization is successful in business with high turnover rates which are impractical to function in other sector due to the different in operation and difficult to replace skill workers. For example in some chains of fast food restaurants are generally managing business and become successful with turnover rates in excess of 300 percent that means standard occupancy for each employee is only four months (Ritzer 1996; Cappelli 2000). On the other hand, in a professional service organization where personal relation is more important between employees and clients to organizational success, it is badly hampered to the organization if the turnover rate s are excess of 10 percent. Bevan (1991) cited on Bratton Gold (2007) indicates several causes for high staff turnover. He identified that pay in not only the reason for staff turnover and there are some other factors works on that issue. They are follows: Employee expectation: The employees expectations are not matching with the job such as bonus, benefits, holidays and etc (Torrington et al 2002). That factors causes dissatisfaction of job. It is more likely happened with the new employees of the organization. A lack of attention: Employees are found that managers are not giving attention to them and they are not providing supporting training to develop themselves. For that reason they are not well perform in the job. Work environment: Work environment is not friendly with the employee such as lack of freedom in work, limited responsibility, no challenging environment and there are no innovative works within the organization. Appraisal system: Some organization doe snt have the proffer evaluation systems. So employees are disappointing with the unfair promotion and worried about the development opportunities system. Management system: Due to unskilled management and their unfair treatment with the employees and lack of knowledge of how to motivate employee. Gregg and Wadsworth (1999) cited in Torrington et al. (2002) demonstrate in their study of 870,000 workers starting new jobs in 1992 out of that 17 per cent had left within three months and 42 per cent within 12 months. The above discussion of all issues are the main reasons rather than pay issues which depends on the employees, management, the work environment and organizational systems what welcomes staff turnover rates in the organization. Saiyadain (2006) point out that I changed my previous job to this because it pays wellÃÆ' ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒâ€šÃ‚ ¦[4]. So pay is the crucial issues for quitting job. According to Torrington et al. (2002) there is some argument in the reten tions literature about raising pay levels reduces staff turnover. In one side some researcher found that usually, employers who offer the most attractive reward packages to the employees have lower turnover rates than those who pay poorly (Gomez-Mejia and Balkin 1992), for that reason many organization uses pay rates as their major weapon in retaining employee (Cappelli 2000; IRS 2000a; IRS 2000b cited on Torrington et al. 2002). On other research based on questionnaire suggests that pay is a good deal and less important than other factors in a decision to quit ones job (Bevan et al. 1997; Hiltrop 1999 cited on Torrington et al. 2002). In a study Sturges and Guest (1999) cited on Torrington et al. (2002) point out that in the field of graduate employment pay rising is not vital factors for quitting job that only resulting greater job satisfactions but they wants more challenges and innovation within the job roles. In addition, a result of research cited on Torrington et al. (2002 ) appears to verify the views of Herzberg (1996) where he indicates pay as hygiene factor rather than a motivator. Therefore it shows as a cause of dissatisfaction at work, other than not of positive job satisfaction. People who are not get paid well by the employer they automatically motivated to leave the job but if they satisfy about their pay, the additional benefits do not effect to change their mind to quit job. Absenteeism analysis: In everyday life employees need a little extra effort to come to work in an emergency. A little little problem makes a tremendous impact on work attendance such as problem with bicycle, a drizzle, a small tiff with spouse and several such types of incident. But it depends on satisfaction or dissatisfaction of work and for the dissatisfied worker these minor problems becomes the major issues for missing from work on the other hand for the satisfied worker is totally irrelevant. However, it causes extra cost to cover this situation. An organizati on has to recruit extra manpower or retaining large number of manpower as they required due to the increasing rates of the fact of absenteeism. Bhatia and Valecha (1978) cited on Saiyadain (2006) defines that organization has to retain extra 10 per cent workforce of the total workforce. However, there are several definition of absenteeism are available and most of them are describes absenteeism as absence from work when one is expected to work. Absence from work could be happened several reasons such as inability or unwillingness to come to the works. Any absence with prior notice or approval did not count as absenteeism only unexpected sickness or injury is counted as absent. Moreover, According to Sinha and Nair (1965) cited on Saiyadain (2006) study on absenteeism shows that the lower job satisfaction is causes the higher rates of absenteeism. They classified their research based on respondents in two groups as low absentee and high absentee group. Their result also points out that low absence groups are more satisfy with their job than the high absence group. Case analysis: Pacific Jeans Ltd. is one of the leading garment industries in Bangladesh. They are working with world renowned buyers like GAP, HM, NEXT, Lee, Wrangler etc. This company introduced modern technology with high-tech machine which is ensured high quality product and increases there production upto 20% annually. Up