Prosecuting Violators of International Humanitarian and Human Rights Essay

Prosecuting Violators of International Humanitarian and Human Rights Law; and The Merits and Limitations of the International Criminal Court (ICC) - Essay Example The researcher states that although international jurists may not agree entirely with this argument, an actual discontent should go with an examination of theoretical perspectives which are believed to offer answers to these stubborn issues. Apparently, humanitarian and human rights law do not provide simple solutions as to how to deal with violations of the fundamental human rights of people in times of crisis. They embody judicious efforts to implement norms which ideally will become unanimously recognized and support the international community in its assessment of, and response, to these crimes. The international community has been triumphant in establishing an agreement on numerous norms in the areas of humanitarian and human rights law. There is at present a solid set of laws, even though it evidently does not cater to every crisis or include every region. This code of rules will be raised to change as the problems confronting the international community assume new forms. Certa inly, the implementation of the Statute of the International Criminal Court is a sign of the pace at which several sectors of international law are evolving. ... The primary purpose of the formation of an international criminal court was to change a tradition of immunity for the perpetration of severe crimes, which has thrived and remains in existence significantly, with a tradition of liability. The formation of an international criminal court is in several contexts the finale of a chain of international attempts in such path. Nevertheless, those attempts have usually been unsuccessful for different causes, and, at any rate, have been greatly discriminating. The Tokyo and Nuremberg Tribunals, after the Second World War, expressed genuine confidence for the tradition of liability, but the facts of the cold war aftermath immediately surfaced. The idea that individuals and states perpetrating the most serious violations of human rights law should be prosecuted disappeared, and a tradi tion of immunity resurfaced. The discourse about the competence of international committees should be situated in a more enduring point of view. The influence of newly formed institutions like the informal committees cannot justly be weighed against that of established organizations like the International Court of Justice (ICG) and the Security Council (SC).

Arthus Evans' contribution Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Arthus Evans' contribution - Essay Example This Minoan civilization became his contribution to stratigraphy-driven archaeology. The Crete excavations that had resulted in the discovery of the Minoan civilization had another essential contribution in store. Based on the Minoan civilization, Arthur Evans developed a relative dating scheme which he named Minoan chronology (MacGillivray 163). Arthur Evans had predominantly managed excavations at Knossos. For this reason, the Minoan chronology is purely attributed to him. This dating scheme would later be applied in Greek and the Cyclades Islands, thereby becoming a plan for dating prehistoric and early historic Aegean events (MacGillivray 174). Arthur Evans was the world-renowned British archaeologist who excavated the palace of Knossos on the Greek island of Crete and developed the theory of Minoan civilization (Roberts 156). He was born on July 8, 1851 and passed away on July 11, 1941. Throughout his academic career, Evans contributed a great number of precious works which include Cretan Pictographs and Pre-Phoenician Script (1895), The Mycenaean Tree and Pillar Cult (1901), and The Palace of Minos (1921-1936) (Karetsou 364). These works have produced significant influence on the development of archaeology particularly in the field of European and Mediterranean Sea area history (Karetsou 381). Panagiotaki (257) contends that Evans also contributed largely to the study of ancient language by defining Cretan scripts Linear A and Linear B. The findings of Evans laid a solid groundwork for later research and provided guidance for the further work on these areas. Evans was drawn to the field of ancient history due to both individual and social reasons. Evans was born in a highly educated and intellectual family. His grandfather was the Headmaster of Market Bosworth Grammar School and received a Master Degree in history. Arthur Evans’ father, John Evans, was capable of reading Latin which led him to large amounts of authoritative academic works

Children, Young People and Families Essay Example for Free

Children, Young People and Families Essay Case Study Four (appendix one) describes a family which due to multiple issues including separated parents with mental health needs, siblings living apart, aggressive behaviour and truancy they present an extremely complex case for any social worker. It focuses on the story of Callum and his current status with brief mention of his brother and two sisters. I will explore the legal and policy guidance along with relevant theories and values that would inform and guide social work practice in relation to Callum as the majority of the information relates to him. The Every Child Matters (ECM) Green Paper introduced wide spread policy change and was underpinned by law in the 2004 Children Act. The ECM requires that social workers support the parents and carers instead of removing children to long term care (Hodge, 2004). For example the ECM set out the agenda for the unification of local childrens services such as schools, GPs, social services and so on (Hodge, 2004). The idea of a holistic approach to a persons needs by removing the legislative barriers between inter agency information sharing, directs services to work together towards a mutual aim which is what is best for the child in this case Callum. Another key theme set out in the ECM is early intervention, which means that children should receive the appropriate help then need but when they need it. An important step in reaching this goal is the use of the Common Assessment Framework (CAF). For Callum and others the CAF aims to put their needs ahead of the agencies agenda (Gilligan, 2008). The entire process  should be guided by a lead professional whose job it is to lead and follow up actions with all agencies involved while being the primary contact for the child with the extra needs, this helps when a child is working with more than one professional as it can easily become disorientating and counterproductive for the child developmentally to be dealing with multiple professionals (Howarth, 2010). For Callum and his family the CAF would be used by the Local Authority (LA) to assess the needs of the children and the family as under S.47 of the Children Act they have a duty to do so (Calder and Hackett, 2013). Within the assessment three key areas are explored. Firstly Callums developmental needs, parental capacity which although his mother is currently unable to demonstrate capacity to care for Callum the new policy context assures that she will be fully assessed and supported where possible if it is in Callums best interests to have an input in his life. Lastly family and environmental factors (Calder and Hackett, 2013). The three core assessment areas are explored in more detail in the assessment framework triangle. During the assessment the social worker gains information required from individuals involved including family members and all supporting agencies. The plan is to build a complete picture that will allow the social worker to begin to look at different theories and research which may offer insight or explanation for Callums behaviours. Professor Nick Frost (2013) when discussing the lessons learned from a Serious Case Review echoes the findings of the Munro report (2001) stating that the decisions undertaken by social workers on a daily basis, often with very little time, are extremely complex and involve a high degree of uncertainty. This something that the CAF attempts to address as it is to be approached