One of the study strengths is that the subject selection process is excellently and well-designed, where the subjects represent the study sample, in general. Notably, 222 participants in the research are aged between eighteen to sixty-nine (Kalkan and Bhat 21). The age bracket of the subjects exemplifies a critical sampling criterion that the researchers used. In other words, the selection formula indicates that online gaming, gambling, and Internet addiction is causing similar hazard among people across age. The weakness of the study is the fact that its sources are outdated. The information that the authors depend on to make their claim comes from articles and other similar researches that were conducted decades ago. For instance, despite the research being conducted in 2017, it uses sources that were created in 1998 to make a claim (Kalkan and Bhat 19). Significantly, there might be tremendous changes since 1998 regarding the impact of excessive Internet use. Connectedly, the dependability on sources that were written long ago remains the main weakness of the study.
The study can be improved by incorporating recent evidence and research on online gaming, gambling, and Internet addiction impacts. The audience can comprehend the existing impacts of these factors among the present population. Current materials regarding the topic can challenge the audience to formulate different questions and subsequently conduct further study on the topic. Thus, it is worth noting that current references remain the main way of improving the study.
What is strong about the study is that it develops authentic information that is supported with adequate evidence. The research is verifiable as it uses multiple shreds of evidence to prove specific points. The article depicts that the overuse of the Internet is costing relationships and leading to negligence of responsibilities using evidence from different researches written by different authors (Kalkan and Bhat 24). Moreover, the study is strong because it suggests and gives directions concerning future research. Understandably, the authors opine that there is a need for future examination to focus on other possible factors influencing life quality and depression among college students (Kalkan and Bhat 25). Therefore, the provision of adequate evidence and suggesting further research on the topic are the two main entities that make the study strong.
Work Cited
Kalkan, Bilal, and Christine Suniti Bhat. Relationships of Problematic Internet Use, Online Gaming, and Online Gambling with Depression and Quality of Life among College Students. International Journal of Contemporary Educational Research, vol. 7, no. 1, 2020, pp. 18-28.
Depression is a common and severe mental health condition that can significantly impact an individuals quality of life. Early diagnosis and treatment of depression can be vital for improving outcomes, but identifying and addressing the condition can be challenging for healthcare providers. There is a potential for machine learning algorithms and other artificially intelligent technologies to improve the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of depression. Additionally, these approaches can contribute to developing cognitive science practices in Malaysia.
Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Depression Detection and Treatment
Depression is a significant public health concern that can significantly affect an individuals quality of life and overall functioning. Machine learning and artificial intelligence can revolutionize how depression is detected, diagnosed, and treated, ultimately leading to improved outcomes and increased human potential. One way machine learning algorithms can be applied to improve human potential in the context of depression is by analyzing patterns in large datasets of patient data, including medical records and social media posts, to identify potential markers of depression (Ray, 2019). This approach can allow doctors to diagnose and treat depression more accurately and predict which individuals may be at risk of developing the condition (Alexopoulos, 2019). Although machine learning has potential in mental health treatment, it should be used with traditional methods like therapy and medication.
Another application of artificially intelligent technologies in the mental health field is the delivery of evidence-based interventions and therapies for depression, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Chatbots, in particular, have been identified as a promising tool for providing a convenient and accessible platform for delivering these interventions (Boucher et al., 2021). By increasing the reach and effectiveness of these treatments, chatbots and other digital interventions can potentially improve outcomes for individuals with depression (Joshi & Kanoongo, 2022). The development and implementation of these technologies may also lead to the increased availability and accessibility of mental health services in various settings, ultimately contributing to the advancement of cognitive science practices.
Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Cognitive Science Practices in Malaysia
The development of cognitive science practices in Malaysia is an essential aspect of improving the populations overall mental health and well-being. The use of machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence has the potential to enhance these practices through the increased availability and accessibility of mental health services. In terms of their potential to contribute to the development of cognitive science practices in Malaysia, these approaches have the potential to increase the availability and accessibility of mental health services in the country. For example, using chatbots and other digital interventions can help overcome barriers to care, such as geographic isolation and stigma, by providing a convenient and anonymous platform for accessing treatment (Khan et al., 2020). Using machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence can help to improve the accuracy and efficiency of mental health assessments and diagnoses, ultimately leading to more personalized and effective treatment plans for individuals seeking care.
In addition, using machine learning algorithms to analyze patient data may provide valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms and risk factors for depression, which could inform the development of more targeted and effective interventions in the future. By increasing the availability and accessibility of mental health services and providing valuable insights into the underlying mechanisms and risk factors for mental health conditions, these technologies can potentially improve the overall mental health and well-being of the population.
