Monday, December 30, 2019

Google Three Thirds HR Essay - 1043 Words

Organizational Behavior Google’s â€Å"Three Thirds† 1. Using Table 11–1 as a guide, what needs to be done to turn Google’s HR group into a true team? Google’s current HR as described in the book works more as groups than as a true team, as defined by Katzenback and Smith (Kreitner Kinicki, 2013) There are elements of a team such as they are people with complementary skills and I believe that the groups have the same common commitment, to get the highest performance out of it existing employees and hire the best people. The three groups have highly specialized skills and I believe trying to integrate these skills throughout the team would probably dilute the performance. The problem for leadership is to combine the accomplishments†¦show more content†¦Explain how to quickly build trust among cross-functional team members who bring a diverse array of backgrounds and perspectives to the table. In order to build trust there are 6 guidelines that should be followed; communication, support, respect, fairness, predictability, and competence [ (Kreitner Kinicki, 2013, pp. 313-314) ]. These six guidelines are important for cross functional teams because trust is an important piece of making a team work effectively. With diverse groups come diverse cultural value systems and this is a basis of distrust. Sim Sitkin and Nancy Roth, researchers from the Univeristy of Texas found that distrust occurs when â€Å"an individual or group is perceived as not sharing key cultural values† (Sitkin, Roth, 1993) So in Google’s case with such diverse and highly functioning team trust building is an important task for leadership. The key to this is having a leader to work with the three groups facilitating conflict and more importantly build relationships amongst groups. The team leader must also present positive project views to each team that increases the potential for sharing of resources and information. By doing this, the projects the groups are working on become the team project. 4. Which type of cohesiveness, socio-emotional or instrumental, is more important in this type of cross-functional team? Explain. Instrumental cohesiveness is a sense of togetherness that develops when group members are mutually dependent onShow MoreRelatedInternet Related Products And Services906 Words   |  4 PagesGoogle, one the world s largest technology companies that specialize in internet related products and services. Google’s mission is to â€Å"organize the world’s information and make it universally accessible and useful† (Google). Such a large organization, taking on such an enormous task needs to have a significant human resource (HR) team to manage all of the diverse individuals the company employs. Laszlo Bock, Senior Vice President, People Operations, is the gentleman responsible for leading Google’sRead More14 BA Mini Project AY1415s1 V4 Edited1657 Words   |  7 PagesEssentials – Services (Mini Project) Instructions This Mini Project contributes 50% of total module marks. The project consists of FOUR parts (total 50%), students are required to complete Part 1, 2 4 with Microsoft Office 2010 and Part 3 with Google Sites tools. Students are recommended to submit their completed works in TWO phases, of which penalty will be imposed to any kinds of late submission. Phase I Submission (21-Nov-2014 5:00 pm): Required: Part 1 (15%), Part 2 (10%) and Part 3 (15%)Read MoreHr Issues in Google Inc1122 Words   |  5 PagesGoogle Plans to Lay Off 200 Workers 26 March 2009, 200 Layoffs â€Å"So today we have informed Googlers that we plan to reduce the number of roles within our sales and marketing organizations by just under 200 globally. The recession makes the timing even more difficult for the Googlers concerned. We had to restructure our organizations in order to improve our effectiveness and efficiencyRead MoreMarketing Analysis : Diamond Security1576 Words   |  7 Pageslocations. The in- house