Chronic Low Back Pain and Pelvic Floor Muscle Strengthening

Chronic Low Back Pain and Pelvic Floor Muscle Strengthening Introduction Chronic Low Back Pain is a common condition now a days and refers to pain localized to lower back or lumbar spine. It is common with in adult population and there is limited research available about using the Pelvic Floor Muscle Strengthening Exercise as a physiotherapy treatment for this condition. In this essay, Chronic Low Back Pain and Pelvic Floor Muscle Strengthening Exercise will be explained briefly and its significance to physiotherapy practice will be discussed with reference to a Randomised Control Trial (RCT) by Manisha Rathi (Appendix A). Furthermore, the philosophical assumptions underpinning this study will be analysed. Finally, by using a critiquing tool (Appendix B) ,the study will be then critiqued for its strengths and limitations. Significance of the Issue Chronic Low Back Pain is a common musculoskeletal problem in modern society. Around 70 % to 85% of population will experience low back pain at some time in their life; and 5% to 15% will develop chronic low back pain (Liddle, Baxter, Gracey, 2004). Low back pain is defined as pain, muscle tension, or stiffness below the costal margin and above the inferior gluteal folds, with or without leg pain (Koes, Tulder Thomas, 2006) and Chronic low back pain is classified as pain and disability lasting for more than 12 week duration (Philadelphia panel, 2001). It commonly occurs in young age when people are in their twenties. Back and spine impairments are common in women with the value of 70.3 per 1000 population than in man where there is 57.3 per 1000 population( Andersson Gunnar, 1999). The common causes of low back pain includes stressed or irritated muscle or ligament. The strain develops over a period of time due to poor posture and when posture is not corrected, strain builds up and eventually stretches or irritates muscle or ligament producing low back pain (E.R. Viera, S Kumar 2007). Another important cause related to the development of chronic low back pain includes imbalance between flexor and extensor muscles of trunk including respiratory muscles and muscles of continence, which are responsible for spinal and pelvic support (Hides et al.,2001, Cholewicki et al., 2005) . Most important symptoms of chronic low back pain are functional disability and pain (Koes et al.,2006). Exercise therapy is widely recommended for the treatment of low back pain (Rasmussen- Barr, Ang, Arvidsson and Nilsson Wikmar, 2009). Pelvic floor exercises that contribute to the contraction of abdominals and lumbopelvic stability seems to be more effective than conventional treatment.( Manisha Rathi,2013). Pelvic Floor Muscles (PFM) form the base of abdominal cavity. Except for, their importance in patients with urinary and faecal incontinence, PFM also play vital role in proper muscle activation for stabilization and unloading of lumbar spine. Furthermore, Pelvic floor muscle contraction have also shown to produce contraction of abdominal muscles and vice -versa (Sapsford and Hodges, 2001). Morkved et al.(2007) suggest that group training (Pelvic floor muscle exercises, aerobic exercises and additional exercises) during pregnancy also provide evidence of beneficial effects in preventing lumbopelvic pain. According to Manisha Rathi (2013), there are very little published evidence to measure the effect of Pelvic floor muscle exercises in the management of chronic low back pain and hence the study was conducted, which further supported the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle exercise in females with chronic low back pain. Moreover, this physiotherapeutic intervention combined with conventional treatment seems to refurbish the functional ability as well as manage the pain in the females with chronic low back pain. Philosophical Assumptions Underpinning Quantitative Research Understanding of research can improve the depth of professional healthcare practice. Being a person trained in healthcare calls for clinical choices based on best existing research evidence (Polit and Beck 7th ed. p. 4). There are various research designs present, to offer us the appropriate information to support our clinical reasoning. This segment will discover the philosophical assumptions underpinning the research methodology used by Manisha Rathi (2013) in her study regarding the effect of Pelvic Floor Muscle strengthening exercises in chronic low back pain. This is a randomised control trial which is a true experimental type of research characterised by randomisation and control group to minimise systematic bias (Polit and Beck 7th ed. p. 225-226). The Positivist Paradigm The positivist paradigm underlies the existence of some reality and in this, much research activity is directed towards understanding and knowing it (Polit and Beck,7th ed. p.15). The recent evidence-based practice movement is an example of positivist approach to knowing (Grant Giddings, 2002, pg.14) . According to the Grant Giddings Knowledge is to be discovered so that people can explain, predict and control events. The knowledge can be acquired through research and helps with professional decision making and practice, which can lead us to best quality