as a partnership between services the young people and their families (Calder and Hackett, 2013). Each of the three sections of the assessment framework triangle are gone into in much more detail and guidance for this is laid out in the CAF guidelines. In order to make use of the information gained a robust foundation of knowledge is required to deliver evidenced based practice. For example When looking at Callums Health are  all his needs being met to enable him to develop physically as he should. He is staying out late and not attending school so we can reasonably assume that he may not be getting sufficient food or rest. The medical model suggests that without regular and nutritious meals and adequate rest Callums physical development will be retarded (Cowie, 2012). This is a rather simplistic example though it effectively demonstrates how research directly informs practice. The new policy also calls for flexibility so that services can be provided parallel to the assessment process meaning that children and their families dont need to wait until after the assessment process to start receiving support (Calder and Hackett, 2013). When Callums physical needs are identified it is possible then without delay to for example refer him to his GP for an examination to assess his physical condition. Further along the childs developmental needs assessment we come to emotional and behavioural development which looks at characteristics like the childs temperament, self control and how they respond to stress. These are all heavily informed by a broad base of research and theories some of which have conflicting views on how certain behaviours can be explained (Calder and Hackett, 2013). Before I look at some theories that would inform practice in relation to the case study I think it is helpful to look at how Beckett (2006) explains how social workers find a solution by first seeking for explanations. This he says is looking at the information gathered from the assessment and trying to find a theory that we think fits and them apply the relevant intervention. He calls these past orientated approaches, in the case of Callum we look at his past to try and find out why things are the way they are (Beckett, 2006). Callum is displaying aggressive behaviour, he resisted foster carers and now that he is back in a childrens home he stays out on occasion with his father. Attachment theory has plenty of empirical evidence and suggests that Callum like us all is hard wired to seek a relationship with his carer, in this case the attachment with his father is still felt by him. Bowlbys (2005) work on attachment suggests that during our formative years we develop an internal working model (IWM) from our initial  attachments, the resulting quality of the IWM is dependent on the quality of the original attachments. In Callums case he quality of this attachment could be questionable. Cassidy (1988, cited in Cowie, 2012, p.49) Bibliography Bowlby, J. 2005. A secure base. London: Routledge. Brayne, H. and Carr, H. 2012. Law for social workers. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Calder, M. and Hackett, S. 2013. Assessment in child care. Lyme Regis, Dorset: Russell House. Cassidy, J. and P. R. Shaver (eds). 1988. Handbook of attachment. New York: Guilford Press, pp.3-20. Quoted in Cowie, H. 2012. From birth to sixteen years. Abingdon, Oxon: Routledge. pp.49. Cowie, H. 2012. From birth to sixteen years. Abingdon, Oxon: Routledge. Frost, P. 2013. Lessons From a Serious Case Review. Interviewed by Anne Llewellyn [in person] Leeds, 27.11.2013. Gilligan, P. and Manby, M. 2008. The Common Assessment Framework: does the reality match the rhetoric?. Child Family Social Work, 13: 177–187 Green, L. 2010. Understanding the life course. Cambridge: Polity. Hodge, M. 2004. Every child matters. London: DfES Publications. Horwath, J. 2010. The childs world. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

Physiological Benefits Of Physical Activity Health And Social Care Essay

Physiological Benefits Of Physical Activity Health And Social Care Essay Introduction Over the past 25 years, the UK has seen an increase in individuals aged 65 yrs and over. In 2009, it was reported by the Office of National Statistics (2010) that the population aged 65 and over increased from 15% in 1984 to 16% in 2009, which is an increase of 1.7 million people. They predict that by year 2034 23% of the population is projected to be aged 65 and over compared to 18% aged 16 and under. The fact that people are living longer is associated with healthy active living, over the past 10 years health has steadily improved (ONS, 2004). It is reported that older adults who are physically active report a greater satisfaction in life (Weinberg Gould, 2007) this is due to retaining mobility and keeping their quality of life and independence (Chaudhury Shelton, 2010). In 2008, the Department of Health (2010) reported that 39% of men and 29% of women aged 16 and over met the governments recommendations for physical activity, this was compared with 32% of men and 21% of women in 1997. However, evidence suggests that with an increase of age there is a decrease in levels of physical activity regardless of the well publicised benefits of the association with good health and well being (Berger, Der, Mutrie Hannah, 2005). Retirement can be a key time to focus on physical activity and well being. It is a time where people can review many areas of their life, including their health. People make preparations for retirement in different ways but research shows that very little preparations are made for health promoting physical activity (Chaudhury Shelton, 2010). As the older adult population is rising, maintaining a healthy life is a growing public concern (Acree, 2006) in year 2002, physical inactivity was reported to cost  £8.2 billion a year (NHS, 2008). A recent study by Chaudhury Shelton (2010) formed the basis of this study, the paper explains the data analysis from the Health Survey for England (HSfE) in 2006 and 2007 which focused on physical activity participation amongst 60 to 69 year olds and knowledge of the physical participation requirement. The study highlighted that older adults had unrealistic views of their perceived activity levels and reported that there was a lack of knowledge regarding the recommended physical activity guidelines. They examined the perceived barriers to physical activity participation and reported that barriers such as work and lack of time prevented them taking part in exercise. From the study they concluded that there needs to be more focus on health promotion and education particularly in the over sixties. In order to promote healthy living firstly, we need to understand why physical activity decreases with age. The purpose of this study is to explore the attitudes and behaviours towards physic al activity with particular focus on 60- 69 year old. A qualitative study will provide the basis of this study. Qualitative methods offer the opportunity to explore an individuals experiences, perceptions, motives and barriers to physical activity (Thomas, Nelson Silverman, 2005). In addition, this study will review other studies which have been carried out associated with physical activity around retirement. Aim The aim of this study is to explore the attitudes and behaviours towards physical activity in people aged 60 69 years focusing on continuity and change around the time of retirement. Objectives 1. To explore knowledge of physical activity recommendations and attitudes to participation 2. To research continuity and change in levels of physical activity at retirement 3. To describe perceptions of sufficiency of own physical activity behaviour 4. Explore the perceived barriers to meeting governments recommended levels of physical activity, before and after retirement. Analysis from the data obtained from the interviews can be used to provide recommendations towards improving the transition to retirement in terms of achieving health promoting physical activity levels. Limitations There are limitations regarding the sample size and reliability of the information. The sample size was small and levels of activity were what