The Iraq War essays

The Iraq War essays Since 1979, the Iraqi people have been living under a tyrant. The dictator (Saddam Hussein) took over as the President of Iraq after persuading the current leader Al-bakr to step down. The Iraqis had no idea how their way of life would change over the next thirty years. Saddam led his country with little sympathy towards two of the three Islamic tribes that resided in Iraq. During his first months as president, Saddam had many Shia and Kurdish tribesmen murdered. His distaste for any tribe other than the Sunni became obvious as he slaughtered and maimed thousands of people within his own country. The new president said, We want our country to achieve its proper weight based on our estimation that Iraq is as great as China, as great as the Soviet Union, and as great as the United States.(pg. 27) In Saddams eyes, World domination was priority over the wellbeing of his people. Saddam decided to test his military power by invading Iran in the 1980s and Kuwait in 1990. During th e invasion of Kuwait President George H.W. Bush decided to intervene and liberate Kuwait. Twelve years after the Liberation of Kuwait the United States found Saddam was not complying with U.N. sanctions and President George W. Bush wanted Saddam and his regime to face the repercussions. On September 11th, 2001, Islamic terrorists attacked the World Trade Centers Twin Towers and the pentagon. This was the final button that the U.S. would allow to be pushed. President Bush vowed that Americans would take action. Without the events of September 11, the American electorate would not have supported a war with Iraq (pg. 39). During the summer of 2002, the Bush administration assembled a coalition to deal with Saddam. The Bush administration along with the coalition had three solid reasons to conduct an invasion and overthrow the regime. First, Saddam and his Baathist regime were not fully cooperating with U.N....

The Day the Silent Bombs Fell essays

The Day the Silent Bombs Fell essays On September 11,2001, the United States faced, what we saw as the most horrific form of terrorism. On March 16,1988, the northern Iraqi city of Halabja endured the greatest chemical and biological assault on a civilian population in the history of mankind. Today this is our worst fear, being bombed by chemical weapons. What should have been a day of celebration was a day not to be forgotten according to Sabir Abdullah Ahmad. The air smelt like apples and onions. It was a bad smell. I saw people who smelt it and they were affected immediately. In front of me six people, three of them my brothers, tried not to breathe, they tried to hide in some water, but the water was poisoned by the chemicals too and they died. Those who were very close to the bombs died instantly, those who did not found it very difficult to breathe and began to vomit. The gas stung their eyes, some suffering temporary blindness. Many villagers ran towards water, jumping into streams to escape the spreading gases. Iraqi military had been attacking the city for three days until they were forced to retreat, on the fourth day Iraqi planes began bombing the city and surrounding areas. Not long after the bombings stopped, there were helicopters flying overhead taking pictures and dropping paper. About 6pm that night the bombings started again, but this time there were no sounds of explosions. They were attacking the city with a deadly cocktail of chemicals, including mustard gas and various other nerve agents that can cause death as well as medical and genetic problems. About 60,000 Kurds fled Iraq to Turkey, claiming poison gas attacks. Iraq has also denied charges it has used poison gases in this massacre against the Kurdish, who are a minority of people living in Northern Iran, Iraq and Turkey constantly fighting for a separate homeland in Northern Iraq. Over the past 12 years some 45,000 people have been faced with cancer, respiratory ...

Rubric Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Rubric - Research Paper Example These consist of authentically designed criteria to gauge a learner’s work. Most often, these are given before the task so the students can base their performance on the given standards. It can also be used in any subject as well as in most kinds of learning activities. Though rubrics have various styles, there are some common features. They have objectives, scale, and dimension (Stevens & Levi, 2005). A rubric states the task that needs to be done. Basically, it describes the desired performance or behaviour. Moreover, it utilizes a range in evaluating students’ outputs. This may be in a form of grades, ranks of success, or points of achievement. Lastly, the dimensions of the task are pointed out such as the necessary skills and knowledge involved. â€Å"You’ll find that rubrics can inform and improve your teaching. The criteria you use to determine a high level or excellent performance provide directions for your teaching and goals for your students. Rubrics can be time savers. With some practice, you should be able to make some assessment in just a few minutes after reading or examining a student’s work product† (Fiderer, 1999, p.6). Rubrics have a number of benefits. With this tool, students can have a better understanding of what is expected of them. Thus, they can enhance their performance by having a clearer framework. In the same light, the teacher can enrich his assessment skills by being more objective. The rubrics can aid in evaluating with more consistency. A rubric is also an excellent source of feedback regarding the teacher’s instruction. In addition, it can decrease the amount of time spent on checking papers and appraising output since the criteria make decision making faster. In designing a rubric, there are four key stages. These are reflecting, listing, grouping and labelling, and application (Fiderer, 1999). Firstly, the teacher has to think about the learning goals that the students have to achieve. He