infrastructure that holds a big data centre for its business purposes in Northern Virginia and eight IT supporting staff for the maintenance of Severs, backups, network operations and other important task to run the office including HR, Accounting, travel section and Finance. This Paper examines the journey to transition to the Cloud Computing and compelling factors those are created for the purpose to maximize, profitability, scalability, easiness and to decrease the operatingRead MoreBenefits And Potential Pitfalls Of Predictive Analytics1728 Words   |  7 Pagesmakes it possible to transform HR departments from reactive, retrospective, and past-oriented to forward-thinking. Predictions based on very personal information, however, can easily cross the line into what the author describes as creepy, an invasion of privacy, or at least making employees uncomfortable. The key question is how companies like Google can take full advantage of not just cost savings but driving outcomes, without crossing that line. Thus the goal of Google, envied for its deep knowledgeRead MoreIndividual Assignment for International Hrm Elements of the Module1104 Words   |  5 Pagesimportance and effectiveness of human resources management in an international company. â₠¬Å"The functions of an HR professional should focus on the company’s greatest resource of all – its employees. Without good employees, the best business plan and ideas will fail.† (http://blogs.payscale.com) This assignment will show how Apple uses the human resource department on an international basis. Human resources (HR) are the backbone of an organisation (Gerhart amp; Milkovich 1990, Pfeffer 1998) Apple is an organisationalRead MoreSystems Consideration in Hris1157 Words   |  5 Pagesaccess to Fortune 500 service, expertise and technology without the financial or technical burdens (e.g. hardware, software, licensing, employing IT staff and technical expertise) normally associated with such advanced solutions (Manahan 2009). â€Å"And Google recently has become hyper focused on the emerging market† (Gruber 2010). Software as a Service has made a major contribution in Human Resource Management through the creation of different software platforms; therefore, this paper will compare twoRead MoreThe Mission Of Mars Inc.966 Words   |  4 Pagescollaborate with customers, suppliers, governments, industries and research centers. Retrieved from http://www.mars.com/global/doing-our-part/principles-in-action/approach-to-business. Mars does two hundred million consumer transactions a day and is the third-largest private company in the United States. They sell candy, pet products, rice as well as other products. The work sites maximize utility instead of fun games or comfy extras, although they do give free candy and have a gift shop. Mars is veryRead MoreHow The Strategic Application Of Hr Practices Improves Corporate Success5708 Words   |  23 Pages This paper will be examine how the strategic application of HR practices improves corporate success. I will outline what measures of success are impacted by the application of HR practices and explain how HR strategies affect operational, functional, and business strategies. I will use research to show the link that ties long-term business success to effective people management practices. Before I move into these elements it is important to understand what criteria is used to select the bestRead MoreCompetitive Advantage And The Value Chain1400 Words    |  6 Pagespyramid consisted of economic, legal, ethical, and discretionary or philanthropic. At the top of the Pyramid is the Philanthropic Responsibilities to be a good corporate citizen. The second level is Ethical Responsibilities which is to be ethical. The third level is Legal Responsibilities which is to obey the law. The last level is Economic Responsibilities to be profitable. The CSR pyramid has been relevant business organizations for decades. It states that businesses have responsibilities to a