participants perceived as being enough exercise however despite this the literature was consistent with our findings. Literature Review Physiological benefits of Physical Activity According to World Health Organisation (2010) globally, physical inactivity contributes to 1.9 million deaths per year and is currently the fourth leading risk factor for all deaths. It has been well publicised that regular physical activity has a huge influence on promoting good health and psychological well being and is associated with the reduction of risk factors for chronic health problems such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes and obesity (Martinez del Castillo et al, 1997; Sjogren Stjernberg, 2010). Physical activity can be defined as any bodily movement produced by the contraction of skeletal muscle that increases energy expenditure above a basal level (WHO, 2010) and has a range of health benefits which can be achieved through sport and exercise or activities such as walking, cycling, gardening and housework (Department of Health, 2010). Although the aging process is vulnerable to a wide range of conditions such as hypertension, back pain, osteoporosis and some ca ncers studies have shown that physical activity can reduce these and can increase life expectancy and improve bone and muscle strength (Berger et al, 2005). Stewart et al (2003) examined a group of older sedentary adults and reported that physical activity was evidently associated with a reduction of bodily pain and that small amounts of regular physical activity was associated with better quality of life. King et al, (2000) studied physical activity and physical functioning in 103 adults aged 65 yrs and over using moderate-intensity endurance and strengthening exercises and stretching and flexibility exercises. The study reported significant improvements to quality of life and mobility. Research supports the theory that exercise enhances quality of life (QOL). Berger (2009) explains that QOL is a broad construct that reflects a persons perception of his or her own position in life in relation to personal goals, standards, and expectations within the context of culture and value sys tems in which the individual lives. Therefore the relationship between exercise and QOL may be influenced by an individuals own perceptions and values. Chaudhury and Shelton (2010) explain that by maintaining independent living is the key. Improving balance and co ordination can help prevent injury from trips or falls. Cassell (2002) recommended physical activity to be the best treatment for aging. Psychological Factors and Physical activity Brassington et al (2002) explains that the strongest determinant for physical activity participation for older adults is self efficacy or confidence. If a person enjoys what they are doing they are more likely to participate in it. Physical activity can be encouraged by many factors and older adults tend to look at physical activity as how it is going to benefit them. For example if I exercise I will lose weight or if I exercise and remain fit I will be able to play with the grand children. There are many theories which can be applied to health behaviours which we will look at later on in this paper. Participation is preserved through enjoyment and social support from friends and family. One study (Cooper Thomas, 2002) used ballroom dancing as a way of keeping fit and were physically challenged by using different styles of dancing to suit the persons skills. Dancing encouraged social networks which supported participation across major life events such as loss of a spouse or friend t hrough support from other dancers .Having a social network or living with a partner has found to have a positive influence on physical activity participation (Bruce, 2002). Regular exercise can help preserve independence (Sparling et al, 2000) it can increase feeling of self worth, increase self efficacy and reduce feelings of feeling reliant family members (Chaudhury Shelton, 2010). Research suggests that the health benefits of physical activity and exercise are now well established. In 2010 the World Health Organisation reported that by 2020 depression will follow cardiovascular disease as the worlds leading cause of death and disability. Psychological disorders such as depression are commonly treated by medication or by taking part in therapy sessions however, more people are now looking at physical activity as a way of dealing with feelings of depression (Weinberg Gould, 2007). Barriers to Physical Activity The benefit and the barriers to physical activity are significant for behaviour change and its important that in order to increase participation that we understanding the barriers that older adults face. The Health Survey for England (2008) reported that 41% of men and 43% of women reported lack of time as the main barrier to exercise many older people may have caring responsibilities or may be involved in voluntary work and use lack of time for a reason not to exercise (BHF, 2010). Barriers can be classified into two groups these are intrinsic or extrinsic. Intrinsic barriers are based on an individuals belief, previous experience or self efficacy. Brassington et al (2002) explains that the strongest determinant for physical activity participation for older adults is self efficacy or confidence. Many older adults have the fear of not been able to keep up with the class or not wanting to attend the class alone. They may be conscious of their body image and fear for lack of changing f acilities. Extrinsic barriers refer to the environment for example; concerns for safety older adults may be concerned about slippery pool side surfaces, ageism, or skills of teachers (BHF, 2010). Overcoming these barriers is paramount in promoting health and independence and by taking part in regular physical activity will in turn help prevent ill health and disability. Those who understand the benefits to exercise will have fewer barriers than those who are not aware of the benefits to physical activity and those who have several barriers will have low perceived benefits. It is important that people are educated of the benefits to physical activity. Socio-economic status and physical activity Research has looked at how physical activity can be influenced, factors that have been found to be most significant amongst older adults include education, social class, participation earlier in life, social support and opportunity factors (Bird, 2009). Martinez del Castillo et al, (2005) examined the participation rates of physical activity between social classes and reported that there was a positive relationship between social classes. The results found that the percentage of those physically active were Upper class =38.2%, middle class =18.5%, lower class= 9.7%. The relationship was found with their present income; those who had adequate income participated in physical activity and those that didnt did not want to participate. Overall, the lower the social status the less old adult participation in physical activity. Those who had encouragement from a partner or a social network who wanted to take part in physical activity took part. This is not to say that people from lower cla sses would be exempt but local opportunities and encouragement may contribute to leading healthy lifestyle (Martinez del Castillo et al, 2005). Lower classes do not always get the same opportunities, the higher someones socio economic status the greater the opportunities (Berger et al, 2005). Those amongst lower socio economic groups, health has always been an issue and suggests education and health promotion focusing on low income communities (Peterson et al, 2006). The Whitehall study (2004) of British Civil Servants explored the relationship between work, retirement and physical activity. They found that different occupational grades affected health. Those in a lower employment grade had a higher mortality rate compared to those in higher grades. Physical activity was least regular with those working full time compared to those working part time or not at all. This would suggest that those working part time or not at all would have more time to exercise. Interestingly, after