Conclusion
In conclusion, using machine learning algorithms and other artificially intelligent technologies can improve the detection, diagnosis, and treatment of depression, thereby improving human potential. These approaches can help to increase the accuracy of diagnosis, predict risk for the development of depression, and deliver effective interventions and therapies to individuals with the condition. By increasing the availability and accessibility of mental health services, these technologies may also contribute to the development of cognitive science practices in Malaysia. Further research is needed to determine these technologies most effective and appropriate applications in mental health.
Khan, N., Qureshi, M., Mustapha, I., Irum, S., & Arshad, R. (2020). A Systematic Literature Review Paper on Online Medical Mobile Applications in Malaysia. Learning & Technology Library (LearnTechLib). Web.
Clinical treatment of depression can be seriously optimized using AI technologies. One of the main features of AI is the ability to machine learning, that is, to use data from past experiences to learn and modify algorithms in the future (Greener et al., 2022). This is similar to more fine-tuning information processing mechanisms, including prediction methods.
Discussion
Applied to medicine, machine learning is proving to be a tool for continually improving inference, which is critical to the challenges of modern clinical science. For example, by offering AI big data on what signs have been reported in people with psychological depressive illnesses, such as loss of appetite, weight loss, and suicidal ideation, it will eventually be possible to create an effective, fact-based mechanism for diagnosing depression (Rajawat et al., 2021). Psychotherapists would be able to use such a tool for preventive, optimized, and unbiased diagnosis, which in turn would allow for more rapid treatment decisions.
From a broader perspective, AI with machine learning technologies could be incorporated into societys daily routine so as to automatically respond to users behavior, anonymously study their posts and publications, and track online activity and search queries. Based on such big data, this AI would be able to proactively diagnose any disruptive changes in a patient and notify them before they are assigned a psychotherapist, which would generally increase the availability and popularity of psychotherapeutic self-care. Indeed, this solution comes with many ethical risks and privacy concerns, but with proper management, it could prove to be an excellent tool (Guan, 2019). In addition, human enhancement can be implemented with AI in the treatment phases as well.
Conclusion
AI chatbots can maintain constant communication and become a valuable tool for electronic medical records, providing contact between the patient and the clinical care provider (Meng & Dai, 2021). For example, an individual with already diagnosed depression could use such chatbots to describe their moods and feelings, record observations and explore dynamics, and in turn, receive advice and recommendations from the treating physician directly.
References
Greener, J. G., Kandathil, S. M., Moffat, L., & Jones, D. T. (2022). A guide to machine learning for biologists. Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 23(1), 40-55. Web.
One of the study strengths is that the subject selection process is excellently and well-designed, where the subjects represent the study sample, in general. Notably, 222 participants in the research are aged between eighteen to sixty-nine (Kalkan and Bhat 21). The age bracket of the subjects exemplifies a critical sampling criterion that the researchers used. In other words, the selection formula indicates that online gaming, gambling, and Internet addiction is causing similar hazard among people across age. The weakness of the study is the fact that its sources are outdated. The information that the authors depend on to make their claim comes from articles and other similar researches that were conducted decades ago. For instance, despite the research being conducted in 2017, it uses sources that were created in 1998 to make a claim (Kalkan and Bhat 19). Significantly, there might be tremendous changes since 1998 regarding the impact of excessive Internet use. Connectedly, the dependability on sources that were written long ago remains the main weakness of the study.
The study can be improved by incorporating recent evidence and research on online gaming, gambling, and Internet addiction impacts. The audience can comprehend the existing impacts of these factors among the present population. Current materials regarding the topic can challenge the audience to formulate different questions and subsequently conduct further study on the topic. Thus, it is worth noting that current references remain the main way of improving the study.
What is strong about the study is that it develops authentic information that is supported with adequate evidence. The research is verifiable as it uses multiple shreds of evidence to prove specific points. The article depicts that the overuse of the Internet is costing relationships and leading to negligence of responsibilities using evidence from different researches written by different authors (Kalkan and Bhat 24). Moreover, the study is strong because it suggests and gives directions concerning future research. Understandably, the authors opine that there is a need for future examination to focus on other possible factors influencing life quality and depression among college students (Kalkan and Bhat 25). Therefore, the provision of adequate evidence and suggesting further research on the topic are the two main entities that make the study strong.
Work Cited
Kalkan, Bilal, and Christine Suniti Bhat. Relationships of Problematic Internet Use, Online Gaming, and Online Gambling with Depression and Quality of Life among College Students. International Journal of Contemporary Educational Research, vol. 7, no. 1, 2020, pp. 18-28.