Sunday, December 22, 2019

The Drug Crisis Of Colombia - 1594 Words

It is astounding how a group of traffickers in Colombia have been able to keep a drug trade business going despite the government rejections. The traffickers started off with importing marijuana into the United States, and later turned to cocaine. The amounts of drugs being traded also grew rapidly. â€Å"†¦shipments grew from individuals carrying small amounts of large quantities on boats and low-flying airplanes†(Gilmore). The growth of drug trade in Colombia created two cartels, one that was led by Medellin and one led in Cali. Soon enough, the drug industry became so powerful that it influenced the country politically through threats, political contributions, and bribery. This power created conflict throughout the country creating violence which resulted in hundreds of deaths. It had resulted in complete chaos since the country was overpowered by illegal drugs. Despite Colombia’s strong republic government today, the drug trade problems have been escalating for the past 20 years resulting in the U.S involvement. Colombia has been known to be the perfect place for contraband and illegal drug activities, the vast mountain ranges made it impossible for any government to control its trade. â€Å"Colombia gives licit and illicit business access to four major neighbors to the south, and two oceans and Central America to the north† (Colombia). With these resources, Colombia has smuggled many things to other countries including drugs, arms, liquor, cigarettes, and many other things. ItShow MoreRelatedEssay on Columbia1712 Words   |  7 Pages America’s War on Drugs Chaos best describes the current state of the Republic of Colombia. Rebelling terrorist groups from within the country threaten to topple Colombia’s actual government. Again and again, Colombia has shown its inability to fight the rebelling terrorists and simultaneously protect its civilians from harm. America has several reasons to intervene, with its military force if necessary, in Colombia. America must be protected against drugs and the countless crimes and social problemsRead MoreCuba : economic issues1248 Words   |  5 Pagesa loans that they can’t repaid it. History of the currency: The Colombian peso has been the currency of colombia replaced the real in 1837 at a rate of 1 peso= 8 reals and was initially subdivided into 8 reals. In 1847, Colombia decimalized and the peso was subdivided into ten reales, each of 10  decimos de reales. in 1871, Colombia went on to the  gold standard, pegging the peso to the  French franc  at a rate of 1 peso = 5 francs. This peg only lasted until 1886.  BetweenRead MoreDrug Use And Distribution Is An International Epidemic,1569 Words   |  7 PagesDrug use and distribution is an international epidemic, and each country adapts to the introduction of drugs differently. Unfortunately, when thinking of Colombia one is automatically consumed with thoughts of a drug epidemic and horrific violence. This is because Colombia has been the host of some of the world’s most notorious and violent drug distributing organizations. The drug trade in this country is a severe problem not only on a social and  economic level, but also on the health of the entireRead MoreColombia Essay.1417 Words   |  6 PagesColombia is a country in South America in the northwestern part of the continent. Colombia has a lot of natural resources, including beautiful beaches, dramatic mountains, and lush rain forests, but it is known for its political unrest and the violent influence of powerful drug cartels. Despite a long history of democratic government, Colombia has one of the most rigidly stratified class systems in Latin America. Colombia is the only country in South America with coasts on both the Caribbean SeaRead MoreThe Impact Of Latin American Culture On Latin America1656 Words   |  7 Pages they are fighting drugs. Although war is generally a negative thing, this one is not. In this war there are negatives, but the positives far outweigh them. Latin American countries have witnessed the very noticeable benefits of the drug trade in many aspects of everyday life. The use and production of drugs is importan t to Latin American culture, brings communities together, and creates large amounts of revenue for the economy. Latin American countries have been using drugs for religious and culturalRead MoreProhibition of Drugs in Columbia651 Words   |  3 PagesDrug prohibition in Colombia has had minimal variations over time, as reflected in the precedent set by the Constitutional Court since 1994 when they established that only behaviors that interfere with the orbit of freedom and other people’s interests can be legally enforceable (Corte Constitucional , 1994). Almost 20 years later in 2011, same Court discussed about a constitutional claim raised by citizens regarding a change that contemplates prohibition of possession and production of drugs, resolvingRead MoreThe Powers Of The State1477 Words   |  6 Pagesin a negative way. The massive expenditure to execute the drug prohibition policies and to contain the ‘prisoners’ proves the urgency to get rid of drug related issues from the nation. Questioning the dark side of the white collar. The point is already made in the paper that all of US’s drive against Drug legalization is futile. Then why is America so adamant on making this drug issue a big deal? US has led its massive campaign against drug usage and trafficking with no major outcome. This urgencyRead More Columbia and Drug Trade Essay4824 Words   |  20 PagesColumbia and Drug Trade Nowadays, when someone thinks of Colombia, they unfortunately almost always think of two things, coffee and cocaine (with its associated guerilla warfare). It is true that during the last 50 years these two products, one legal, and the other not, have been great monetary contributors to the Colombian economy. Coffee is Colombia’s principal agricultural product, and it is also the country’s second largest export. The production of coffee uses 300,000 farms and employsRead MoreFighting Drug Cartels On The Americas712 Words   |  3 Pages Committee: UNODC Country: Nigeria Topic: Fighting Drug Cartels in the Americas Delegate: Angel Rivera Fighting Drug Cartels in the Americas Background Drug cartels have arisen as a major crisis for the future in the Americas. Individuals indulge themselves on drugs for many reasons such as tradition, attempting to escape poverty, and generating revenue for rebellious activities. Drug trafficking has proven to be ludacris, with the increasing involvement of corrupt government officials in theirRead MoreColombia Is The Country With The Largest Idp Crisis3358 Words   |  14 PagesColombia is currently the country with the largest IDP crisis in the world. As of 2014 it is estimated that between 4.9 and 5.5 million Colombians have been displaced by violence and human rights abuses since 1985. This number surpassed by a wide margin the magnitude of the next largest displacement crises in the world: Syria (3 million), DRC (2.7 million), Sudan (2.2), Iraq (2.1) and Somalia (1.1 million) (IDMC, 2014). The internally displaced population corresponds to over 10% of Colombia’s

