Effects of Poverty on Immigrant Children

Presently, approximately 8.7 million children of below 8 years belong to immigrant families or families with one immigrant parent. This is a drastic increase from the 1990 figure that was 4.3 million, a fact that research studies attributed to the drastic increase in the number of legal and illegal immigration before the U.S government enforced tough cross border measures to manage illegal immigration (Fortuny, Hernandez, Chaundry, 2010, p. 1-5).Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Effects of Poverty on Immigrant Children specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More As research studies show, although there is a group of immigrants who belong to higher social classes, mostly because of their formal education levels, most of immigrants belong to the low socioeconomic class, as most of them have to struggle to acquire the necessary experience required in the U.S labor market. Although Since 2000, there has been a general decline in the poverty level in the U.S., still most immigrants (more so the recent ones) struggle to sustain their families due to their low level of work experience (refer to appendix figure 1, 2 and 3). That is, immigrants account for the biggest number of poor U.S. citizens; hence, although the level of poverty among immigrants may reduce, the spills over effects of poverty are still persistent. In addition to lack of enough life sustaining incentives, as research studies show, more than a third of all immigrants belong to families of poor formal education backgrounds. This has greatly contributed to increase in the level of poverty among immigrants, as most of them are low-skill individuals hence, because their earnings are not enough to cater fully for their family needs, they mostly depend on governmental anti-poverty incentives to boost their quality of life (refer to the appendix figure 4). Therefore, because children are the most vulnerable members of the family, all spillover eff ects of poverty affect them directly, as most of them depend on their parents for sustenance (Rector, 2006, p.1). By 2004, the poverty rate among immigrant children was approximately fifty percent, as compared to non-immigrant children. Currently, More than a quarter of children belonging to immigrant families survive under poor living standards, as most of them have to sorely depend on the meager incentives earned by their struggling parents. One primary area that has been adversely affected by the high level of poverty of immigrants is the attainment of education of their children. As research studies show, as compared to natives, the enrollment rate of immigrant’s children is low, right from preschools to higher learning institutions.Advertising Looking for report on government? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Although to some extent, currently, the trend is changing, because of the numerous governmental incentives, most children of immigrant face many learning related challenges, for example, language and fees problems. Due to this, majority of children of immigrants have to cope with any education related stress, failure of which greatly affects their educational performance. In addition, Poverty has forced many children from poor families to drop out of school, because their parents cannot afford to pay their educational needs. For example, in 2007, approximately 8.8 % of children from poor immigrant families, dropped out of school, a figure that contrasts with approximately 0.9%, drop outs from native families (Fix Capps, 2005, p.1). In addition to the numerous negative effects on education attainment, poverty among immigrant families has affected the physical and mental health of children from poor immigrant families. As research studies indicate, majority poor immigrant families struggle to feed their children, a fact that has led to poor nutrition standards among poverty stricken immigr ant families, leading to many health problems. Further, as compared to poor natives, chances of children of immigrant families facing food insecurity are high, as most of them lack adequate means of providing for their families. In addition, because most poor immigrant families stay in localized areas, majority of their children lack most social amenities, for example, secure playgrounds. On the other hand, because of stress that most of the children from poor immigrant families have to go through, most of them engage themselves in deviant behaviors, for example drug abuse and early sexual activity. Most children from poverty stricken immigrant families also are susceptible to behavioral and emotional problems, for example, aggression, marital distress, and hastiness. These like scenarios are common because, these children have to endure tough economic and social challenges that are mostly related with harsh parenting. The condition becomes worse in cases where parents use violence, as most of these children are likely to develop deviant behaviors, for example, juvenile delinquency (Karkos, 2004, pp. 1-2). On the other hand, poverty has also caused an increase in housing hardship; hence, rendering some immigrant families homeless. Although there is a decrease in housing hardship among children of immigrants, most children still live in poor housing conditions that are characterized by overcrowding and insecure surrounding environments.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Effects of Poverty on Immigrant Children specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Due to the numerous economic challenges that most poverty stricken families face, most families lack adequate shelter, because they have either to struggle with expensive and sometimes unaffordable mortgages that deprive their families of other essential survival commodities. As proved by research findings, majority of homeless children face numerous fo rms of aggression from different members of the American communities; hence, the numerous mental health cases children of immigrants. Of all the affected children, the most affected are school and young children, as most school going children irregularly attend school, due to housing problems (Adams Osho, 2008, pp. 2-11). Considering the difficulties of most children of immigrants, regardless of their legal status of their being I the U.S., it is important for the federal government to set aside funds to help this group of individuals. Yes, although the government has numerous anti-poverty incentives it gives to