Day: May 3, 2020

SocialPerspectives on Teenage Pregnancy

SociologicalPerspectives on Teenage Pregnancy

Thetheoretical perspectives in sociology provide us with differentangles to view and explain the social world. The three majortheoretic perspectives include the functionalist perspective, theconflict perspective, and the symbolic interactionist perspective.Each theory provides different perspectives to see and understand thesocial world. In this paper, I will use a social problem that is,teenage pregnancy, to broadly elaborate the three sociologicaltheories. Using the developed typology, I will compare and contrastthe sociological perspectives of functionalism, conflict and symbolicinteractionism, stating their perspectives regarding the socialproblem. Moreover, I will discuss the pros and cons arising from eachperspective as discussed in Unit 2 of the Interactive Units. Teenagepregnancy is a world crisis with about a million teenagers becomingpregnant each year (Linders &amp Bogard, 2014). According to thethree sociological perspectives, teenage pregnancy can be viewed indifferent angles.

FunctionalismPerspective

Accordingto functionalism, society is made up of a system of dependent partsthat work in unison to achieve a social equilibrium. The theoryexplains that each social state contributes to the functioning ofsociety. Teenage pregnancy provides a state of the family,socialising and reproducing among teenagers. Teenage pregnancy isexplained in both the manifest (intended) and latent (unintended)functions. Latent functions are such as pregnant teenagers receivetoo much attention also, their lives will drastically change to thatof a parent and lastly, most are likely to drop out of school due tomuch pressure and mean judgements. However, the functionalism theorysees teenage pregnancy as positive effects of society too forinstance, couples that cannot bear children are able to adopt fromteenage parents. Moreover, teenage parents tend to be more mature andresponsible as compared to their age mates, which is a positivelatent function. An example of a manifest function is how teenagepregnancy traps boys into the relationship before and after the childis born. A dysfunction of teenage pregnancy I that it costs the stategovernment too much resources. In 2009, the federal governmentinvested over $36 billion to support families started by teenagers(Linders &amp Bogard, 2014), this, in turn, costs the whole world,as people pay taxes to cater for such needs in society.

ConflictPerspective

Theorigin of this theory is traced from the ideologies of Karl Max.Unlike the functionalist perspective that sees society as made up ofparts working in unison, the conflict perspective sees society as asystem composed of different groups with varying interests andcompeting for resources and power. Teenage pregnancy is a cause ofmany conflicts in society for instance, school-teenage pregnancyconflict, morals-teenage pregnancy conflict and religion-teenagepregnancy conflict (Linders &amp Bogard, 2014), just to mention buta few. It gets really tough for a pregnant teenager to attend schooldue to stigma and pressure, making the environment unbearable. Peers,parents, religious leaders and our mentors teach us morals and mainlyemphasise on the need for abstinence until marriage. A pregnantteenager is considered to have abandoned the taught morals, which isa conflict. Lastly, Religion strictly condemns teenage sex andpregnancy. Therefore, teenage pregnancies defy religious teachingsregarding sex before marriage.

SymbolicInteractionism Perspective

Boththe conflict and the functionalist perspectives show how broadsocietal aspects influence the social world they look at the societyat large and point out how social problems such as teenage pregnancy,are pretentious at the institutional level. This social analysislevel is referred to as macro sociology. However, the symbolicInteractionist perspective is concerned with the social dynamics ofpeople who interact in small groups. This social analysis level isreferred to as micro sociology. This theory was influenced by worksof early philosophers and sociologists such as Charles Cooley andGeorge Simmel. According to symbolic interactionism, human beingsrespond to how they are defined rather that the objective situation.A Pregnant teenager is defined as “irresponsible” by adults or as‘sluts” by other teenagers.

Conclusion

Inconclusion, apart from teenage pregnancy, our society is faced withnumerous social problems that need to viewed and understood indifferent perspectives so that the correct approach is set towardsmitigating the issue. Sociology has three different perspectives thatare crucial in explaining the social problems such as teenagepregnancy the functionalist, conflict and the symbolicinteractionism. The three sociological perspectives share asimilarity in that, they all try to explain the different socialaspects of society. In my view, teenage pregnancy is best describedby the functionalist perspective as it weighs both the pros and consof the issue.

References

Linders,A., &amp Bogard, C. (2014). Teenage Pregnancy as a Social Problem:Internationalhandbook of adolescent pregnancy.147-157. Springer US.

TheComplete Maus by Art Spiegelman

MausbyArt Spiegelman is set in Poland a few years preceding World War II.In the story, Vladek is a soldier when Germany invades Poland andcommences hostilities against Russia. He fights for the Poland armyand later serves a country that is under German control that exposeshim to the atrocities associated with anti-Semitic propaganda andlaws. Vladek experiences the atrocities that Jews in Germany facedbecause they were replicated by Germans in Poland. An example is arequirement for all Jews to wear badges that identify them as such.The government took over all the businesses belonging to Polish Jewsand also seized a lot of their property. They were compelled to livein ghettos under strict laws that controlled their movement andexposed them to brutal treatment. Vladek comes across in Mausasboth the hero and the villain as depicted by his characterization byArt Spiegelman through his own eyes and those of his son, and hisstrengths and weaknesses as the main character. The story ofholocaust comes out through the experiences of a single individual ina manner that invites varied judgment from the reader. AlthoughVladek’s deceptive and survival skills are apparent in the story,the reader also notices that he effortlessly assumes the position ofthe gallant male protagonist, who fits impeccably into the amusingnarrative tradition.

Vladek’scharacter

Artdepicts the youthful Vladek as a protagonist who experienceslife-threatening trials, separation, and adversity but gets by usinghis wits and eventually finds a contented ending in his reunion withAnya. The younger Vladek is unbelievably ingenious and in an extentlarger than life, but the older Vladek is overly real, irritable,miserly, and his faults apparent, which shows that it is well withinthe right of the reader to classify him as a hero and a villain. Artviews Vladek as a superhero in the magnitude of classic superheroesas the Iron Man. In Maus,II Vladeksays, “I remember arguing with him…. And being told that I couldnot do anything as well as he could…No matter what I accomplish, itdoes not seem like much compared to surviving Auschwitz” (II.2.34).These words depict Vladek as unique, intelligent, resourceful,ambitious, and dashing. He has the ability to fit and survive all thepredicaments inflicted by Germans in Poland. In Art’s eyes, he isthe voice of hope that trumps the wave of despair that sweeps acrossPoland during the war period. As conditions become worse for Jews inPoland, Vladek is able to shift roles as an astute businessman to anillicit trader that deals in everything that comes his way. Auschwitzis a symbol of oppression, but Vladek attitudes embody an individualwith the resilience to deal with the challenges that all Jews face inPoland. He looks for as many opportunities as possible to barter theskills he has and makes some savings in a place that literally lacksanything to live on. When Vladek’s wife, Anja, wants to commitsuicide upon learning of her son’s death, he prevails on her toface life rather than be an escapist. He sounds philosophical when hesays, “To die is easy….but you have to struggle for life”. Atno given point does Vladek exhibit, a trait that comes out as hisprominent characteristic that gives him the determination to livethrough the horror of the Holocaust.