Saturday, December 14, 2019

Carpe Diem Poetry Free Essays

ENG. 1102 Paper 1 Carpe Diem Poetry â€Å"To The Virgins, To Make Much of Time† by Robert Herrick and â€Å"To His Coy Mistress† by Andrew Marvell are two great examples of Carpe Diem poetry. Their vivid imagery, symbolism, and usage of simile and metaphor are what make these poems memorable. We will write a custom essay sample on Carpe Diem Poetry or any similar topic only for you Order Now Their usage of these terms also makes the poems more inviting and makes the usage of the Carpe Diem tradition more apparent. Likely risque for their times, I find both poems somewhat romantic and tame for our time period. The primary metaphor of â€Å"To The Virgins, To Make Much Of Time† is â€Å"Gather ye rosebuds while ye may, old time is still a-flying; and this same flower that smiles today, tomorrow will be dying†(961). This opening metaphor makes it clear that the theme of this poem is Carpe Diem. From my understanding and also from my introductory Latin class Carpe Diem is popularly known as â€Å"Seize the Day† though this is not the literal translation. Roses are fresh and supple like youth; they are fragile, beautiful, and pure. These are characteristics also associated with virgins. I have found in many literary works that virginity is compared to a rose. Herrick is urging the young to enjoy their youth before it evades them. â€Å"The glorious lamp of heaven, the sun, the higher he’s a getting, the sooner will his race be run, and nearer he’s to setting† is another metaphor using the personification of the sun to show the passage of time (916). The sun is an example of life; the more time that passes, or the rather the farther the race is run, is the closer life is to come to an end or the closer to the sun setting. The sun and it’s rising and setting is something that is very commonly used on obituaries to mark the birth and death of a person. That age is best which is the first, when youth and blood are warmer; but being spent, the worse, and worst times still succeed the former† (916). The previous passage is the speaker saying that everything is better when you are young. You are livelier and more warm blooded when you’re young; and everything after that gets worse and worse. This is true from a physiological standpoint; as you age the way your hormones work change and the process that build up substances needed in your body slow and at times stop, an example of this medically is osteoporosis. The last stanza of the poem reads, â€Å"Then be not coy, but use your time; and while ye may, go marry: For having lost but once your prime, you may for ever tarry† (916). I believe the speaker is saying to the reader don’t be shy, don’t waste your youth, marry now while your young and beauty; and while you are filled with life and vigor. Once your beauty is gone it may be harder or it may be something that you may never do. Due to this poem being in the love and hate section of our book and also with it being about virgins, I can’t help, but think that this also has some subtle sexual connotations as well. I think this because the speaker is urging virgins and not just people in general to make the most of life. The speaker also uses the symbolism of the rose as a comparison for youth, but a woman transitioning for a virgin is also compared to a flower blooming. Between â€Å"To The Virgins, To Make Much Of Time† and â€Å"To His Coy Mistress† I find that â€Å"To His Coy Mistress† uses the most imagery; and because of that it is my favorite of the two poems. â€Å"Had we but world enough, and time, this coyness, lady, were no crime. We would sit down, and think which way to walk, and pass our long love’s day. Though by the Indian Ganges’ side shouldst rubies find; I by the side of Humber would complain† (951). I found this opening stanza important, because it set the stage for the Carpe Diem theme. The speaker has compare the ladies coyness to a crime because they don’t have enough time. This automatically says to me as he reader that he wants her to give up her shyness and give into him because they may never get the chance. He spends telling him mistress all the time he would spend praising her body, but saves her heart last. Though he suggest that he would take his time loving his mistress he then states, â€Å"For, lady, you deserve this state, nor would I love at a lower rate. But at my back I always hear time’s winged chariot hurrying near† (951). This is the speaker again stating that there is not enough time for them to wait any longer because time is quickly approaching. The speaker also states that his lust for her will turn to ash soon if they continue to wait and that her long preserved virginity and honor will also turn to dust. He is urging his mistress to be with him by constantly referencing death, â€Å"The graves a fine and private lace, but none, I think, do there embrace† (951). I have found that of the two poems that â€Å"To His Coy Mistress does not put as much emphasis of seizing the day in general, but more so of seizing the moment now sexually. Though there were some references from the speaker about is mistress heart most of the references were in regards to his sexual desires. He references love several times, but warps it with his immediate cause for action. It seems that this speaker is using his love for her or saying that he has love for his mistress as a way to bring about her deflowering. This must be something that is a recurring trend across time periods as this can also be found much more apparent and much more frequently in our time period. Works Cited Herrick, Robert. â€Å"To The Virgins, To Make Much Of Time. † Abcarian, Richard, Marvin Klotz, and Samuel Cohen. Literature: The Human Experience. 10th. Boston: Bedford/st Martins, 2010. 916 Marvell, Andrew. â€Å"To His Coy Mistress. †Abcarian, Richard, Marvin Klotz, and Samuel Cohen. Literature: The Human Experience. 10th. Boston: Bedford/st Martins, 2010. 950-951 How to cite Carpe Diem Poetry, Papers