in health care (Polit Beck,7th ed., Grant and Giddings, 2002). Exploring the Research title Effect of Pelvic Floor Muscle strengthening exercises in chronic low back pain, the title makes it understand that the authors were trying to find out the effects of pelvic floor muscle exercises aspiring to improve the treatment plan for a group of individuals. It shows the approach of Manisha Rathi (2013) to be following the Positivist Para digm. In a positivist approach, RCT is valid to a great extent as its methodology is rated higher than others because of the type of evidence it produces(Grant and Giddings, 2002). This is another hint that Manisha Rathi(2013) was utilizing the positivist approach, as she is attempting to give information about a treatment plan by conducting a randomised control trial which is believed to produce the best evidence (Grant Giddings, 2002). Determinism Determinism is an assumption of positivist paradigm and refers to belief that phenomena i.e. observable facts and events are not haphazard or random but rather have antecedent causes (Polit and Beck, 7th ed.). Specifically, it can be said that all events occur pursuant to preceding laws or events. Manisha Rathi(2013) demonstrate determinism in her study by giving the evidence that chronic low back pain can be caused by imbalance between various muscles of trunk including respiratory muscles and muscles of continence (Pelvic floor muscles), which are responsible for spinal and pelvic support and that pelvic floor muscle exercise may show positive effects on the population suffering from this ailment. Deductive Reasoning Deductive reasoning is the process of developing specific predictions from general principles (Polit and Beck 7th ed. p.11). In other words, it is the formation of reasoning from various general statements and involves pre specified design and emphasis on specific concepts. According to Roberts and Burke (1989) It refers to an approach in which a narrow conclusion is reached, based on broader set of premises i.e. general knowledge or other research findings. For positivists, the deductive process is an approach from which one can become aware of a single reality and hypotheses are tested on the basis of a theory (DePoy Gitlins, 2005). Deductive reasoning was demonstrated by Manisha Rathi (2013), as a proper review of the study was done, which helped to form and test the hypotheses that Pelvic Floor Muscle exercise could be beneficial for patients with Chronic low back pain. Objectivity Objective methods are appreciated in quantitative research as much as possible. Objectivity is the extent to which two independent researchers would turn up to an identical or uniform conclusion i.e. judgements are not biased on the basis of personal beliefs (Polit and Beck, 7th ed. p. 340, 562). Manisha Rathis (2013) study demonstrates the basis of objectivity, as the participants had to undergo a particular inclusion and exclusion criteria which assured that only subjects (married females) of a particular age group with chronic low back pain, having persistent symptoms of pain and functional disability for more than twelve weeks must be included in the study. Pregnant females, females having Urogenital dysfunction, Pelvic inflammatory disease, Nerve injury to pelvic floor muscle, any pathology of spine or lower limb were excluded in order to avoid the bias. Defined Protocol and Empirical Evidence In Experimental research, researchers have the Independent variable, which means that the participants are exposed to different treatments or conditions. An Intervention protocol is necessary for the study to develop and specify exactly what intervention will entail i.e. who would administer it, how frequently and for how long a treatment would last. (Polit and Beck, 7th ed.). Manisha Rathi (2013) has followed a specific modules which included subjects enrolment process, their allocation of control group and treatment group and data analysis through different statistical methods. A proper treatment protocol was executed to confirm that the type of treatment and duration received by all the subjects were same. Empirical evidence, according to Polit et al. (7th ed.) is the evidence rooted in objective reality and collected through data collection, utilizing ones own senses rather than through personal beliefs or hunches. Evidence for a study in a positivist paradigm is gathered systematically, using formal instruments to collect the required information. In the study Manisha Rathi (2013) manipulated the independent variables to observe the results. The pain was determined by using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and the functional disability was determined by Oswestry Disability Index. Critique According to Polit Beck,(7th ed.) A studys strengths and limitations can be assessed by critiquing of the research. The reviewers summary of the merits of the study, advice regarding the value of the evidence, and suggestions about improving the study or the report is concluded in a critique. According to Polit and Hungler (6th ed.), the quality of a research is closely related to the kinds of decisions the researcher has made in conceptualizing, designing, executing and interpreting the results of the study and