Spiegelman’sportrayal for the survivor

Spiegelmanportrays the survivor as a symbol of resilience and determination.The most striking aspect of the portrayal is that Vladek does notmention anything about the sufferings he experienced in the camps.Art juxtaposes old Vladek with Vladek. They are a direct contrastdespite facing the same circumstances under Germans in Poland. OldVladek is physically and psychologically frail. He suffers fromvarious ailments that emanate from the inhumane treatment in thecamps. He talks about the experiences quite overly until he begins tosound neurotic with an obsession with perfection. Other survivorssuch as Vladek find it quite unusual, but it aids in portraying thesurvivor as a symbol of resilience and the determination to deal withthe challenges of the Holocaust. Vladek’s weakness is that he isreserved about sufferings he experiences. While he comes across asdetermined and resilient, it is quite difficult for the reader toknow more about his experiences through his words. Being reserved isa character weakness because the reader lacks the opportunity tolearn a lot of from the main character whose prominent role should bethe source of hope for the Jewish community. Vladek is also mean. Hehoards the things he sells during the struggle unless everything ispried out of him in one way or the other. Vladek also has somedictatorial tendencies, which are evident in his relationship withAnja. His dictatorial behavior washes away his positive qualitiesthat help him survive the Holocaust such as being resourceful. Hesays, “I told her if you want me you have to go my way….” (31).

AJewish caricature as depicted through Vladek

Artieis right to be worried that Vladek is simply a reproduction of theracist caricature of the miserly old Jew. For a person with a lifeexperience in the hands of Germans at the camps and ghettos, it isunfathomable for him to scold Artie for helping a black hitchhikerget up. It would be expected that the oppression in the hands of theGermans gave him the experiential empathy to propel him to stop anysort of oppression, especially against minorities. The fact that hekeeps hoarding things unless it is all in his favor makes himperfectly associated with the character of a miserly old Jew.Vladek’s experience during the Holocaust seems to have crippled hisemotions reducing to a “caricature of the miserly old Jew” (133).Mala also confirms this perspective about Vladek by saying that theexperiences made him become more concerned with “things thanpeople!”(133). He subconsciously wants to constantly be resourcefuland pragmatic to keep surviving even when the Holocaust is no longerthere.

Conclusion

Inconclusion, Vladek is both a hero and villain. He is a hero becausehe depicts the survival ideals and aspects of a war victim when theGermans invade Poland. As a young Vladek, he is ingenious and wittyand gets by decently well despite the separation, severe trials, andhardship he undergoes, but as he ages he becomes exceedingly real,prickly, and stingy. He is the villain because he fails to separatehimself from the oppressive nature of his oppressors. Spiegelmanjuxtaposition of various timelines shows that the past, the present,and future in a manner that brings out the effects of the Holocaustto the victims. Interestingly, the experiences of a single individualcan be the mirror through which to understand the plight of millionsof victims the suffered in the hands of the anti-Semitic Germanregime in Poland and Germany during World War II.

WorksCited

Spiegelman,Art. Thecomplete Maus.Penguin Books Limited, 2003.

AdaptiveBehavior and Economic Theory

AdaptiveBehavior and Economic Theory

Theprimary task of economic theory is to elucidate the economicprospects of a decentralized market segment. Economic theory isoccupied with the interaction process of various individual agents ina decentralized economy. Various economic systems are classified ascomplex adaptive and decentralized entities that are made up ofnetworks of interacting agents. Viable economic systems also exhibitdynamic aggregate behaviors that emanate from the activities ofindividual agents that comprise the financial system. The behavior isdescribable without any form of detailed knowledge of agents. At thesame time, an agent in economic systems is adaptive if he or shesatisfies the environmental demands within the environment such asutility, pay off, and performance. Most important is the fact thatthe behavior of the agent should be able to increase in value overtime.

Acomplex economic system should also comprise of complex adaptiveagents, interconnected through the discords of the environment inwhich they live. It should be understood that the complex web ofadaptive systems operate within the scope of global optimum wherebythey exhibit numerous levels of interaction and aggregation acrossdifferent economic levels. Each economic level, in this case, has itscharacteristic behavior and time scale. As a result, each economiclevel can be clearly described in regards to local niches and marketsegments that can be explicated by appropriate adaptations. Theincreasing rates of technological advancements and improvementstrategies offer viable adaptive systems where different individualagents can fit and expand their business activities (Bexker, 1962).

Moreover,a complex theory of adaptive systems promotes the development offlexible, well-defined models that exhibit emergent behavior in abusiness environment. According to Arrow (1986), most economists willagree that economics theory and its scientific discords began withAdam Smith. Smith’s intent was to ascertain the systematic analysisof the behavior of individual agents in using personal interests tomotivate their actions within the context of competition. Competitionin business is a complex entity that significantly determines thebehavior of entrepreneurs. According to the Porter’s five economicstrategies, industry rivalry may prompt business people to engage inillicit business activities in a bid to make profits. It is,therefore, arguable that most entrepreneurs are more engrossed inprofit making as opposed to meeting the needs of the customers.

Beingprofit oriented has instigated various aspects such as unfair andunhealthy business practices. A clear evidence of the adaptivebehavior in a competitive market segment is the current shake out inthe fast food industry. Today, the fast food industry is expandingand taking new shapes with each passing day. As a result, many peoplehave invested in the businesses. The competition is stiff and forsome of the businesses to thrive amidst the competition, they have toutilize unhealthy competitive strategies. Many businesses are beingquickly eliminated from the market. Therefore, only the large scalebusiness premises such as the MacDonald’s can survive in theindustry. Accordingly, more than 100 business premises in the fastfood industry have been closed over the last six months in the UnitedStates. Thus, there is a tendency for the individual agents to adaptto certain behaviors so as to remain competitive in the marketsegment.

Therelationship between adaptive behaviors and economic is based on thefact that the ultimate motive taken by the individual agent relies onthe desire of the agent to achieve specific financial goals. Theaspect of the economic theory is based on the fact that factors inany business environment gain motivation through personal benefitsand the desire to acquire as much profit as possibility. In anyeconomy, the desire of the investor is to obtain profitability. Theamount of the benefits garnered may vary depending on the strategiesthat the entrepreneur puts in place. Here, agents come up withpreferences and actions that they believe would help them collect asmuch profit as possible. The underlying assumption in economic theoryis that a consumer usually wants to purchase a specified unit of acommodity (Lucas, 1986). As such, the role of the suppliers is toavail that commodity to the convenience of the customer. In a bid toensure that the products are availed to the consumer, competitionemerges among the suppliers. This competition becomes stiff if themarket is oligopolistic. In such market segments, only theaccomplished and large businesses will ensure survival.