Friday, December 6, 2019

Starbucks Human Resources Management-Free Assignment Sample

Questions: 1. Analyze the roles and activities of a company's human resources management function? 2. Compare and contrast methodologies for establishing benchmarks and metrics? Answers: Human Resource Management at Starbucks: The department of human resource management, in general, involves planning, organizing, implementing, managing, and controlling various essential initiatives within an organization related to human resource aspects. Likewise, human resource management of Starbucks aim at maximizing its productivity by enhancing employee effectiveness along with improved work life balance of the members. It includes efforts to encourage personal development, career growth and satisfaction of employees apart from realizing organizational objectives. It made great efforts in selecting the right set of human assets and also strived on retaining them. It paid much attention towards people it recruited. It hired people with qualities such as dependability, adaptability, and team spirit. 1. Analyze the roles and activities of a company's human resources management function. For fulfilling the basic responsibilities of human resource objectives, the professionals of Starbucks engage in various activities of human resource management for execution of plans. All major activities may be grouped into four basic categories such as acquisition, compensations, development, and maintenance (Bartlett DeWeese, 2014). General Workforce Productivity The most effective measure metric for the entire human resource success is that of workforce productivity. The human resource department of Starbucks takes responsibility to improve workforce productivity and is quite sure to be the leader amidst senior executives. The main aim is to improve continuously the ratio amidst the employee cost including wages, human resource expenses, and benefits and that of organizational revenues. The metrics here involves: Percentage of enhancement within workforce productivity including that of the difference between costs as well as revenue of human resource of Starbucks. The difference in value of enhanced productivity of workforce amidst this year and previous year (Bartolucci, 2013). Employee Engagement It is important for the Company to maintain balance in employee engagement as well as productivity for ensuring that organizational managers do not lose their employee asset in an effort to enhance productivity. In fact, both the factors are essential and as per studies it is reflected that describes effect of increased engagement upon productivity as well as organizational success. Organizational managers must be rewarded to realize both high productivity as well as engagement of employees. The metric in this category of Starbucks include: Percentage of organizational employees who aspire to come and work every day. It refers to the percentage of organizational members who realize their managers to impose expected managerial behaviors (De Cceres, Sol, Lapiedra Legendre, 2011). Human Resource Costs The Company has realized much earlier that motivated as well as committed employees is keys to organizational success. It made great efforts in selecting the right set of human assets and also strived on retaining them. It paid much attention towards people it recruited. It hired people with qualities such as dependability, adaptability, and team spirit. Once selecting the people, Starbucks invested highly in training the employees to acquire necessary skills of effectiveness (Judge Schechter, 2009). Health care cost of employee As per research it has been assessed that Starbucks spend more upon employee healthcare than that on coffee. It assures that all its employees receive adequate healthcare option and plans to continue delivering effectively towards organizational objectives. Employee Turnover data - The human resource department of Starbucks takes responsibility to improve workforce productivity and is quite sure to be the leader amidst senior executives. The main aim is to improve continuously the ratio amidst the employee cost including wages, human resource expenses, and benefits and that of organizational revenues(Murphy Zandvakili, 2000). This is quite motivating for employees to continue working with the organization. Besides, the firm increasingly spends upon healthcare aspects of employees. This motivates them and makes them feel important to the organization. 