reti rement those who worked full time were found not to increase their levels of activity however, those who worked part time or not at all did. The frequency of physical activity amongst the different occupational grades was found to be higher with more sport and gardening done by higher occupational grades (Mein et al, 2005). Sjogren Stjernberg (2010) found that having access to areas for country walks, parks and recreational centres are the most important factors for influencing outdoor activity. Education is an important predictor of older adult physical activity; women with a low level of education compared to women with a higher level, those with a higher level were more likely to take part in physical activity. Mortality rates are lower amongst those who become physically active later in life compared to those who may have been active earlier in life but now have a sedentary lifestyle (Sjogren Stjernberg, 2010). Arguably, Berger et al, (2005) reported that education, car and de privation were not strong predictors of whether someone regularly takes part in physical activity instead other lifestyle factors such as not smoking and healthy diet were strong predictors. Continuity and Change Continuity and change plays an important role in the transition to retirement, whilst retirement is seen as a time of leisure, studies have shown that only a small amount of people make changes to their leisure activities after retirement (Nimrod, 2007). Atchley (1989) explains that the Continuity Theory is considered a key feature of post retirement leisure, the theory holds that, in making adaptive choices, middle-aged and older adults attempt to preserve and maintain existing internal and external structures; and they prefer to accomplish this objective by using strategies tied to their past experiences of themselves and their social world. Change is linked to the persons perceived past, producing continuity in inner psychological characteristics as well as in social behaviour and in social circumstances. Continuity is thus a grand adaptive strategy that is promoted by both individual preference and social approval. In recent study Nimrod (2007), explored the adaptation process to retirement, particularly changes in behaviour and the psychological benefits. The study involved examining four different groups of people (1) expanders-those who report participation in a greater amount of activities at a higher frequency, (2) reducers-those who reported participation in the same or in fewer activities at the same or at a lower frequency, (3) concentrators-those who report participation in the same, or in fewer activities, but at a higher frequency, and (4) diffusers-people who report participation in a larger number of activities but at the same or at a lower frequency. Interviews were carried out using four different questionnaires. Their finding supported the Continuity Theory that people did not tend to engage in any new leisure activities after retirement they simply spent more time participating in the activities they were involved in pre retirement. Participation in activities in early life promotes participation later in life (Martinez del Castillo et al, 2005). Government guidelines and initiatives The recommendation for how much physical activity is required has changed over the years (Berger et al, 2005). The Chief Medical Officer for England set a target that by 2020 70% of the UK population will be reasonably active (Allender, Cowburn Foster, 2006). The current recommendation for physical activity is at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity activity, 5 days per week to improve health and quality of life, this can be built up in bouts of 10 minutes or more (Berger et al, 2005; Allender et al, 2006; Berger, 2009; WHO, 2010). Moderate intensity could include activities such as gardening, swimming, house work or home improvements, the intensity should correspond to that of a brisk walk (Berger et al, 2005; NHS, 2010). Short bouts of exercise are more tolerable and more enjoyable than long or high intensity exercise (Wilson, Yilla Soloman, 2001). The issue is not being able to get people to exercise it is encouraging people to adhere to exercise (Byrne Byrne, 1993). In a rep ort by the Department of Health (2001) the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) recommended a programme for patients suffering from depression using structured, supervised exercise, three times a week for 45 minutes to 1 hour for 10 to 12 weeks. The programmes were rolled out through exercise referral schemes. In 2006 NICE reviewed the scheme and found that there was insufficient evidence. This was due to patients not maintaining the physical activity they had been prescribed as they found leisure facilities and gyms intimidating and adherence levels dropped. If patients are to adhere to exercise long term it needs to be an activity that they enjoy. National and local policies aim to promote independence and mobility, prevent ill health disease and disability and prevent accidents amongst older people. The following government initiatives are currently available; Free swimming for the over sixties Lets get moving Physical activity care pathway programme. Chief medical officer report at least 5 per day Choosing physical activity an action plan Heidelberg guidelines for promoting physical activity amongst older people Sport England Sport playing its part Policy on sustainable walking Policy on sustainable cycling The government is always looking for ways to promote physical activity. Theories are used in assisting with promoting health behaviours. Transtheoretical Theory and Physical Activity Over the years there has been an increasing need for more theory driven research in health behaviour change. There have been many theories developed to help understand changes to health behaiviour for example The Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 1977) and the Transtheoretical Model (Prochaska DiClemente, 1984) which is one of the most widely adopted models in health promotion. The components of the Transtheoretical Model that have been applied to exercise are stage of change, processes of change, decisional balance, self-efficacy, and temptation to not exercise. Stage of change refers to a persons readiness to engage in regular exercise. Pre contemplation is the stage where someone does not take part in any physical activity and is not planning to start within the next 6 months. Thee contemplation stage is where someone is considering taking part in physical activity within the next 6 months, someone may stay in the contemplation stage as long as 2 years but may never move from thi s stage. Someone in the preparation stage may have already started to exercise but nothing regular but they have taken the first steps to start. The Action stage describes someone who has been exercing for less than 6 months. This is the most unreliable stage and there is a possibility of relapse. The Maintenance stage describes someone who has been exercising for 6 months or more. It is likely that once reaching this stage that someone will continue to exercise and it becomes part of their daily routine. It is important to identify what stage a person is at before putting strategies in place to promote physical activity (Sparling, 2000). The Social Cognitive Theory (Bandura, 1977) Methodology To meet the aims and objectives of this study, qualitative research methods were used to obtain information. Qualitative researchers study things in their natural settings, attempting to make sense of, or interpret, phenomenon in terms of the meanings people bring to them. It involves the studied use and collection of a variety of empirical materials (e.g., life story, interviews, etc.) that describe routine and problematic moments and meanings in individuals lives (Denzin Lincoln, 1998). Qualitative methods aim to explore and individuals experiences, perceptions, motives and barriers (Thomas Nelson, 1996). It is inductive which enables a theory to be developed following the collection of the data. There are three different types of interviews Structured; usually with a structured questionnaire, Semi structured; Open ended questions, and un-structured; Questions are based on what the interviewee says (Britten, 1995). For the purpose of this study a face to face semi-structured interview was conducted in November 2011 and took place at the respondents homes situated in the North West England. The study was based 2 female retirees aged between 60yrs and 69yrs who retired during the past five years. Open questions were asked during the interview regarding: Previous occupation(s), leisure time activities, reasons for retirement, knowledge of physical activity and participation in physical activity. Interviews lasted between 30 and 45 minutes. Interviews were arranged by telephone. 