This paper seeks to critique qualitative research concerning the perspective of women and health professionals towards the disclosure of symptoms of patients suffering from postnatal depression. This research article, which is referred to as the Disclosure of Symptoms of Postnatal Depression, the Perspectives of Health Professionals and Women: A Qualitative Study, was written by Carolyn Chew-Graham, Deborah Sharp, Elizabeth Chamberlain, Liz Folkes, and Katrina Turner. It was, then, published in a journal referred to as BMC Family Practice that was published in January 2009.
Analyzing Research Problem
The research problem, which has not been discussed under an isolated topic, is based on the reluctance of women suffering to disclose information concerning the symptoms of postnatal depression. The writers draw support from previous research studies suggesting that women portray reluctance while disclosing information that concerns their postnatal health status. The writers, therefore, acknowledge that the previous research creates a gap in this area of study since it does not proceed into identifying the solutions for this problem. This condition develops the need to conduct research aiming at identifying possible solutions to this critical problem that affects women in large numbers. They, further, support their research problem arguing that the general public should divert its attention from inquiring on why the health professional does not diagnose postnatal depression. Instead, they should investigate the environment that encourages women to disclose their health status concerning postnatal depression. This argument creates the need to research the ways of resonating with women in order to obtain helpful information that can be used during treatment. In perspective, therefore, the researchers have built a satisfactory rationale to conduct this research by articulating the current problem and creating the need for research.
Research Question Analysis
The research question, which aims at determining the views of health practitioners, women, and health visitors towards this disclosure, seeks to offer a methodological foundation for the entire research. However, the researchers have not indicated this research question clearly, but they have articulated the sentiment implying that the research question can only be obtained through implication. Failure to state and explain the research question distorts the principles of this research paper since it does not have a defined basis for the collection of data, analysis, and interpretation. Subsequent research on this topic should, therefore, correct this mistake by stating the research question in a clearer manner than this research.
Hypothesis Analysis
In light of hypothesizing the research question, the researchers suggest that health practitioners have the ability to create a conducive environment for the disclosure of information. However, they make the mere suggestion that is set on the balance of probabilities suggesting that the researchers should investigate that possibility. In perspective, this is a weak hypothesis that does not provide a clear position of the researcher regarding the research question. A research hypothesis should be stated clearly showing the preliminary expectation of the researcher towards the study in order to the lender it true or false.
Article Conclusions
Regarding the conclusions, the researchers conclude that the surest way of obtaining information from women suffering from postnatal depression can be achieved by understanding the environment that women give information. They conclude that women can disclose their status if the health professionals create a context of personal contact, confidentiality, and trust. The conclusion was realized through a robust research process involving interviews, data recording, analysis, and interpretation. This process is a credible way of making the conclusion although the components have not been discussed in a systematic manner that articulates each of them at a time.
Evaluation of Research Methods
Literature Analysis
The authors have provided sufficient literature reviewing the previous research that has been conducted in this field by other scholars. They have integrated the literature review and composed it in a manner that defines the research gap that has not been covered by the previous research. This enabled the authors to justify their research claiming to close that gap. In fact, the authors have presented an excellent literature review since they have not only analyzed the literature but also used it to create the foundation for their research.
Relevance of the Study
While focusing on the relevance of this study, the research is extremely significant to the current health issues alongside the past and future health issues. It presents issues of postnatal depression that has been experienced in the past and anticipated to be experienced in the future until the end of humanity. This is implied by the assurance of continuous childbirths and the consequent possibility of the mothers suffering from postnatal depression. Based on that argument, the research study is infinitely relevant calling for even more research studies.
Research Design
Regarding the research design, the researchers have adopted an experimental design since the study has a key ingredient and a clear target. It seeks to interview a sample population in order to determine the real position for the disclosure of information concerning postnatal depression. This implies that the research is purely experimental in terms of its methodological organization.
Analyzing Sample
The sample size of the research was not only enough but also satisfactory in terms of selected professionals including the health visitors, general practitioners, and the patients. This implies that the sample considered a variety of people who are relevant to the study leading to variation of opinions. The selection of the sample population was done by a random purposive method that aims at collecting the sample without biases. The collection purports that the sample should not be collected in order to attain some desired results suiting the opinions of the researchers. It, also, argues that the sample population should be collected in a manner that achieves a certainly desired purpose leading to directional results and conclusion at the end of the research. This method, therefore, ensures that the process is reliable, valid, and credible for the professionals who would need to use this information in the future. In perspective, the entire study is extremely practical since it integrates the realistic collection of data, sampling methods and embraces reliability. For example, the analysis is done parallel to data collection in order to allow for manipulation of the questionnaires incorporating the arising issues that emerge during data collection this implies that the researchers have adopted a liberal mind. The liberal approach, which embraces the willingness to compromise, shows that the researchers can change their methodology in order to suit the real condition that is found in the field. This liberal-minded approach portrays the practicality of the study towards attaining the right data for analysis.
