The selected article for week 4 analysis was about improving the workplace or organizational culture by servicing the needs of both the new and old employees. The article by Falkenrath (2010) discussed important issues that need to be factored by all human resource units to ensure productive and long-lasting manpower.
In its introductory bit, the author stressed that it is wrong for any company to come up with a similar set of needs and wants for motivating both the new and older generation employees. This is supported by the fact that the two sets of employees have varying needs and wants which ought to be captured separately.
For instance, while new employees may find it appealing to work longer hours on higher salaries, older employees who have embraced a similar trend in their youthful state would prefer non-monetary rewards to appreciate their services at the workplaces (Stark, 2010).
While giving the example of an aging and special group of the American population born in the period succeeding the World War II (Baby Boomers) which had witnessed an escalating reduction from workplaces, the article noted that there was need for the current management to understand the demographic factors such as age which were the root causes to the aging workers mass exodus from workplaces.
This is gotten from the notion that this part of the aging workforce is still needed to reinforce the newly recruited workforce in effecting increasing business tasks. The article went ahead to provide a summary of the following as some of the factors that can be embraced in motivating an aging workforce.
To start with, the article acknowledged the importance of adopting and embracing mentoring programs. These programs provide personal achievement to the mentor by allowing them to pass the acquired knowledge downstream to the younger workforce. Alternatively, these programs allow the learners to share their new skills with the older generation thus enhancing the sharing of knowledge between the old and new generational workforce.
Stark (2010) revisited that praising and recognizing good behaviors can also act as a motivating factor for the older generation. In addition, I also learned that retraining older workers in applications that keep on changing such as technological applications help in motivating and widening their knowledge base.
This finding was supported in Starks (2010) article when he referred to it as the creation of excitement at workplaces. To him, providing training and getting workers involved in determining the company vision and set goals were key motivators.
Tellingly, allowing workers to balance and properly utilize the time spent at work and attending to other aspects of life (commonly called work-life balance) is a critical consideration for employees success (Stark, 2010). According to Landy and Conte (2009), this has the cost of improving their physical health and well-being (p.365).
Towards its end, the article stressed on the need of respecting the older employees by observing actions such as assigning them special projects to make meaningful contributions and not comparing their work habits with those of the energetic young force (Falkenrath, 2010).
Another key point stressed in motivating either aging or new generational employees is the adherence to the Equal Pay Act of 1963 in the USA. This act calls on employers to offer equal wages to men and women working in the same job group (McKay, 2012). It was also a learning point when the article went ahead to clarify that unequal pay was justified in instances where the job in question offers unrelated or unequal skill, effort, working conditions and responsibilities matrix (McKay, 2012).
References
Falkenrath, B. (2010). Workplace culture: Motivating an aging workforce. Web.
Landy, F.J. & Conte, J.M. (2009). Work in the 21st Century: An introduction to industrial and organizational psychology. John Wiley & Sons: USA.
McKay, D.R. (2012). Equal pay for equal work: The Equal Pay Act of 1963. Web.
Stark, P.B. (2010). What matters most to employees? Web.
The modern marketing scene has been bombarded by a multiplicity of advertisements that ostensibly claim to market health products aimed at assisting the youth achieve trendy shapes and looks that are more mystical than real. Young men, in particular, have been brainwashed by some TV commercials to a point where they make it routine to take tens of Red Bull, Staminade, Powerade or Horlicks, thinking that they will not only gain that extra muscle in their biceps, but will look more invigorated and sharp (Chitra, 2009).
But while the youth drinks to their fulfillment, manufacturing companies do little to tell the youth that more is needed in the pursuit of the ideal body shape than mere sports drinks. The lack of adequate information points to a possible lapse in ethical marketing, and has led to frustration among the youth, who soon realize that attaining the shape they so much idolize boarders on the impossible.
While it may be legal for a company to produce and market sports drinks to the youth, there exists divided perceptions about whether such an endeavor is ethical. In ethical marketing, products should not only be safe and fit for proposed use, but the sponsors must never employ deceptive or misleading advertising methodologies (Mules, 2010).
The major bone of contention is that while the youth have every right to access objective information about these products, and indeed comprise a major target market, they lack knowledge as consumers, and can be more easily misled and stage-managed by the marketing techniques employed by some companies.
In marketing health drinks, sponsoring companies aim to influence brand awareness, inclination and faithfulness, and eventually the purchasing choices the youth make now and in the future (Mules, 2010). The products are promoted using a variety of channels such as TV, event sponsorship, web marketing, and use of famous celebrities. The major objective of these promotions is clear to reach a broader youth audience.
The companies, however, fail to relay information that some health drinks have high concentrations of fat and sugar, and can easily lead to obesity. Whats more, while the sports drinks are marketed as a healthy option capable of promoting sporting performance, no information is availed as to whether a typical youth who exercises modestly really need to use these drinks (Mules, 2010).
Indeed, some analysts argue that sports drinks should only be intended for elite athletes, but for non-athletes, they are purely a source of harmful products such as excess sugar, salt, and caffeine.
The World Health Organization believes that a major contributing factor of obesity &is the high degree of marketing of energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods and beverages which target the youth (Mules, 2010, p. 4).
As such, companies promoting health drinks must exercise ethical marketing by availing information that will enable the youth make wise choices on their purchasing and consumption behavior. While promoting the products using masculine and well-shaped bodies is largely viewed as legal, care must always be taken not to mislead the youth about the nutritional benefits of a particular health drink.
Reference List
Chitra, C. (2009). The health-drink war. Web.
Mules, R. (2010). The ethics of marketing sports drinks to a youth market. BusiDate, 18(3), 2-5. Retrieved from Academic Source Premier Database.
Children are an important part of life and an integral asset to society. Healthy development and growth are that which is responsible for the continued development of human civilization. By encouraging and securing Childrens safe upbringing, people can establish a society that will be carried on into the future. Despite the need to protect and raise children, many dangers exist that can put the mental and physical health of a child at risk. Such risks can come from a variety of sources, including society itself, nature, and accidents. One of the most reprehensible and universally condemned ways to harm a child is sexual exploitation and sex trafficking. The practice is universally outlawed, as it has a severe effect on a childs emotional, psychological, and physical development. This essay attempts to look at the issue of child sex trafficking and provide a better understanding of its harms. First, the meaning of the term will be explained, along with an overview of all the affected groups of individuals. The effects of this practice will also be examined, including the range of consequences, physical, social, and mental. Lastly, preferred solutions to the issue and approaches to addressing sex trafficking will be discussed. The overall goal of this paper.
What is Sex Trafficking and Who is Affected
Sex trafficking is a part of the larger process of human trafficking, which is defined by recruitment and transportation of people through means of force, coercion, deception, or other methods (What is Human Trafficking? n.d). The purposes of this transportation can vary, ranging from sexual exploitation, labor, slavery, or organ harvesting (What is Human Trafficking? n.d). Many victims of trafficking have come into harms way on accident or in desperation, which is used by malicious entities for profit and personal gain. The business of human trafficking is largely an underground activity, with trafficking rings being kept secret. Many such organizations operate on a worldwide basis, having their operation in different countries and transferring people. The people that are trafficked to engage in sexual activities against their will are victims of sex trafficking. This process can be especially harmful when a child is involved in the process. Generally, it is accepted that children are prohibited from engaging in sexual acts and should be protected accordingly. Violating that law constitutes abuse and rape, and can be especially dangerous to younger children.
All groups of children are in danger of sex trafficking, but those living in particular conditions are under more risk than others. In most cases, children of middle-income families are not under a considerable threat of being affected, with those with struggling families being affected the most (N., n.d). Those children that live in poor, underdeveloped countries, or under conditions of poverty can be more easily coerced into human trafficking, and fewer efforts can be dispatched for their recovery, which improves the traffickers chances of success (N., n.d). War and natural disasters are also a factor, as they can bring otherwise stable communities into danger. Children can be kept in both through the use of force and less direct methods, such as intimidation, threats, gaslighting, shaming, and monetary dependence (Human Trafficking: The Problem). The kids are separated from their communities, displaced, and used for horrific purposes that are entirely detrimental to their growth.