15 women were asked if they would consider participating in the study. 2 women volunteered. Interviews were arranged at a time convenient for the participants. They were advised that no costs would be involved and were notified that the benefits for taking part in the study were that they will receive information relating to physical activity and details of the current government recommended guidelines. Sampling Criteria Consideration was applied as to who could be purposively selected for this study. Participants were recruited from a local womens group. The inclusion criteria were they should be aged between 60 69 years, working to retirement or retired within the last 5 years. Exclusion criteria included; history of psychiatric illness including depression, history of neurological illness or history of heart disease. Interviews were arranged by telephone. 15 women were asked if they would consider participating in the study. 2 women volunteered. Interviews were arranged at a time convenient for the participants. They were advised that no costs would be involved and were notified that the benefits for taking part in the study were that they will receive information relating to physical activity and details of the current government recommended guidelines. Ethical Issues Prior to this research commencing ethical approval was obtained by the University. An information sheet and a consent form was prepared and handed to the participants 24 hours prior to the interview. This enabled the participants to ask questions and to give consent prior to the interviews commencing. Participants were advised that interviews would be recorded and that all information from the interview would be kept confidential. They were free to withdraw from the study without reason at any time and that any data would be destroyed. Data Analysis Following the interview the interviews were transcribed Results and Discussion In general, both participants considered themselves to be physically active whilst at work. P1and P2 had occupations within a shop setting where they did alot of lifting and carrying. P1 worked in a florist and P2 in a supermarket both participants explained that they enjoyed their jobs but as they became older they found it difficult to be as active at work as much as they had been. P1 explains; .ill health caused me to say enough is enough because I was working 16 / 17 hours per day because we were so busy. P2 explains; .I did a lot of lifting in my job that is one of the reasons why I came off the job, I had to do a lot of kneeling, it was causing me a lot of pain on my knees. Both participants explained that they still wanted to be active but natural ageing caused them to slow down. P2 expanded on this and went onto say that in the 8 years building up to retirement she helped out in a childrens nursery, helping wash up, answering the door. After retiring from the florist she still felt that she needed to keep busy. Whilst being active in the workplace I how far participants lived away from their work and how they used to get there. P1 explained that although she only lived 5 minutes away she would drive to work. This was because she would start at 4am by attending the markets to buy the flowers for the shop and generally would not finish until 6 or 7 o clock in the evening. Deliveries would also need to be done during the day so she needed the car. P2 also drove to work however she would sometimes walk depending on the time of the shift. P2 explained that if it was evening she would definitely drive. When asked the reasons for walking whether it was to en able her to keep fit. P2 explained that it never crossed her mind that it was exercise and that it was doing good, she did it because she fancied a walk and wanted some fresh air. Their understanding of sport and physical activity was fairly accurate. It was explained that sport was something that you took part in, went out and played. Where physical activity was explained as a hobby something that was pleasurable. Physical activity does not have to be competitive. Many studies only examine leisure activities, its important that if we are to encourage healthy living that Simple housework, home improvements or going for a brisk walk are included in the daily accumulation of physical activity. When asked about what leisure activities they participated in before they retired P1 explained; I cant say I had a lot of time when I came home from the shop, apart from cooking and baking, going for a walk, going to football match, things like that, holidays theyre all classed as activities arent they P2 explained;Leisure time was a non entity, no such thing as leisure time, because I had a home and a family to look after so there wasnt really time for any leisure time, the only time was perhaps later in an evening where you would perhaps sit down and watch the television for a couple of hours before you went to bed at night. This highlights the barriers, lack of time being the primary reason for not exercising this corresponds with the English National survey where lack of time was reported as the main reason and most frequently reported barrier for not taking part in exercise. Women typically find it difficult to find time to exercise due to the demands of a family, household jobs and work, they rarely have time for themselves. Making physical activity part of your daily routine encourages physical participation throughout the life course which enhances both mental and physical well being. Those who participate in physical activity throughout their life are more likely to continue this later on in life (Castillo et al, 2005; Berger et al, 2005).P2 explained that she had never participated in any sport throughout her life as it was just not something that she was interested in. P2 explained Because im just not a sporty type of person im more into delving in history, thats my past time, which does not require much physical exertion.. . As highlighted previously exercise does not need to include sport activities but moderate intensity exercise such as going for a brisk walk, gardening or housework are all types of exercise. P1 explained I am a crown green bowler, I was the president for the North Lancs and Fylde, I was the captain of the county When asked if this was something she had aways taken participated in. P1 explained that her husband who has only just recently passed away was also a bowler this influenced her to participate in this past time together. Castilo et al, (2005); Bruce, (2002) identified that having a social network, including living with a partner encouraged participation. Both participants retired at retirement age because it was the right time, so they could start to sit back and enjoy life. Both participants could afford to retire and decided it was ready to enjoy life. This supports the theory that a persons socio-economic position continues to influence on post-retirement activities (Scherger, Nazroo Higgs, 2010). P1 explainedWhen I turned 60 he said come on lets spend some time together, lifes too short and you dont realise, you think you have years so I said right I will do so I did.. P2 explained It was retirement age and I just felt it was the right time for me to retire, id had enough of working life I just wanted to get out the rat race of working, cause I wasnt really enjoying my job at that time. I can afford to retire so thats what I am going to do and enjoy life a bit.. People make preparations for retirement in different ways but