critiquing further helps to provide a feedback. A Critiquing tool (ref. to Appendix B) has been used to explore and examine the strengths and limitations of the study done by Manisha Rathi (2013), which will be discussed in the following paragraphs. The Title, Abstract and Study Purpose The title of the study by Manisha Rathi (2013), is concise and gives us the information and indication about the content of study. It also reflects the research approach and the population examined. The abstract compiles the aim, research design, population, method used, results and a conclusion which provides us a brief information about the overview of the theoretical model underlying the research along with what a reader is going to find in the research paper. The result and conclusion provides a basis and creates a curiosity for a further detailed reading. Manisha Rathi (2013) has precisely determined the studys purpose of investigating the efficacy of a therapeutic exercise (Pelvic Floor Exercise) method, on a particular population, in the studys title and abstract. This is an important issue in the field of physiotherapy practice, as Chronic low back pain is a very common ailment within the adult population and the symptoms like increased pain and disability hampers the activities of daily living and is required to be addressed properly. Research Design and Research Hypotheses Manisha Rathi (2013) has applied a true-experimental design (pre test post test control group design ) and cause effect was tested through the hypothesis that PFM exercises could be of benefit for the patients with chronic low back pain. In this study the hypothesis was formulated, followed by a literature review, and then hypothesis was confirmed by process of various measurements and statistical methods. The research design was appropriate as per the research purpose and it also minimized bias and replication of this study is also possible as the study was well explained. Literature review The literature review done by Manisha Rathi (2013) was brief, up to date and included all the important information required for the study. It provides a solid basis for the new study. It was also portrayed and organised in an easy manner to understand, as it started with an introduction of low back pain, its classification, clinical factors and symptoms followed by brief information about the pelvic floor muscles exercises. Study Sample Manisha Rathi (2013) conducted a randomised control study on thirty married females, under the age group between 20- 40 years, with chronic low back pain. They were divided by random allocation into two groups i.e. an experimental and a control group. The researcher has given a good information and has well described the study sample of females with Chronic low back pain. She has followed a particular inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria for the selection of participants in order to minimize bias which strengthens the studys internal validity and also might help in getting efficient results. However, the trial was carried on a small sample size i.e. only on thirty females, 15 in each group (group A and group B). Ethical Considerations The ethical approval was granted for Manisha Rathis(2013) study by the Institutional Ethical Committee of Dr. D.Y. Patil College of Physiotherapy, Pune. The study was conducted in the Out Patient Department of the college and an informed consent was obtained from all the participants. However, it is not mentioned whether the participants were fully aware about the nature of the research or not. Data Collection and Analysis Methods of gathering data was appropriate. Pre intervention readings and post intervention readings were taken on the 1st day of visit and at the end of 4 weeks respectively. However, there were no follow ups. Manisha Rathi (2013), in her study, assessed pain intensity, in a subjective way, by utilizing Visual Analogue Scale and functional disability was also assessed in a subjective way, by utilizing Oswestry Disability Index , which is a reliable questionnaire. Study Results The study done by Manisha Rathi (2013) shows that the research hypotheses was adequately answered as there was improvement in pain and functional disability levels, following the treatment. Manisha Rathi(2013) has shown her findings in the graphs and has given the P value, which makes it easy to understand and co-relate the results with her conclusion. The Findings based on Manisha Rathis (2013) study would help physiotherapists to achieve better and efficient results while treating patients of Chronic low back pain with the help of Pelvic Floor Muscle exercises. However, limitations of the study includes that the pain intensity and functional disability were measured in a subjective way, on a small sample size and no follow up for treatment was done. Also, EMG and ultrasound was not done for objective outcome measures such as muscle activity and muscle thickness. Discussion The study done by Manisha Rathi(2013) supports the hypothesis that Pelvic Floor Muscle exercise could be of benefit for the patients with Chronic low back pain. Furthermore, the findings and results of her study were well linked to the facts and information provided by her in the literature review