The Effects
The effects of sex trafficking can be varied in their lasting impact and severity, which, however, does not excuse the reprehensibility of the act itself. The most apparent consequences are physical, which can be evident from a glance and recorded by a physician (Bocinski, n. d.). Such effects include scars and bruises, broken skin tissue, or other signs of physical violence, as well as injuries specific to the nature of sex trafficking. Such injuries are of private qualities and can affect a persons future reproductive function and health. The spread of STIs and other diseases spread through blood is also a significant part of the process, as children are potentially exposed to more than one sexual partner.
In terms of psychological and emotional damage, the issue of sex trafficking is a bit less apparent but just as severe. Many psychological issues stem from suffering abuse at a young age, which is especially true in cases of sexual violence and rape. Anxiety and fear of other people, involuntary response to various stimuli, and other kinds of emotional trauma are prevalent (Kaylor, 2015). An inability to trust other people, especially those older than oneself may also be exhibited, which will complicate the persons life in the world. Emotional detachment or dissociation can also occur, created as a way to protect the childs mind from trauma. This consequence can prevent a child from seeking proper therapy and emotionally connecting with people on a deeper level. Issues of self-worth, suicidal ideations, and self-harm induced by shame can also plague a childs mind.
Victims of child sexual exploitation further experience other consequences that affect their lives on a long-term scale. The economic stability and the futures of trafficked children are especially at risk, as they experience the consequences of their painful past. An absence of work experience that is applicable in society or officially recorded makes an opportunity to find stable and secure employment almost impossible (Bocinski, n. d.). A lack of proper savings or an ability to save money puts such children into poverty that is difficult to get out of. The efforts of criminalizing sex trafficking also hinder the victims ability to get back to leading proper lives and put them in danger of incarceration (Bocinski, n.d). Social stigma against victims of child sex trafficking is also a big part of the problem, as it can blame participating in sexual acts on children, instead of their abusers.
Possible Solutions and Approaches
There are several potential ways to counteract the sex trafficking of children, many of them needing to be understood and practiced by children to be effective. The first step is being educated and having the necessary knowledge about the process of sex trafficking (Preventing Child Sex Trafficking, n. d.). That can allow individuals to spot victims and potentially rescue them from the trafficking stream. The second step includes being aware of potential red flags of a person being a subject to sex trafficking (Preventing Child Sex Trafficking, n. d.). These can include absences from school, possession of multiple cellphones, malnourishment, and signs of physical abuse. Other signs can also include indicators of drug addiction and the presence of an older person that exhibits abusive behavior. The third step for recognizing and counteracting sex trafficking is taking possible signs seriously and reporting potential cases to the authorities. Raising general awareness in the local community and promoting education about sex trafficking can also safeguard more individuals and potentially save already affected victims (Preventing Child Sex Trafficking, n. d.). The last step of the plan is taking active involvement, which includes being engaged with potential victims and being there to support their well-being. This includes taking into account the living situation and paying close attention to people that are close to them, which can help one to intervene in cases of child sex trafficking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the topic of sex trafficking warrants serious attention from both the authorities and regular people. As an issue that can negatively affect societys most vulnerable demographic, the issue of sex trafficking needs to be opposed heavily. While many of the victims come from bad circumstances or have family situations that make them more susceptible to outside manipulation, the issue can affect any child, and people need to be aware of that. Leading to a variety of consequences, sex trafficking can impede a childs ability to live a normal life, communicate, and endanger their lives in extreme cases. Long-lasting injuries and STIs can be impossible to get rid of even in later life, which is especially dangerous. The greater community needs to recognize the vulnerability of children and work on raising awareness of the issue and recognizing the possible signs of danger. By educating oneself self on the topic, people can be able to spot signs of sex trafficking, interventing, and protect vulnerable individuals from further harm. Similar practices should be adopted by every person in society, which can help to prevent and stop as many cases of child trafficking as possible.
References
Bocinski, S. G. (n.d.). The Economic Drivers and Consequences of Sex Trafficking in the United States. IWPR 2020. Web.
Home is where people gather together to share their emotional state, have dinner with a family, and, simply, it is a place where anybody feels safe and happy. The problem is that not many are lucky to have a home where they can feel protected. In a time when innovational developments have reached their historical peak, and different private and public companies are building more apartment houses, there is a growing number of homeless youths each year in the world, as well as in Colorado (Metro Denver Homeless Initiative, 2020). Homeless youth are in danger of not having sufficient sanctuary and different essentialities for life. In some cases, there are youngsters who are forced to leave their homes, and there are those who have unstable emotional states or experience other different issues in their lives. They are also more likely to participate in destructive practices while away from a perpetual home.
Meta Description
The runaway youth regularly avoid the safe house framework for areas or zones that are not effectively open to shield laborers and other people who check the destitute and wanderers. Approximating the number of runaway adolescents is additionally muddled by the absence of a normalized technique for checking the populace and the conflicting meanings of being homeless (Fernandes-Alcantara, 2018). Further, a few examinations look at vagrancy dependent on the age specifics, making it harder to collect information.
Contrasts in approach for gathering information on destitute populaces may likewise impact how the qualities of the runaway and homeless adolescents are accounted for. A few examinations estimate their number based on reports identifying whether a person encountered homelessness at a given point, for example, on a specific day (Metro Denver Homeless Initiative, 2020). According to the scientists reviewing the attributes of rampant adolescence, these examinations seem, by all accounts, to be one-sided toward depicting people who experience longer times of vagrancy (Fernandes-Alcantara, 2018). The sample area may likewise distort the attributes of the given group (Fernandes-Alcantara, 2018). As it can be seen, it is challenging to gather relevant and timely data about the whereabouts of teenagers in need.
Metadata
Facts about Homeless Youth in Denver
The exact number of destitute and runaway people who are underage is obscure because of the individuality of each case, the frequent move of this group from one place to another, and the overlap among the public. The youth who come into contact with evaluation takers may likewise be hesitant to report that they have ventured out from home or are destitute (Metro Denver Homeless Initiative, 2020). As per the governmentally financed study, more than 4 million people aged 13 to 25 encountered a type of vagrancy over a year time frame (Fernandes-Alcantara, 2018). Indeed, the main source of vagrancy in Denver as well as throughout the nation is the absence of housing for a reasonable price (Metro Denver Homeless Initiative, 2020). An expanded number of families are troubled by lodging costs, even in those territories that were once viewed as moderate.
Furthermore, the effects of COVID-19 on the financial situation in the nearby areas, state, and public economies are destructive, and people will likely suffer from their home loans and leases in the near future. Therefore, in the current situation, adolescents need our help even more. A nonprofit organization oriented toward teenagers is one of the few places where the runaway youth of Colorado may feel safe.
The report was written by the experts of the National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center (NCVC). Dean G. Kilpatrick, Benjamin E. Saunders, and Daniel W. Smith discuss youth victimization and claim that the frequency of violence and physical abuse towards adolescents is immensely high in the U.S. The authors note that victimization can be represented by witnessing violent behavior when young people watch someone physically or sexually assaulted.
The report is based on the National Survey of Adolescents (NSA) conducted in 1995, which suggests that victimization may result in a wide range of psychological disorders such as PTSD, substance abuse problems, and delinquency (Kilpatrick et al., 2003). The NSA examined the population of 12-17 years of age from English or Spanish-speaking households. The survey aimed to investigate the frequency and tendency for adolescent non-experimental alcohol use and abuse of prescription medicine, marijuana, and hard drugs.
The report includes the classification and characteristics of violent behavior. The authors divide violence into four types: physical assault, sexual abuse, punishment, and witnessing violent actions. According to the data of the U.S. Census included in the report, nearly half of non-White American adolescents (Black, Hispanic, or Native) were once witnesses of violence. The experts concluded that three in four cases of reported sexual assaults were committed by an acquaintance, friend, or a relative of the victim. The typical location of the attack was the victims home or neighborhood area, while 15 percent of interviewees reported school as a place of assault.