research shows that very little preparations are made for health promoting physical activity (Chaudhury Shelton, 2010). When asked about how they would consider keeping fit and healthy in retirement, P1 explained; Never crossed my mind, I knew I would still always be doing, I knew I still did things. I bowl even more now, even in the winter I do indoor bowling P2 explained; No, I knew I would go for walks, I have a garden at home, I have a grandson who id be running round after Participants were asked about their knowledge of the government guidelines for physical activity. Research suggests that very few people know how much exercise is required. P1 and P2 responses correspond with this. P1 replied .Well I wouldnt know what it was but I would imagine there was one P2 replied .no Participation in activities appears to be based on enjoyment and social networks (Allender et al, 2006) I asked P2 the main reasons for participating in bowling now whether it was for the fitness or more the social aspects? P1 replied Both really, meeting people, social side of things Chaudhury Skelton (2010) stated that those not in work reported more physical activity at home or during leisure time compared to when in employment. When asked if they thought they were more active now or before they retired both participants said that they thought they were more active now P1 explained. yes I would say now. P2 explained . I would say I have more now. Berger et al, (2005) outlined that if a person is considerably active during employment that activity is not always replaced after retirement. The study found that people in work were more likely to meet the daily levels of exercise required than in retirement. Physical activity should be measured in other activities to ensure the recommended daily levels of activity are met. P2 added that she also does volunteer work at the local church. Van Willigen (2000) reported that older people who worked as a volunteer experienced positive changes in perceived health and experienced an increase in life satisfaction Both participants were aware of local activities aimed at the over 60s however, both stated that they perceived that took part in enough activities to meet the daily target of 30 minutes per day. People make preparations for retirement in different ways but research shows that very little preparations are made for health promoting physical activity (Chaudhury Shelton, 2010). Conclusion The aim of this study was to explore the behaviours and attitudes to physical activity around retirement age. My findings are show that there are clear variations of older adult physical activity from sport related activities to general leisure time. Studies have shown to examine formal activities but there is li

Great Expectations - Miss Havisham and Abel Magwitch are Living through

Great Expectations - Miss Havisham and Abel Magwitch are Living through Others In the work Great Expectations, by Charles Dickens, two characters live their lives through someone else. Miss Havisham and Abel Magwitch are both elderly and though someone else are able to obtain their goals that they are not able to complete themselves. Abel Magwitch lives his life through the protagonist Pip while Miss Havisham lives her life through the character Estella. Miss Havisham is an aged, mysterious lady who has much anger. This anger derives from her fiancÃÆ' ©e leaving the day of the wedding. This is the moment when she "stopped living" and decides to turn to a life of making other men miserable, just as her ex-fiancÃÆ' ©e had made her unhappy. However, Miss Havisham is too old to be able to hurt other men, so she decides to raise a child. Miss Havisham put Estella in such an environment where all Estella's compassionate feelings were erased and made very dull. Miss Havisham's influence also made Estella feel no remorse for those she hurt. Estella tells Miss Havisham, "If you had brought up your adopted daughter wholly in the dark confinement of these rooms, and had never let her know that there was such a thing as the daylightà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ and then, for a purpose, had wanted her to understand the daylight and know all about it, you would have been disappointed and angry?" (307). When Estella refers to the light and the dark she is referring to the light as love and compassion and the dark as the cruelty and the sense of a "stone heart." Estella, even as a young woman, cannot see or feel love because Miss Havisham has manipulated her to be just as she wanted, relentless and cold. Moreover, this personality allows Estella to ... .... When fighting with Miss Havisham, Estella says, "Only a little tired of myself." (305). It is later obvious that Estella is tired of not being happy and not being able to have any true feelings. Even though Estella and Pip were given everything they ever wanted, neither of them got fulfillment and true love from their guardians and both ended up being very melancholy. Dickens' point is to show the reader that people need more then just materialistic things to live and be happy; they need love and need to be able to feel compassion and love. This book can be considered a commentary on how the social system is misjudged because the people of the higher lifestyles are not necessarily happy even though they have most material things. This idea is important because it shows what is really needed to be happy and that is love and being able to be compassionate. Great Expectations - Miss Havisham and Abel Magwitch are Living through Great Expectations - Miss Havisham and Abel Magwitch are Living through Others In the work Great Expectations, by Charles Dickens, two characters live their lives through someone else. Miss Havisham and Abel Magwitch are both elderly and though someone else are able to obtain their goals that they are not able to complete themselves. Abel Magwitch lives his life through the protagonist Pip while Miss Havisham lives her life through the character Estella. Miss Havisham is an aged, mysterious lady who has much anger. This anger derives from her fiancÃÆ' ©e leaving the day of the wedding. This is the moment when she "stopped living" and decides to turn to a life of making other men miserable, just as her ex-fiancÃÆ' ©e had made her unhappy. However, Miss Havisham is too old to be able to hurt other men, so she decides to raise a child. Miss Havisham put Estella in such an environment where all Estella's compassionate feelings were erased and made very dull. Miss Havisham's influence also made Estella feel no remorse for those she hurt. Estella tells Miss Havisham, "If you had brought up your adopted daughter wholly in the dark confinement of these rooms, and had never let her know that there was such a thing as the daylightà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ and then, for a purpose, had wanted her to understand the daylight and know all about it, you would have been disappointed and angry?" (307). When Estella refers to the light and the dark she is referring to the light as love and compassion and the dark as the cruelty and the sense of a "stone heart." Estella, even as a young woman, cannot see or feel love because Miss Havisham has manipulated her to be just as she wanted, relentless and cold. Moreover, this personality allows Estella to ... .... When fighting with Miss Havisham, Estella says, "Only a little tired of myself." (305). It is later obvious that Estella is tired of not being happy and not being able to have any true feelings. Even though Estella and Pip were given everything they ever wanted, neither of them got fulfillment and true love from their guardians and both ended up being very melancholy. Dickens' point is to show the reader that people need more then just materialistic things to live and be happy; they need love and need to be able to feel compassion and love. This book can be considered a commentary on how the social system is misjudged because the people of the higher lifestyles are not necessarily happy even though they have most material things. This idea is important because it shows what is really needed to be happy and that is love and being able to be compassionate.