to year 2004 they use to set compensation packages without any job evaluation process. They only were taking the recommendation from manager to determine compensation of the employee. But that was not fair system and it was badly affected to the employee. Due to that unfair system operators turnover and absenteeism ratio was surprisingly increases where company loosing there productivity and efficiency. For finding the solution of that company introduces a new team whose duty is to find out the problem and give the best solution for that. However, this team introduce s operator ranking method of job evaluation like Tr. operator, Jr. operator, operator and Sr. operator where any have chance to go any categories with showing high performance. They also introduce process or operation classification method like A B C grades based on the difficulty of the operation. Therefore every operator was motivated himself to do good grades operation which helps him/her to promote themselves. Moreover, the team finds out the solution about the new operator recruitment process which helps to select the best and necessary operator the team. They taking cycle time (cycle time is observed time of a process how long it takes to complete the operation) of operation (at least 10 cycle) with the help of stop watch which the operator knows best and calculate the capacity of the new operator with giving 10% 20% allowance (for example bobbin change, needle broken, thread cut etc.) based on the operation categories (see appendix I). Based on his/her capacity and doing which grades operation it can easily identify the ranking of operator and determine the compensation package. It is fair judgments system for the operator. So far that is best and fair way to evaluate the operator. As a result of fair evaluation system and compensation packages operators are motivated to do best performance and reduces the absenteeism and turnover rates that lead to high job satisfaction to the employees. Conclusion: Compensation is a crucial issue for the employee. If an employee is not well compensated for his contribution then s/he is not happy in his job. So it guides employees to increases absenteeism and turnover. There is a proverb that money is sweater than honey. Every body in any organization is work for survival for the fittest especially in the developing country or poor country. From the analysis of compensation system it could see that how fair judgment effecting employee mind and motivate the employee turn into satisfaction or dissatisfaction of jo b. Human Resource Management is playing a vital role in an organization to change all the factors by taking some necessary steps about employee motivation. Finally it can say that good compensation packages for employee works as motivational factors in an organization while it reduces absenteeism and turnover rates in an organization on the other hand it also helps to increases company productivity.

Eating Disorders in Sports - 1405 Words

Introduction General Background The occurrence of eating disorders are a serious problem worldwide. A major problem with this disease, abnormal eating behaviour that can threaten your health or even your life,(1) is that the mortality prevalence rates are highest among those who are not under professional care: per 100 000 females, 370 die suffering from Anorexia Nervosa and 1500 women with Bulimia die.(2) The worldwide prevalence of eating disorders among athletes, 0-19% for men, and 6-45% for women, is higher than the prevalence within the general population.(3) According to the Trimbos Institute, the presence of an eating disorder at some point in time for Dutch civilians is 0.7%.(4) However no specific prevalence numbers are available†¦show more content†¦Also, in some sports, eating disorder pathology does occur less. What factors in those type of sports might protect an athlete from eating disordered behaviour? Finally, could the intensity level of exercising be determinative for the presence of eati ng disorder pathology? Study aim and design This study focuses on the presence of eating disorder pahtology in a convenient Dutch sample of athletes. By comparing athletes within different fields of sport and a variety in intensity of that sport, a possible relation can be investigated. It is crucial to determine whether someone shows signs of eating disorder pathology. Due to the fact that there is no information yet about the presence of eating disorder pathology among Dutch athletes, this study first aims to give an indication of that presecne. To tackle the (further) development of eating disorders in the future, it is important to know whether different types of sports have different impacts on eating behaviour and body weight of the athletes. Also, it is interesting to know if the intensity of sport practice is related. This study aims to give insights in these questions. Delimitation This study cannot give insights in causal relations due to the cross sectional design. Also, no clear cut-off points are used to determine whether any of the participants shows signs of eating disorder pathology. Methods Study Design Only one moment in time is available forShow MoreRelatedEating Disorders Has Affected The Lives Of Many Athletes Around The World1546 Words   |  7 PagesEating disorders have affected the lives of many athletes around the world. Being scared of being overweight but rather caused by an addiction to food can result in the development of an eating disorder. There are several reasons as to why someone may have an eating disorder such as the sports they play or even the worldly view of how an ideal body is supposed to be. They have an effect on the person’s health and also on their social interactions with others. Many sports where the player’s weightRead MoreEating Disorders Among Female Athletes958 Words   |  4 PagesEating Disorders Among Collegiate Female Student-Athletes Eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia) are not rare in today’s society. They