Potential violence was another characteristic mentioned in the report, as one in four victims indicated their fear of death or injury during the assault. The cases were reported to the police (13%), child protection agencies (5.8%), and school authorities (5%). As per the physical assault, six in ten cases of abuse were initiated by an acquaintance or family member, with most events happening within the neighborhood of the victim. Overall, the researchers conclude that most violent assaults were performed by a person the victim knew, but further longitudinal research might be needed to define the consequences of youth victimization.
The report has its strengths and weaknesses due to the complex nature of the topic. The principal strength is that the authors applied the data from the NSA, which might be considered a credible source of evidence. The survey involved an explanatory model and tested it using nationally representative samples. Moreover, the authors applied the quantitative data obtained from the NSA, which explicitly demonstrates the demographics of the victims and offenders, as well as the typical locations where sexual and physical assaults took place. Such findings are valuable for social workers and policymakers as they define the root of the problem.
The main weakness lies in the fact that the survey used in the report was performed in 1995, so the results might be outdated and additional research may be needed to develop a violence protection policy. Finally, the report provides nationwide statistics, but the cases of youth victimization may vary from state to state, so the document might be improved by including a fact sheet for each state.
All in all, I agree with the findings of the report, as the authors employed factual information to support their statements and conclusions. The conclusion that sexual and physical assaults are mostly committed by a person known to the victim rather than a stranger matches the findings of other researchers, so I find them convincing. For instance, Espelage et al. (2016) described a middle-school sexual perpetrator as a same-age peer or a friend of the victim. Additionally, Jones et al. (2018) suggested that physical assaults in U.S. schools result from bias-based harassment by peers and classmates. Thus, the statistics analyzed in the report reflect the current situation with youth victimization and might be applied to develop a relevant national program or policy for the prevention of violence.
Youthtopias refers to both customary and non customary forums such as the leadership excellence and youth radio in Oakland, Youth speaks in San Francisco, and MEJODA in Colombia, South America among others. These forums enable the youths to obtain knowledge from each other and then use that knowledge to develop new innovative ideas that are motivated by youthful ambitions. These new ideas should be artistic inventions that symbolize an assessment of the subjugation, an aspiration for societal impartially, and consequently set the basis for the societys empowerment and the transformation (Akon, Cammarota, and Ginwright, 2008, p. 109). The role of the youth topic is to bring sanity to the marginalized or minority groups especially the youth from poor urban communities suffering from social disorganization. Indeed, it influences the youth to consciously understand and appreciate their social challenges and establish ways to enhance social equity. Some of the programs used in this research are Youth Participatory Action Research (YPAR), normally used to help the youth understand their environments so as to come up with means of improving it and in the process create equality; and Critical Race Theory (CRT) which is used to analyze racism in schools
Case study one entitled youth public intellectuals (YPI) is a youth organization that fights for the rights of the black and Latino youths that are more likely to live in regions that their health is likely to be influenced by industrial pollution, as well as being mishandled by the police. The role of the YPI, in this case, is to help the black and Latino youth develop critical consciousness through the media justice and youth participatory program. The YIP, through the Critical inquiry groups, developed youth topics through negotiations with the people; youth guided media interventions and youth lobbying on critical issues as well as political reasons behind personal challenges that the youth were facing (Akon, Cammarota and Ginwright, 2008, p. 119). In doing so, the YPI focused on establishing the magnitude of youth and community oppression through abuse of political power; enhancing youths participation in community health initiatives and freedom of personal choice on the most viable options to eradicate the social vices and issues affecting them and the community at large; and influencing the use of media to address the social and economic issues affecting the youths achievements, behavior and perception. Basically, the youthtopia aimed at enhancing political, social and economic justice not only for the youth but also for the people of color through media activism.
The other group studied was the Social Justice Education (SJEP) which enabled the youth to discern the correlation between political awareness and concerns in the family and this awareness is developed through media exposure. Its objectives is to assess how youth driven researches can help in promoting the learners academic ambitions because the procedure involved an extensive research and also employed a number of scholarly ideas (Akon, Cammarota and Ginwright, 2008, p. 121). Some of the issues researched on include the immigration and border killings; and discrimination against Latinos from employment, education and governance especially for women. The study by the SJEP highlighted how political discrimination affected the lifestyle of the people of color especially in education where it concluded that there exists the southern and northern ends dominated by the minority and the whites respectively. Their results were influenced by the level of racial segregation in scholarships. Basically, the main aim of SJEP is to create consciousness to the youth especially from the minority groups about the impact of social institutions to their life experiences, and through counteractive curricula, they are made to critically understand the world challenges in general and their school inequality in particular. Moreover, through the use of methodological and pedagogical process, as well as videos, the youth are in a better position to identify or establish strategies to not only influence social justice but also to enhance community education and political reorganization to bring about social change (Akon, Cammarota and Ginwright, 2008, p.123).
Positivism deals with those issues that have positive impact and are observable; it uses scientific procedures to calculate and provide justification for the results of the research done. The issue being studied is grouped and then studied, while the rules for providing a description will be based on the stability in prototypes and characteristics of the phenomena under study. It also uses measurable data while Participatory action research (PAR) involves using a recurring technique of preparation, making observation, making a decision and carrying out a vital analysis before making plans for the next stage.
This type of research is disadvantageous because it puts more demand on the educational board to come up with new programs for the research. It is also very costly since it requires a lot of materials to be conducted. PAR has also been associated with politics because it normally demands the participation of people in the research, and as they do so, they become knowledgeable and this makes them more discerning. It has also been criticized for not being extensive enough and for lacking a practical validity.
PAR allows the participants a lot of authority in the research process and this has in fact been one of the reasons why the method has been discredited. However, some people argue that as a result of this it contributes to power imbalance in the communities in which the research is being carried out.
Reference
Akon, A., Cammarota, J. and Ginwright, S. (2008). Youthtopias: Towards a new paradigm of critical youth studies. Youth Media Reporter Academic Issue.
Child and youth care (CYC) domain of social awareness is the significant sphere for todays youth. In this respect the paper is dedicated to the role of the CYC practitioner. The thing is that in so multiple varieties of opportunities for children most of them are of bad side. This is why the research comments on the ways for improvements in CYC. Moreover, there are many points which trouble youth nowadays. All of them should be taken into account for the reliability and validity of gained data.
The importance of counseling in the sphere of CYC is paramount. Thereupon, the centers with suchlike attitude toward youngsters are claiming for more attention to the way counselors or practitioners should behave. This challenge seems to be not so easy. However, with an initially clear position of a practitioner there hardly can be problems. For stating more arguments as of such point the research considers the opinions of experts in this issue. Thus, a number of practical and academic sources disclose strategic features for would-be and current CYC practitioners. The review of proper literature presupposes underlining the main facts and arguments. Furthermore, it tends to provide a wide picture on the problems which now appear among CYC practitioners. For the support of theoretical argument the research includes also interview with an experienced CYC practitioner along with the list of questions.
In the area of practice there will be children varying in age from 10 to 15. Moreover, the schedule for the implementation of the program supposes thoroughly designed model of reciprocal adjustment of plays and discussions within children. A special look will be attached to the characteristics of every child at places, so that to have an idea about applicable approach. In this respect there will be planned meetings with parents. Such attempt will make some points on correlation of general efforts in provision of facilities in childrens troubles. This will help in the area of improvements. In other words, a practitioner will be able more to pick up childrens advantages than flaws together. On the other hand, a CYC practitioner communicating with children and parents will have a possibility to look deeper into personal flaws to be worked over.
Working in groups is the main point of the area for practice. It is the approach which needs more concentration on collective power of children. Researchers are able to state that there are too many nuances in cooperation of a CYC practitioner with groups of children. Malekoff (1997) grabs special attention on this feature. The author intends to be more consistent and enthusiastic when constructing the ground for current and further communication. It should be based also on the brilliant examples from the previous studies in this sphere of counseling. The author provides rather abstract but straightforward associations about working in groups: It is more abstract than still life, more jazz than classical (Malekoff, 1997, p. 19). Hence, this work presupposes neat attitude and rational pre-arranged position of a practitioner. It is the way to make children co-creators of the reciprocal work and its results. Thus, involved into activities, kids realize their significance. Of course, it is possible due to the efforts from the side of CYC programs and personal position of a practitioner in this field.