Kipling’s Notions of Race in Plain Tales from the Hills Essay -- Essay

Kipling’s Notions of Race in Plain Tales from the Hills "No other Western writer has ever known India as Kipling knew it" "nobody can teach you British India better than Rudyard Kipling" "There will always be plenty in Kipling that I will find difficult to forgive; but there is also enough truth in these stories to make them impossible to ignore". Salman Rushdie, "Kipling", from Imaginary Homelands, London: Granta Books, 1991, 74-80. It may be discerned from the quotes displayed above that Rushdie, a writer not renowned for suffering fools gladly, accords Kipling some epistemological superiority. Yet when examining images of race and blood in Kipling, the critic turns most frequently to Kim, and I contend that the short stories of Plain Tales from the Hills have been undeservedly neglected in favour of the longer novel. This brief essay examines issues of alterity, going native, empire and blood in Plain Tales from the Hills. The short story "Lispeth" is a particularly rich field from which to examine notions of alterity. Kipling’s narrator points out that "It takes a great deal of Christianity to wipe out uncivilized Eastern instincts"(4). It would be tempting, given the author’s reputation as a right-wing apologist for empire, to take this comment at face value. However, I believe that "Lispeth", as a text, is centrally critical of the British in India. The missionaries and the young Briton that Lispeth idolises are repeatedly shown as being racially arrogant and duplicitous. Witness the Chaplain’s wife’s description of Lispeth’s love as a "barbarous and indelicate folly", while maintaining that the deceitful "Englishman,†¦ was of a superior clay". Similarly, after the Chaplain’s wife says that "There is no law w... ...ived from England, he was uneasy about many of the central pillars of the British will to power in India, such as the police, government, and missionary church. Kipling is guilty of a middle-class tendency to romanticise private soldiers and racial stereotypes, such as Mulvaney, or the "woild" and "dissolute" Pathan. Yet he should not be dismissed as unworthy of further study, and the common critical tendency that consigns him, along with Edmund Burke, to the dustbin of right-wing writers is intellectually weak, unquestioning and manifestly uncritical Useful Links: Imperial Archive Website: http://www.qub.ac.uk/english/imperial/imperial.htm Kipling Society Webpage http://www.kipling.org.uk/ The Victorian Web: http://landow.stg.brown.edu/victorian/kipling/kiplingov.html Bibliography: Kipling, Rudyard. Plain Tales from the Hills. London: Penguin, 1994.

Psychology of Colour

Australian Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences, 5(12): 215-219, 2011 ISSN 1991-8178 Psychology of Colors and Architectural Facade and Interior Color Selection 1 1 Saeid Rahmatabadi, 2Dr. Siavash Teimouri and 3Dr. Feridoun Nahidi Azar 2 Department of Architecture, Islamic Azad University, Borujerd Branch, Borujerd, Iran. Department of Architecture Science And Research Branch Islamic Azad University Arak Branch, Arak, Iran. 3 Department of Architecture, Islamic Azad University, Shabestar Branch, Shabestar, Iran.Abstract: The first section of this paper discusses many effects that specific colors have on human minds and how they can be applied to interior architecture and design. The focus of this research Pertains specifically to restaurants. Most of this research comes from studies of warm and cool colors. Though they have opposite effects on human minds, combining them can create comfortable atmospheres and settings. The second section of this study is to research the human’ s color selection of the architectural facade.As a result, Ratio of the color selecting has the tendency when surrounding color’s tone and selecting one are same. Degree of consideration in surrounding and Degree of harmony after color selecting have the tendency which is relation in the Saturation. Difficulty in the color selecting is in the brightness. There seems to be a different tendency between light tone and any others in Degree of consideration in surrounding and Satisfaction after color selection. Key words: Color Selecting , Architectural Facade, human mind, warm and cool colors. INTRODUCTIONWhen designing a restaurant, there are many things to consider besides the food that is served there. Customers should be able to enjoy the atmosphere almost as much as they enjoy the food in order for the restaurant to be successful. The flow of the floor plan is important because when a place is too crowded or hard to maneuver, customers may not be as comfortable as they could be. In addition to the floor plan, the colors used on the interior affect the successfulness of a restaurant because they can directly influence a person’s desire to eat. Fig. 1: Warm and Cool Color.In general there are two ways to classify colors, warm and cool. Figure 1 gives a visual description of these two groups and physically separates the two. However, aside from the visual differences, there are psychological traits associated with each group as well. Warm colors are defined as being bold and energetic, and they have the tendency to advance in space. This characteristic has both positive and negative effects because while using them can make something stand out, too much of them can be overwhelming in a sense that it drowns out the other colors. Cool colors are soothing and have a tendency to recede.They are good to use with things that are meant to be located in the background and they can make the space that they are used in seem bigger than it really is. (Nichols on, 2002). Corresponding Author: Saeid Rahmatabadi, Department of Architecture, Islamic Azad University, Borujerd Branch, Borujerd, Iran. E-mail: [email  protected] com 215 Aust. J. Basic & Appl. Sci. , 5(12): 215-219, 2011 Fig. 2: Warm Color. Out of the seven hues that make up our visible range of color, red, orange, yellow, and some shades of green are considered to be the warm colors, as shown in Figure 2.The warm colors cause an increase in heart rate, respiration, and blood pressure because it has a stimulating effect on the nervous system. (Meola, 2005) Due to the size of its wavelength, Red is the most warm color and has the strongest effects on the human mind. It increases enthusiasm, encourages action, and is often associated with desire. The color orange shares some of the same characteristics as red but without the intensity. It stimulates activity, appetite, and encourages socialization. Yellow encourages communication, activates memory, instills optimism and influence s creative thoughts. Nicholson, 2002; Smith, 2008). While warm color can gain the attention of a human mind much quicker than a cool color, the characteristics of cool colors are just as important to consider. Fig. 3: Cool Color. The green, blue, indigo, and violet hues from our visible range of color are considered to be the cool colors, as shown in Figure 3. They have the opposite effect of warm colors and lower the heart rate, respiration, and blood pressure because they affect the parasympathetic branch of the nervous system. (Meola, 2005).The parasympathetic branch opposes physiological effects of the sympathetic nervous system by stimulating digestive