Research Improvement
Although the study is satisfactory, it has a lot of space for improvement including an organized format and involvement of more parties in the sample. In this case, the research has involves those general practitioners, patients, and health visitors. However, the research shows that close relatives and friends play a crucial role in affecting the postnatal patients. This implies that the research should identify the people who are found in the intimate circles of these patients in order to develop a holistic study. Although this improvement is necessary, this research has been presented in an understandable manner for the relevant health professionals. However, the presentation should be improved by discussing each of the studys components under separate titles in order to ensure that all the aspects are straightforward.
Further Research
Further research is needed in this field in order to find out whether there are other relevant parties that can be involved to encourage the disclosure of information by postnatal patients. The research will help the health professionals to identify a broad field of players who can assist in solving this problem of reluctant disclosure. Moreover, it should continue and interrogate the identified parties in order to identify the relevant assistance that they can offer to the health professionals concerning the entire study. As a result, many parties will enable them to solve the entire problem in an easier way than they can achieve in the current situation.
Conclusion
In summary, the rationale of this research is extremely relevant to all parties that are concerned with childbirth due to the anticipated continuity of childbirth. The research has been conducted in a credible manner implying that the relevant parties can rely on these results for reference. It has substantially incorporated the aspects of the research study that ensure the applicability of the findings. On the contrary, it lacks a well-organized framework for the presentation of the study calling for improvement. In addition, the relevance of the matter that is considered in this research calls for subsequent research studies exhibiting robust methodologies.
Various people have different opinions when it comes to analyzing the quality of life in the 21st century. According to popular opinions, modern life is an easy affair that has a ton of conveniences for 21st century human beings. Modern people are able to cure most diseases and lead easier lives as compared to those individuals who lived in the past. Consequently, it is expected that the people who live in the modern times would have high levels of happiness.
However, the list of the leading problems for the 21st century humanity includes global warming, conflict, cancer, and depression. The inclusion of depression in this list negates the possibility of the 21st century man being the happiest among them all. Depression has become a pandemic in the modern times. In addition, depression is currently responsible for increased drug abuse, conflict, and suicide rates. Therefore, it is important to examine what has contributed to the high instances of depression in modern times.
Studies indicate that women are at a higher risk of developing depression than men are. For instance, statistics indicate that while about twenty-five percent of American women suffer from depression, only about twelve percent of men suffer from similar predicaments (Galambos, Leadbeater and Barker 16). The higher instances of depression among women can be explained using a number of reasons including the lifestyle of the modern woman and her role in the society. The modern woman is a career woman, a caregiver, a mother, a businesswoman, a wife, a housekeeper, and a political leader among others.
In the past, the role of a woman was restricted to domestic chores and procreation. The increased pressures that have been piled upon the modern woman might explain why depression is more prevalent among women. The increased dimensions of pressure among the modern women might also help to explain why the rest of the population is depressed. The modern life presents individuals with endless possibilities and this piles pressure on the people who are forced to make tough decisions about their lives. Moreover, modern women have to deal with other external pressures such as marital strain, hormonal changes, and hereditary deficiencies.
Another cause of depression in the modern society involves low self-esteem. In the modern society wealth, career success, and political power are often flaunted for all to see. There are displays of wealth in the media and all other possible avenues. The blatant displays of success and good fortune are likely to become a constant bother to individuals with low self-esteem.
In addition, the modern society is more materialistic than most of the others that existed in the past. For instance, a good number of depression cases involve individuals losing their jobs, houses, and companies (Brown and Harris 45). In the past, there were other social descriptors that were strong enough to rival wealth. People who do not believe that they are good enough to find their own success can easily fall into depression cycles.
The social fabric of the modern society has deteriorated and this has made personal struggles difficult to handle. In the past, the social fabric was intact and problems were handled in a more communal manner than they are dealt with today. Today, people find themselves deserted when they are dealing with difficult life events such as childhood traumas, divorces, and bereavement.
Lack of social and moral support whenever people are dealing with personal issues is a common cause of depression. In addition, there are various genetic predispositions that increase instances of depression among individuals. However, individuals who are predisposed to depression can avoid suffering from this condition by investing in social capital.