which forms a strong base of the study. Refrences Manisha Rathi (2013), has explored and gathered an ample amount of literature from various studies done in the past. This might be because low back ache is a very common condition and many studies have already been done on this ailment and its treatment. Appendix B Critiquing Tool The title Is it concise yet informative? Is the research approach suggesting the key phenomenon? Is the population group identified? The abstract Are the study area, methods, processes, conclusions and implications correctly and concisely described? Where the aims and/or objectives stated ? Does it provide a good basis for deciding whether or not the study is worth reading? Study purpose Is the purpose of the study/research problem clearly identified and relevant to your practice? Research design and research hypothesis Is there a framework/theory to guide the study? Is it appropriate? Who will be studied? What is the plan for conducting the study? Are all variables described? Does the hypothesis reflect the purpose of the study? Literature review Is the literature review provide a solid basis for the new study? Study sample Who is identified as the target population? How were the subjects chosen (e.g., randomly, conveniently)? Who is included? Who is excluded? Is the sample size sufficient? Ethical considerations Were the participants fully informed about the nature of the research? Was ethical permission granted for the study? Data collection and analysis What steps were taken to collect the data? How often was data collected and for how long? What instruments or tools were used? Are the tools adequately described for you to understand what the score means? Were data analysis procedures appropriate? Study results Is the research hypothesis answered? Could you make a change in your practice based on the results of this study? What are the strengths to using the information learned? What are the limitations or the gaps in the study? Discussion Are the findings linked back to the literature review? If a hypothesis was identified, was it supported? References Were all the books, journals and other media alluded to in the study accurately referenced? Sources Polit Beck.(2010) Essentials of nursing research: Appraising evidence for nursing practice(7th ed.) Lippincott.(pg no.102-103) Ryan, F., Coughlan , M., Cronin, P.(2007). Step-by-step guide to critiquing research. Part 2: qualitative research. British Journal of Nursing, 16, 11, 738-744. Schneider , Elliott , Lo Biondo Wood, Haber (2003), Nursing research methods, critical appraisal and utilisation. (2nd ed.). . 1

Essay --

Knowledge and philosophy are one of the key components for studying accounting. Knowledge is created when you have gathered facts and information. As suggested by Arrington & Schweiker (1992) ‘nothing counts as knowledge until it is argued before and assented by a research community’. This means that when new knowledge is created, it is always undergoes an enormous scrutiny by peers, so that it is nearly perfect. Kuhn (1970), Davis (1971) and Collins (1985) also suggest that any knowledge should be easily accessible by the public e.g. the users of accounting or accountants themselves. To obtain knowledge we have to make some observations. These observations are then transformed by the process of induction into laws and theories. Therefore knowledge is seen as creating a reality. As mentioned before knowledge is especially important in the construction of realities. This is because accountants in general created these economic realities, this leads to an expectations gap between the accountants and the users, hence accountants are also seen as communicators for these realities. However because accountant construct these realities it can become biased and objective (Morgan 1988). Accountants also persuade users to accept the realities that they have created. On the other hand philosophy helps us to better understand and access to knowledge. This type of study is known as epistemology. Epistemology creates a foundation of the basis of knowledge. One of the bases of knowledge is truth and fact. However this can be a very problematic area because if a statement is deemed to be true then it is automatically a factual statement. This causes problems because the words true and fact are interchangeable i.e. if a statement is a fact... ...tely it may change our knowledge. This leads on to my point that knowledge and philosophy is always changing, this then changes the world we live in. This is because eventually we change our concepts and theories. For example if a theory is changed, that is related to the conceptual framework and social construction, and then this too is changed. I have seen that in the creation of knowledge and philosophy, the process of induction is vital because it allows us to build theories and more importantly economic realities. When studying or researching accounting we sometimes come across a few paradigms such as the All Ravens are Black paradigm and the inductivist turkey. These paradigms helps to better understand knowledge and also it can separate true from false and fact. It can help us to refine our knowledge so that the end result is almost prefect e.g. neutrality.