secretions, slowing the heart, constricting the pupils, and dilates blood vessels. (â€Å"Parasympathetic†). Because green is often associated with nature, it has a soothing, peaceful, and calming effect on the human mind. 216 Aust. J. Basic & Appl. Sci. , 5(12): 215-219, 2011 It helps to get rid of nervousness and anxiety and brings on a sense of renewal and self-control. Blue and indigo also calm and sedate the mind, but they have a tendency to lower body temperature and reduce appetite.Violet is a balance between the warm nature of red and the cool nature of blue. It causes the mind to feel calm, yet uplifted and inspired through creativity at the same time. (Nicholson, 2002; Smith, 2008). There are a few more â€Å"colors† that don’t exactly fit in the categories of warm or cool. Brown gives people a sense of stability and orderliness. Gray can cause people to feel unsettled. The human mind associates white with cleanliness and mental clarity, while black brings a feeling of emptiness but represents potential and possibility. Nicholson, 2002; Smith, 2008) In combination with the warm and cool colors, these extras can be used to create a well balanced atmosphere that benefits multiple types of people at one time. The mental effects caused by color choices are important to consider wh en designing the interior of a restaurant. Since orange stimulates appetite, it would be a smart idea to some shade of it in the dining area of the restaurant. Brown could act as a good accent color because it would help to create an order and flow within the restaurant. In the kitchen area, yellow would be a smart hoice because there needs to be good communication, coming up with new recipes requires creativity, in any business there are times when optimism is needed, and there is so much going on that a good memory is beneficial. White accents would help because they make the kitchen space seem bigger and maintain and air of stability and cleanliness. In all the areas where high energy and activity is expected, warm colors are ideal to use. Red probably would invoke too much excitement, and things could easily get uncomfortable and out of control.On the other hand, in waiting and bathroom areas people should feel calm and relaxed. This is where the cool colors can be used to count er the effects of the warm colors used in the other areas. The use of different types of colors when going from room to room help in maintaining a flow because people have to transition from one frame of mind to another. If customers are comfortable and excited with anticipation to enjoy the food, then the restaurant will be successful. By choosing the right colors to paint the interior of a restaurant, it is possible to make them feel that way.Architectural Facade color selection: Background: In some areas , there is a guidance of architectural facade color to change the base-color that developers should followed. But the problem is that in the guidance still remained the lack of harmonious color called â€Å"color pollution†. In this section, the fact regarding what emotions a human has against the facade is strongly debatable. The purpose of this study is to research the human’s color selection of the architectural facade. Degree of Consideration in Surrounding (fig 4): †¢ Light tone has a tendency of consideration in favorite ?On the other hand, dark, pale, medium grayish and dark grayish tones have a tendency of consideration in surrounding. Fig. 4: Degree of consideration of Surrounding. Degree of Harmony After Color Selecting (fig 5): ? Light tones have more of a tendency of disharmony than dark, pale, medium grayish and dark grayish tones. 217 Aust. J. Basic & Appl. Sci. , 5(12): 215-219, 2011 Fig. 5: Degree of harmony after color selecting. Degree of According In Imagination Between Before Color Selecting and The After (fig 6): ?Light and moderate tones have a tendency of discord in imagination in the surrounding color’s tones. Fig. 6: Degree of according in imagination before color selecting and the after. Degree of Difficulty In Color Selecting (fig 7): †¢Dark and dark grayish tones have a tendency of easier color selecting than the rest of surrounding’s Tones. Fig. 7: Degree of difficulty in color selecting. De gree of Satisfaction After Color Selecting (fig 8): †¢ Light tones have more of a tendency of dissatisfaction after color selecting than deep, dark and dark grayish tones. Fig. 8: Degree of satisfaction after color selecting.RESULT AND DISCUSSION our visible range of color, red, orange, yellow, and some shades of green are considered to be the warm colors. The warm colors cause an increase in heart rate, respiration, and blood pressure because it has a 218 Aust. J. Basic & Appl. Sci. , 5(12): 215-219, 2011 stimulating effect on the nervous system. The green, blue, indigo, and violet hues from our visible range of color are considered to be the cool colors. They have the opposite effect of warm colors and lower the heart rate, respiration, and blood pressure because they affect the parasympathetic branch of the nervous system.As a result of the experiment, when color selecting of architectural facade takes into consideration surroundings, it is expected that chrome relates the e valuation of â€Å"Degree of consideration in surrounding† and â€Å"Degree of harmony after color selecting†, These seem to relate to the previous study to term of saturation being an important factor in the harmony or necessity of legal control and selecting low saturation color for the townscape where it has the composure or feels good sense. It is expected that brightness in each same saturation level relates to the evaluation of â€Å"Difficulty in the color selection†.We need to verify that result in the different experimental condition. It was shown that different tendency between light tone and any others in â€Å"Degree of consideration in surrounding† orâ€Å"Satisfaction after color selection†. REFERENCES Briana Allen, The Effects of Color on the Human Mind, Interior Architecture January 17, 2007. Don Kemp, D R Brasher Design Firm. Inagaki, 2000. A Study on Evaluation of Exterior Colors of Buildings with Effects of Colors of Foreground. Buildings, J. , Archi, Plann, 2000. Environ. Eng. Aij, No. 531: 9-15. Inagaki, 1993.An Experimental Study on Color Evaluation of Townscape Intending for Its Improvement. Archi, J. , Plann, 1993. Environ. Eng. Aij, No. 451: 29-39. Nicholson, Mary, 2002. â€Å"Lesson 8: Warm and Cool Colors. † Graphic Design. Bloomsburg University. 15 Jan. 2008. Meola, Kalyan, V. , 2005. â€Å"The Psychology of Color. † Hohonu. University of Hawaii. At Hilo Hawaii Community College. 17 Dec. 2007. Sakahara, 1999. An Color Choice on an Imagination of Townscape Part 1 ; A Research of a Color Choice with a Color Chart and a Relative Frequency on Top 20 Colors, Journal of the Color Science Association of Japan, 23(4): 225-231.Yosuke Yoshizawa, Haruo Hibino, Shinichi Koyama, 2008. Color Selection of Architectural Facade Taking into Consideration Surrounding Environment in Japan â€Å"Cool and Soothing Colors. † Chart. Lowes. . . . â€Å"Parasympathetic. † Def. 1,2. Dictionary. Co m. 16 Jan. 2008. . Smith, Kate, 2008. â€Å"Color: Meaning, Symbolism & Psychology. † Squidoo. Jan. 2008 . â€Å"Warm and Cozy Colors, 2008. † Chart. Lowes. . â€Å"Warn and Cool Colors, 2008. † Chart. 219