Discourse analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Discourse analysis - Essay Example In this piece of conversation, the major theme is a dispute between three children, with the younger children Ayesha and Zaynad appearing to unite and take sides against the elder Kahlidja. The major issue is whether or not Khalidja went to her aunt’s house to read the evening prayer to her aunt and whether she was doing her school work on her computer or downloading other materials. In the process of arriving at a resolution of what appears to be a simple issue, the conversation in this instance reveals conflicts arising out of the differences between the conveying of a message by a speaker and its interpretation by a listener. Wardaugh (1985) states that conversation is a social activity, the participants must take each others’ feelings and sensitivities into account if communication is to be successful. They need to be conscious of each others’ needs especially the need not to be offended (Wardaugh,1985:2). In this transcript, there are several instances where participants interrupt each other, and also offend each other. For instance, analyzing the conversational trend shows that the confrontational stance seems to have developed because of the lack of sensitivity of the participants about not offending each other. For example, the conflict has developed because both Zaynab and Ayesha have alleged that Khalidja did NOT go to the mosque, whereas a better conversational approach could have been to pose their doubts about her attendance at a mosque in the form of a question. As Wardaugh (1985) states, the social nature of conversation mandates that all participants should get equal opportunities to speak; in this transcript however, some of the linguistic characteristics that may be noted arise out of the lack of sensitivity of the participants. Zaynab in particular, being the youngest, has been interrupted ever so often; hence he does not have the same opportunities for participation th at the others

Theoretical Matrix of Organizational Change Research Paper

Theoretical Matrix of Organizational Change - Research Paper Example However, it should be noted that the contribution of these people is vital for effective change to take place. The fourth category is late majority, which mainly involves individuals who are interested in the results brought about by change before they can devote themselves to the change. The fifth one is laggards, which is composed of individuals who might disagree with efforts aimed at bringing change. In addition, they may also not be effective during the initial as well as the late change phases (Bate, Mendel and Robert, 2008). Kotter’s Theory According to Kotters' theory, change is made of emotional and situational components. Moreover, he developed a model of eight steps where through it change can be managed. These include the development of urgency, creation of a team to guide others, creation of vision, buying communication, enabling actions, creation of short-term advantages, not giving up and making the change stick. In addition, Kotter organizes every step into thr ee similar phases. The initial phase, which is the creation of climate that enables change, entails the first, second and third step. The next phase is engaging and enabling the entire organization; moreover, it entails step four, five and six while the last phase involves implementing and sustaining change; additionally, it encompasses the seventh and eighth steps. This theory involves gradual change that eventually becomes permanent, during the period of implementation; thus, an organization can enjoy various changes that are taking place. Therefore, when the change is complete it is anchored into an organization’s policies, and it becomes permanent. This theory mostly involves the person who comes up with the idea to make changes since it is his or her responsibility to see it successful. In addition, Kotter’s change theory is relevant in healthcare since it is capable of enhancing patient safety. Moreover, the theory offers opportunities for innovations capable of improving the safety of patients within the healthcare (Kotter, 2007). Lippitt’s Theory Lippitt came up with the seven-step theory, which lays much emphasis on the key roles, as well as responsibilities of change agent; however, there is a continuous exchange of information all through the process. Moreover, it commences with diagnosis of the problem whereby the problem is detected, and raises the organizations’ concern. After the diagnosis, the motivation and capability for change is assessed. Therefore, assessment of resources as well as motivation of the agent of change is the step that follows. The next step entails choosing change objects that are progressive; however, there is also the development of action plans and establishment of strategies. Change agent’s role ought to be selected and understood clearly by every party in order to ensure that clear expectations are made; therefore, maintaining change then follows. Effective communications, as well as c oordination of groups, are vital components in this phase. Finally, change agent ought to pull steadily out from their major roles with time. Therefore, this can take place when change has become part of the culture of the organization (Petersen & Pedersen n.d). However, after the change has been implemented it should be included in an organization’s rules and policies to make it part of the company. The Theories Application Lippit’