Grant and Lee a Study in Contrasts Essay

â€Å"Grant and Lee: A Study in Contrasts,† written by Bruce Catton compares and contrasts the characteristics and lives of two leaders of the Civil War. Ulysses S. Grant and Robert E. Lee, two very strong and very different generals, met on April 9, 1865 at Appomattox Court House in Virginia to bring to a close the Civil War. By this time, America had become a country that was starting over with the simple core belief in equal rights for everyone. Lee, who is from Virginia, had very traditional and old fashioned beliefs. He strongly believed in the idea that having unequal, leadership, and social categories provided an advantage to society. The Confederacy embraced Lee as their leader as well. Furthermore, Confederate soldiers considered Lee the symbol of everything for which they had been willing to die for. On the other hand, Grant was raised very differently from Lee, his father had been a tanner on the Western frontier, and he was brought to be a hardworking man and to make something of himself. Grant primarily focused on democracy and believed that no individual was born into any type of class. Moreover, he believed that society should have privileges that each man should win for themselves and not just have privileges because you were born into an aristocratic family. He is seemingly the complete opposite of Lee in his belief that each person has the ability to work hard and gain their own good fortunes. Grant believed in a balanced social structure that did not limit anyone to any particular fate. He believed that life was a competition and everyone should get the chance to reach their limits. Grant had a more modern outlook on life and Lee would rather live in accordance with the past. Also, Lee and Grant were most different when it came to loyalty. Lee saw himself very much in relation to his own region. He was brought up in a static society where change was not known. Therefore, his loyalty would only be to the society in the location he lived and would fight to the limit to defend it because he believed that it gave his life the deepest meaning. On the other hand, Grant would fight for a broader concept of society so that there could be growth and expansion. He would fight for the Union with everything he had because he strongly believed in the Western way of living he was raised in. Although Grant and Lee had individual beliefs that clashed with one another they also had a few things in common. For example, Catton points out they were both great fighters that displayed a lot of tenacity and fidelity to their separate causes. Grant battled and endured his way down the Mississippi Valley despite his military handicaps and personal discouragements while Lee still had faith at Petersburg after all hope was lost. Also, their fighting qualities were very similar and they both refused to give up as long as they were able to fight. They were both also very daring and resourceful in that they had the ability to move quickly and think faster than the enemy. Most importantly, they were alike in the sense that they had the ability to turn away from war and come to peace once the fighting had ended. As a result, this helped the nation become whole and united again. Their gathering at Appomattox was a great moment in American history. In our modern society today I think that we can now discuss our political differences and beliefs in peace and overall our nation is one that is very united as a whole. We live in a country that strongly follows Grant’s belief in equal rights for everyone in which citizens are able to vote for who they want as President of the United States. Also, although people will always disagree and agree on some things we carry on the beliefs of Lee and Grant in that we can always come together and discuss things in a peaceful manner much like they did at Appomattox on April 9, 1865.

Of mice and men theme power Essay

By examining the relationship between the protagonist geroge and lennie , and the relationship between curly and his wife, this response will attempt to argue that indeed the only power others have over us , is the power we give them. this response will also attempt to examine techniques and description to make and shape meaning in the world of this novel. How Power is Presented in Of Mice and Men The theme of power in Of Mice and Men is presented by Steinbeck in a variety of ways, including characterisation, dialogue and imagery. The main themes of power in the novella include physical power, seduction and the power of hierarchy. The theme of physical power is mainly represented through the character Lennie. The power of seduction is shown through Curley’s wife. Whereas the power of hierarchy is portrayed through the Boss, Slim and Curly. In the novella Of Mice and Men, Steinbeck presents physical power through the character Lennie Small. Lennie is a huge character, with immense physical strength. We can deduce this, from the opening description â€Å"A huge man† . The description here has foreshadowed Lennie’s physical stature and strength. His physical power, is a recurring theme throughout the novella. It is again shown, when George talks to Slim about his previous life with Lennie, â€Å"coulda bust every bone in my body†. Here through the use of dialogue, the reader is shown the physical power Lennie has over George. It is ironic, that even though Lennie has the advantage of physical power. George is the more dominant one. We can see this, by the way George reprimands Lennie for disobeying instructions, â€Å"you wasn’t gonna say a word†. This dialogue, foreshadows Lennie’s lack of mental power, to follow George’s instructions. Curley, The Boss and George are all connected because they have power over someone. In the Novella, The boss is in control of everything. Also he answers to no one. â€Å"Hey, what’s your stake in this guy†. This dialogue is between George and The Boss, he is questioning George on his power over Lennie. This quote shows that he can control who works for him and who doesn’t. He can fire someone just be cause he doesn’t  like them.