Theprice of the commodities also determines the flow of customs to thefirm. This assertion elucidates why today`s businesses sellingcounterfeit products get more customers than the manufacturers oforiginal products. The production of counterfeit goods is as a resultof the desire to fit in a market segment due to industry rivalry.Thus, the adaptive behaviors may not always be ethical. Without theright legal measures, the markets will always remain folded withillegal goods and unethical strategies to garner profits from thebusiness activities. In a nutshell, the relationship between adaptivebehaviors of the individual agents depends highly on the economy ofparticular market segments.

References

Arrow,K. J. (1986). Rationality of Self and Others in an Economic System.TheJournal Of Business,59(S4),S385. doi:10.1086/296376

Bexker,K. (1962). Investingin human capital.Singapore: World Scientific.http://public.eblib.com/choice/publicfullrecord.aspx?p=731121

Lucas,R. E. (1986). . TheJournal Of Business (1986-1998),59(4),IIS401.

UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE SYSTEM 9

Do you think it would be better if the U.S. had a Universal HealthCare System?

Ms. Emmanuel

Student: Gail Gough

The health care issue has affected Americans for many years and itcontinues to be a contentious issue. Currently, the U.S. is the onlydeveloped nation that lacks a universal health care system for itscivilians. As a result, civilians are expected to pay for theirhealth care needs. While the wealthy are able to afford health careservices under the present policy, millions of Americans are eitheruninsured or underinsured. As the cost of living continues to rise,it implies that more individuals will be incapable of meeting theirmedical needs. Health care expenses are already out of control formany Americans. Nonetheless, there has been a raging debate onwhether it would be better for the U.S. to have a universal healthcare system. In the following discussion, the essay argues for auniversal system.

Universal Health Care System

There have been many amendments made to America’s health caresystem aimed at ensuring that health care becomes affordable to allAmericans. The closest to universal health care the country hasachieved is the enactment of the Affordable Care Act. The act is asystem whereby the government funds fundamental health care needs forall civilians (Callaghan, 2016). Nonetheless, other equally importantmedical needs remain uncovered for by government. As such, theAmerican Census Bureau approximates that close to 33 millionindividuals lack health insurance (Procon.org, 2016).When compared toother industrialized countries such as, Canada, Japan, the UnitedKingdom, France, Australia and Germany, the U.S. expenses on healthcare are higher (Callaghan, 2016). In addition, America seems to have“worse health outcomes with lower life expectancy, higher infantmortality and higher obesity rates than comparable countries”(Callaghan, 2016). These are problems that are linked to the lack ofuniversal health coverage.

Despite the findings that support the need for a health care systemthat is universal, opponents argue that civilians are solelyresponsible for their health care needs. Health care is compared tosocialism thus, ruling out the duty of government in ensuring thatall its civilians have protected health care. In addition, opponentsare concerned that by making health care universal, its availabilityas well as quality will decline (Procon.org, 2016). However, thequality and ability to access health care for millions of Americansis already poor. This especially applies to civilians who areunemployed and unable to pay for private insurance, due to theexpensive premiums charged. Also, the underinsured cannot accessquality level of care, since their health care insurances are unableto meet all their medical needs. As of now, the health care system inAmerica is failing. It fails to cater for the needs of allindividuals, which calls for the need of a universal system.

Reduce Health Care Expenses

It would be better if the United States had a universal health caresystem because it would reduce health care expenses in the country.There are a number of studies that support the correlation betweenreduced medical expenses and universal health coverage. One suchstudy was conducted on the effectiveness of the single-payer healthinsurance system. Such a system ensures that all civilians access thesame level and quality of health care. The research concluded that“under a single-payer system, total public and private health carespending could be lowered by 592 billion dollars in 2014 and up to1.8 trillion dollars over the next decade” (Procon.org, 2016). Thereduced spending largely derives from reduced organizational andprescription medicine expenses.

A different study conducted by the American Medical Associationdemonstrates that private health coverage spend an average of 11.7%on administrative expenditure compared to 6.3% that is spend bygovernment health programs (Procon.org, 2016). Further researchderives from countries that have implemented universal coverage. Forinstance, Canada “spends half as much per capita on health care asthe United States. In 2010, the United Kingdom managed to providehealth care to all citizens while spending just 41.5% of what theUnited States did per capita” (Procon.org, 2016). It cannot berefuted that the United States spending on health care is higher ascompared to other industrialized countries. A larger percentage ofthe country’s budget is spent on meeting health care needs. Thiscan be attributed to the hundreds of health insurance organizations,which increases the paperwork amounting to 24% of health careexpenditure (Debatewise.org, 2016). A centralized system thatcomprises of a single buyer would reduce such costs and in turnreduce America’s health care expenses.

Health Care Access Equality

The universal system will ensure that all Americans can accesshealth care equally. The main benefit of such a system is that itensures individuals who are unable to afford health care expenses canaccess them. The system does not favor individuals based on theirability to pay health insurance. Rather, it ensures that theuninsured, underinsured and the jobless Americans, who currently facehardships in meeting their health care needs, are able to be treatedin all hospitals. The current health care system is highlyinequitable against Americans who are incapable of paying the highhealth insurance premiums. The most affected population is themillions of uninsured citizens. While many people assume that lack ofhealth insurance is linked to joblessness, it is not the case formany Americans. A larger percent of the uninsured comprise of workingAmericans (National Immigration Law Center, 2014).

Nevertheless, they are not able to afford insurance because theiremployers do not have the health insurance offer. In cases where theemployer gives health insurance, the premiums are expensive, oremployees are considered unqualified for such health care coverage.It is especially the case for individuals who work part-time. As aresult, the uninsured are compelled to pay out-of-pocket to accessmedical services. Those who cannot afford are less likely to seekmedical care even when experiencing serious health conditions. Inaddition, they lack a regular health facility where they often seekmedical advice, which reduces the probability of accessing preventivecare (National Immigration Law Center, 2014). Hence, it isapparent that not all Americans are able to meet their health careneeds in a timely manner. The universal coverage will ensure thatequal opportunity is attained all over the country.

Saves Lives

Universal coverage ensures that all Americans have a right to healthcare, which in turn saves lives. The inability to afford healthinsurance has been linked to thousands of deaths. According toProcon.org (2016), “lack of health insurance is associated with asmany as 44,789 deaths per year, which translates into a 40% increasedrisk of death among the uninsured”. Further research depicts thatabove 13,000 fatalities, which occur on a yearly basis amongAmericans aged 55 to 64 years as related to not having healthinsurance coverage (Procon.org, 2016). There is a high rate ofpreventable deaths in America, which can be attributed to a lack oftimely as well as effective access to health care. In fact, “theUnited States ranked at the bottom of a list of 16 rich nations interms of preventable mortality” (Procon.org, 2016). In countrieswith universal coverage, civilians tend to live longer as compared toAmericans.