Bellefeuille & Ricks (2008) in their book show the way for understanding children in their needs in every educational or care establishment. The authors provide a discussion that most of tutors and practitioners have no idea about the way to reflect on the requirements of children. The thing is that the precipice may simply appear at the point where children were not understood. Thus a practitioner should be aware of the methodological terms and features. This is the guide for every attempting practitioner to find out the most applicable approach in conversation with children. Chapters 1 and 2 show the steps in building up mindful and reliable model for communicating with children. CYC concept is underlined as the noteworthy in the whole discussion of the authors.
The practice will take place at the residential care. This place needs more attention. The point is that children in such residential have great emotional and physical problems. Their fragile psyches have to face with the lack of attention and care from the side of adults. In fact, there are different cases of stresses and depression among children. The context of the practice is to evaluate the extent of appropriate approach in order to determine the measures and programs for treatment.
CYC practitioners should be aware of their role for the children. Providing care is paramount feature of the task among practitioners. On the other hand, it is a challenge for the practitioner, because primordially he/she should be prepared to face with apparent troubles among youth. In residential care such point is greatly emphasized. Typical roles for a practitioner include counseling, understanding, and leading children. Such approach definitely serves as effective for the implementation of particular treatment. In turn a CYC practitioner should have traits of strong self-awareness, self-confidence, and self-esteem along with compassion and open-heartedness.
The object of a CYC practitioner is, of course, children. Ability to know how to behave with children in accordance with their state of psyche is strategically important. Ungar (2005) examines how children behave as for their navigation between the systems for service delivery in terms of at-risk children. The author implements the methodology of how it is better to make use of negotiation between children in their groups. In turn it supports the idea of better treatment by means of better services provision. With regard to the author this will definitely provide resilience in at-risk children. This important edge of relationships between a practitioner and a child states the point of extra-sensitive attitude of adults.
Ball & Pence (2006) provide a discussion of culturally grounded approach in programs supporting young childrens development. The example of Aboriginal method in upbringing children is imposed in the book. Thus, a practitioner should be of great concernment about the innovative ways for building up bridges with children. The role of a supporter in the developmental phase of children is concerned with the person of a practitioner. CYC needs a so-called generative curriculum stated in the book (Ball & Pence, 2006). In this case the process of counseling becomes really facilitated. It is so because of the requirement of time. Children need to meet in a practitioner a friend and a tutor. Such roles help to communicate better. Furthermore, it is the way for constructive dialogue in different conflict situations.
Practitioners should follow patterned approaches in the area of CYC. It means that they should divide their approaches according to the goals they are searching for. In this case Wynn (2007) provides three main approaches stated after the results of methods studies:
Therapy plus adventure;
Therapy plus outdoor/wilderness;
Therapy plus activity/recreation.
The use of them presupposes several particular purposes. Thus, the intentions for the first approach are to maintain and resolve psychological and behavioral problems in groups. The second approach is logically presupposes the therapeutic impacts of being close to the nature. The third intends to provide more activities for the therapeutic improvements. The researcher admits the role children and family therapy in making success when choosing the most applicable approach at a definite moment.
On the other hand Ward (2004) designates ordinary and special approaches. Such division serves as the means for differentiation of the needs of children in everyday life. Andersson et al (2007) designate five models, among which the psychodynamic milieu approach, positive peer culture, the behavioral model seem to be most effective for practitioners (28). A proper look at this problem needs more argument of experts.
Ward (2004) discusses the problem of applicable approaches from the side of a CYC practitioner to the children. The message in his article directly states the necessity to implement whether ordinary or special approaches. This is a challenge for every ordinary practitioner; because a childs psychological health is at stake. It is really fragile. The author admits the significance of provision of efficient treatment in residential care. Hence, the author points out the role of planning and analysis of the activities in the group. This approach serves as an optimal, though, debatable among observers in this field of work. Ward (2004) insists that living every day with youth in residential care a practitioner needs a comprehensive theory of the everyday (209). In fact, this is an effective step toward making some facilities related to the contemporary transformations in the society. Also changes in psyches of children need more attention from a new perspective.
Looking at the problem of the place of residential care another group of researchers worked out applicable attitudes which a CYC practitioner should have. Andersson et al (2007) collected enough data, so that to undermine stereotypes that residential care is solely a place of concentration of children with psychological derivation. The authors claim that the therapeutic help is the prior task for any among residential care worldwide. The article provides a discussion of the particular approaches: from traditional to new ones. In this respect it repeats the assertion of Ward (2004) that the basis of residential care is imposed in the ordinary needs. Also the article gives clear information as of the models of residential treatment, namely: the psychodynamic milieu approach, positive peer culture, the behavioral model, the psycho-educational model and the cognitive-behavioral model (28). This is why the article correlates a scope of versatile methods for a practitioner to move groups of children toward improvements. All in all, the point of approaches which are used in different countries of the world is highlighted in the article. Hence, such observation leads to further discussion of the issue. The main points indicate the reasonable flow of actions by a practitioner. Nevertheless, it will definitely help in achieving general aims in serving for child and youth care. What is more, the results of different studies in this field are really stunning, because in the North America the number of self-awareness among practitioners is constantly growing. To be precise, the role of residential care acquires extra-ordinary coloring in its goals and tasks at large.
The desired outcomes in this specific and rather subtle area of the practice are supposed with making improvements in behaviors of adolescents. Moreover, this idea is emphasized with the variety of methods/approaches implemented. The work with children is supposed with merely positive results and conclusions. In this respect children are predicted to have more communication with peers. Such intention straightforwardly depends on the practicality of methods. A practitioner should want and desire to improve psychological and behavioral problems among each youngster. This is the predicted result. However, the difference in the supposed results considers the risk of deeper aggravation of a childs psyche. In other words, this factor cannot be totally diminished.
Most evident and important CYC values in this area of practice are sincerity, willingness, experience, patience, open-mindedness, deep desire to help. All of them are stated in descending order. Each value should be considered with a person of a practitioner in this subtle are of practice. Garfat (2003) in his article outlines several values or even priorities which are applicable for a proficient CYC practitioner. Some among them are: noticing, connecting, giving meaning, checking-in with self, utilization of self, and intervening (Garfat, 2003). In this respect the author of the article represents the steps which should be followed by a practitioner in detail. The researcher claims for the personal theoretical and practical background of a practitioner on the initial stage of working with children. Having an ability to designate the paramount values means further successful gradation in cooperation with children. Thus, values of a practitioner in CYC should contemplate the ideals of humane and rationality as well as understanding.
The research also touches upon the interview with a practitioner in CYC. Mark L. Kelly agreed to take part in this kind of practical proof of the studies stated above. At the moment he is a Child and Youth Care practitioner having graduated the University of Victoria in Australia (cyc-online, 2002). His current position is a Street Outreach Counselor for Yukon Family Services Association (cyc-online, 2002).
Mark told that the main approach of his is self-awareness and constant control of personal motivation. The love and deep responsibility for children drives him very day when working. It is the matter of extra significance and direct approach to him, as an honorable civilian. Mark strictly notes the role of care in his life: I care about success and how people perceive it. I care how my clients feel while in therapy, between therapy, and after therapy. I care what they think of me and how I am perceived (cyc-online, 2002, p. 1). In response to points of cooperation with children Mark states that the main value in this respect is sharing. One more reason for Marks desire to work is an ability to have glimpses at everything happening around him. This is why it is so strategically vital for him to seek for some innovations in his work. This point Mark highlights, as the desire to follow the pathway of self-awareness throughout life.
List of questions
What is your main approach in CYC practice?
What drives you much while working with children?
Does the role of care encompass your whole life?
Which value is he most important in your work?
What is the main reason for being a CYC practitioner?