The Consolation of Philosophy

The Consolation of Philosophy Introduction It is possible to watch how a man’s self-concept has been changing variously throughout centuries. Of course, it is hard to have the cognitions and attitudes changing towards many aspects of life. It is even more problematic to speak on the opinions about law, God, and circumstances that have developed until nowadays since the variety of ideals for modern people is enormous.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Consolation of Philosophy specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More So, it would be appropriate to suggest the overview of changing virtues and people’s views within the well-known cognitive books: The Divine Comedy by Dante Alighieri, The Consolation of Philosophy by Ancius Boethius, and the Holy Bible. The research will show how the matters of religious beliefs, approach to the law, and to the fate itself have been changing their perspectives as it is shown in the books under consideration. The Divine Comedy: Inferno by Dante Alighieri The first volume The Divine Comedy represents the views of people on the Western civilization. It provides the narration about main sins existing in our corrupt society and the circles represents person’s journey to God. Here the self-concept is revealed through recognition of the deadly sins. Therefore, we can explicitly see that the comedy undertakes drawing the classical and medieval history of theology: â€Å"†¦I entered there I cannot truly say, I had become so sleepy at the moment when I first strayed, leaving the path of truth†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Aligieri 67, line 10). Namely, it shows the perspectives of views of the medieval contemporaries – the God’s almightiness, his power within the universe: â€Å"Throughout the circles of this dark inferno/ I saw no shade so haughty toward his God, not even he who from Thebes’ high walls† (Alighieri 205, line 15). Besides, humans’ right of choice a nd God’s help to those who trust in him are discussed in the book. These were the basic beliefs that emerged in Dante Alighieri comedy and reflected the attitude towards theological issues back in the centuries. Moreover, people of those days thought upon the problems of afterlife. This is where a problem of justice emerges. Dante depicts how differently sins are being punished and the overall description brings one to the point where it is determined that following the laws of Bible will save you from being ‘charged’ too much in purgatory. The Holy Bible Within the Holy Bible the notion of fate is depicted in the following way – it is a constant overcoming of the life’s circumstances and tortures which are being completely inevitable and impossible to avoid. This is the primary meaning of the person’s destiny according the Bible, though still the power of God is the foremost and the most dominating one: â€Å" And God said ‘Let there be light’; and there was light† (Holy Bible 1, line 3).Advertising Looking for essay on philosophy? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Unlike Dante’s comedy, the Bible presents the beautiful life after death if only one obeys the laws of God. Both the Old Testament and the New Testament have the leitmotif of obedience to the Ten Commandments running through the entire content. So, the changes in relations with God that took place are slightly seen, though very easily determined, which outlines the omnipotence of God and His decisive role in human’s life: â€Å"†¦by Go of your farther who will help you by God almighty who will bless you with blessing of heaven above†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Holy Bible 48, line 25). The comedy suggests adopting God’s methods as a motive to back oneself up with proper life for better outcome and staying in purgatory whereas Bible is a book that gives an opport unity to hear God, obey His admonition and get prepared for a better and happier life after death. The Consolation of Philosophy by Ancius Boethius The book The Consolation of Philosophy touches upon the issues of controversies between the good men and the evil men, their natures and the rights to exist. According to Boethius, God punishes the evil men even greater by simply allowing them to exist and experience all the advantages of earth sinful life. In particular, the poet writes, â€Å"†¦No Power is free to disarray/ The Order God has shown†¦The Lord would not allow success in mutiny to grace† (Boethius and Watts 19). The philosopher is troubled by the impossibility of God to prevent suffering of good people and, therefore, he idealistically claims that it is impossible for the good to always dominate over the evil. In addition, the philosopher realizes that happy life can only be achieved through good deeds: â€Å"†¦If first you rid yourself of hope and f ear/ You have disarmed the tyrant’s wrath†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Boethius and Watt 9). Alighieri, Dante. Musa, Mark. The Divine Comedy: Volume 1: Inferno. NY, New York: Penguin Classics, 1984. Print Boethius, Ancius., Watts, Victor. The Consolation of Philosophy: Revised Edition. NY, New York: Penguin Classics, 1999. Print.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The Consolation of Philosophy specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Holy Bible, Revised Standard Version. NY, New York: Plume, 1974. Print.