have become increasingly common among young women. Research indicates that there is a link between the media’s representation of â€Å"the perfect body† as well as ideals of attractiveness with dissatisfaction of body image and eating disorders (Ferguson, Munoz, Garza, Galindo, 2013). In this current literature review, I will focus on the impact of eatingRead MoreSports Media And Body Image1235 Words   |  5 PagesMini-Paper Article 1: Sports Media and Body Image Tia DeHaan The article Must See TV or ESPN: Entertainment and Sports Media Exposure and Body-Image Distortion in College Women by Kimberly L. Bissell and Peiqin Zhou examines how media promotes an idealization of thinness in college-age women. The study by Bissell and Zhou takes place at a southern college university in the United States, and compares and contrasts the entertainment industry and sports media on disordered eating and body dissatisfactionRead MoreMale Athletes With Bulimia Nervosa1347 Words   |  6 Pagesfamiliar with eating disorders and its detrimental impact on young women’s physical and mental health. In particular, Schaal et al. reported eating disorders, notably bulimia nervosa, had â€Å"the highest prevalence†¦among male athletes †¦ in weight-class sports (i.e. wrestling, boxing)† (qtd. in Bratland-Sanda, Sundgot-Borgen 500). In this essay, I will draw upon current research on bulimia nervosa in athletes and attempt to establish the extent to w hich involvement in weight division sports lead to theRead More Eating Disorders Among Teens Essay931 Words   |  4 PagesEating Disorders Among Teens Eating Disorders have become a serious issue in the past twenty-five years. Many people have been diagnosed for having an eating disorder. More teens out of any other age group suffer from it. Sports, peer-pressure, and low self-esteem can cause teens to be driven to eating disorders. Anorexia and Bulimia are the two main types of eating disorders. Anorexia is the self-starving behavior that can lead to severe health problems and even death. Bulimia isRead MoreMedia Eating Disorders1607 Words   |  7 Pagesreview is to describe the main causes of eating disorders among teenagers aged 12 to 18 years old in high schools globally, and to also explain to what extend do some of these causes influence eating disoders. Recent studies have indicated a major increase in the eating disorder habits and body dissatisfaction in adolescence over the past few decades. This crisis seems most prevalent in females`` than males with 20 percent high school females exhibiting poor eating habits and about 60 percent undergoneRead MoreEye Opener : The Mind And Body1480 Words   |  6 Pagesdevelop many different types of disorders. One type of disorder that is becoming very common in the everyday high school aged student are eating disorders. Even though some people believe it is normal to have an eating disorder, people should be aware of the different kind of eating disorders because it is easy to develop these kinds of illnesses and too many innocent teenagers are dying from these unhealthy life choices. There are different types of eating disorders but the most common are AnorexiaRead MoreEye Opener : The Mind And Body1478 Words   |  6 Pagesdevelop many different types of disorders. One type of disorder that is becoming very common in the everyday high school aged student are eating disorders. Even though some people believe it is normal to have an eating disorder, people should be aware of the different kind of eating disorders because it is easy to develop these kinds of illnesses and too many innocent teenagers are dying from these unhealthy life choices. There are different types of eating disorders but the most common are AnorexiaRead MoreWhy Athletes Are Becoming An Elite Athlete909 Words   |  4 Pagesletes will tell you from a young age tha t they aspire to be the best in the sport that they do. Whether its making it to that Division one school or becoming an elite athlete in the professional sense, where the individual now earns a living from playing said sport. Athletes are defined as an individual who has trained and/or become skilled in sports, exercise, or games in which require physical strength, stamina, and agility (Merriam-Webster Dictionary). This then posses the question, can an individualRead MoreEating Disorders And Anorexia Nervosa947 Words   |  4 PagesEating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder consist of emotions, attitudes, and behaviors surrounding weight and food issues. Up to 24 million people of all ages and genders suffer from an eating disorder in the U.S (ANAD, n.d.) bulimia nervosa as well as the other eating disorders are considered to be a female eating disorder, a disorder that only affects women which limits males to seek treatment let alone mak e aware to other that they suffer from bulimia

The Left And The Right Wing - 1575 Words

The left and the right wing are always being compared to each other. It’s always been the battle between the opinions and the views of the far right and the far left. Even to this day, they are separated and always put in situations where they bounce ideas back and forth. Now, what this essay will focus on is not the differences between both sides but the differences and similarities within the far right, as well as the far left. We will not be comparing the right and the left, but rather the right to the right. Reactionaries and traditional conservatives, they are both in the far right but they are from different era’s. Would they still have the same point of views or are they slightly different? How exaggerated will their ideas be considering that both ideologies were influenced by the same principles. Would they have the same methods and goals? Are they all the same, that there s no point in finding the differences between a traditional conservatives and a reactionar y? Or are they simply contradicting themselves? Looking at the radical side of the political spectrum we are faced with the theories of Karl