Reference
Andersson, B., Johannsson, J. & Hwang, C.P. (2007). Long-term residential care for youths in Sweden approaches to treatment. International Journal of Child and Family Welfare 10(1-2): 27-29.
Ball, J. & Pence, A. (2006) Turning the world upside down, In Ball J. & Pense, A. Supporting indigenous childrens development. Vancouver, BC: UBC Press: 3-16.
Bellefeuille, G. L. & Ricks, F. (2008). Standing on the Precipice: Inquiry into the Creative Potential of Child and Youth Care Work. New York: McGraw-Hill.
CYC-Online. (2002). My Credo: Awareness as a Child and Youth Care Practitioner The International Child and Youth Care Ntework 47.
Garfat. T. (2003). Four part magic: The anatomy of a child and youth care intervention. Child and youth care online 50: 1-31.
Malekoff, A. (1997). Between adolescent and group worker. Group work with adolescents Principles and practice. New York: The Guilford Press: 17-28.
Ungar, M. (2005).Resilience among children in child welfare, corrections, mental health, and educational settings: Recommendations for service. Child and Youth Care Forum,34(6): 445-464.
Ward, A. (2004). Towards a theory of the everyday: The ordinary and the special in daily living in residential care. Child and Youth Care Forum 33(3), 209-225.
Wynn, T. (2007). Adventure-Based Psychotherapys Journey Toward Adulthood. Web.
Nowadays, young people are involved in numerous activities unknown to their parents. The reason for it is that technologies rapidly and continuously change, dramatically reshaping humans lives. At certain times, it causes considerable benefits; at other times, it leads to adverse consequences. Gaming consoles are popular products among American young people who spend hours every week playing video games. This industry is growing fast, engaging more and more consumers willing to pay for gaming consoles with new features and high-quality video games. Without any doubt, the devices affect not only peoples budget but also their physical, mental, and social health; thus, it is essential to realize how they influence millions of Americans in order to increase benefits and minimize threats.
Gaming Consoles among the Youth
Video games and gaming consoles were designed long ago, though they have gained enormous popularity relatively recently. According to Ayenigbara (1), they have been in existence and have attracted many users worldwide since the 1970s. Video games can be played on different devices, such as tablets, smartphones, and personal computers (PCs), which offer numerous functions, though gaming consoles are designed solely to play video games. Most gamers prefer to use gaming PCs or gaming consoles rather than mobile phones or tablets. Consoles have many advantages, including lower prices and high user-friendliness, as well as some disadvantages, such as a narrower range of games available compared with PCs. In general, the devices are in high demand nowadays and can be found in millions of Americans homes. Vazharov (par. 6) notes, due to the insanely high demand, pre-ordering the latest Xbox and PlayStation gaming consoles is quite a challenge. Hence, the topic of how they influence the youth is relevant.
People of different ages play video games on gaming consoles, though it is evident that most of them are young people. Ayenigbara (1) emphasizes that video games are the most popular among adolescents, even though they do not require physical stamina and are not limited by age, gender, and fitness. The reasons for that are that the youth have more free time and are more tech-savvy than other population groups. First, adults owe extra responsibilities and duties; thus, they cannot spend several hours every day in front of screens. In contrast, adolescents who do not care about stable jobs and their own children have more time to devote to playing video games. Second, adults are often less good at technology compared with young people. Hence, they are likely to be involved in more traditional activities, such as reading books, checking the news, and eating out with friends or colleagues.
In addition, gaming consoles are becoming more and more sophisticated, making it difficult to resist the temptation to play video games. Vazharov (par. 9-11) states that Microsoft Xbox One X, Nintendo Switch, and Sony PlayStation 4 Pro are the best devices offering many different features and making users experiences even more enjoyable and unforgettable than before. Considering that gaming consoles producers work diligently to attract more customers, especially among young people, it is essential to be aware of the effects of the devices.
Physical Health
The youths physical health is negatively affected by gaming consoles, and it is incredibly challenging to find any advantages. According to Ayenigbara (2), individuals who remain physically inactive for long periods and prefer sedentary activities are at higher risk of vision issues, musculoskeletal problems, and obesity. First, vision-related problems are common among most adolescents nowadays, as they spend substantial amounts of time in front of screens daily. However, the problem is likely to be graver among passionate gamers, who fully concentrate on video games, not adjusting lightning and blinking as rarely as possible. It may lead to eye discomfort, blurry vision, and even damaged eyesight. Moreover, extensive and fixed staring at screens may cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, and vomiting (Ayenigbara 2). Therefore, gaming consoles may provoke serious vision-related issues, but they can be minimized (not avoided) by following some rules.
Second, excessive playing of video games can cause different musculoskeletal problems, challenging to deal with. Playing on gaming consoles is a passive activity requiring users hands solely. Therefore, if young people invest much time in it, they harm their joints, bones, muscles, spines, and other body systems. Gamers often suffer from pain in the neck, back, or hands due to their prolonged inactivity. Blisters, loosening of fingernails, tendon injuries, and postural problems are also the outcome of excessing gaming consoles use (Ayenigbara 2). Unfortunately, musculoskeletal issues may be invisible at first, though their symptoms are often chronic and severe.
Third, gaming consoles tempt the youth to stay in the comfort of their homes rather than get involved in different activities outdoors. Therefore, the lack of walking and exercising causes obesity, which is always accompanied by other conditions. According to Ayenigbara (2), Several studies have linked television, video games, and increased Body Mass Index (BMI), and it has been estimated that children in the United States spend 25% of waking hours watching television or playing video games. Gaming consoles producers add new features and make their products more sophisticated to catch consumers attention and reassure them to spend more time playing. Therefore, less time is left for going out with friends, exercising, and walking.
Mental Health
Unlike the effects of gaming consoles on physical health, the ones on mental health may be positive. Nevertheless, most of them are negative, which arouses much concern about the issue among a multitude of stakeholders. However, it is essential to note that the impact of gaming consoles on young people depends on numerous factors, ranging from game genres to the amount of time spent playing per day. As long as many adolescents play games with increased quality that makes them more realistic and invest substantial amounts of time in the activity, the issue undoubtedly deserves more attention. Without any doubt, video games alter the brain to some extent, and their consequences may be dangerous.
On the one hand, millions of parents, educators, social activists, and scholars all over the United States are concerned about the influence of gaming consoles on the youth. Most popular video games involve violence, as players main objectives include killing, stealing, and destroying. Heiden et al. (4) note that such psychological symptoms as depression, anxiety, and hostility are linked to the excessive playing of video games. These mental conditions are severe and far-reaching, as they adversely affect almost every aspect of life. Besides, many adolescents experience addiction to playing on consoles and cannot concentrate on more critical tasks.
On the other hand, gaming consoles may positively impact young people in different ways. For example, Heiden et al. (1) state, Video gaming is known to have some benefits such as improving focus, multitasking, and working memory, but it may also come with costs when it is used heavily. Undoubtedly, such advantages are significant and worth further appreciation. Besides, gaming consoles may be used for educational purposes, and possible benefits are likely to be enormous. Unfortunately, companies producing video games and gaming consoles are more focused on entertaining than educating their clients, as the former approach is more profitable. Nevertheless, gaming consoles may be beneficial for young peoples mental health.
Social Health
The social consequences of playing on consoles are more noticeable than the physical and mental ones and deserve special attention. To begin with, they largely depend on the reasons for playing video games. The most common among them are for entertaining and for breaking from everyday life, reality, and stress (see Fig. 1). Besides, young people play on consoles to build social connections, compete with their peers, and gain some reward (see Fig. 1). The second, third, and fourth most prevalent reasons may lead to disastrous social outcomes, while the rest have no effects or mostly positive ones.
It is crucial to realize that playing video games influences the youths social health to minimize adverse effects and make the most of positive ones. Nordby et al. (1) state, With video games ability to provide pleasurable experiences, be highly motivating, entertaining and immediately rewarding, there is a preconception that gamers run the risk of getting distracted from their less engaging real-life obligations. It is a common problem, especially among adolescents, to forget about the real world, preferring a virtual one. Unfortunately, it may be challenging for gamers to realize the differences between real-life and virtual achievements on their own, though they are distinct for non-gamers.