The sum of all fears Essay Example for Free

The sum of all fears Essay Fear is an emotion that is embedded with in all of us. No one knows the essence of fear, it is what it isintangible. The strongest of men fall to the mercy of fear, consuming the mind, and blocking all rational judgment. Fear lies unawakened in the dark recesses of the soul, only to be awoke by the treacheries of the unknown. Fear manifests itself in many ways, the most common way however, is anger, and I know this manifestation all to well. Anger controls a large portion of my life, I am never alone. I know that anger originates from fear, yet I simply cannot pinpoint the essence of my evil demon, nor the channel of which it comes. All that I can recall, is that it is never ending, a vicious form of hell that is all knowing, and all seeing. Perhaps the reason why I have anger soaring through my body, tearing at my muscles, and throbbing in my mind, is the obvious fact that I have failed to become acquainted with myself, resulting in fear, because if I dont know myself, who does? Ive been known to snap at others, even those closest to me, and for no apparent reason. Yet I know this, fear is some how a way of life, an inevitable feeling that takes control of mind and body, and abandons you when you need it most. For I have come to thrive off of this feeling of hatred for my fellow man, it is possibly what keeps me ready, anticipating the next move of all men and creatures has a certain thrill that you simply cannot imitate, or find anywhere else. As all know, everything has a side kick, Bat man has Robin, the Green Hornet has Kato, and fear has pain. Pain is fears ugly cousin, only rearing its face when fear is at its greatest peak. You know that you should fear when pain becomes pleasure, and fear has already become instinct. Pain is unforgiving, always leaving a sign that it was once there, even if only an emotional wound. I have come to know pain very well, I have had to live with this virus, as we all have, throughout my ________ years of life. No matter how much time passes the pain is relentless, clawing at my soul, and what little confidence I have left. I fear that this is what will be the end of my being, pain, the structure less form. In conclusion, fear and pain are one in the same. Never ending, nor caring who or what it strikes down. The key, I think, is acceptancelearn to accept that fear is inevitable, and pain comes bearing no gifts. So live your life on your own terms, if you dont, fear will live it for you.