The avoidable deaths can be attributed to the fact that individualswithout health insurance seem to experience poorer medical care. TheNational Immigration Law Center (2014) notes that “uninsuredadults who are injured in accidents are less likely to recover fullyand more likely to die as a result of their injuries”. In addition,the uninsured have a higher mortality rate due to acute and chronicillnesses, like heart attacks, hypertension and diabetesrespectively. The individuals are unable to schedule frequenthospital visits and seek effective treatment. As a result, they donot get access to the quality of care needed to treat theirconditions in a timely manner, resulting in premature death. Suchdeaths can be saved with universal coverage, since such a systemensures all civilians access health care services at ease andregularly.

Economic Benefits

It would be better for the U.S. to have a universal health caresystem as it results in improved economic productivity. Whenindividuals are guaranteed that their health care needs are wellcatered for, their lives become healthier. Access to health care islinked to a healthy population. In addition, a healthy populationresonates to an effective workforce, as employees are less likely tomiss work and as such contribute towards the growth of the economy.Workers who have health insurance miss work less often as compared tothe uninsured (Procon.org, 2016). Poor health, coupled withpreventable deaths among working Americans without health insurancelead to reduced work productivity. When more civilians are unable towork as expected, the reduced productivity slows the growth of theeconomy.

A universal health care system also promotes economic growth byincreasing cash flow within the economy. In the United States,civilians without health insurance are compelled to pay for medicalexpenses through out-of-pocket expense. Such payments are likely toresult in bankruptcies, especially when the expenses are high andunexpected, as has been witnessed in the U.S (World HealthOrganization, 2013). Due to the fear that individuals may have tospend highly on health care, many end up withholding their cash assavings. Thus, they reduce their expenditure on domestic products.However, assuming that people are provided with universal coverage,it reduces the fear and out-of-pocket spending. Thus, civilians donot feel compelled to save for unexpected health expenses, and areable to spend their money in other sectors. As a result, money flowswithin the economy, which in turn boosts economic growth (WorldHealth Organization, 2013).

Benefit to Businesses

The current health care system in the United States does not supportthe growth of businesses. The only businesses that appear to benefitfrom individual health insurance are the health insurers. Manybusinesses are required to pay for the health insurance of theirpersonnel. More than half of the American population receives healthcare coverage from policies provided by their employers. As such,businesses tend to incur huge labor costs. The outcome is that manyindividuals are unwilling or apprehensive of starting businesses,because they do not want to lose the health coverage already providedat existing workplaces. Also, starting a business means having toincur huge health care related expenses that could hinder the growthof a new business. Thus, reducing the incentive to start businessesor for many Americans to venture into self employment (Procon.org,2016).

It is not only small or start-up businesses that are negativelyaffected by health care costs. Properly established companies havealso experienced declines owing to the health related expenses oftheir workforce, like General Motors. A universal health care systemwill ensure that businesses are able to save on expenses such aslabor costs. The money is used in expanding business, hiring moreemployees and investing in the growth of the country. It alsobenefits businesses because they do not have to bear the burden ofreduced productivity, which has been linked to poor access to healthcare. As a result, more Americans will likely venture intobusinesses.

Conclusion

The United States does not have a universal health care system. Someindividuals receive employer-paid health insurance and others accesshealth coverage from private insurers. A high percentage of Americansare either uninsured or underinsured. The uninsured lack any form ofhealth coverage. The underinsured despite having health insurance areat time compelled to incur out-of-pocket health care expenses.Propositions have been made towards changing the current systemtowards one that guarantees universal coverage for all Americans.However, opponents argue that civilians should be accountable fortheir health care needs. But, it would be better for the U.S. to havea universal health care system. Such a system reduces the currentlyhigh health care expenditure in America, ensures all citizens haveequal access to medical services, saves lives of the uninsured,results in economic benefits and supports business growth.

References

Callaghan, T. (2016). 3 reasons the U.S. does not have universalhealth coverage. U.S. News. Retrieved from:http://www.usnews.com/news/national-news/articles/2016-10-26/3-reasons-the-us-doesnt-have-universal-health-coverage

Debatewise.org. (2016). America should have universal healthcare. Retrieved from:http://debatewise.org/debates/902-america-should-have-universal-healthcare/#yes1

National Immigration Law Center. (2014). Issue brief: Theconsequences of being uninsured, 1-7.

Procon.org. (2016). Should all Americans have the right (beentitled) to health care? Retrieved from:http://healthcare.procon.org/

World Health Organization. (2013). Arguing for universalhealth coverage, 6-36.

MBA PROGRAM 1

Reasonsfor Undertaking MBA in Florida National University

I loved businessissues since my tender age. Whenever I came across a newspaper athome or school, I only perused pages the discussed business matters.In addition, I grew up in a poverty-stricken area, where businessescould barely exist for more than one year. I harbored passionatedreams to attain the highest level of knowledge on business. MBAFinance concentration has been my center of interest in the currentyears, as it will equip me with skills in corporate finance,investment analysis, markets and institutional implications ofdecisions made. Furthermore, due to impressive record over the pastyears, Florida National University will equip me with essentialskills regarding business applied techniques and risk management.

Large corporationsare few due to complex financial challenges involved (Useem, 2014).My interests have been to witness businesses prosper, improve ourcountry’s economy and create more employment opportunities. Due tomy unquenchable desire for finance, earlier on I undertook variouscourses and passed with exemplary grades. Courses already completedconsist of government and institutional accounting, business law,international banking and finance, supervisory skills, corporationtaxation and operations management. I have a vast knowledge inbusiness, in which after MBA finance concentration I will be able tooperate successfully in large organizations. According to my previousresearch, I came to understand that large organizations demandcompetent individuals who can dissect and analyze problemssuccessfully.

With highlyreputable professors and lecturers in U.S, Florida NationalUniversity will enrich me with knowledge in concentration finance andprepare me for higher tasks in the business world. I am hardworking,determined and creative personality waiting anxiously to start my MBAin Finance Concentration in one of my beloved Universities.

Reference

Useem, M.(2014).&nbspTheinner circle: Large corporations and the rise of business politicalactivity in the US and the UK.Oxford University Press.