There is a complicated relationship between alcohol and substance abuse on one hand, and depression on the other. It is difficult to establish if alcohol is the source of depression or vice versa. For instance, people who take up social drinking might end up depressed while sufferers of depression are likely to turn to drugs and alcohol for comfort.
Nevertheless, alcohol is a known cause of depression especially in cases that involve genetic predispositions. On the other hand, people who seek to lessen their burdens by turning to alcohol and other drugs often end up with chronic cases of depression. Experts have described alcohol as a depressant which increases a persons chances of developing depression (Klein and Wender 18).
There are various causes of depression in the modern society. However, the general consensus is that depression is easily aggravated by a combination of factors. Women are at a higher risk of suffering from depression than men. The modern societys promotion of displays of affluence is also another factor that is likely to cause depression among individuals with low self-esteem.
The institution of the modern society also discourages individuals from sharing their problems with other members of their societies. The lack of social dependence among individuals is a known cause of depression in the modern society. Alcohol is another known cause of depression in the modern society. The future society will continue to deal with various scopes of depression. Meanwhile, it is up to the current society to institute measures to curb runaway depression.
Works Cited
Brown, George, and Tirril Harris. Social origins of depression, New York: Routledge, 2012. Print.
Galambos, Nancy, Bonnie Leadbeater, and Erin Barker. Gender differences in and risk
factors for depression in adolescence: A 4-year longitudinal study. International Journal of Behavioral Development 28.1 (2008): 16-25. Print.
Klein, Donald F., and Paul H. Wender. Understanding depression: A complete guide to
its diagnosis and treatment, Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2005. Print.
Commonly referred as CBT, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is a psychotherapeutic approach through which people change the way they think (cognitive) and what they do (behaviour) 1 . These changes come through changes resulting from setting goals and achieving them.
In treating depression, CBT has found wide application due to its satisfying positive results. Instead of dealing or addressing the causes of depression, CBT concerns itself with coming up with ways that would address depression here and now. It is only concerned with finding solutions to the present state of depression. CBT owes its roots to Aaron beck and Albert Ellis who designed it in late 1950s.
Nemade, Reiss, and Dombeck 2 note, Cognitive behavioural therapy is founded on the single basic idea that cognition, in the form of thoughts and preconceived judgments, precedes and determines peoples emotional responses. Principally, depression results from people viewing situations from a negative point of view and this disposition leads them to act in a particular manner hence their behaviour.
CBT Principles
CBT works on the principle that positive thoughts and behaviour heralds positive moods and this is something that can be learned; therefore, by learning to think and behave positively, someone may substitute negative thoughts with positive ones and do away with depression.
As aforementioned, depression is a product of maladaptive practices and dysfunctional thoughts arising from the way someone views a situation. These maladaptive thought patterns are also known as negative or maladaptive schemas, or core beliefs. Core beliefs are fundamental assumptions people have made that influence how they view the world and themselves. 2
As people think in a given way for prolonged time, these thoughts become habits and people stop questioning them as they become part of life. With time, people accept these core values as realities for they govern their life. Because these core behaviours are only perceptions, not necessarily reality, CBT seeks to fix them and change them from negative thoughts to positive thoughts.
By substituting these negative thoughts with positive ones, the core values changes and people start viewing themselves from another perspective. Feeding the mind with positive thoughts continuously makes these positive thoughts automatic and every time someone is in a given situation, these thought occur effortlessly thus enabling one to deal with life stresses and hassles effectively.
How it Works
CBT works in a simple manner by breaking down problems into small fragments and addressing them one at a time. A psychologist identifies a problem, that is, the depressing situation. From this situation, a psychologist monitors ones thoughts, emotions, feelings, and actions.
After this identification, the therapist helps the patient to come up with positive thoughts that would enable him/her view the depressing situation from a positive perspective. CBT utilises the principle that thoughts determine feelings and feelings determine actions 3 . CBT thus holds that, a situation evokes given thoughts, which in turn arouse given feelings leading to given actions.
Therefore, by correcting ones thoughts to look at every situation positively, one changes his/her feelings thus changing actions leading to changed behaviour. In other words, CBT focuses on changing the cognitive, which in turn changes the behaviour. As aforementioned, the process of dealing with depression using CBT is quite simple.
A depressed person meets with a therapist for some time according to agreed time usually weekly and the patient, with the help of the therapist breaks down a problem into small parts. After this, the therapist lists different positive thoughts, which the patient may utilize every time he/she is faced with the depressing situation. The patient embarks on dealing with one problem at a time and this involves keeping a dairy of what to do when, coupled with goal setting both short-term and long-term.