Marx, who rejected the idea of a capitalist form of government due to the inequalities that it comes with. He believed in scientific socialism, and published the Communist Manifesto in 1848. Which lays out his theories of social and economic principles, along with how to approach the conflict between class struggle. He believed that workers, especially those who workShow MoreRelatedHow Cyberpunk Is A Neutral Connotation Of Accelerationism Situated Between The Left And Right Wings1463 Words   |  6 Pagesconnotation of accelerationism situated between the left and right wings. Like a perpendicular spike with equal magnitude that juts from the tangential line that connects the forward progress of technological advancements. A warning. Accelerationism in itself is divided, the same coin with radically different faces. The left, which aims at moving away from capitalism and its hindering effect s which hold back true unbridled technological growth and the right which, on the other hand, aims at advancing theRead MoreThe Civil War : The Battle Of The 15th Alabama War990 Words   |  4 PagesSpears, commander of the left wing of the 20th Maine, and a messenger sent by Captain Orpheus S. Woodward, commanding officer of the 83rd Pennsylvania, of some suspicious flanking movement by the Confederate forces . I climbed up on a large boulder and saw that while three left companies of the enemy were keeping a steady rate of fire along the front, several were moving to the left end of our men. To avoid being flanked, I ordered my companies to side-step paces to the left and Companies A, H, C,Read MoreThe Main Threat to the Stability of the Weimar Republic in the Period 1919-1923 Came from the Political Violence of the Extreme Right1341 Words   |  6 PagesThe main threat to the stability of the Weimar republic in the period 1919-1923 came from the political violence of the extrem e right There were many threats posing Germany in 1919, the political system formed on the back of failure produced resentment towards Weimar from both the extreme left and the right. Other factors linked to economic issues caused by war, such as hyperinflation and the war guilt clause which `led to much suffering for the German people through loss of savings and jobs andRead MoreThe First Division Of The Battle Of Little Round Top1284 Words   |  6 Pagesbegan around 4:00 pm . The terrain was rough, rocky and wooded. Our defensive line faced the southwest towards the higher hill with our right flank tight up against the left flank of the 83rd Pennsylvania. As we moved into position, I sent Company B under the command of Captain Walter G. Morrell to join up with skirmishers of the 16th Michigan to protect the left flank . However, Captain Morrell did not find skirmishers and decided to take up position behind a stonewall 150 yards to the east . ItRead MoreCrime and Deviance - Left and Righ t Realism1698 Words   |  7 PagesWithin this essay there will be a clear understanding of the contrast and comparison between left and right realism, supported by accurate evidence that will support and differentiate the two wings of realism. During the 1970’s to the early 1990’s there had emerged two new approaches to the study of crime and deviance. The discipline of criminology had expanded further introducing right and left realism, both believe in different areas and came together in order to try and get a better understandingRead MoreAmerican Politics: Major Network Media Essay1088 Words   |  5 PagesNetwork Media There are two main groups that make up the political system in the United States, the left-wing and the right-wing. Both have very different views about how America should operate. People that support the left-wing ideas are known as liberals and/or democrats (Nicklin). The left-wing beliefs are usually promoting change and they are idealist (Nicklin). Sitting on the right-wing of our political system are republicans and/or conservatives (Nicklin). This party believes in equity andRead MoreThe Right Wing Ideologues Are An Extremely Diverse Group1111 Words   |  5 Pages The right wing ideologues are an extremely diverse group. Within the U.S alone there are libertarians (those who s believe the government is too large both economically and socially.), traditionalist, militarists (those who believe that the military is of the ultimate importance to society and think it should be used more), moderates and many other groups. In international terms the groups that are farthest to the right are known as reactionaries. Reactionaries are usually set apart from traditionalistsRead MoreComputer Engineering, Engineering And Astronautical Engineering1524 Words   |  7 Pagespart in the cockpit. The cockpit is the most forward part of the fuselage and contains all the instruments needed to fly the plane. The angle of angle of attack is angle between the oncoming air or relative wind and a reference line on the airplane or wing. The mission of this Aerospace Engineering (Aeronautics) creation was to fabricate an airplane. It was to build mobility while keeping control and security. There was a requirement for an a great deal more propelled transportation. In the courseRead MoreTerrorism : Terrorism And Terrorism851 Words   |  4 Pages †¢ Left-wing †¢ Right-wing †¢ Special interest Right-wing Right-wing terrorist groups adhere to the principles of racial supremacy and embrace antigovernment, antiregulatory beliefs. Extremist right-wing groups participate in activity that is protected by the constitution such as freedom of speech and freedom to assembly (Watson, 2002). There are many right-wing groups some of the notable ones are; the World Church of the Creator and the Aryan Nations / Klu Klux Klan to name a few. Right-wing groupsRead MoreWas the Schlieffen Plan Foredoomed to Failure?1707 Words   |  7 Pagesexpected to be carried out in only 40 days, however, many important steps were not taken which cost the Germans the vital element of haste. The Schlieffen plan was not foredoomed to failure, yet it it did fail due to three factors: the reduction to the right wing on the Western Front, the choice to avoid the path through Holland, and the poor coordination and regulation of the German armies. Alfred von Schlieffen built this plan around the inevitable outcome of a two front war. It was inevitablele that