Much research is conducted on the issue nowadays, as it is incredibly relevant. Scholars conclusions may be unpredictable and even shocking, encouraging different stakeholders to take some action. For example, Heiden et al. (6) find out that gaming consoles may cause a lack of offline connections and poor school performance. Online social connections come at the cost of offline ones, and accomplishments in the virtual world come at the expense of academic success. Simultaneously, video games may help young children build connections and learn to work in a team. Moreover, during the coronavirus pandemic, numerous adolescents find relief in playing on gaming consoles online.
Conclusion
Gaming consoles, which were created about half a century ago, have gained much popularity and attracted numerous consumers worldwide, especially among young people. Producers of the devices work diligently to make their products more sophisticated, attract more clients, and earn more money. At the same time, scholars, educators, policymakers, and activists are concerned about the influence of playing video games on the youth. The outcomes of playing on gaming consoles can be divided into three categories, such as physical, mental, and social. The impact of video games is mostly negative, prevailing in each category. Young people suffer from different issues because of gaming consoles, ranging from obesity and postural problems to anxiety and a lack of social relationships. Nevertheless, they also help adolescents improve working memory and find relief. In general, gaming consoles effects can be both beneficial and harmful, though humans can eliminate the disadvantages and make the most of the advantages.
Works Cited
Ayenigbara, Israel O. Gaming Disorder and Effects of Gaming on Health: An Overview. Journal of Addiction Medicine and Therapeutic Science, vol. 4, no. 1, 2018, pp. 1-3.
Heiden, Juliane M. et al. The Association between Video Gaming and Psychological Functioning. Frontiers in Psychology, vol. 10, no. 1731, 2019, pp. 1-11.
Nordby, Kent et al. Playing a Video Game Is More than Mere Procrastination. BMC Psychology, vol. 7, no. 33, 2019, pp. 1-12.
Vazharov, Stefan. We Tested Video Game Consoles to Help You Choose the Best One. BestProducts, 2020, Web.
Real Education for Healthy Youth Act of 2019 is a bill initially sponsored by Junior Senator Cory Booker that promotes comprehensive sex education in higher education institutions. The act is associated with bringing considerable benefits to both providers and consumers. On the one hand, consumers are expected to experience a decrease in unwanted pregnancies, abortions, HIV/AIDS cases, and occurrences of STIs as well as a reduced number of violence cases and stigma associated with sex and sexuality. On the other hand, providers will experience additional money flow, which will help to improve their credibility, prestige, and job satisfaction of employees. However, there are also drawbacks to the act associated with the organization of such courses and attitudes towards comprehensive sex education. Even though there are different opinions on the matter, evidence shows that comprehensive sex education can positively impact gender health.
The legislation enters a comparatively hostile environment, which does not support the progression of the bill. The review of sociocultural, political, economic, and ethical considerations revealed only minor support to the provisions of the act. However, the analysis demonstrates that the bill can be enhanced by altering the target audience and places of program delivery. Such changes are expected to improve the chances of the bill to pass the commission. The act is among the first legislations that promote comprehensive sex education as a health promotion measure that empowers the youth by improving their decision-making abilities by providing relevant information about sex and sexuality.
Introduction
Health promotion connected with sex education among adolescents is an issue widely discussed by health professionals. US Senate Bill 1524 (2019) titled Real Education for Healthy Youth Act of 2019 was designed to address the problem of healthy sex relationships of the youth. The central theme discussed in the act is the promotion of physical and emotional health among adolescents by providing education concerning sex and sexuality (S. 1524, 2019). The act provisions grants for organizations that create programs promoting healthy decisions and providing information concerning gender stereotyping, gender roles, stigma, and socio-cultural influences (S. 1524, 2019). In general, the bill discusses what sex education programs should include, who can qualify for the grants, and how the money should be spent.
In order to qualify for the grant, public entities should file an application to the Secretary. Not later than six months after enactment of the bill, the Secretary should evaluate the entities in terms of expected output and outcome measures and select appropriate applicants. The organizations that received the grant are expected to report about the outcomes of the created program to the Secretary annually for six years.
While the act does not mention nurses or nurse practitioners (NPs) as central stakeholders, it is evident that the bill will directly affect nursing practice in the US. The bill targets higher education institutions and encourages them to organize sexual education courses on campus (S. 1524, 2019). However, the bill also encourages public entities to create comprehensive training for teachers for them to pass the knowledge to adolescents (S. 1524, 2019). Moreover, the act does not exclude hospitals from the list of possible entities that can qualify for the provisioned grants. According to Ko, Burson, and Mianecki (2019), one of the roles of advanced practice nurses (APNs) is working at the macro level to improve healthcare practices and patient outcomes locally or within a healthcare system (p. 28). Since health promotion and patient education are also often provided by APNs, these health professionals are most qualified to educate both teachers and adolescents. Therefore, in case a hospital wins a grant mentioned in the reviewed act, APNs will deliver sex education.
Environment
Sociocultural
The views on sex education of adolescents differ depending on the cultural background. While some communities believe that comprehensive sexual education is of extreme importance, others claim that the provision of such education to children and adolescents promotes immoral and sexual behaviors (Cense, de Neef, & Visscher, 2018, p. 9). In particular, many religious dogmas and values of traditional cultures prohibit sex before marriage, putting these cultures at odds with sexual rights for all, which is the backbone of the reviewed act. Since the US is home to many cultural minorities and the US Constitution protects their rights, sex education is to be provided with respect to the norms and beliefs of these cultures. However, Cense et al. (2018) suggest that failure to deliver comprehensive sexual education may be connected with a decreased ability of girls to manage menstruation and an increased number of unwanted pregnancies and HIV/AIDS cases. In short, the reviewed law faces many controversies associated with the sociocultural environment.
Economic
The act is being introduced in the difficult economic environment of the United States. The US healthcare system is known to be one of the most expensive in the world. The rising cost of care is one of the most significant bothers for US citizens, and the American Medical Association, together with other governmental and non-governmental entities, put considerable effort into decreasing the growth of healthcare costs (Rama, 2019). As a result, in 2017, the growth expenditures was only 3.9%, which is less than in 2015 (4.8%) and 2016 (5.8%) (Rama, 2019). The decreased cost of care may be associated with a relative success of preventative medicine. In particular, Adams, Park, Twietmeyer, Brindis, and Irwin Jr. (2018) suggest that preventative measures among the youth are associated with improved healthcare outcomes, which, in turn, decreases the number of healthcare visits. Therefore, even though the act faces an economic environment that pushes for the reduction of healthcare costs, the bill is coherent with the current trends in economic policies in healthcare.
Ethical
The bill addresses various ethical matters central to modern US society. For instance, the act promotes awareness about ethical issues concerning sexuality, as it dispels myths, confronts biases, and fosters informed decision-making among adolescents (S. 1524, 2019). However, there are issues that may prevent the act from being an effective measure of health promotion. First, the bill provisions sex education in higher education institutions, which creates problems with social justice. According to Henry (2019), children from low-income households have lower awareness concerning sexuality and gender education (p. 372). The Real Education for Healthy Youth Act of 2019 may increase the disparities of sexual education depending on wealth since only households with high incomes can afford higher education for their children. Second, as mentioned above, representatives of different cultures may not want their children to have such classes due to their beliefs. Finally, the act may be considered a danger to autonomy since students will be pushed to take sexual education classes (Henry, 2019, p.374). Therefore, the ethical environment is controversial, and it may both support and limit the progression of the bill.
Political and Legislative
The political and legislative environment is questionable for the progression of the reviewed act. A vast majority of US citizens agree that sex education is of extreme importance for the US youth (Janfaza, 2020). The administrations of previous presidents, together with Trumps administration, have continuously supported acts that foster sex education and community levels; however, the education was based on abstinence-only-until-marriage principle (Janfaza, 2020). At the same time, together with the reviewed bill, Youth Access to Sexual Health Services Act is also in progress, which implies that the issue of the sexual health of adolescents is a front matter for policymakers (Janfaza, 2020). However, the bill is introduced by democrats, which lowers its chances of becoming a law (GovTrack.us, 2020). Since there is significant opposition to the promotion of comprehensive sex education, the political and legislative environment is not supportive of the reviewed bill.