Through analysis of patients different thoughts to determine how they would affect him/her, the psychologist helps the patient to replace bad or negative results with good and positive ones. Given the fact that it is easier said than done, the psychologists assigns the patient some homework whereby he/she applies these thoughts in the depressing situation.
Another meeting ensues where the therapist evaluates how a patient is doing to see whether to add or remove some activities from the list. With time, depressed people realize the things that were depressing them were things of their own creation, and in some instances, they are not real. For instance, someone may think he/she would be happy only if everyone liked him or her and failure to this leads to depression.
However, by replacing these negative thoughts with positive thoughts as I am happy regardless of whether people like me or not, changes the situation. In this case, this situation was not realistic; it only existed in the mind of the individual.
In contemporary times, there are computerised CBT programs that enable depressed individuals deal with depression without the help of a therapist. However, this new form of CBT requires one to be responsible and accountable to his/her actions to ensure that the program runs smoothly and successfully.
CBT works as efficiently as antidepressants 4 . With the introduction of computerised CBT, which replaces a therapist, people can now access this psychotherapeutic intervention more easily at a cheaper price.
This is the preferred form of treatment instead of using antidepressants, which may have some side effects 5 . The basic principle of this treatment is that situations evoke thoughts, thoughts determine ones feelings, and feelings result into actions, which in turn define ones behaviour.
Therefore, by changing ones thoughts through systematic replacement of negative thoughts with positive thoughts changes ones feelings, feelings change actions and these actions define ones behaviour hence the name cognitive behavioural therapy. In most cases, people are depressed by things of their own creation and by changing their perception their behaviours.
Conclusion
CBT is a psychotherapeutic approach that seeks to change ones thinking patterns to conform them to the desired results. This approach works behind the principle that thoughts (cognition) determines ones feelings, which in turn directs ones behaviour. Depression is a product of unproductive, negative, and distorted thinking pattern where an individual builds his/her perceptions regarding a given situation.
With time, these perceptions turn into beliefs (core values) that govern ones perception of different situations. In most cases, depressing conditions are not real; they are only created perceptions that exist only in the world of the perceiver. CBT addresses this issue from the perspective that thoughts determine ones feelings.
Given that depressed people are only victims of negative thoughts, CBT seeks to replace these thoughts with new positive thoughts. As positive thoughts regarding the depressing situation take root in the depressed persons mind, depression fades away but it requires efforts either from a therapist or computer programs as guide on the way out.
Reference List
Butler AC, Chapman JE, Forman EM, Beck AT. The Empirical Status of Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy: A Review of Meta-Analyses. Clin Psychol Rev. 2006; 26(1): 1731.
In chapter sixteen of his book, Edward Robb Ellis explains American societys reactions to the Great Depression. Ellis exemplifies such responses by introducing disagreements over whether that period is equal to war or much worse than armed conflicts in terms of the magnitude of the destruction (228). Through wealthy individuals personal stories, the author demonstrates the economic downturns unique ability to place the prosperous and the poor in a similar psychological situation. Moreover, the reading provides a detailed account of both the causes and the consequences of the employment crisis. It covers prominent unemployment research conducted in Pennsylvania to challenge Henry Fords ideas about voluntary unemployment. The author pays close attention to the downturns socio-psychological effects. These include marital tensions linked with husbands inability to play their prescribed gender role as providers, the changing patterns of power distribution in the family, and the growing marriage age. The countrys altering physical appearance, the conflict over the taxation of religious entities, and the erosion of freedom are also covered. This paper will analyze the readings significance to the countrys history and todays life.
Relevance to American History
Understanding how economic pressures change society is crucially important when studying American history. The assigned reading captures the reactions and challenges of diverse social groups by depicting both kitchen-sink and philosophical extensions of the downturn, which maximizes its value in explaining the deep roots of the times tendencies. Unlike many authors, Ellis aims to uncover the many faces of the Great Depression, thus promoting a holistic understanding of its impact and how the challenges varied depending on a persons social class (230). The information this reading provides is not necessarily hard to find in modern U.S. history classes or available only to a few individuals. Nevertheless, the way the facts are grouped and delivered could be conducive to students ability to develop a clearer picture of the catastrophic downturns influences on the nations and the poor populations mentalities.