Historical Accounting And Current Cost Accounting

Question 6 Explain the differences between Historical Cost Accounting and Current Cost Accounting (include advantages and disadvantages). Historical Cost Accounting is the â€Å"financial accounting based on the original cost of an item ignoring inflationary increases† It records an asset based on its actual value without any adjustments for inflation. On a balance sheet the value of assets are the purchase cost of the assets. Whereas, current cost accounting is a form of accounting in which the approach to capital maintenance is based on maintaining the operating capability of the business. The assets are measured according to their shares daily based on replacement cost the last trade of the day. The advantages of historical cost accounting is that it is simple, a more conventional method, reliable and verifiable, information is free from any bias views. It leads to absolute certainty and fits in perfectly with the cash flow statement, as it tells what has been paid exactly or received and giving no doubt in balance sheet amounts. This method also helps businesses estimate the future cost with the help of original values that are recorded in financial statements of past years. The disadvantages is that it doesn’t provide enough information that is relevant to investors. It is interested in cost distribution, not the actual values of the asset. Doesn’t have any adjustments for inflation. The financial statement of the business presents an old interest rate and outdatedShow MoreRelatedThe principle of historical cost is still used in accounting when there is a large measure of agreement that it is inappropriate. Discuss.1226 Words   |  5 PagesSynopsis. Historical Cost Accounting is a traditional valuation method as it reflects only on the past cost of the asset, however in the contemporary business environment companies must remain flexible and transparent. This belief has lead to the creation of several other valuation methods, due to word constraints I have focused primarily on Fair Value Accounting as an alternative to Historical Cost Accounting. Although Fair value accounting is a theoretically superior valuation methodology, thereRead MoreAdvantages and Disadvantages of Hstorical Cost Accounting1241 Words   |  5 PagesHstorical Cost Accounting Advantages and disadvantages of historical cost accounting, alternatives to historical cost accounting 2.1 Introduction Accounting concepts and conventions as used in accountancy are the rules and guidelines by which the accountant lives. The historical cost accounting convention is an accounting technique that values an asset for balance sheet purposes at the price paid for the asset at the time of its acquisition. The historical cost accounting is the situationRead MoreHistorical Cost and Fair Value1733 Words   |  7 PagesAbstract This paper is written for the accounting theory course as a course project. This paper discusses the differences between the historical cost accounting approach and the fair value accounting approach. The discussion will focus on the debate on using which accounting approach. We begin by stating the definitions of both concepts and discussing them thoroughly, then we state the main advantages of the two approaches followed by comparison between them. The last section of this paper discussesRead MoreContinuously Contemporary Accounting1692 Words   |  7 PagesIntroduction Over the past years there have been many accounting measurement systems developed to replace or serve as a supplement to historical cost accounting. However it is not possible, at present, to state which system, if any, is likely to replace the historical cost system. Perhaps the most notable system is Continuously Contemporary Accounting (CoCoA), proposed by Australian researcher, Raymond Chambers. Chambers quoted â€Å"†¦that thousands of shareholders had lost millions of dollars on securityRead MoreFair Value vs. Historical Cost Accounting1188 Words   |  5 PagesDifference between historical cost and fair value accounting In order to make the most profitable and rational decisions entity’s stakeholders have to evaluate organisation’s financial statements. Today’s world of rapidly changing prices has made it difficult to estimate what something is actually worth. Thus leading to debates at what price – historical costing price or market value – assets and liabilities should be reported. Therefore, before making any evaluations about reported transactionsRead MoreHistorical Cost vs. Fair Value695 Words   |  3 PagesThe basic purpose of accounting is to provide information that is useful to investors, creditors and others in making rational economic decisions. One accounting issue that has been debated on a lot is the historical cost method versus the fair value measurement. The historical cost method has been the basis of GAAP accounting for the past decade but has slowly been disappearing. Today it is starting to be replaced by the fair value method of accounting . When choosing a valuation method, it seemsRead MoreLimitations of Historical Costing in Times of Inflation1280 Words   |  6 Pages5 Normative theories of accounting 1: The case of accounting for changing prices Learning Objectives http://www.download-it.org/learning-resources.php?promoCode=partnerID=content=storystoryID=19988 Upon completing this chapter readers should: ââ€"† be aware of some particular limitations of historical cost accounting in terms of its ability to cope with various issues associated with changing prices; ââ€"† be aware of a number of alternative methods of accounting that have been developed toRead MoreOriginal Alternative Methods Of Historical Cost Accounting966 