Passage and Progression of the Bill
Sponsors
Even though the bill includes vital provisions that can improve patient outcomes and awareness about issues of sexuality among adolescents, it has a limited number of sponsors. The bill was initially promoted by the Cory Booker, a Junior Senator for New Jersey, in May 2019 (GovTrack.us, 2020). Cory is known to advocate for equal justice for all Americans, expansion of access to health care, and awareness about environmental issues. (About Cory, n.d.). Cory was the original sponsor of the Equality Act that protects the rights of the LGBTQ and Environmental Justice Act that strengthens legal protections against the environmental injustice of minority communities (About Cory, n.d.). The politician is devoted to the Real Education for Healthy Youth Act of 2019 since it was initially introduced in 2016 and reintroduced in 2017 but failed to pass the committee (GovTrack.us, 2020). Booker is supported by 12 democrats from California, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Connecticut, New Jersey, Hawaii, New York, Illinois, Ohio, and Wisconsin, who enlisted as sponsors of the act (GovTrack.us, 2020). While twelve sponsors may be enough for an act to pass the committee, it does not seem to be the case with the reviewed bill.
In order to improve the chances of the bill passing the commission, the text of the act was improved. However, according to Skopos Labs, the text of the bill does little to affect its chances of being enacted (GovTrack.us, 2020). In other words, the sponsor had little success in revising the law. As for the opposition to the law, the review of press and government publications revealed that no individual actions of politicians that openly oppose the bill. However, as mentioned by Janfaza (2020), Trump administration supports the abstinence-only-until-marriage approach, which implies that the Republican Party will not vote for the bill. According to Santelli et al. (2017), the US government continuously supports abstinence-only-until-marriage practices despite overwhelming scientific evidence of the practice being ineffective and stigmatizing. Since Trumps administration continues to fund such programs, they will oppose the bill. In short, the analysis revealed that even though there is no active opposition to the reviewed act, Booker and his followers need to put more effort into the bill to become a law.
Stakeholders
The primary stakeholders are also divided into those who support sex education and those who reject it. On the one hand, an overwhelming amount of evidence supports the idea of sexual education on all levels. For instance, the American Public Health Association (2014) has not changed its opinion about sexual education in K-12 for the past six years. Its primary concern is that people need the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to avoid HIV, other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unintended pregnancy so that they can become sexually healthy adults (American Public Health Association, 2014, para. 1). American Medical Association (2018) also actively supports comprehensive sex education instead of an abstinence-only-until-marriage approach for the same reason. In general, all medical workers, politicians, and policymakers who rely on rigorous scientific methods support the legislation, even though it is not immediately evident. These stakeholders make numerous publications in public media and scientific journals, providing empirical support for their claims.
On the other hand, there are conservative people who believe that sex education provokes interest in sex among children and adolescents. The most evident stakeholders are parents, who claim that sex education rapes children of their innocence (Associated Press, para. 4). The majority of religious organizations support the parents in their resistance to comprehensive sex education promoted by the reviewed act. National Coalition Against Censorship (n.d.) claims that Christian religious groups try to impose their views on sexual orientation, non-marital sex, contraception, and abortion to all students. Parents and religious groups actively oppose comprehensive sex education during meetings and political debates providing scriptural and historical evidence of the abstinence-only approach. Moreover, they make publications in social media and community press about the importance of resisting sexual temptation. Even though the stakeholders mentioned in the present section of the analysis do not openly support or oppose the reviewed act, their influence in society can be the reason for passing or killing the bill. In general, it should be mentioned that the Real Education for Healthy Youth Act of 2019 did not receive much attention in the media and press.
Projected Timelines
There can be two timelines, which include optimistic and pessimistic approaches. According to the pessimistic timeline, the act will not pass the commission and will die before spring recess on April 2. However, in case of an optimistic scenario, the bill may be signed by the President as soon as May 25, 2020. The optimistic timeline is presented in Figure 1 below. While there is a possibility for the act to be enacted as is, it is more likely that the best-case scenario is that the bill will be revised by the House of Representatives and enacted with considerable changes.
Potential Consequences
For Providers
Healthcare providers are likely to feel both positive and negative effects of the legislation if it is signed by the President. Immediately after the bill is enacted, providers will need to create offers to apply for the grants of health promotion. Therefore, while the benefits will not be felt, administrative personnel and APNs will experience an increased workload with a raise in reimbursement. If a provider wins a grant, it will need to establish effective communication with communities and higher education institutions to organize sex education programs. This task will also add workload to the administrative personal and APNs of care hospitals and other care providers associated with stress and burnout. However, in the long run, the legislation will bring additional money flow to healthcare institutions. The additional money can be spent on hiring more personnel, which will improve the quality of care, and therefore the credibility of hospitals. Additionally, the improved patient outcomes may be associated with the decreased workload in improved job satisfaction (Zamanian, Roshan Sarvestani, Sedaghati, Ghatmiri, & Kouhnavard, 2016). In short, while the legislation may bring negative short-term changes, the long-term outcomes are expected to be mostly positive.
For Consumers
The consumers are likely to deal with a similar situation. Initially, comprehensive sex education programs may have a negative effect on society. Even though the primary demand for comprehensive sex education programs is sensitivity to cultural differences, the first programs are likely to be low performing on the matter. Therefore, people may feel offended and experience psychological trauma (Henry, 2019). Moreover, the lack of active cooperation between education providers may make the first programs ineffective. However, in the long run, as evidence shows, comprehensive sex education practices will prove their efficiency (Williams, 2018). Consumers will experience improved health outcomes connected with a decreased number of unwanted pregnancies, abortions, HIV/AIDS cases, and occurrences of STIs (American Medical Association, 2018). At the same time, the legislation will decrease the number of sex-related violence and stigma associated with the matter (S. 1524, 2019). In the long run, the policy is expected to create a healthier society by addressing biases and stereotypes associated with gender relationships.
Sex Education in Ontario
In Ontario, Canada, sex education is a mandatory subject in schools for grades 1 through 8. While there are some non-government organizations that promote comprehensive sex education (Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights, n.d.), the program of human development and sexual health education in Ontario is based upon the same principle as in the US (Government of Ontario, 2019). Health promotion is based upon the idea of delaying sexual life for as long as possible (Government of Ontario, 2019). However, it should be mentioned that sex education in Ontario is more progressive than in the US. Gender identity is mentioned in the curriculum multiple times, and there are references to masturbation and anal intercourse (Jones, 2019). Even though Canadian parents are given a chance to have their children opt out of individual teaching blocks, they regard the new curriculum as unethical (Jones, 2019). In short, the promotion of healthy sexual behavior in Ontario has an emphasis on schools rather than higher education institutions, which is promoted by the Real Education for Healthy Youth Act of 2019.
It should be noticed, however, that the reviewed act includes vital information about abortions, which is omitted in Ontarios curriculum. Education about unwanted pregnancies and the consequences of abortion are of extreme importance for gender health. However, even though some states in Canada cover the topic, Ontario does not provide information on the subject in schools or universities (Abortion Rights Coalition Canada, 2017). The non-government organizations are not offered support from the government, which is provisioned in the reviewed act, and organizations like Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights are generally financed from donations. Therefore, the benefits provisioned by Real Education for the Healthy Youth Act of 2019 are not fully realized in Ontario, and the state can benefit from the introduction of similar legislation.
Options for Refining
There several options for improvement that can enhance the benefits provided by the act to the consumers. On the one hand, the act should choose another target audience since providing sex education to students is associated with several limitations. First, delivering preventative services on campuses of higher education institutions limits their accessibility. People with higher income have a higher awareness about sex and sexuality and less likely to engage in risky sexual behavior (Henry, 2019, p. 372). Therefore, it seems more efficient to provide preventative services to at-risk populations than to university students. Second, providing sex education to students may be too late, as adolescents have their first sexual intercourse in school (Santelli et al., 2017). Therefore, it would be more efficient to target children and adolescents of school age. In summary, rather than providing sex education to students at higher education institutions, the act should focus on children and adolescents of school age. A similar approach is adopted by the Government of Ontario (2019), and it met moderate success in achieving its goals.