support those considered poor in the society, one fact that most governmental initiatives fail to address, is offering of solid solutions to numerous problems faced poverty stricken immigrants. As compared to the old generation of immigrants, the new generation of immigrants needs a lot of support to cope with the standards of life in the U.S. For example, a good proportion of immigrants are English learners hence, in most cases adapting to the labor market needs can be a great challenge. In addition to language problems, most immigrants’ level of education is low; hence, giving them supporting incentives can never be enough to support them all throughout their lives in America. Therefore, it is important for the government to formulate policies that will ensure immigrant community gets the required orientation into the American culture, as this is the only way of minimizing the negative effects of poverty that has greatly affected the wellbeing of immigrant children. Any formulated policy should address the educational, health, and other needs of this group, it being the only measure of minimizing poverty negatively affecting the wellbeing children of immigrants. Reference List Adams, M. O., Osho, S. G. (2008). Migration, immigration and the politics of livable space: immigration and local housing issues in the United States. Research Journal   of International Studies, 8. Web. Fix, M., Capps, R. (2005). Immigrant children, urban schools, and the no child left behind act. Migration Policy Institute. Web.Advertising Looking for report on government? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Fortuny, K., Hernandez, D., Chaundry, A. (2010). Young children of immigrants. The  Leading Edge of America’s Future, Brief No. 3. Karkos, D. S. (2004). Addressing the mental health needs of immigrants and refugees. Web. Rector, R. (2006). Importing poverty: immigration and poverty in the United States: a book of charts. The Heritage Foundation. Web. Smolensky, E., Raphael, S. (2010). Immigration and Poverty in the United States. Web. Appendix Figure 1: Shows how the distribution of poverty has shifted to higher poverty levels Figure 2: Shows the poverty trends in the U.S. between the year 1965 and 2010 Figure3: Shows poverty level among immigrants (Smolensky Raphael, 2010) Figure 4: Shows poverty rates by education (Rector, 2006, p.1) This report on Effects of Poverty on Immigrant Children was written and submitted by user Cailyn Lee to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Free Essays on Helping The Poor

Making the poor/oppressed wealthy is not the sole solution to their problem of poverty. Just having money is not merely enough. One of way helping them is by teaching them to maintain their wealth Proper learning will prevent them from becoming poor again. Another way is to teach tem to invest their money. Investments will make the money increase. The last way of helping the poor would be to give them a high paying job. This will keep the flow of their money. All of these should keep the poor wealthy and end their poverty. One way of teaching the poor to maintain their wealth is by teaching them to budget their money. By budgeting their money, they should only spend what they need to for necessities. Necessities meaning, rent, food, utilities, clothing, etc. These things need to be paid monthly, so they should always keep enough money to pay these. After fulfilling all of their necessities, this will probably leave them with a few extra dollars. With this extra money left, the poor/oppressed can then be taught to save their money. Having a savings account will not only put their money away, it will also make their money increase. Interest will be added on to their money so I just won’t sit there and get dusty. It will put the money to work. Another way of putting their money to work would be investments. Investing their money will also make their money increase. Moreover, money just can not be spent continuously. The last way of teaching the poor/oppressed to maintain their wealth is by giving them a high paying job or career. After splurging and buying new and expensive cars, houses, and clothes, which will most likely happen after they get a lot of money, they will need to make some money. They need a high paying job with continuous income so that all of their funds won’t be depleted. A high paying job might also give them power. The more money they make the more powerful they might become. Turning the poor/oppressed into wea... Free Essays on Helping The Poor Free Essays on Helping The Poor Making the poor/oppressed wealthy is not the sole solution to their problem of poverty. Just having money is not merely enough. One of way helping them is by teaching them to maintain their wealth Proper learning will prevent them from becoming poor again. Another way is to teach tem to invest their money. Investments will make the money increase. The last way of helping the poor would be to give them a high paying job. This will keep the flow of their money. All of these should keep the poor wealthy and end their poverty. One way of teaching the poor to maintain their wealth is by teaching them to budget their money. By budgeting their money, they should only spend what they need to for necessities. Necessities meaning, rent, food, utilities, clothing, etc. These things need to be paid monthly, so they should always keep enough money to pay these. After fulfilling all of their necessities, this will probably leave them with a few extra dollars. With this extra money left, the poor/oppressed can then be taught to save their money. Having a savings account will not only put their money away, it will also make their money increase. Interest will be added on to their money so I just won’t sit there and get dusty. It will put the money to work. Another way of putting their money to work would be investments. Investing their money will also make their money increase. Moreover, money just can not be spent continuously. The last way of teaching the poor/oppressed to maintain their wealth is by giving them a high paying job or career. After splurging and buying new and expensive cars, houses, and clothes, which will most likely happen after they get a lot of money, they will need to make some money. They need a high paying job with continuous income so that all of their funds won’t be depleted. A high paying job might also give them power. The more money they make the more powerful they might become. Turning the poor/oppressed into wea...