2. Compare and contrast methodologies for establishing benchmarks and metrics: One of the key features of human resource management at Starbucks is evaluation of human resource methods as well as measuring outcomes. Even the greatest planned as well as executed human resource management programs are ineffective in absence of techniques to judge the relevant effectiveness as well as confirming the credibility (Nigenda et al., 2011). The evaluation of methods related to HRM must involve both internal as well as external assessments. Evaluating internally emphasizes upon overall advantages of such HRM methods to achieve organizational goals. Human resource department of Starbucks use much detailed and advanced statistical analysis approaches for testing success of such initiatives. The outcomes may be utilized for adjusting human resource programs or conduct organizational changes. Competence means the extent to which human resource policies successfully attract, retain and develop organizational employees. Similarly, cost-effectiveness measures the effectiveness of fiscal policies in context to benefits, wages, turnover, absenteeism, and disputes of labor or management(Pease, Byerly Fitz-enz, 2012). Analysis of congruence enables determining the way by which human resource policies create as well as maintain coordination amidst various groups of organization internally and externally, including employees, departments, subordinates, and managers. Besides advanced gathering of data as well as analysis of techniques, some simple observations may be practiced to provide deep insight into effectiveness of human resource of Starbucks. For instance, ratio of management costs to that or employee costs show effectiveness of the firm labor force. Generally, low managerial expense exhibits an increasingly empowered as well as effective workforce (Ram, Gerstorf, Fauth, Zarit Malmberg, 2010). Cost per employee as well as revenues, when compared to other associated industries may provide deeper insight into effectiveness of HRM of the firm. Additionally, average speed of filling of job vacancies act as an indicator of whether or not the firm has got necessary talents as well as competencies. Other measures with respect to success of HRM involve employee complaint as well as statistics relating to customer satisfaction, workers' compensation and insurance claims, and quality ratings(Schwarz Murphy, 2007). Also, several significant innovations every year like that of manufacturing or even product breakthroughs, exhibit success of human resource management of Starbucks to foster an environment which rewards innovative ideas and also amenable towards change. Apart from evaluating internal aspects of the department, firms must try assessing the efficiency of programs related to human resource management by assessing the impacts upon entire business success(Swanson, 2000). Firms must relate their evaluation of such methods with firms performances for determining if the methods are suitable in increasing organizational quality, reduction of costs, expansion of market share, etc. Finally, the firms must ensure that right number of skilled and competent employees who perform effectively to achieve organizational goals along with increased motivation of employees and organizational profitability. References Bartlett, J., DeWeese, B. (2014). Using the Q Methodology Approach in Human Resource Development Research.Advances In Developing Human Resources,17(1), 72-87. doi:10.1177/1523422314559811 Bartolucci, C. (2013). Gender Wage Gaps Reconsidered: A Structural Approach Using Matched Employer-Employee Data.Journal Of Human Resources,48(4), 998-1034. doi:10.1353/jhr.2013.0027 De Cceres, M., Sol, D., Lapiedra, O., Legendre, P. (2011). A framework for estimating niche metrics using the resemblance between qualitative resources.Oikos,120(9), 1341-1350. doi:10.1111/j.1600-0706.2011.19679.x Judge, G., Schechter, L. (2009). Detecting Problems in Survey Data Using Benford's Law.Journal Of Human Resources,44(1), 1-24. doi:10.1353/jhr.2009.0010 Murphy, T., Zandvakili, S. (2000). Data- and metrics-driven approach to human resource practices: Using customers, employees, and financial metrics.Human Resource Management,39(1), 93-105. doi:10.1002/(sici)1099-050x(200021)39:13.0.co;2-