The topic is crucial to American history since the reactions to the Great Depression shed light on the eras social trends and the unjustly neglected psychological implications. Instead of discussing the downturn only at the countrys level, for instance, emphasizing financial statistics and policymakers economic restoration proposals, Ellis covers the everyday meanings of the Great Depression (230). For non-wealthy families, such meanings varied from the inability to afford shoes to the psychological castration of low-income men and the destruction of the pillars of manhood, resulting in womens disrespect for husbands (Ellis 234). In stark contrast with survival-based everyday problems, there were large-scale management and strategic issues, including the impending anti-free-enterprise moods among the wealthy (Ellis 229). Despite some remaining questions, such as how the crisis altered the balance of power nationally, the reading highlights the downturns influences on dissimilar parts of American society, thus increasing modern Americans historical literacy.
Relation to Modern Life
Regarding relevance, one important thing the reading explains about the U.S. today is the unproductiveness of the blame-shifting culture in resolving major crises that require concerted efforts. Ellis expands on authoritative business owners and scientists anti-national rhetorics (250). He mentions Fords and Babsons ideas of the poverty mentality that view economic downturns as a just punishment for expecting too much from more resourceful classes (Ellis 250). Decades have passed, but the culture of blame deflection continues to exist, representing Americas unending challenges as a socially and ethnically heterogeneous country. As per current qualitative research, responses to COVID-19 in the U.S. are influenced by anti-Asian xenophobia and anti-government theories to present the pandemic as a pretext for limiting individual freedom (Hardy et al. 1). At the same time, the indispensable role of government in battling crises is cited as the key lesson of the Great Depression that should not be ignored in todays realia (Selgin 5). Similar to the blame game between the authorities, employers, and workers during the Great Depression, todays situation with battling COVID-19 is hindered by the lack of a holistic approach to effective role distribution and cooperation.
Conclusion/Opinion
By reviewing large-scale changes related to the Great Depression, the assigned chapter provides valuable insights into the U.S. mentality, internal conflicts, and group dynamics, some of which are applicable to modern-day national crises. Regarding personal opinions and impressions, the work is good since it reviews the phenomenon comprehensively and touches upon diverse spheres of life. At the same time, the reading deserves attention since it offers brief subchapters with their individual themes instead of axiomatic statements, which makes it a thought-provoking piece.
Works Cited
Ellis, Edward Robb. What the Depression Did to People. A Nation in Torment: The Great American Depression 1929-1939, Kodansha International, 1970, pp. 228-254.
Hardy, Lisa, et al. Who Is to Blame for COVID-19? Examining Politicized Fear and Health Behavior through a Mixed Methods Study in the United States. PloS One, vol. 16, no. 9, 2021, pp. 1-23, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0256136.
Selgin, George. The Fiscal and Monetary Response to COVID-19: What the Great Depression Has and Hasnt Taught Us. Economic Affairs, vol. 41, no. 1, 2021, pp. 3-20. doi:10.1111/ecaf.12443.
The Great Depression was one of the most tragic tales in the history of the USA. The economy plummeted, many individuals lost their jobs and their livelihoods and caused massive suffering. The crisis hit the black communities the most as they were known for poverty even before the Depression. The short story titled A Worn Path, written by Eudora Welty, explores the life Phoenix Jackson and her interactions with various members of white communities as she takes a long walk along the Natchez Trace in order to help her grandson. The portrayal of the main heroine of the story fluctuates from one scene to another, changing from serene and peaceful during the hike through the woods to polite and guarded when meeting the hunter, and, finally, to humble and self-sacrificing during her conversation with the nurses.
The Portrayal of Phoenix Jackson At the Beginning of the Story
A Worn Path starts with describing Phoenix Jackson on her way through the pine forest. The first few paragraphs of the story are dedicated specifically to painting the image of the old Afro-American woman in the mind of the reader by providing details on her appearance, closing, her manners of speech, and her interactions with the surrounding environment (Welty 1). Although Phoenix struggles with overcoming some of the obstacles in her path, she does not seem out of place in the forest.
She recites a proverb to ward off animals, which goes as follows: Out of my way, all you foxes, owls, beetles, jack rabbits, coons and wild animals!& Keep out from under these feet, little bob-whites& Keep the big wild hogs out of my path. Dont let none of those come running my direction. I got a long way (Welty 2). The woman shows to be at peace with her own loneliness, and fond of the forest she is tracking through, indicating that she was familiar with these parts. However, the purposes of the journey remain unclear to the audience at this stage.
The Portrayal of Phoenix Jackson In the Middle of the Story
Approaching the middle of the tale, Phoenix Jackson encounters a hunter with a dog. The two exchange a conversation, with the woman being polite but very guarded around the young man. The hunter, while benevolent towards the lady, is also dismissive of her motives to travel across the forest and along the road all along, insisting that she should have stayed at home (Welty 3). He also thinks her to be weak and scared when he fires the gun to scare off a big stray dog.