A Research Project for the Hotel Industry Essay

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Business research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Business - Research Paper Example It is social investigation methods where different questions are being asked by researchers to collect data for their researches. It is a method which will help the researcher to get information about customer’s satisfaction levels from South Wales University. In this research participants of the survey are university students. In this research students of the university are given some question. Those questions are to be answered on the basis of one to seven scales. Starting from scale one which signifies that the participants strongly agree with the statement and scale seven signifies that participants strongly disagree with the statement. In this research the survey is having 27 questions. The survey has been divided into six parts. In the first part of the survey questions were related with Demographics of university students (Roger, 2006). This part is consisting of 5 questions and here one to seven scales have not been used. Here all questions are very simple in nature an d all questions are having more than one option for furnishing information. This part will help researcher to get all different information related with customer’s demography. The next portion of the survey is related with different aspects of lecturers in the university. This portion of the survey is having six questions. Here all six questions are have to be answered on the basis of one to seven scales. Third portion of the survey focuses on class rooms of the university. This part is having seven questions. Those entire questions are to be answered on the basis of 1-7 scales. It would give clear information to researcher about class rooms of the university (Keith, 2003). The fourth stage of the survey is related with library of the university. The portion is having 4 questions to answer on the basis of 1-7 scales. 5th portion of the survey is related with course materials of the university. This portion is having 3 questions on

Balanced Scorecard and Ethical Issues Assignment

Balanced Scorecard and Ethical Issues - Assignment Example It has been observed that majority of the firms utilize BSC in order to evaluate the ‘balance’ existing between its compensation plan and the performance measures over a certain period of time which further assists the organization to design effective strategies (Ittner, Larcker, & Meyer, 1997). Performance measurement facilitates managers to evaluate the outcomes of the overall organization as well as employees’ operational activities. Performance measurement also depicts the effectiveness of resources and the possibilities through which the activities and the resources satisfy organizational missions and objectives in a rational manner. Recent researches have often regarded BSC as a management tool which can deliver successful and well-documented outcomes (US Department of Energy, 2013). However, when measuring the attributes considered in the BSC framework, various ethical issues can also be observed to disrupt its validity as well as the reliability of the ove rall evaluation process outcomes. As stated by Bieker & Waxenberger (2002), the BSC approach lacks in considering the wide group of stakeholders including the community members who can also impose significant influences on the organizational performances. Thus, by ignoring the organizational responsibilities and its performances towards the stakeholders, business incorporations may have to witness significant ethical concerns when applying the mechanism of BSC. Unethical Behavior As A Result of Wrong Performance Measures Majority of the companies in today’s contemporary era, evaluate performance indicators in order to improve the overall performance of the organization and directly tie with the compensation system which comprise various aspects such as customer satisfaction, cost of the products and quality of the services offered along with providing job satisfaction among the employees. It is in this context that as the BSC framework focuses on a multidimensional approach t o performance measurement, in majority companies, managers attempt to use this particular framework extensively (Lichiello & Turnock, 2006). With due consideration towards the critical viewpoint obtainable through the application of BSC approach, it can be regarded as an appropriate measurement tool through which Sparkling-Automotive Company (SAC) can tie its the compensation system with performance and thus enhance efficiency in its overall business process. However, SAC should also focus on recognizing the limitations of applying the BSC framework prior to its implementation for the purpose of its performance management. As stated by Butler, Henderson & Raiborn (2011), although the framework inculcates a multidimensional approach towards measuring performances of an organization, incorporation of sustainable issues, such as environmental concerns and stakeholders interests make the evaluation process quite complex. Owing to this particular limitation, managers often have to face o bstructions in detailing appropriate and almost accurate information relating to the performance measures. Furthermore, as explained by Rillo (2004), when measuring the cause-effect relationship between the implemented strategies and obtained outcomes through organizational pe

Representation Of Women On Television Media Essay