In the summer of 1975 world-renowned director Steven Spielberg produced a film so frightening Essay Example

In the summer of 1975 world In the summer of 1975 world-renowned director Steven Spielberg produced a film so frightening Essay In the summer of 1975 world-renowned director Steven Spielberg produced a film so frightening Essay Essay Topic: Dracula Jaws In the summer of 1975 world-renowned director Steven Spielberg produced a film so frightening that still today 30 years after the film was first previewed, the infamous theme tune brings Goosebumps to viewers all over the planet. This now legendary movie tapped into the most primal of human fears, the fear of what lurks below the dark surface of water. Jaws now known as the mother of all summer blockbusters uses many iconic images to create tension, in this essay I shall analyse the first four scenes of the movie paying careful attention to imagery, pace of tension and iconic references In the very first scene, Spielberg uses a black background. This mise-en -scene is used to target the fear, within humans of being unable to se your attacker. To connote further Spielberg could have used the black mise-en-scene to hint at the weakness of the viewer in that situation, alone in the dark and vulnerability. Diegetic noises can be heard, the sound of bubbles and swift water movement. Spielberg used this to add tension; he used the sea noises to remind the viewer of the fact they are in danger. The sea in inhabitable for humans and so whatever is in the water is not humanly natural; this plants an enigma into the audiences minds. What kind of monster swims in the pitch black? Spielberg uses a swimming motion with the camera; this gives the audience the impression of searching. The camera manages to move fast but with a certain amount of grace, this is an example of intertextuality as this kind of camera movement known as sweeping was used in earlier horror movies such as count Dracula and Frankenstein Spielberg uses iconography to show that whatever is swimming is just as frighteningly in control as the vampires and monsters from the earlier films. The music starts with a low violin sweeping, until gradually other instruments get involved. Here Spielberg is using the music to increase the tension. As the music speeds up it mimics a heart beat pumping faster and faster, as if running or in fear of something. However the music leads you to an anticlimax and it becomes deathly quiet and calm In the second scene a harmonica can be heard. The camera begins to pann the view of the beach it stops at a long shot then zooms in gradually you are lead into a beach side party. People are drinking and smoking around a bonfire. Here Spielberg twists the stereotype of fire within horror films. Instead of the fire being scary, out of control and dangerous Spielberg makes it look safe and relaxing. By having the people drinking and smoking Spielberg is adding irony; this is because as a viewer we are aware that no good comes out of teenage drinking within horror movies. The camera uses a mid-shot whilst it searches amongst the people trying to find its victim. This echos the first footage of the monster The victim turns out to be a young blonde teenage girl, quintessentially a must in any horror film. The camera shot is then changes to a close-up of the young couple running across a sand dune into the darkness of the night. The camera seems to follow or even stalk the victims as they descend further and further away from the light of fire and the safety of number. A mid-shot of the male stumbling drunkenly across the dunes calling to the female asking her where they are going is used to enhance the isolation of them. The young girl replies to his query with a high-pitched swimming The fact she has stressed this word reminds the audience of their prior knowledge of something evil in the waters. By this point tension is beginning to mount. The young blonde dives into the water naked. I can connote two facts that are relevant with this scene. Number one is that the girls dive is perfect showing the audience that however dumb and naà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ve the picture has painted her, she is skilled in water an able swimmer. The second is the fact that the female is naked, this not only used to add vulnerability but to also add tension. The view from underneath the girl is a low angle long shot, the fact she is alone is mimicked by the starless sky and darkness of the night. As the motif begins to play, you know something terrible is about to happen. There is a close up on the girls face; Suddenly the girl is pulled underwater screaming and crying. The film then cuts to the male who ironically is sleeping peacefully on the safety of dry land; the first light of dawn is beginning to break in the background birds can faintly be heard The young woman is eventually dragged underwater. The shot is a mid-shot of the dark sea looking calm and still. Diegetic noises can be heard. Here Spielberg is using irony once more, as only the viewers really know what has just gone on beneath those deathly still waters. At this point the audience are still left with the enigma of what the monster is. By scene three first light has broken through the clouds. It is now daytime. There is a close-up of a males face peering out of his window onto the ironically still seas. Soft lighting is used on the womans face this makes her look soft and pretty, the home is bright and airy. A child runs into the kitchen claiming to have been bitten by a vampire Here once again dramatic irony comes into play as only the viewer know about the vampire like movements of the monster in the first few scenes of the movie. A phone is heard ringing in the background, the husband rushes to pick up one of the two phones that are fitted upon the wall. Unfortunately he picks up the wrong phone and the line is dead, by using the stereotypical Horror movie hoax call Spielberg is referring to iconic movies such as psycho. The man picks up the other phone and proceeds in having a conversation with the person on the other line; this leaves the audience with a mystery. Who was the husband talking to? The husband then stands up and sets off to work. In the background one or the children is heard asking to go swimming, this mimics the high-pitched innocence of the young girls voice and reminds the viewer of the nature of the film. As the Husband drives away from his idyllic home, his wife is heard telling him to be careful. He then drives off at a safe speed. Of course by this point as a viewer you are aware that something is going to happen to ruin this perfect family. Scene four begins with non-Diegetic noise a radio can be heard playing but no radio is within view at this point. There is a long shot of a billboard that ironically features a blonde haired girl who is strikingly similar to the young girl that has just been killed. This is Spielberg once again using dramatic irony as only the audience know about the death of the young girl. Suddenly the car stops, and a mad come into mid-shot crying and blowing his whistle. The mise-en-scene is that of a rough ocean possibly signifying turmoil below the waters. The camera shot then changes to that of a close up. Gulls and other sea side Diegetic noises can be heard, the view is that of a mutilated hand. The fact Spielberg does not show more of the mutilated body gives the Audience an enigma. The men struggled to hold down vomit, the man who originally found The body has saliva dribbling down his face showing pure shock horror. All in all I believe Spielberg used many useful iconic images to help him create the ultimate summer horror film of all time. But at the same time created many iconic images of his own, Such as the eerie jaws jaws motif. People from all ages can hear the tune and feel Goosebumps surging from there skin as the horror sets in.