The debate on the use of physical force and deadly physical forcehas been present for over two decades now. People have questioned hecircumstances under which a person including police officers can useforce including deadly force to subdue another person. Primarily,police use force while make arrests on suspects who are resistant(Alpert and Roger 101). Furthermore, police can use deadly force suchas shootings when they reasonably believe that the attacker poses adeadly threat to them such as possessing a firearm. In suchinstances, this is considered as self defense. In the case of EricGarner, the use of chokehold that resulted in his death wasunjustified. Even though he resisted arrest, it is evident from thevideo that there were many police officers who would have overpoweredhim and arrested him.

The use of force including deadly force is based on two rules namelythe Retreat Rule and Stand Your Ground Rule. Some states are for theRetreat Rule such as New York while others are for the Stand YourGround Rule. The stand your ground rule allows the use of forceincluding deadly force on another person if he or she poses imminentdeath, serious bodily harm, rape, kidnapping or robbery (Alpert andRoger 66). Notably, this is allowed even in instances when the victimhas a safe route to exit or retreat. Conversely, the Retreat Ruleonly allows the use of force including deadly force when the victimdoes not have an avenue for safe retreat. This rule has beencontroversial considering that if an attacker has a gun, there is nopossible safe avenue for retreat.

While concluding, it is clear that the issue of use of force anddeadly force is going to be long. The circumstances under whichpolice or other armed citizens can use deadly force are not explicit.While many states use the Retreat Rule, there are others that use themore controversial Stand Your Ground Rule.

Work Cited

Alpert, Geoffrey and Roger, Dunham.&nbspUnderstanding Police Useof Force: Officers, Suspects, and Reciprocity.Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2014. Print.

TwoAmerican Impressionists: William Merritt Chase and Childe Hassam

Theera of Impressionism was a 19th century time that was exhibited bythe breach of the rules of academic painting. In this regard,according to Thomas (30), the early impressionists made theirpaintings and pictures from the freely brushed colors, which weredifferent from the standard lines and contours used by the moretraditional academic painters. Additionally, these impressionists hadthe ability to paint the aspects of modern life in a more realisticmanner and could paint outdoors (Thomas, 31). This was different fromthe conservative artists who usually painted still lifes, portraits,and landscapes in studios. Their main aim was to present the overallvisual effects as opposed to more details. As such, Mayer, Lance, andGay (20) state that their emphasis was on the display of the lightand its changes emanating from the effects of the passage of time.Indeed, they valued the inclusion of movement as they deemed it acritical part of the human experience and perception (Craven, 13).Moreover, the early impressionists were capable of painting unusualvisual angles, which made their works exceptional. Althoughimpressionism was mostly influenced by Paris-based artists, therewere others from it spread to other countries including America.Specifically, two of the most notable Impressionist artist areWilliam Merritt Chase and Childe Hassam. This paper discusses onepiece of decorative painting from William Merritt Chase.Specifically, the visual elements of this work would be presented.Finally, a comparison would be made between the art and another oneobtained from Childe Hassam.

Part1: Introducing the Works under Study by Discussing Their Style

WilliamMerritt Chase is considered one of the greatest Americanimpressionist because of the decorative paintings that he made duringthe 29th century. One of the most notable paintings was “The OpenAir Breakfast” which is a verdant garden oasis and akin to theopen-air “sunlight” and “shadow” which he had been paintedsome years earlier (Thomas, 35). In this painting, Mr. Merritt Chasedemonstrates his ability to deploy the freely brushed colors, whichwas a break from the norm of using lines and contours. In thisparticular price of the painting, William Merritt presents hisautobiography which depicts his life after becoming a father andafter marrying his wife (Schaffner, Cynthia, and Lori, 303). Thefollowing is a portrait of the “The Open Air Breakfast” painting.

“TheOpen Air Breakfast” painting by William Merritt Chase in 1888 fromoil on canvas. It measures 37 3/8 x 56 3/4 in. and was obtained fromthe Toledo Museum of Art.

Thispainting is set in the backyard of the parents of the author, whichis in the Marcy Avenue in Brooklyn. One year before the painting,William Merritt, together with his wife had moved to the parents’home as they anticipated the birth of their child Alice, who was alsoknown as “Cozy.” From the painting, William’s wife is seenseating at the table and beside him is baby Cozy who is on the highchair. Chase’s sister Hattie appears standing in the front of thescreen while Williams’s sister in law Virginia is the one loungingin the hammock (Thomas, 34). There are several aspects of thepaintings that depict the impressionist behavior and ideals of theauthor. One of those are the color harmonies that are deployed in thefull art. Specifically, from the portraits, it is clear that thedominant colors of white, green, and brown have been professionallyharmonized to bring about a stunning piece of art. William’s wifeis wearing a white dress while the flowers at the homestead haveapparently been painted green with some red and yellow petals (Mayer,Lance, and Gay, 21). The layered surfaces provide a good visualespecially considering that a dog is lying close to where the familyis having breakfast while the flowerpots can be visualized close tothe family.

Oneof the visual elements that are perfectly displayed is the line andshape. Specifically, the painting has a clear line that istwo-dimensional. This enables the viewers to have a clear view of theelements of the portrait and get the message that is being passed bythe author of the piece of art. Additionally, the shape of thepainting is also two-dimensional flat and has an appropriate lengthand width. Although the portrait does not have a massive size, itslength, and width of 37 x 56 is an ideal one as it ensures that eachparticular elements fit well within the frame and that the shape ofthe portrait is fantastic to watch for the audience (Schaffner,Cynthia, and Lori, 304). The free flowing form of the picture whichincludes an excellent volume informed by the height, width, and depthare one of the core visual elements that have made the painting to beconsidered one of the best if not the best in the impressionist era.Specifically, it has an excellent volume, which shows just how goodthe artist was in ensuring that all the dimensions of the portraitwere up to the required and appropriate standards. Indeed, theharmonization of the different visual elements is well coordinated toproduce a masterpiece that has stunned the audience with the level ofcreativity and artistry.

Thevalue of the portrait, which includes the different colors used, isalso well presented. Specifically, the lightest, darkness and variedtones of the colors used are exemplary. For instance, an idle grey isdisplayed by the value halfway between the dark and bright colors.This enables the audience to distinguish between the images with thefamily being clearly demonstrated as well as other features such asthe sleeping dog to the surrounding wall and flowers. The hue, value,and intensity of the colors are also notable. Specifically, in theview of Schaffner, Cynthia, and Lori (305), a variety of colors canbe distinguished from the others. Additionally, the high-intensitycolor has a high quality of brightness and purity while the sharp andbright colors are good for any class of audience including those whomight have sight problems. The texture of the painting is the lastvisual element that has been significantly incorporated into thepicture. Specifically, the way that the portrait might feel iftouched is not only smooth but also emotional. A combination of allthose visual elements is a show of the vast talent that William hadat the time of the painting. Indeed, the portrait is highlyimpressive.