Representation Of Women On Television Media Essay This study examines the representation of women on Television, which is one of the most debatable topics surrounding the medium and which is frequently discussed in academia and popular culture. I will be conducting my research specifically on representation of female leading characters on Law and Order: Special Victims Unit. The examination will reveal whether the depiction of main female characters on Law and Order is positive or negative. 1.1 Women on TV Joseph (2004) argues that women were underrepresented on network dramatic shows in 1950s to the 1970s, that and when they did appear, they were frequently seen in token or stereotyped roles. Although representation of women has changed greatly in the last two decades as we are progressing into a more equal society, the question is, has it really changed modern representations of women or does it merely replicate gender stereotypes (E. Dobash P. Dobash, 1998). In recent years, Xena Warrior Princess and Buffy The Vampire Slayer pioneered the use of strong leading female characters in genre of fantasy on TV. Magoulick (2006) suggests that the positive reviews of Xena and Buffy demonstrate the extent to which these women characters resonate with female viewers longing for strong role models, or even just strong female roles on television. Lavery and Rhonda (2002) argue for a contrasting depiction of Buffy while she is represented as a strong and independent feminist icon her character i s vulnerable and often shallow about her appearance (124). Xenas character helped break gender norms by coding masculine traits such as bravery, strength and aggression with feminine traits i.e. compassion and her pregnancy in Season 5 rendering gender exploration (Boze, 2011: 24). The Buffy and Xena shows both reinforce and challenge gender stereotypes of women (Reid, 2008). I am concerned with the crime genre of television which depicts women as detectives working in a patriarchal society whereas the above characters existed in the fantasy and science fiction genre. In past couple of decades, programmes like Cagney and Lacey, Cats Eyes, Prime Suspect, Silent Witness and Juliet Bravo were popular detective dramas depicted strong women which paved the way for future representation of strong female characters. 1.2 Law Order: Special Victims Unit Law and Order: SVU first aired in 1999 and is currently in its 13th season. The detectives on the team solve sexually motivated crimes and child abuse cases, and the cast includes an exceptionally strong female lead character in Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay) and other popular female characters such as Amanda Rollins (Kelli Giddish), Assistant District Attorney Alexandra Cabot (Stephanie March) and Assistant District Attorney Casey Novak (Diane Neal). The episodes often feature real life crime stories and create episodes based on crime stories ripped from the headlines (Green, 2009: 2). Law Order: Special Victims Unit is one of the most successful and popular spin off series of Law and Order franchise, which has won many awards as well as the 2006 Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series for Mariska Hargitay (Emmys, 2006) who describes female audiences reaction to her character Olivia Benson in Greens book Law Order: Special Victims Unit: The Unofficial Companion: As the show got more popular, I received so many emails from so many survivors. They were identifying so much with my character, identifying with this lion, this strong powerful (Olivia Benson). And then I had thirteen-years-old going, I want to be you; you are my role model. Hundreds of emails going, I want to be a cop when I grow up. And I thought this character has touched something deep in so many women and provided a safe place to goà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ I felt I had a responsibility. (Green and Dawn, 2009: 90) 1.3 Relevance of the Research Womens representation on television has significant value to female audiences because they view strong characters as role models. Singh, Vinnicombe and James (2006) studied career-minded women who keenly draw on role models from different aspects of life, television being one of them. They discovered that women used female characters from television as role models such as Buffy, Alias and Xena: The Warrior Princess. Analysing how female characters on Law Order: Special Victims Unit might serve as role models will provide me with the tools to examine the codes used in the portrayal of women. Research has been conducted on Law and Order: Special Victims Unit in the past, for example on the shows depiction of ethnic minorities and the victimization of women. Britto (2007, p40) has used content analysis to deconstruct the idea that women are overplayed on crime drama series as offenders and victims in her article Does Special Mean Young, White and Female? Deconstructing the Meaning of Special in Law Order: Special Victims Unit. Furthermore, there has been extensive research on representation of ethnic minorities, male and female on Law and Order: Special Victims Unit. However, my research will focus on the main female characters such as Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay), Amanda Rollins (Kelli Giddish), Assistant District Attorney Alexandra Cabot (Stephanie March) and Assistant District Attorney Casey Novak (Diane Neal) and deconstruction of the codes employed to characterize them. 1.4 Organization of the Chapters In this section I explain the structure of the chapters in this dissertation which will focus on literature review, methodology and findings of my research. In Chapter 1 we have already established the basis of this research which is to examine the