Based on their conversation, the audiences perception of Phoenix is transformed and given context. Considering the hints in their conversation, it is possible to guess that she used to be a slave, thus familiar with guns shooting at her ear. The woman is also portrayed as proud and stubborn because, at this point in the story, the hunters suggestions make sense. The purpose of the journey is not revealed at the moment.
Story Final
The final fluctuation in the portrayal of Phoenix Jackson occurs at the end of the story when her motives for undertaking this perilous journey are finally explained. She is presented in a noble, self-sacrificing light, as the audience is told that she traveled so far to get medicine for her sick grandson, who swallowed lye (Welty 4). It is also revealed that the woman has memory loss, which makes the magnitude of her deed even greater.
Conclusions
The portrayal of Phoenix Jackson in A Worn Path gradually develops the character in the eyes of the reader, portraying her through interactions with nature and others. Her history and personal qualities are not spelled out, instead shown through direct words and actions. The story itself is filled with a disquieting atmosphere of desperation and depression, which characterizes the chosen historical time period.
Work Cited
Welty, Eudora. A Worn Path. Creative Education, 1997.
A patient is a 48-year old, married, employed American female who currently lives at home with her husband and who has a history of depression, and drug dependence. The patient was brought in by her husband who was concerned with his wifes increased feeling of anxiety combined with apathy to external stimulus. The patient herself states that she has an overwhelming feeling of despair because of her fathers death. She also states, I do not feel support and sympathy on the part of her family. I am alone in front of the problem . She currently expresses the need to receive support and assistance and help her to get rid of drug dependency . The patient, however, does not express active suicidal intent.
Evaluation and Summary
The patients confessed concerning her current mood, I feel at a loss because nothing brings me pleasure and joy. I am in despair because neither my husband nor my son provides me with sufficient support. I feel horrible because the only joy I found is drug use that helps me just forget about the problems. The effect was blunted, which is congruent with the expressed mood because her answers were not saturated with splashes of emotions.
The patient was first hospitalized two years ago, right after her fathers death, and diagnoses with a drug overdose. The patient underwent three months of treatment for drug abuse. The patient took a behavioral treatment, which involved counseling both individual and in groups combined with medications (buprenorphine). The treatment was at first voluntary, but later the patient expressed no desire to take one more course. However, the patient took the second course in 3 months, upon her husbands request because there were significant complications in terms of normal physical and behavioral functioning.
Despite the two sessions conducted, the patient is still dependent on drugs. She can take one dose of the drug three or four times a day, despite her husbands prohibitions and disapprovals. She prefers taking morphine, which was initially taken to relieve headaches. Hence, the patient has started taking morphine since her fathers death and never given it up to the current moment despite treatment sessions. During the first session, the patient states that she was clean for half a year after the session. The second session, however, was not as effective as the first one and the patients restarted taking morphine. She felt even worse because the feeling of despair deepened and now she feels apathy to the surrounding people.
There is also evidence of taking medical treatment for depression. The patient took antidepressants and underwent psychotherapy. However, the course has worsened the situation because the patient became more dependent on drugs.
Developmental History
The patient was born to a traditional American family in San Francisco. She was born on time and the delivery was normal. The medical report reveals that her mothers pregnancy was normal. Before the patient lost her father, she never felt depressed. Her family was happy enough and she felt especially strong support from her father. She states that her father was the main person who was able to give the right pieces of advice and she was not afraid of making the wrong decision. The patients parents lived happily and in accord with each other. At the age of 29, she married her husband and two years later, she gave birth to their son.
Being in a marriage with his husband, the patient often referred to her fathers advice and support, if there were some family problems. Professional choices were also considered with her father, but not with her husband. So, she decided to become a social worker just because her father believed it was the best decision she would make, but not because this was what she wanted. The patient confesses that she dreamt of the profession of a lawyer. The decisions about her sons future education and profession, asset purchases, and other minor problems were always discussed with her father. She seems to be reluctant to talk about the decision made by her husband.
Currently, the patient is under psychiatric counseling because she in urgent need of constant support. The loss of her father made her irresponsible; the client considers it impossible to make decisions independently as she always needs someone to approve of her actions. The patient is now not able to act without assistance and, therefore, the further intervention of the counselor is necessary. The actions should be based on several sessions (approximately 1 session per week) where a counselor and a patient can discuss the issues of the greatest concern.
The patient does not have a detailed religious history because she rarely attends church and she does not attain much importance to religion. Nevertheless, family traditions play an important role in her life. Because the patient is American, there were no significant cultural and ethnic constraints about the treatment methods because she belongs to the majority ethnic group.