On the other hand, the act should consider changing the place for delivering sex education. Delivering comprehensive sex education in higher education institutions and public schools may face opposition from parents and religious organizations. Therefore, sex education can be moved to public places. Providing information about sexuality in museums and hospitals has proven to be an efficient practice for the Netherlands, as it is among the most gender-equal countries, according to United Nations Development Program Gender Inequality Index (Rough, 2018). Moreover, hospitals have professionals, such as APNs, that can deliver education programs using less financial resources from the government, which can improve the cost-efficiency of the program. Therefore, the reviewed act can be refined by altering the place of sex education.
Conclusion
Real Education for Healthy Youth Act of 2019 is among the first comprehensive sex education bills introduced in the US Senate. Since the act enters a relatively hostile environment that supports the abstinence-only-until-marriage approach, the probability of it passing the commission is low. However, the bill can become a turning point in sex education in the US that will allow considerable benefits both to consumers and providers. The act can improve its chances by changing the target audience and place of delivery.
References
Abortion Rights Coalition Canada. (2017). Sex education in Canada. Web.
About Cory. (n.d.). Web.
Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights. (n.d.). About us. Web.
Adams, S. H., Park, M. J., Twietmeyer, L., Brindis, C. D., & Irwin Jr., C. E. (2018). Increasing delivery of preventive services to adolescents and young adults: does the preventive visit help? Journal of Adolescent Health, 63(2), 166-171.
American Medical Association. (2018). Sexuality education, sexual violence prevention, abstinence, and distribution of condoms in schools. Web.
American Public Health Association. (2014). Sexuality education as part of a comprehensive health education program in K to 12 schools. Web.
Associated Press. (2016). Parents, schools divided as sex ed controversy erupts. CBS News. Web.
Cense, M., de Neef, M., & Visscher, W. (2018). Culture, religion and sexual and reproductive health & rights. Utrecht, Netherlands: Rutgers. Web.
GovTrack.us. (2020). S. 1524 116th Congress: Real Education for Healthy Youth Act of 2019. Web.
Henry, L. M. (2019). An overview of sexual and reproductive health in the context of public health ethics. In A. C. Mastroianni, J. P. Kahn, & N. E. Kass (Eds.), The Oxford Handbook of Public Health Ethics (pp. 371-377). Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.
Janfaza, R. (2020). The nuanced push for American sex education. Harvard Political Review. Web.
Santelli, J., Kantor, L., Grilo, S., Speizer, I., Lindberg, L., Heitel, J.,& Ott, M.(2017). Abstinence-only-until-marriage: An updated review of U.S. policies and programs and their impact. Journal of Adolescent Health, 61(3), 273-280.
Williams, K. (2018). Out in the cold: Comprehensive sex education advocacy in Louisiana. Women Leading Change: Case Studies on Women, Gender, and Feminism, 3(1), 4-17.
Zamanian, Z., Roshan Sarvestani, M., Sedaghati, M., Ghatmiri, M., & Kouhnavard, B. (2016). Assessment of the relation between subjective workload and job satisfaction in university faculty and staff. Iranian Journal of Ergonomics, 3(4), 1-10.
Young workers are more vulnerable to exploitation as compared to old workers. This exploitation is base on payment and working conditions among other workplace issues. Many employees intentionally abuse the young workers rights, and subsequently expose them to brutal exploitation.
Main text
Employers have power over their employees, whether young or old some employers consider having more power over young workers than older workers, and many of them have been using these powers to abuse the young workers. Factors like naiveness, ignorance, and unemployment have predisposed young workers to the exploitation. (Tannock & flocks, 2003)
The empowered employers willingly provide jobs to the young employees and pretend that they are very considerate and good employers.
Some will go to an extent of introducing the agreement. However, despite the fact that the agreement of employment terms, conditions and pay is signed by the employee and employer, some employers dont honor the agreement. Instead, they continuously mistreat and discriminate the young worker and violate both the agreement and the workers rights. In many cases, the signing of the agreement is not witnessed by the employment advocates, a factor that makes the employer take advantage of the young employees and dishonor the agreement. (Kingsolver 2001).
Most of agreements signed by young workers are understated, making the young workers to agreed and sign for lower payments and unconducive working conditions. In this case, the employee ends up getting underpayments, or even not being paid completely, but since they are ignorant they continuously get the exploitation. (Gale Group 2008).
When the young workers get the understanding of what they are supposed to get in terms of pay, and working conditions, they are naive to talk it out, for the fear of being fired. Many employers give threatening conditions to the young workers and due to the fear, the workers bear the exploitation.
Many cases have been reported where employers are alleged of firing young employers who stand up for their violated rights. The employees are fired or are terminated. They neither get their payment nor better working conditions (Jimenez and World Bank 2006).
The young workers may have the knowledge of the under payment, but since they dont have the bargaining power, in the labor market; they end up being exploited, providing labor with little pay. Employers use their power over young workers and aimlessly fire them without any advance notice. They are not regarded as workers who have equal working rights to older workers. (MAU 2007).
The health, welfare and working conditions provided for young workers are poor and unsafe. They are violently assured by other older workers. The workers are neither provided with health insurance policies to cover them, nor safe working environment to reduce the injuries and harm likely to be encountered. Despite the effective services they offer to the business, their health is not considered valuable. In many cases, they are expected to pay for any damages and accidents that occur during their working period from their low payments. (World Marxist 1958).
The young workers are forced to sign contacts during their working course without considering the young workers other activities. In this case, the employees payments are reduced without notice, and they are forced to sign the new contract, failure to which they are terminated from the employment. (Foreign broadcast information service 1970). Unemployment face by the young people has contributed a lot to this exploitation.
The young workers search for jobs and with the little demand of the employees by the employers, they dictate and create these exploiting conditions to the young employees who abide by them in fear of termination and subsequent unemployment.
Responses against young workers exploitation.
Trade unions have been on the front line to respond against young workers exploitation whereby they have stood to air the young workers voice and help in wages bargaining. (Roy 1972, pp. 250).The young workers liberation league responds against young workers exploitation by organizing strategies relating to young workers job security, discrimination at workplaces and wages.
Many states have come up with youth law, which provides the minimum age at which an individual can be employed, states the appropriate working hours and conditions for employment of young people, and provides the punishment or penalties for the law violations to ensure that the law is effectively adhered to.
The law has various articles and these articles are subdivided to a way that the content articles which form the law, protects young workers against neglect and abuse, provide security and benefits, enhances equal consideration of all workers without discriminating the young workers, and provision of freedom to expression, expression of individual opinions as well as freedom to associate with other. (Youth law 2008).
Summary
Some employers have ensured that safe and healthy working conditions and some have gone further and helped the young workers to get health insurance, compensation and benefit as a response against young workers exploitation, discrimination and abuse.
Some employers have extended minimum wage a response against young workers, and have been engaging employment workers when signing employment contacts and agreements. However, the proportion of employers who seem to respond against this exploitation is smaller as compared to the exploiters. (Lonsidale 1985).
Reference
Foreign Broadcast Information Service, 1970, Daily report, University of Michigan, United States.
Gale Group, 2008, Compounding vulnerability? Australian labour bulletin, Web.
Jimenez, E and World Bank, 2006, Next generation development, World Bank, Washington, D.C.
Kingsolver, E. 2001, NAFTA Stories, Lynne Rienner, Boulder.
Lonsdale, S 1985, Work and inequality, Longman, London
Maritime Union of Australia, 2007, Youth exploitation, Maritime Union of Australia, Web.
Marxian economics Periodicals, 1958, World Marxist Review, Progress books, University of California.
Roy, S.1972, Communism in India, University of Michigan, Ann Arbour.
Tannock and Flocks, S, 2003, I know what to struggle is, Labour studies journal, vol 28, no 1, pp. 1-30.