representation of leading female characters on Law and Order: SVU. Chapter 2 will review the literature that will provide support for my arguments on themes of representation of women on TV, narrative, female heroism and women and crime genre. Chapter 3 explains the choice of methodology, research design, uses and limitations of textual analysis. It also describes the discourse analysis methodology and its use in this study. Chapter 4 consists of the analysis of the representation of female lead characters on Law and Order: SVU. It provides details of the findings including women driving the plot, women as heroes, maternal instinct and their personal lives. The collected data is analyses in this chapter to search out the result. Chapter 5 is the conclusion of this study that presents the findings and also elaborates on the significance, limitations and scope of this study. Chapter 2: Literature Review A theoretical framework will direct my research in a focussed manner whilst facilitating a proficient and comprehensive analysis. It will provide a major foundation for my investigation. As representation of women is such a diverse topic, I will focus and limit my research with the help of a theoretical framework in order to achieve an accurate conclusion. 2.1 Representation of Women on TV In order to build my research, studying the history of femlae representation in the media will enable me to understand the codes employed to construct female characters. In regards to the portrayal of women in crime genre, DAccis (1994) meticulous exploration of Cagney and Lacey will provide the perfect groundwork for my investigation. Cagney and Laceys characters were represented in unconventional way rather than the traditional ones: Its heroines were in-control protagonist who solved their own cases (both mentally and physically), were rarely presented as women in distress and were virtually never rescued by male colleagues. In addition to being active agents of the narrative they were also the subjects, but rarely the objects, of sexual (heterosexual) desire (DAcci, 1994: 5) DAcci not only examines the progression of female characters on the show but also studies the depiction of feminism on mainstream television. This will provide me thorough knowledge of what goes behind making a drama series with female lead characters and will equip me with the right tools to compare the representation of female characters on Law and Order: SVU. Furthermore, it contains other examples from the history of American television which will be beneficial for my research. Brunsdon, Charlotte and Spigels (2007) book Feminist Television Criticism: A Reader provides a detailed examination extending across television, media and screen studies and looks into representation of feminism as historical categories and political identities. This book gives a valuable analysis of women working both behind the camera and in-front of the camera as well as female audience and their response to television in their daily lives. With these sources, I will be able to evaluate the depiction of women on Law Order: SVU in regards to historical and political viewpoint. The representation of women in media has been a focal point of discussion since early nineteenth century. In 21st Century, even though television produced programs like Pan Am, Charlies Angels and The Playboy Club with female lead characters, they are still viewed through a very patriarchal ideology (Ingham, 2007). Dominicks (1979) article The portrayal of women in prime time, 1953-1977 concludes that female characters appearing on prime-time television from 1953-1977 were underrepresented on television and were frequently seen in stereotyped roles. This article will help me set the groundwork for my research as I can put female characters on Law and Order: SVU side by side with previous female representations on TV. Further research (Elasmar, Kazumi and Brain, 2009) showed that women were more likely to be shown playing minor roles and playing characters such as housewives and to be involved in a romantic relationship. I would need to further explore the depth of women representatio n on television, which will allow me to conduct adept research in this project. According to Gill (2007), the media depicts contradicting gender characteristics which will provide theoretical basis for my work in contemporary gender representations. This book also provides a theoretical tool to analyze representations of women in media. Similarly, Melanie (2011) cross-examines the construction of feminism and femininity in cinema and television in a wide variety of female-oriented programs such as chick flicks, reality shows and dramas. This book will further equip me with an understanding of the relationship between feminism, femininity, and visual culture and tools to analyze images of female representation in media. Lucia (2005) investigates the representation of female lawyers in Hollywood film such as Jagged Edge, The Accused, The Client and so forth. Although these female lawyer characters are represented as strong women, the deeper study of these films exposes inconsistent characteristics which gainsay the recognition of womens professional roles in a film. According to Lucia, these films featuring female lawyers depict: a patriarchal figure that possesses the potency, the genuine power to initiate the female lawyer into the structure of the law. These films accept law as patriarchal and the female lawyer as an inferior subject within that system. (Lucia, 2005: 19) Lucia (2005) reveals that in these films female lawyer characters are put on trial themselves for