“TheOpen Air Breakfast” is an autobiography of William at a time thathe was expecting a child. The audience for the painting the familywho would view the picture as one displaying love and unity withinthe household (Schaffner, Cynthia, and Lori, 303). From the way thatthe various elements of the painting are arranged, it would impressthe audience into seeing how William has promoted the values of thefamily. The harmony is seen when Mr. and Mrs. Williams enjoybreakfast with their sisters in law and having their pet sleepingclose to them. The Japanese cap that is worn is a harmony between theEast and the West and is, therefore, a message to the audience thatart does not have any boundaries. The use of elements from differentcultures has enhanced the message to the public as it has attractedthe interest of not only the western American culture but also theEuropean culture.

Part2: Comparison-Contrast

WilliamMerritt Chase’s painting titled the “The open air breakfast”can be compared and contrasted with Childe Hassam’s “The Artist`sWife in a Garden, Villiers-le-Bel.” This is another painting thatwas made by an impressionist. Specifically, it depicts the wife ofthe artist sitting alone in a lonely place between the blossomingflowers. The environment around her cannot fail to catch the eyes ofthe audience, as there are flowerpots as well as different colors ofthe flowers. Specifically, she is wearing a white dress and the greenflowers with red and yellow petals are visible. One cannot fail tonotice the way that the environment is very conducive for theartist’s wife.

“TheArtist`s Wife in a Garden, Villiers-le-Bel” by Childe Hassam in1889. The painting measured 750x474px and was obtained fromhttp://www.the-athenaeum.org/art/detail.php?ID=27050

Similarities

Acloser examination of “The Open Air Breakfast” painting byWilliam Merritt Chase and Childe Hassam’s “The Artist`s Wife in aGarden, Villiers-le-Bel” brings about several similarities that canbe obtained from the message of the two and the visual elements thatthey exhibit. However, to start with, the two paintings were done inthe same era and by artists who embraced the Impressionist ideals.Although they were not painted in the same year, they were painted inthe same decade, and the artists had the influence of the Paris-basedimpressionists. Another point of similarity can be established fromthe various colors that are used. In the two pictures, the subjectsare dressed in white dresses. However, the one that is worn by the“The Artist`s Wife in a Garden, Villiers-le-Bel” is not entirelywhite as it has several brown spots (Olander, Catherine, andNanyoung, 13). Additionally, the color of the environment that theportraits depict are clearly of serenity and where various elementssuch as flowers are found.

Theother similarity that can be proven from the two pictures is thestory behind the paintings. In this regard, both paintings depict thefamilies of the artists. Specifically, in the first portrait titled“The Open Air Breakfast,” Mr. William displays his familyincluding his wife, child, and sisters. In the second one “TheArtist`s Wife in a Garden, Villiers-le-Bel,” the painting is thatof the author’s wife who is seated in one of the paths meditating.The visual elements of the two paintings from the other similaritythat can be established, specifically, they are both two-dimensionaldescriptive pictures. Additionally, there is an excellent harmonybetween the various visual elements. More specifically, Weinberg,Barbara (66) posits that the two paintings are free flowing with thevolumes, which include the length, width, and depth being displayedspectacularly for the audience. As such, they are very attractive tothe public and can offer excellent visual features. The hues areeasier to identify in the two pictures, which makes the harmony inthe colors critical in establishing each of the elements. Finally,there is an enormous similarity in the texture of the two paintings(Weinberg, Barbara, 67). Specifically, it would feel very smooth andlovely to touch, as the paintings are a display of a huge artisticinnovation.

Differences

Themessage brought out by the creative works brings out the biggestdifference in the two pictures. In this regard, whereas “The OpenAir Breakfast” brings about a message of love, family unity, andhappiness, the “The Artist`s Wife in a Garden, Villiers-le-Bel”brings about a message of sorrow, loneliness, and isolation.Specifically, from the paintings of William and his family bothtaking their breakfast as well as their child and their sister, itshows how they are enjoying the moment and cherishing their unity andoneness. The same cannot be said of the second portrait, which showshow the author’s wife is in deep thoughts, and seated somewherealone contemplating on issues that cannot be established. As such,the message is different as the content between the two aredifferent. Additionally, in the first painting, the artists bringsabout more than one character while the second one is consistent withone person sitting alone. This is despite the fact that that two haveused the same style, which was used during the impressionist era.Indeed, the bench that the character in the second painting is facingseems to have several scattered flowers. This tells that something iswrong and there is not much happiness and love that can beestablished. This is entirely different from the first one whereeverything seems to be fine, and the characters are enjoying themoment.

Althoughmost of the visual elements in the two paintings are similar, somedifferences can be established. In this regard, the hue in the firstpainting is discernible as there are distinct colors of white, blackand brown. However, the second picture shade is a mixed one making itvery hard to state the color of the dress. Additionally, the variousattires that are worn by the characters in the first painting byWilliam shows a mix of several cultures. Specifically, although thedress and other attires are from the western culture, the cap is fromJapan ensuring, therefore, that they embrace various cultures(Olander, Catherine, and Nanyoung, 12). However, the second paintingsare clearly from an American culture judging from the dress worn.Indeed, the differences between the levels of artistry between thetwo artists are noticeable. Whereas William’s ability to mixdifferent colors is excellent, that of Childe Hassam is a bit weakregarding the level of creativity and innovation.

Inconclusion, the impressionist artists such as William Merritt Chaseand Childe Hassam abandoned the conventional academic painting waysand deployed more revolutionary methods, which focused on the lightelements and visuals of the arts, as opposed to the details of style.The two paintings from the authors were all from the same period andwere based on the lives of the artists. Specifically, the “The OpenAir Breakfast” tells a story about the family of William Merrittwhen they moved to their parents’ house moments before the birth oftheir child. In the “The Artist`s Wife in a Garden,Villiers-le-Bel” Childe Hassam portrays his wife who seems to bedepressed and isolated. However, the various visual effects such ascolor, volume, line, and texture are the same as the two paintingswere made in the same era and by artists with similar styles.

WorksCited

&quotBrooklynMuseum&quot. Brooklynmuseum.Org,2016,https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/opencollection/search?keyword=The+Artist%27s+Wife+in+a+Garden%2C+Villiers-le-Bel&amptype=archives&amplimit=12&ampoffset=12.

Craven,Wayne. AmericanArt.1st ed., New York, Mcgraw-Hill, 2003.

Mayer,Lance, and Gay Myers. &quotUnderstanding the techniques of Americantonalist and Impressionist painters.&quot Journalof the American Institute for Conservation(2013): 23-25.

Olander,Catherine W., and Nanyoung Kim. &quotA Historical Review of AmericanImpressionist Painting: California Plein Air Painters and The CapeCod School of Art.&quot (2010): 12-19.

Schaffner,Cynthia VA, and Lori Zabar. &quotThe Founding and Design of WilliamMerritt Chase’s Shinnecock Hills Summer School of Art and the ArtVillage.&quot WinterthurPortfolio44.4 (2010): 303-350.