Words   |  4 Pagesusually utilize the Historical Cost accounting to report financial statements and reflect the profitability of business. It is more conventional and simple method. Nevertheless, when considered in relation to inflation and price changes, the alternative methods such as Current Purchasing Power Accounting (CPPA), Continuously Contemporary Accounting(CoCoA) and Current Cost Accounting(CCA) would be more appropriate. There is an assumption that ‘ applying those alternative forms of accounting to adjust itemsRead MoreAccounting Theory 41063 Words   |  5 PagesFair value or false accounting 1. How are assets and liabilities measured under IAS 39? Answer: According to IAS 39, Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, financial instrument are to be stated at their ‘fair value’- defined as ‘the amount for which an asset could be exchanged, or a liability settled, between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm’s length transaction’. ‘If the market for a financial instrument is not active, an entity establishes a fair valueRead MoreAccounting Research: Advantages of Cash Flow1720 Words   |  7 Pagesdependent on accounting conventions and concepts/principles * Cash flow reporting satisfies the needs of all users better since cash flow is more direct with its messages. Some of the interested user parties are: * Creditors   -repayment of debts, overdue accounts * Management -cash flow reporting provides the type of information which decision should be taken re: relevant costs ( decision based on future cash flow) * Shareholders amp; Auditors -cash flow accounting and reporting

How Men and Women Are Perceived According to Their Gender

In todays western world societal differences occur based on ones gender and have been shaped over hundreds of years and have shown what is deemed acceptable for one gender is not always acceptable for the other. Our society is based on a gender social structure and what is appropriate for an individual. Promiscuous behavior and active sexual expression ranges from whats expected of an individual and can change based on their gender, age and socio-economic status. The evolutionary theories explain biological differences in sexual behavior between males and females , which have developed patterns to sustain the double standard. This theories state that men are to pass on their genes , in order to have many children to carry their DNA , where as females are to be selective and find one productive father that can support and take care of them (Milhausen Herold , 2008). Evolutionary theories also explain that if a women were to go out and sleep with a variety of males, she would be see a s permissive and that is not accepted because if the women were to get pregnant she would than not know the paternity of her child , therefore the man would question the paternity of the child (Fugere, Escoto, Cousins, Riggs, Haerich, 2008). Men and women are judged by different standards in society and these cultural norms show males as more dominated within the sexual double standard, where as some women endorse the standard to protect their personal relationship. Women are suppose to beShow MoreRelatedGender Inequality : A Social Problem1016 Words   |  5 PagesGender inequality is a social problem that is widespread in society. It is referred to as the unfair treatment of individuals based on one s gender. Historically, laws have opposed women to go to school, access certain jobs, and purchase property. Gender inequality has been experience through culture – honor-killing, sex-selective abortion, and society – occupation, gender roles, and education. The social expectations of men and women differ between cultures that are constructed socially and culturallyRead MoreStereotypes Of Men And Women Should Act997 Words   |  4 Pagesexample, there are many stereotypes about how men and women should act. These stereotypes tend to generalize certain characteristics of men and women. For example, men are perceived as aggressive and dominant, and women are perceived as expressive and emotional. This is an example of gender roles. Numerous individuals will believe that people should act appropriately, according to their gender. Numerous people start developing stereotypical ideas of gender roles as of three years old (Albert PorterRead MoreThe Effects Of Alcohol On Social Influences Within Health And Well Being1317 Words   |  6 PagesIntroduction: Harmful use of alcohol contributes 3.3 million deaths every year according to WHO (2015), which is representative of 5.9% of all deaths across the globe. Despite governmental law of putting the drinking age to be 18 and over (UK and Ireland), Many studies reported that within the last ten years that have examined the drinking habits of young people, results show that UK teenagers are characterized by high levels of intoxication and binge drinking. (Binge drinking is defined by the NHSRead More The Social Construction of Gender and Sexuality Essay1361 Words   |  6 PagesAccording to Johnny Weir, â€Å"Masculinity is what you believe it to be... [it is] all by perception, [I believe] masculinity and femininity is something that is very old-fashioned... [there is a] whole new generation of people who aren’t defined by their race or their sex or who they like to sleep with.