defying the traditions of femininity and patriarchal authority. This will provide a basis for analysis of female lawyer characters on Law and Order: SVU. 2.1.1. Narrative Writing the Woman In order to create empathy with characters and peak interest in the audience, formulation of the character through narrative is of the utmost importance. Character and narrative in the text have an emotional connection and resonate with the reader if they identify with the character. Hence, analysis of female representation in Law and Order SVU through their characterization in the narrative will allow me to deconstruct the text. Specific aesthetic and narrative strategies used by the producers to create characters also append to feminism and female representation (Geetha, 2007). Mulveys (1975) groundbreaking article Visual Pleasure and Narrative Cinema will greatly aid in exploring the relevance of narrative structure in construction of female characters in Law and Order: SVU. Mulvey unravels the narrative and visual techniques in cinema and describes the male cinematic gaze that objectifies the female character, hence, turning her into a spectacle, to-be-looked-at-ness (1975, 19). Mulvey (2009) revisits her theory in Visual and Other Pleasure by applying her feminist theory to more contemporary work concerning film spectatorship. She also talks about young modern woman of the 1920s in terms of images and narratives employed in Hollywood and European films, which will be relevant to assess portrayal of women in Law and Order: SVU. In regard to narrative and women representation in media, Teresa de Lauretiss (1984) work will facilitate my research in the right direction, as she investigates the structural representations of woman in cinema. De Lauretis (1984) disagrees with Mulveys (1975) theory of women representation as being permanently subjective and affirms that it is in a consistent stage of self-progression. De Lauretis believes that narrative structure draws upon the characters aspiration in social and cultural context and reproduces subjectivity. De Lauretis argues that female characters are formulated to incline towards femininity and conventionally portrayed as ideal image perceived by men (1984, 143). De Lauretiss conclusion of womens oppression by employing techniques of cinematic narration will provide a diverse perspective in representation of women in Law and Order: SVU. 2.2 Women and the Crime Genre The characteristics of gender have been reallocated in modern era in crime dramas where the female and male personalities are synthesized. The transformation also saw the shift of feminine traits of emotions, compassion and bond to traditionally masculine traits of heroism, vigor, and power giving rise to alternative action hero (Feasey, 2008: 67). In 1970s and 1980s, the crime genre progressively began depicting women as significant characters, in a TV revolution. Snauffers (2006) book called Crime Television would aid in my research tremendously as it would be interesting to re-evaluate the history of crime genre which was traditionally dominated by men (Maureen, 1988: 2). Crime dramas have dominated our television since the genre came to be, according to Snauffer (2006), crime genre echoes the cultural transformation and growth in the society. He investigates crime films and shows from 60s, 70s and 80s such as The Untouchables, The Streets of San Francisco, The Rockford Files, and Baretta which represented variant heroes in multifaceted settings. This work provides a broad history of detective and police crime shows on TV, which will contribute to my research immensely. Turnbull (2013) in her book The Crime Drama: TV Genres provides a historical study of the crime drama series as a genre, which presents a number of case studies to clarify major concerns in the course of the genre. This book will facilitate my argument as it looks at female-led crime drama series from around the world such as The Wire and The Killing which feature important female lead characters. Crime dramas generally feature subject matter related to public sphere with male dominance, however, the addition of female characters to the crime genre has enabled writers to pursue a dynamic approach concerning gender bending transgressions, domestic issues and other feminist concerns (Feasey 2008). Nevertheless, women were not always depicted as strong willed and independent on TV. Cavender (1999) examines the depiction of women crime victims by comparing episodes from reality crime program on prime time television. His analysis will be helpful in further studying the crime genre as well as involvement of women. Humphries (2009) examines women, violence, and media presentations through the lens of feminist criminology. This book contains chapters on Gendering Constructions which lays the foundation for the volume and examines media presentation of gendered violence, female killers on Law and Order and women in media. This book will give me tools to analyze the media text meticulously. In the crime genre, male protagonist used to focus on solving the crime while neglecting public concerns during the process. Attitudes started to change when women were portrayed unconventionally as brave, independent and intelligent characters breaking away from the societal norm from 70s, which resulting in writers shaping a new feminist archetype (Aisenberg, 1994). In her book Ordinary heroines: Transforming the male myth she suggests that female representation has progressed into equal active crime-solving characters with slight borrowing from conventional masculine traits, such as Dana Scullys (Gillian Anderson) character