Thomas,Greg M. Impressionistchildren: childhood, family, and modern identity in French art.Yale University Press, (2010): 30-40.

Weinberg,H. Barbara. &quotWhat`s American about American Art?LATE-NINETEENTH-CENTURY AMERICAN PAINTING: Cosmopolitan Concerns andCritical Controversies.&quot Archivesof American Art Journal49.1/2 (2010): 66-77.

InstitutionAffiliation

Statisticiansplay a crucial role in the society. Below is an analysis of the mostfundamental components of statistics and their utilization in themodern society.

Compareand contrast the use of linear and multiple regression analyses

Instatistics, linear regression encompasses the modelling of how thedependent and the independent variables relate by the use of a linearfunction. In situations where two or more explanatory variables arefound to have a linear relationship with the prevailing dependentvariable, the regression is then termed as a multiple linearregression. On the other hand, multiple regression models are termedas a broader class or regressions that take into perspective linearand non-linear regressions with multiple explanatory variables.

Intheir study, Hasanpori, Tavili, and Javadi (2014), make use of themultiple regression models to study species density in Semi -AridRangelands. From their study, there is an incorporation of a widerange of explanatory variables that enhance the conclusion attained.Langohr and Melis, (2015) make use of a linear regression model toconduct an estimation and residual analysis using R.

Meaningof the simple coefficient of determination in general

Thecoefficient of determination is normally represented by R-squared,and it is a number that denotes the proportion of variance in thedependent variable and predictable from the independent variable.This is mainly used to predict research hypotheses and any futureoutcomes. A good example, on how the coefficient would have played amajor role is the prediction of the U.S. presidential outcomes.Further, the coefficient in addition to different regression modelswould suffice as an essential approach in predicting the economicoutcomes in the world if the U.S. economy declines due to thecontinued and developing fear among organizations owing to unexpectedchange in leadership (Hewson &amp MacGillivray, 2016).

ResidualPlots

Residualsare plotted against fitted values in a regression analysis model.

Thereare a number of ways of determining whether a residual plot violatesthe regression analysis model. Some of the main approaches include:

Unevenspread of residual across the fitted values. In this case the modeldoes not fit consistently at all the values of X. Further, if thereis a curvilinear pattern. This means that the model may be missing ahigher order term. Violation of the assumptions may occur insituations where outliers exist in the extreme Y value. This is tomean that there may be an underlying special cause that may includedata recording error. Another crucial aspect to note is theinfluential value of extreme X value. In this case an observation istermed or denoted to have a greater influence on the model ascompared to other observations (Neuhäuser, 2015).

F-testis normally used in the comparison of statistical models fitted to agiven set of data. This is an essential approach of trying toestablish the best model that fits the data used in a study. It isimperative for researchers to clearly authenticate their studies andensure that they correctly utilize the best methods possible in theresearch process.

Inconclusion, statistics is a fundamental component in the modernsociety. Through statistics, researchers can be able to gathercritical data to enhance decision making processes. Moreover, peopleare able to investigate prevailing problems and ensure that they getthe best results to harness viable strategies to solve such issues.

References

Hasanpori,R., Tavili, A., &amp Javadi, S. (2015). Study of Species Density inSemi-Arid Rangelands by Using Multiple-Linear RegressionAnalysis.&nbspVegetos-An International Journal of Plant Research,&nbsp26(2),43. http://dx.doi.org/10.5958/j.2229-4473.26.2.052

Hewson,P. &amp MacGillivray, H. (2016). The pinnacle of statisticseducation is not a single hypothesis test.&nbspTeaching,&nbsp38(1),1-3. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/test.12090

Langohr,K. &amp Melis, G. (2015). Estimation and residual analysis with Rfor a linear regression model with an interval-censoredcovariate.&nbspBiometricalJournal,&nbsp56(5),867-885. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/bimj.201300204

Neuhäuser,M. (2015). Combining the t test and Wilcoxon`s rank-sum test.&nbspJournalof Applied ,&nbsp42(12),2769-2775. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/02664763.2015.1070809

MagicalThinking or Behavior

MagicalThinking or Behavior

Q1

Routineand rituals

Oneof the magical behaviors that people, especially players, adapt isthat they develop a daily routine which they usually follow. They dosimilar things day after another like trained animals in an attemptto reduce uncertainty and chances of error (Gmelch,1978).They disregard anything that tends to get them out of the routine.For instance, in sports, players develop a habit of sitting in thesame spot. An individual would tend to sit on the same position he orshe did the previous day. If one made a mistake of sitting in adifferent position, immediate correction would be made ot avoid whatis referred to as a bad luck. Routines are usually comforting. Theytend to introduce order into the world where people have less controlover outcomes. It is advantageous since sometimes it helps theplayers concentrate in competitions. However, if they overdo theroutines they end up becoming rituals as an anthropologist woulddefine it. These can be defined as certain behaviors whereby thereare no empirical connections between the desired results and themeans used. They are not rational. Similarly to these there are thenon-rational beliefs which are the basis of fetishes as well astaboos.

Taboosdiffer from rituals or routines. They are mostly connected to aprohibition (Gmelch,1978).Players think that in doing a certain undertaking leads to anundesirable result. Examples may include avoiding going over thewhite foul lines which may result to a defeat in a match. Additionalbehaviors would be players avoiding shaving, eating or seeing somepeople before a competition. They believe or think that suchbehaviors might cause undesired outcomes of the game. While most ofthese are idiosyncratic, there are some that all players hold. Theydo not develop out of misfortune or someone’s experiences. Taboosusually develop from exceptionally below par performances wherebyindividuals in search of reason, connect it to various behaviors.

Fetishes

Sometimesthey are referred to as charms. They are specific things or materialsthat an individual feels that they are offering protection due totheir supernatural powers (Gmelch,1978).Under the category, there are good lucks which are standard objectsfor ballplayers. They may include such things as chains orcrucifixes. In sports, for instance, the fetishized thing may besomething one worn when a match was won or a streak of successescoincided with it. Also, a common habit found in sports that can becategorized as fetish is the uniform numbers. Some players are soobsessed with specific ones such that they cannot trade it foranything else since it makes them perform better and helps the teamwin.

Q2

Oneof the magical behaviors I used to do was to sit on a specific deskduring exams. I would locate it if it is not in the position that Ileft it. Some would claim that I had written answers on it but if Iused that exam table during the tests I could find the paper doableand consequently score high marks. If I missed it, I would experiencea tough test before me, and it was not to my surprise that I wouldscore low during that specific unit.

Q3

Thehabit would fall under routine and ritual. It is because it was aroutine I used to follow to ensure success. It is individually-basedsince it was not a habit being done in a certain culture. I onlypracticed the habit without the knowledge of other classmates. It wasa personal experience that started when I sat for one exam and passedbeyond my expectations. During the consequent papers, I located thesame seat, and since then it became a habit.