† This statement exemplifies the definition of gender as a concept; gender is the expectations of a sex according to the culture of society. Sexuality, within this definition of gender, reflects society’sRead MoreEffect Of Society Over Gender And Sexual Identity Essay1256 Words   |  6 PagesEffect of Society over Gender and Sexual Identity When Alex was born, his parents were delighted to add another boy to their family. As their baby boy began to grow and develop, they noticed that Alex began to express himself in a manner that they viewed as more feminine than masculine. He gravitated toward dolls and other toys that the culture often associates with girls. Concerned with the social ramifications associated with their child trying to be transgendered, they made the decisionRead MoreGender Inequality1369 Words   |  6 PagesGender inequality has been a long standing issue throughout history. While for some people there is no gender inequality at the workforce some studies and research have shown the contrary. Despite the effort to combat gender discrepancies at the workplace gender equity has yet not being reached. Gender itself plays an important role at the workforce because some people stereotype a person according to their gender and not by their capacity. Stereotypes are characteristics attributed to peopl e basedRead MoreMedia, Youth And Culture : Application Of Theory1664 Words   |  7 PagesMedia, Youth and Culture Application of Theory to Culture Discuss the ways in which gender identities are constructed and expressed through media and popular cultures? This essay will address the way in which gender identities are constructed and expressed through media and popular cultures using Hebdige’s theory; Symbolic Interaction. Both gender identities will test the typical affiliated gender stereotype; which are created by social interactions – what a person sees and interprets in theirRead MoreGender Differences In Communication Are A Set Of Rules1298 Words   |  6 PagesGender differences in communication are a set of rules based off what society perceives as accurate for a male or female in situations. This literature review investigates gender differences in communication, particularly differences in conversational style, body politics and attractiveness, work and education, in relation to learning the roles of gender. Results of the literature review suggest that gender differences exist in various ways. Communication for females indicate women are indirect andRead MoreGender Portrayal Of Gender Roles953 Words   |  4 PagesIntroduction According to the United States Department of Labor, 69.7% of men compared to 57.2% of women were participating in the U.S. paid labor force in the year 2013 (U.S. Department of Labor, 2013). But despite this near equality in the rates of participation in the work force, men and women continue to be depicted in very distinct gender roles throughout the mainstream media (Eisend, 2010; Lull, Hanson, Marx, 1977; Collins, 2011). This gender stereotyping effect is especially prevalent withinRead MoreWomen s Influence On The Formation Of The New Land971 Words   |  4 PagesThroughout history men have been conquers, captains, leaders, kings, and have left a print in history. On the other hand, women are depicted as weak and fragile, unable to fend for themselves. According to society women need a strong masculine man to protect and provide for them. What if I told all that could’ve been different in a new world where women and men could be free, own land, and practice any religion, would you go? Many European settlers fled England with hopes to break free from tradition

The Importance of Gender Representations in Spanish Cinema Free Essays

The different works of art – from paintings to literary pieces – present prevailing themes in the society. They act as small fragments of a comprehensive historical narrative. These fragments, though fictional, are still able to reflect true scenarios, real life stories from which they are based upon. We will write a custom essay sample on The Importance of Gender Representations in Spanish Cinema or any similar topic only for you Order Now To a certain extent, films serve the same purpose as any work of art – they present the artist’s feelings, thoughts, and reflections on whatever is happening in the society at the time of its creation. The different elements in any film – the social setting and the gender representations do not only bring life to its plot. Rather, these thematic elements of the film contribute fully on its general appeal and overall impact to its audiences. In this paper however, the researcher will only focus on one of these elements – gender representation. Putting a specific focus on this study, this paper will only explore the importance of these representations in Spanish cinema. To perform this purpose, common gender representations in some Spanish films will be revealed in relation to: how it reflects the prevalent issues in Spanish society; how it adds to the film’s appeal to local audiences; and how it provides an imagination of Spanish identities to local and international movie goers. 1st Assumption: Gender representations grant the films the ability to reflect the prevailing issues in the Spanish Society In the past few years, domestic violence has been a prevalent social problem in Spanish communities. Reports show that there is a high count of women who are suffering from the violence and physical abuse posed by their husbands and partners. Based on the report of Emma Daly in Christian Science Monitor, the Spanish society is suffering from a â€Å"machismo culture† where women are treated as inferior to men. (Daly, 1998) In relation to this important social issue, many films also carry domestic violence as significant thematic components in their plots. In such films, women are portrayed as the victims of their husbands’ consummation of their masculinity in a largely patriarch society that equates women to second-class citizens. Solo mia (2001) is one of the films which reflect this social issue. The movie puts into film a typical story that takes place not only in Spain but also in many societies where a once loving and tender relationship goes wrong. As shown in the movie, the relationship gradually transforms into a tale of obsession which prompts the husband to repeatedly subject his wife to domestic violence. (Saenz, 2009) The same social issue envelopes the film â€Å"Princesas† (2005) and El Bola (2000). In the first film, a prostitute suffers from the violence introduced by her lover while in the latter shows that children can also become victims of what is known in Spain as â€Å"Terrorismo Familiar†. Basically, Spanish cinema reflects