in The X Files, who was a powerful and independent professional woman even though FBI agent roles were profoundly male-dominated (240). Cuklanz and Moorti (2009) examine a wide variety of texts to delve into the representations of gendered violence against women and formulation of gender. They believe that Law and Order: SVU featuring lead female characters engage in stereotypical representation of women, showcasing violence against them which included inherent misogynist communiquà ©. Cavender and Jurik (2012) inspect the optimistic side of the representation of women on TV as they analyse Prime Suspect starring Helen Mirren as policewoman Jane Tennison in the popular British drama series where her character disrupts the conventions of the traditionally male genre (p.65). They focus on the portrayal of gender and law enforcement in the show featuring modern social tribulations where women play the central character. On one hand, Prime Suspect has become a cult hit for being an exceptionally feminist show in a traditionally male dominated crime genre. On the other hand, it is still not devoid of gender politics: while Tennisons character is shown as a successful woman she is pigeonholed as being old, lonely, obsessed with her career and friendless. Cavender and Juriks (2012) work will provide the framework to deconstruct the meanings and connotation in depiction of women in Law and Order: SVU in relations to social norm. There has been a dramatic rise in representation of women detectives in modern texts, whether be film or television, which used to be dominated by men (Mizejewski, 2004). Whilst examining Jodie Fosters character Clarice on The Silence Of The Lambs, Mizejewski believes that: Traditional Hollywood cinema has been unconsciously organized along these lines: men looking and taking action, women being looked at. The conventions of framing, lighting and editing in portrayal of women all play to these dynamics (p. 7) Tasker (2007) believes female representation has progressed tremendously in recent years with transformed and empowered gender egalitarianism; however, there is still substandard issue (? what does this mean?). Gender is a key constructor and differentiator of character in ensemble workplace dramas (Allen 2007, p 48). The meticulous examination of popular crime drama Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) in Reading CSI by Michael Allen includes the relationship of characters to their narratives and response of fans and will provide great depth and widespread views which I can apply to Law and Order: SVU during my research. 1.3 Female Heroism Gunter (1986) argues that women are represented in a stereotypical manner associating with the character traits they typically exhibit. In comparison with men, their characters were subjugated by personal relationships and family issues. However, this began to change in the 1970s when women were portrayed in more dynamic roles. Knight (2010) believes that this trend wouldnt have been possible without Sigourney Weavers character Ellen Ripley in Alien (1979) franchise, which has become an avant-garde symbol. Ellen Ripley signified the first final girl archetype, a term coined by Carol J. Clover in the book Men, Women and Chansaw: Gender in the Modern Horror Film (1992), who conquered and triumphed against an evil villain without any help or rescue from a man (p.98). Knight (2010) and Clovers (1992) examinations of women representation would aid in decoding the signs in Law and Order: SVU. Anthony (2009) believes that the progression in womens portrayal on television and film was becaus e women had taken over the market and were able to acquire positions as Producers and Directors. Consequently, women were portrayed in more heroic roles which cancelled out the notion of women as victims, resulting in a positive ideological advance (p. 80). Innesss (2004) Action Chicks is a groundbreaking collection of essays providing a new look at female action icons such as Xena, Buffy, Lara Croft and so on. These essays take a look at how recent depictions of women in action films, TV shows, comic books, and video games reflect an increased acceptance of women in traditionally male heroic or tough-guy roles. This highly specialized and scholarly study is suitable for my research and will give me context for my analysis of Law and Order: SVU. In order to analyze the representation of women in Law and Order: SVU, I will suggest that if the women embody four essential constructing features which are body, attitude, action and authority in a tough hero (Innes, 1998). Brown (1996) has the same belief about women portrayed as action heroes stating, the female action heroines body is represented by using same codes as a male hero in regards to object and subject in action films (p. 56). Goodwill (2011) agrees with Browns statement that new female action hero possesses positive masculine characteristic which were previously reserved for men only, breaking away from orthodox feminine attributes. With the fusion of traits, the earlier archetype of the hero has been amended in popular culture containing both masculine and feminine traits which will enable me to interpret female traits presented in Law and Order: SVU. Hill (1999: 38) states, action heroines are the new type of protagonists in action genre who are smarter and tougher than conventional female heroines and even their male counterparts. This new breed of action heroines contravenes not only cinematic but cultural gender codes of women being submissive and tangential characters and transform traditional cinematic depiction of women. Noble (1999) produces an innovative framework to create a new epitome of heroism for women in her book The Sound of a Silver Horn: Reclaiming the Heroism in Contemporary Womens Lives. She puts forward certain qualities that a female hero should possess to transform her and the world, such as strong-minded, valiant and a risk-taker. Harriss (2004) groundbreaking work will provide a framework for my research since she looks at the intricate representation of girls in recent history. Siehlohrs (2000) anthology investigates generic codes used in gender in regards to national identity in European films. She also examines how representations of women are affected by particular national milieu. This provides a baseline to investigate influences of societal factors on representation of women in Law and Order: SVU. Hanson (2007) proposes alternative ways of viewing classic and contemporary Hollywood heroines and the associations of gender with genre. She investigates the representation of women as the investigator and heroine in the variable context of the film industry, which will enable me to apply the same approach to my research. She confers meticulous attention to the production of narrative, actions and perception as well as negotiation of feminine self and desires across the past. Jaceys (2010) book The Woman in the Story: Writing Memorable Female Characters will be of significant value on this topic as it explains the importance of different traits, character development and gender issues in constructing a female heroine. This will allow me to dig deeper into the depiction of female characters on Law and Order: SVU such as Olivia Bensons characters role as a Detective and Alexandra Cabots character as a District Attorney. According to Knight (2010), female action heroes extensively influence individuals in society, and also reveal a lot about our society. Her analysis of female action here will help me understand Olivia Bensons character on Law and Order: SVU as she is seen as a role model and heroine to a lot of women. Furthermore, I will examine Buffy the Vampire Slayer which was a very popular show with very sharp and provocative commentaries on gender. In Undead TV, media studies scholars tackle the gender representation of Buffy and its influence on popu lar culture (Levine and Parks, 2007). Stuller (2010) illustrates the triumph of female hero in contemporary mythology which has cracked through male dominated environment and discusses the crucial role of female crime fighters in popular culture. Thornham elucidates the codes of a female hero in her book  Women, Feminism and Media: For a female character to become the hero of such a series she must appropriate agency, action, command, the occupation of public space, discursive authority and the control of the investigative gaze. All of these, of course, run counter to the norms of femininity. (p. 69) The above mentioned codes and symbols will aid in deconstructing the structure of female lead characters on Law and Order: SVU as heroes in a patriarchal society. I would be able to examine the amalgamation of feminine and masculine traits in the discourse.

The Decision to Litigate and the Adversary System :: Litigation Adversary System Court Essays

The Decision to Litigate and the Adversary System The in-class video and lecture identified a number of factors that should be considered when making this decision. They include 1.) Trials are expensive and lengthy. Someone has to pay the costs. 2.) What is the likehood of recovery? 3.) Are the defendants able to satisfy the judgement? 4.) Will a suit impact the relationship between the defendant(s) and 5.) Will harmful publicity or loss of goodwill result? In the movie, the decision to go to trial was based on the attorney’s greed. Though that was not the initial decision, once Schlictmann saw Beatrice Foods and linked it to â€Å"Peter Pan, Tropicana, Samsonite, etc†. You could see the dollar signs in his eyes. From that point forward all manpower and resources were allocated to this one case. None of the plaintiffs in the film appeared to have the financial resources to support a decision to litigate, nor did the firm representing them. Towards the end of the trial, the firm was so heavily in debt over the case they filled out multiple applications for credit cards. They also had second mortgaged their homes, cashed in their â€Å"retirement plans, life insurance plans, gone.† The firm had completely overextended themselves in the process of trying to generate evidence to prove their case. The lack of evidence, money as well as the tremendous resources of the defendants should all have been considerations that would have steered them from a trial. Most important of all, the attorney should have been focused on the goal of the Plaintiff’s in determining whether or not to litigate, which in the movie was completely overlooked. They did not want punitive damages as a result of their losses. What they wanted was for the responsible party to take ownership of their actions and apologize to them. This was clearly stated to Jan Schlictmann in his initial meeting with them. Furthermore, they restated their interest at the time that the attorney’s informed the families that they would each receive $375, 000 as part of the settlement from W.R. Grace. Strategy in the Adversary System One of the strategies employed by lawyers in a trial to achieve a favorable verdict is to persuade the trier of facts that the facts presented by the other side are untrue, improvable or not credible. In the movie, both defense attorneys’s attacked the credibility of the plaintiff’s attorney, Jan Schlictmann.