Treatment Of Cirrhosis Of The Liver Nursing Essay

Treatment Of Cirrhosis Of The Liver Nursing Essay Jo is a 23-year-old undergraduate student. She is very sociable and admits to enjoying a drink fairly frequently. Six months ago she got involved in a scuffle while out and ended up in her local AE department. While there she had a blood test which showed abnormal liver function. Follow up tests revealed she had cirrhosis but with only a small part of the liver affected at present. Consequently, Jo has been advised to quit drinking completely and has been referred to her local community alcohol team. However, she has not attended any sessions with them. She did go to one session with the AA which she found out about on the Web but did not return as she felt the people attending were so unlike her Im not an alcoholic. Recently, Jo has been to see her GP and said that, as her condition is so mild, and is not causing her any problems at present, she doesnt see why she should totally give up drinking. She claims to have reduced her drinking slightly going out only 4 nights a week and reducing the alcohol she drinks at home, and believes that this is enough. She admits to not telling any of her family or friends about her diagnosis. Her GP has now referred her to her local psychology service to see if you can make her see sense. How might a health psychologist go about helping Jo? Issues Jo has been diagnosed with having cirrhosis of the liver and has been advised by her GP to stop drinking alcohol. During early stages of cirrhosis there can be very few symptoms (Wright, 2009), and Jo does not seem to have experienced any physical aggravation that would indicate problems with her liver function. Therefore her diagnosis initially seemed inconceivable for Jo to comprehend. After a chronic disease is diagnosed, patients can be in a state of crisis and psychological disequilibrium (Taylor, 2006). Moos and Schaefer (1984, cited in Bennet, 2000) suggested that following a diagnosis of a chronic illness an individual can feel that their future plans, social identity and support network is threatened. She has decided not to tell her friends or family, and is avoiding the implication of her health through denial (Taylor, 2006) until she is more accustomed to the diagnosis. After prolonged inflammation of the liver due to excessive alcohol abuse Jo has cirrhosis on the liver. This is when normal healthy liver cells are damaged and replaced by scar tissue, reducing the number of cells remaining to perform its many important functions (Wright, 2009). Cirrhosis is the final stage of alcoholic liver disease, which is an incurable, progressive and potentially fatal (Wright, 2009). Alcoholic cirrhosis is a multi-factorial disease and is not only a result of high dependency to alcohol (alcoholism) (Addolorato et al, 2009; Day, 2009). Research have found a low dependency of alcohol in patients with cirrhosis (Smith, 2006 cited in Addolorato et al, 2009), and it is known that gender, genetic and nutritional factors can influence the disease progression to cirrhosis (Addolorato et al, 2009). Therefore alcoholic cirrhosis could develop in susceptible individuals whose life style of heavy alcohol abuse has predisposed them to their illness. Jos dependency to alcoho l will be established and considered throughout her treatment process, as this could affect the length and stringency of the treatment approach to achieve the best response (Kadden, 1998). Due to the progressive nature of liver cirrhosis in is imperative that Jo eliminates her alcohol intake, as this would worsen her condition (Wright, 2009). The ability to maintain abstinence from alcohol requires a change in lifestyle, accepting the responsibility of ones actions and being aware of the consequences of drinking behaviour (Farid, Clark Williams, 1997). Once Jo establishes this belief and takes responsibility that her behaviour influences her health, she will hold an internal locus of control (Farid et al, 1997). However currently believing that she has reduced her alcohol consumption to an adequate level, and doesnt believe her behaviour has an influence on her health status, she currently ender an external locus of control. Without acknowledgment of this link to her health, Jo might lack the motivation to stop drinking (Farid et al,1997). To alter and educate Jos current beliefs the information and advice given will need to match the appropriateness for her needs (Br unt, 1993). After her diagnosis Jo could be feeling a great deal of anxiety, fear and uncertainty (Berry, 2003), which would make the processing of advice and treatment information difficult. There is a danger that the individual can be left uneducated, which then adversely affects her coping methods and adherence to treatment (Silverman, 2005). Careful consideration must be made to their treatment of individuals who suffer from alcohol related illness as they tend to differ in their ability to function due to depression (Bianchi et al, 2005), raised anxiety (Bolden, 2009; Kim et al, 2005) and fatigue (Blackburn et al, 2007; Sogolow et al, 2007). There are also multiple psychological factors that contribute to this difference such as elevated levels of stress, inadequate coping mechanisms and reinforcement of alcohol use from other drinkers (Bolden, 2009; Bianchi, 2005; Constant, 2005). Psychological support could help Jo overcome any avoidant coping style and associated psychological distress p reventing adverse response to illness (Taylor, 2006). As this could have a detrimental effect on the progression of liver disease (Jin-Cai Xu-Ru, 2002) and act as a predictor for depression (Bianchi, 2005). Majority of the side effects for cirrhosis are treatable with adequate medical management of the patients affected by alcoholic cirrhosis (Addolorato, 2009). Despite damage to the liver, the liver can still perform some of its functions. Jo currently only has a small part of her liver affected and complete abstinence of alcohol is the only way to prevent further damage that could lead to the gradual recovery of liver function (Addolorato, 2009). However it is likely that end-stage liver failure will result in the patient being assessed for a liver transplant (Georgiou, 2003). Therefore, it is imperative that Jo has documented evidence of the length of time she has been abstinence from alcohol, has sound psychological wellbeing and a strong support network, imperative whilst on the waiting list for a replacement liver (Georgiou, 2003; Pereia, 2000) all in which are considered to reduce the risk of relapse both before and after the liver transplantation. A health psychologist can help Jo to employ effective strategies into different aspects of her life to prevent further alcoholic liver damage. Her current psychological wellbeing will be considered as she is adapting to various lifestyle changes, and therefore psychological intervention will help avoid or reduce psychological suffering (Blackburn, 2007; Kim, 2005). A health psychologist will educate Jo to tackle her current beliefs and develop effective coping mechanisms (Taylor, 2006). Having a wider support network would greatly benefit her treatment process (Georgiou, 2003), which would require her to involve family and friends for