Business Management

Business Management Essay Task: Choose a company and identify all motivational (employee-centered) programs that the company has in place. Then ascertain the significance and objectives of these programs. Next provide a critique of these programs. Finally, recommend changes that will improve on the programs and/or new programs that will better meet the objectives articulated above. Overview: The company that I have chosen as the subject of my research is the AAA Travel Agency. More specifically, I have interviewed several travel agents from the Reno, Pennsylvania location, which serves patrons from Western Pennsylvania as well as West Virginia. The bulk of the information for my analysis has come directly from the in-office interviews with Ms. Tiffany Pacior, the senior travel agent for the Reno office. She has provided me with information directly out of the AAA employee handbook as well as personal information covering the positive and negative effects she has experienced from the programs I will be discussing. There can be little doubt that the backbone of every successful business or company is its staff of employees. Employees are the vital parts of the business machine that can aid in its success or contribute to its failure. It is for this reason that it is imperative to possess the ability to acquire and maintain effective employees. The chief method by which a business or company can accomplish this task is through employee-centered motivational programs. The goal of these programs is to encourage employees to maximize their performance by targeting three specific motivational stimuli. These include morale, satisfaction, and rewards. After researching their policies and interviewing employees, I have came to the conclusion that AAA of Reno, Pennsylvania has adopted Fredrick Taylors approach to motivating their employees. In this paper I will demonstrate how AAA applies Taylors scientific management approach to target the three motivational stimuli stated above. I will also provide some insight from the employees perspective as to how effective the programs are at what they are designed to achieve. The scientific management approach to motivation evolved from the work of Frederick Taylor. He believed that when highly productive people discover they are being compensated basically the same as less productive people, then the output of highly productive people will decrease. Consequently, the scientific management approach to motivation is based on the assumption that money is the primary motivator. This seems to be the ideology that AAA has adopted to produce high morale, achieve satisfaction, and reward their employees. Morale, as it applies here, may be defined as the overall feeling of the members of an organization. Generally speaking, a company with a high morale among its employees enjoys above average performance and a lower than average employee termination rate. AAA has several programs in practice, which support the scientific management approach to motivation to produce high morale. First, it is not uncommon for a travel agent to work beyond the scheduled forty-hour workday to complete the tasks of a heavy business day. It was for this reason that the company offers overtime compensation for the dedication of their employees. The company pays one and a half times their regular hourly rate of pay when an agent works more than their scheduled hours per week. Also, for those individual days when an agent works more than ten hours per day, they are entitled to overtime dinner pay. The employees stressed that this is a worthwhile program because it allows overtime workers to order dinner from local delivery shops. The objective here is simple, no one likes to work on an empty stomach and so why not use a little give and take to make the employees feel like they are not being taken advantage of. It has proven to be effective from the opinions of the employees I interviewed. The final program I was made aware of designed to bolster company morale is the paid time off program. This allows employees to take time off from their work for various reasons and to be regularly paid as if they were working for that period of time. Acceptable reasons for this privilege cover a wide spectrum including personal vacation, minor illness, funeral leave, jury duty, holidays, military leave, and marriage. READ: Business Law and Ethics : Physicians and Professio Essay Ms. Pacior explained that although these programs .