not just the fact that domestic violence prevails in the real Spanish community. Rather, gender representations in the film also show that such type of violence affects women of all ages, and in different social classes. With the men presented mostly as the perpetrator of the violence, the films further shows that men in Spain often act adversely against the inferior women. nd Assumption: Gender representation increases the film’s appeal to local audiences by reinforcing nationalism and providing greater grounds for linkage and identification. Since Spanish cinema reflects prevalent values, ideas, and practices in the Spanish community, it gives the film a more localized appeal. The tendency to magnify one’s identification with t heir culture further increases the movies’ appeal to the local moviegoers. Basically, most of the Spanish films pose a generic thematic distinction from the mainstream Hollywood movies. While most Hollywood movies take the themes of liberal women who are posed as office workers and even successful professionals, most Spanish movies reflect on the importance of motherhood – a local theme that is common in many traditional patriarchal societies. Solas is one of the most famous films that glorify maternity as the only way for a woman to achieve real fulfillment and happiness. The film revolves around the story of Rosa and her daughter Maria. The two, both victims of domestic violence, are reunited after several years of being apart. Rosa has become a passive victim to her husband’s abuse but Maria refuses to surrender to the despotism and instead, decides to live in the city. However, Maria inevitably ends up in the same situation as that of her mother – being physically and emotionally abused by her boyfriend. To a certain degree, the portrayal of motherhood in the story works in two contrasting ways. Rosa retains the profile of the typical mother. She is portrayed as the submissive and self sacrificing woman who is willing to endure overwhelming hardships – the abuse of her husband – in order to potentially â€Å"save† her family from falling apart. However, she fails as Maria separates herself from the threat that her father poses. Fortunately, in line with Rosa’s angelic qualities as a mother, she is able to â€Å"save† her daughter from leading a devastating lifestyle through her captivating and unrestrained love and care. Following these implications, motherhood is presented in the story as a self-denying role which women must embrace not only to provide a certain sense of accomplishment but also to gain the ability to â€Å"save† people whom they care for. Motherhood is also presented as a Spanish woman’s way toward salvation and recovery as depicted in Maria’s character. Maria’s relationship with his boyfriend reflected a destructive scenario which led to her alcoholism. However, as Maria became pregnant, that signaled her positive transformation from an angry and hostile character to another motherly figure that’s kind, passionate, loving, and forgiving. In essence, Maria’s motherhood became her escape from the destructive factors that formerly consumed her life. Such gender representation embedded in the plot of the movie allows the local audiences – particularly women – to relate to characters and watch the film. 3rd Assumption: Gender representation in Spanish films offers both local and international audiences with an imagination of Spanish identities Gender representation forms a significant part of the local Spanish cultures and traditions. As films carry gender representation which is reflective of a distinct cultural identity, they then achieve significance as cultural accounts. The fact that the movies provide both local and international audiences with an idea of what comprises a real Spanish community qualifies them as relevant educational and enriching artifacts. In addition to that, these artifacts not only promote an imagination of Spanish identities. Rather, the Spanish movies also help people of other cultures in learning, appreciating, and understanding Spanish culture. For example, in the film â€Å"Coma agua para chocalate (1992) or ‘Like water for chocolate’†, the gender representations mirror how important must both men and women adhere to old superstitions and traditions. The film shows that marriage and love are restricted by old Spanish traditions as a young couple – Pedro and Tita – could not get married simply because Tita’s oldest sister has to get married first and because Tita had to first fulfill her domestic roles and â€Å"responsibilities† to her mother. Gender representation in La casa de los espiritus (1993) or â€Å"The House of the Spirits† also offers a glimpse at Spanish culture. This film shows the importance of social class as a local rags-to-riches patriarch does everything to prevent his daughter from marriage a lower class worker who fights for socialism. The same theme inspires the film, The Dog in the Manger (1995). In the movie, a Countess falls in love with his secretary. However, social status stands on their way. Furthermore, this gap in social position increasingly widens as the Countess, as a woman is expected to be submissive to societal expectations. Conclusions Gender representations become important elements to Spanish cinema mainly because they reflect prevailing issues and themes in a natural Spanish community. As these themes are reflected and portrayed, the films gain the local audience’s attention through the formation of linkages and character identification. Gender representations embedded in the plot also qualify the films as cultural artifacts that offer audiences with a glimpse of Spanish culture. On the whole, gender representation promotes the appreciation of not just Spanish movies, but of the Spanish culture as well. Through the gender roles promoted in the films, both local and international audiences learn how Spanish culture must be understood and appreciated. How to cite The Importance of Gender Representations in Spanish Cinema, Papers