References

Gmelch,G. (1978). Baseball magic. HumanNature,1(8),3240.

TheCultural Identities of Chinese American Adolescents

Chinese-American adolescents face a lot of challenges in the UnitedStates, as well as in mainland China. The shared cultural heritagesfrom the two different nations possess difficulty in identifyingone’s cultural standing. The adolescents are the most affected asthe reality strikes them at this age. Notably, most Chinese-Americangrown-ups and parents do not exhibit the cultural dilemma as theyoungsters. The adolescent group’s challenge is that they areneither accepted by the American society, nor by their Chinesecounterparts who live in China. As a result, they often feelexperience feelings of seclusion and rejection. However, theself-concept of Chinese-Americans begun to create a middle ground asto where the two different cultures can meet and therefore fit thecircumstances of the adolescents at a social dilemma. Somepropositions have been made in an effort of shaping the culturalidentities of these adolescents. Together, they form a multi-facetedapproach which includes the American community in which they live, aswell as teachings and support at the family level. Nevertheless, itis the way these Chinese teenagers deal with the two cultures that isattention-grabbing. Therefore, the Chinese-American adolescents faceprofound challenges in American society which puts them in an anxiousposition over their cultural identity, leading them to questionwhether they truly fit into the American identity.

One of the problems Chinese-American adolescents face is acceptancein either of the cultures. The teenagers face a general opinion thatthey will never become Americans even though they were born and bredin America. Tse and Johndro assert that the serious dilemma is thatthe Chinese-Americans are inclined more to their Chinese identitythan an American one (humanities.asu.edu). The experiences haverevealed to be confusing to many other teenagers who perceived thetreatment as segregation and racism from their American counterparts(Zhou 1). However, the American community could always deny thetreatment and refer racism as a black and white affair. Consequently,Tse and Johndro propose comparative cultural studies in learninginstitutions which will aid in bridging the inadequate information ondifferent ethnicities and languages of the world. According to theduo, the lack of conversations and interactions have caused all theproblems related to social acceptance from other ethnic groups(humanities.asu.edu).

Chines-Americans and the Asian-Americans, in general, have decided torefer themselves as neither Chinese nor American. Lack of a strongethnic standing in either of the two cultures has forced adolescentsto renounce both cultures. In her Asian-American Awakening review,Zhou calls out for other Asian-Americans who still cling onto theirAsian or American culture to come out and refer themselves asAsian-Americans. However, Tse and Johndro explain a contradictingexperience back in China where the Chinese-Americans are consideredas either Chinese or America, and not both (humanities.asu.edu).According to the Chinese people, a Chinese looking person cannot alsobe an American. On the other hand, some Chinese-Americans also argueabout how American they feel which makes them end up furthering analready heated up argument. Therefore, professions and groups whichinteract with Chinese-Americans should transact with utmostsensitivity to cultural differences and acceptance that faces theadolescents (Van Campen &amp Russell 4). The conservative treatmentis meant to dilute all feelings of tension and confusion thatChinese-American adolescents experience.

Zhou narrates an experience after visiting her extended family inChina. Zhou was disappointed after relatives could easily identifyher as a non-local and went ahead to joke about her American accentwhile speaking Chinese. Consequently, she decided to lose thatidentity because it was not part of her (Zhou 3). Furthermore, shewent ahead and stopped speaking Chinese as a way of erasingembarrassing moments during her Asian visit. Similarly, Zhou wentahead and started avoiding other Chinese immigrants with a fear thatthey would embarrass her further. All these efforts show anindividual who is striving to save face amidst a complex dilemma. Thefear of being called “different” has made many otherChinese-Americans to dissociate themselves with the ethnic group thatmistreats them. To identify with the American identity which standsfor independent freedom, beliefs, and shared values, theChinese-American adolescents try as much as they can to cut off theirAsian cultural links. Xu also reports how his adolescent experiencesmade him contemplate getting rid of his cultural heritage(nytimes.com). According to Xu, association to the Chinese culturecreated a self-hatred as it made him look different among peers(nytimes.com). However, he proposes a way of shaping culturalidentity through art. Visiting the first Chinese-Americansettlements, and taking photographs made him understand the culturalposition and contributions that Chinese-Americans made during theearly years in modern America. Such experiences are useful inensuring Chinese- American adolescents accept themselves and thatthey also form part of the American story.

The realization that one is ethnically Asian but culturally Americancan sometimes cause confusion. The majority of Chinese-Americans tryto squeeze in part of the Chinese culture through copying andlearning. However, most of those born and bred in the United Statescannot fully become culturally Chinese because they did not grow inthe culture (Zhou 3). Most of them try to watch Asian films, havingAsian friends, and listening to Asian music, all to identify withtheir ethical culture. However, the balance between being an Americanand at the same time a Chinese is not always correctly established.Therefore, most adolescents try to accommodate the Chinese valuesthat they can and dispose-off those they cannot maintain. During suchtimes, the family has a significant role in which it needs to play.The role of supporting and regulating the adolescents can salvagesome of the difficult feelings they deal with daily (Van Campen andRussell 2). The support can aid in instilling some Chinese valuesthat are critical for their understanding of their ethnicity.Confucian philosophies such as respect for authority and theimportance of education are imperative in the Chinese culture and canbe passed down through the family (Van Campen and Russell 2).

In conclusion, the Chinese-American adolescents face a lot ofdifficulty regarding their cultural identity. They face a culturaldilemma and confusion as to who they truly are. While some perceivethemselves as Americans, some see themselves as Chinese teenagers inAmerica. Furthermore, the society enhances the cultural identitydilemma among the adolescents. However, proposals such as havingcomparative studies in schools and universities could support abetter understanding of different cultures that exist within theAmerican community. Similarly, learning about the historical placeand contributions of the first Chinese people in America could alsohelp Chinese-American adolescents acknowledge their position withinthe American society. Experiencing the complete freedom to expressone`s culture is the best experience. At this point, it is clear thatthe Chinese-American adolescents have no reason to show anxiety abouttheir position in America but rather, form part of the Americanidentity.

WorksCited

Tse,Melissa, and Patrick Johndro. “The Twists and Turns of theChinese-American Identity.”Humanities.aus.eud.

VanCampen, K. S., and S. T. Russell. &quotCulturaldifferences in parenting practices: What Asian American families canteach us.&quotResearchLink2.1. 2010.

Xu,An Rong. &quotEmbracing My Chinese-American Identity.&quot TheNew York Times. TheNew York Times, 2015. Web. 19 Dec. 2016.

Zhou,Connie. “The Asian-American Awakening: that moment when you realizeyou’re not white.” 2013.