extra social support. Together with suitable nutritional advice (Merli et al, 2009) and exercise programme (Petrides et al, 1997) could reduce the effect of liver cirrhosis and could lead to the gradual recovery of liver function. Intervention From the start of the intervention it is important that Jo feels like she is being treated like an individual and that her health psychologist understands the impact of having diagnosed with liver cirrhosis will have on her life (Kadden, 1995), and that they may feel that their identity will be defined by their disability (Charmaz, 1995). A good patient-doctor relationship is important for the adherence and success of the intervention (Kadden, 1995). To establish a good rapport Jos health psychologist must display empathy and belief with good interpersonal skills (Kadden, 1996). He or she must be familiar with the material and function as an active teacher to import the skills successfully (Kadden, 1995). To further strengthen a positive patient-doctor relationship Jo must be encouraged to be involved in the decision-making of her treatment, as this could increase the likelihood of Jo being motivated to comply (Longabaugh, 1999). Jo will complete a Patient Knowledge Questionnaire (PKQ) to assess the knowledge of her disease, and also a CAGE screening test for alcohol dependence (Kadden, 1995), which will set a guide line for the health psychologist of the problems being addressed. Her current beliefs and perceptions of how her illness will affect her life can be further be explored by using open-ended questions (Kadden, 1995). Together with constant emotional support (Kadden, 1995) would improve her psychological wellbeing. Once Jos beliefs have been established, meaningful information can be given and educational programs can be incorporated. Jo requires learning necessary skills to change her problem behaviour, for this reason the information should be given alongside cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which views alcohol abuse as a learned behaviour which can be reversed (Lonabaugh Morgenstern, 1999). Jo will need to be aware that any negative feelings towards the diagnosis are normal and reassured that following the intervention she will learn adequate coping skills that will help her take control of her illness (Taylor, 2006). The first part will gain acceptance of the purpose, content and plan of the therapy. Information will be presented about the severity of her liver disease, and abstinence of alcohol clearly identified as the desired goal. The patient should elect a person (family member, friend) willing to act as a source of support. A motivational interviewing style should be used to throughout to promote self-efficiency and better understanding in a nonthreatening fashion (Georgiou et al, 2003). Secondly it is important to identify and develop sufficient coping skills and plan how they can occupy their time with social activities that do not involve alcohol. Potential high-risk situations for drinking will have been identified, and the third part of the therapy would req uire the individual to identify how they will avoid and cope with relapse. Jos psychologist should use the PKQ and CAGE results as a guideline to predict the length and stringency of the treatment (3-12 weeks), depending on level of alcohol dependence (Kadden, 1995), which should be constantly reviewed. Jo has shown positive response to cope with her diagnosis by looking for support on the internet. This provides support for the CBT approach as the success of this therapy will require active participation from the patient (Kadden, 1995). Jo did not enjoy the AA meeting she attended, and may have had difficulty comprehending their belief that an individual is unable to alter their drinking behaviour without the aid of religious intervention (Longabaugh Morgenstern, 1999). This would provide further support for the CBT approach having an underlying assumption that it is within the individuals power to change (Longabough Morgenstern, 1999). Attendances to alternative support group will be encouraged as researches have associated this with positive drinking o utcomes (Longabough, 1999). Jo might benefit from a group who share the underlying assumption that alcohol is learned maladaptive behaviour that they can change (SMART cited in Longabough, 1999). Total alcohol abstinence represents the most effective strategy for alcoholic patients affected by cirrhosis (Tilg Day, 2007 cited in Addolorato, 2009). Even low doses of daily alcohol intake are associated with increased risk of cirrhosis. Continuing alcohol abuse can lead to compilations such as hepatocellular carcinoma (Addolorato, 2009). Consequently, achieving total alcohol abstinence should be the main aim in the management of Jos liver cirrhosis. This could become complex if Jo is diagnosed with alcohol dependence (Sussman, 2004). Medical recommendations and/or brief interventions may not be sufficient to achieve and maintain alcohol abstinence when a diagnosis of dependence is present. There may be a need to add pharmacological approaches, like naltrexone, acamproste and bacolfen which have been shown to reduce alcohol craving and intake (Addolorato, 2009), to prevent relapse and further damaging Jos liver. Malnutrition is frequently present in cirrhotic patients, and considered to be a predictive factor for increased morbidity and mortality (Merli et al, 2009). Exercise and nutritional intervention could improve and prevent inter-related conditions such as obesity, diabetes and insulin resistance (Catalano, 2008), which may worsen her condition. Good nutrition has been shown to improve liver regeneration, recommending an intake of about 2000 calories per day to correct deficiencies and promote hepatic repair (Addolorato, 2009). It is generally assumed that patients with chronic liver disease should be encouraged to engage in exercise, as this will maintain or improve their physical well-being. This could have beneficial effects on body composition, muscle strength (Andersen et al, 1998) and glucose tolerance (Petrides, 1996) and may reduce symptoms of depression (Rot et al, 2009) and fatigue (Blackburn, 2007; Sogolow, 2008). However strenuous exercise is not recommended as this might i ncrease risk of internal bleeding (Petrides, 1996). There arent many researches available on the long-term functional outcome of nutritional and physical well being, however malnutrition (Merli, 2009), depression (Bianchi, 2005) and fatigue (Blackburn, 2007) have been shown to increases complications in liver disease. In conclusion forming a good report with the health professional throughout the sessions will promote the underlying success of the intervention. Jos determinants and high risk situations that are likely to lead to alcohol will be assessed. It is important to incorporate healthy interests to her lifestyle and involve her friends and family throughout the cognitive behavioural treatment, where Jo will learn the necessary coping-skills to unlearn old habits associated with alcohol abuse. She should receive psychological support counselling for a long as required and be encouraged to maintain nutritional and physical well-being, which will overall reduce disability and psychological distress.