Thursday, November 28, 2019

Interactive Communication Skills Essay Example

Interactive Communication Skills Essay Youre supposed to tell people what to do. All too often, though, people in management positions forget to make expectations clear, so make sure your employees or supervises know exactly what you want from them on every project. Make Expectations Reasonable With budget cuts sweeping the nation, more and more people are shouldering extra responsibilities. From volunteers at non profits to high level employees at large corporations, were all working extra hard. In this climate, its important to keep seasonable expectations. Dont give people tasks that are doomed to failure. If your company or department is suffering from budget cuts or employee losses, productivity may dip, so its important not to blame employees for things theyre not responsible for. Correct Mistakes When someone makes a mistake, let them know. This gives them an opportunity to correct it rather than making the same mistake. Correcting mistakes does not mean youre being a bully. Rather, it means youre giving people a chance to succeed. We will write a custom essay sample on Interactive Communication Skills specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Interactive Communication Skills specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Interactive Communication Skills specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Communicate When youre in a position of power that allows you to see the big picture, it can be say to forget that not everyone has the benefit of your birds eye view. Communicate frequently with people you supervise about future plans, projects, and goals. Make sure to communicate both the positive and negative. Too often, bosses get caught up in criticizing rather than praising, so avoid this common mistake. Treat Employees Like People You shouldnt be overly involved in your employees personal lives in most cases, but that doesnt mean its not a good idea to invest in them as people. Make small talk and convey a sense of genuine care for them as people. Remembering birthdays, offering condolences when someone dies, and creating a team environment can lead to a substantially better working environment. Criticize Constructively Criticism can be beneficial to a persons Job performance, but not if they feel like theyre being torn down as a human being. Rather than questioning a persons dedication or competence, give specific instructions about what they can do differently. Dont engage in blaming or name calling. Offer Praise Perhaps the most important thing a good boss does is to offer praise when someone does something right. Aim to praise everyone at least twice as often as you criticize them. Even employees who are slacking off or not performing well can benefit from regular praise. When people feel good about themselves they tend to do better. Accept Criticism Perhaps the most critical difference between good bosses and great ones is that great bosses are willing to accept constructive criticism. Ask your employees what you can do to be a better supervisor, and be willing to listen to their concerns. Dont Engage in Office Gossip Every office has its own politics, with in groups, out groups, and cliques. Dont get manage, will suffer. Treat each employee equally, and dont Judge performance based upon how much you or someone else likes a particular employee. Dont Be a Pushover Its true that some of the worst bosses are Just blatantly mean, but being a pushover can be equally problematic. If youre afraid of confrontation, your employees dont have a chance to get meaningful feedback and improve at their Jobs. Work to straddle the line between being a pushover and a bully, and instead be assertive but kind. Your employees will be grateful for your combination of assertiveness and friendliness. 0 QUALITIES A SUPERVISOR SHOULD HAVE The 10 main qualities required are: 1 . Great communication skills: As a supervisor one must communicate clearly and correctly to avoid misunderstandings and frustrations. When receiving information from a subordinate, she should be sure to receive it correctly There is no harm in asking again if necessary. 2. Adapt to the changes: World is changing at a fast pace. The efficient supervisors ought to keep up with it. Do not Just blindly follow the age old norms and rules. Think out of the box if required. Adjust to the needs of the organization. 3. Value the employees: The people are any supervisors real asset. They are ones running the business and the work. A good supervisor understands their worth and treats them accordingly. 4. A coacher/mentor: Share your experience. A good supervisor shares her wisdom, knowledge and experience with the employees. She helps them perform better. This also strengthens the bond and the trust between them. 5. Disciplined: If a supervisor is disciplined then only can she expect the people to be so. The boss is an example Come on time, meet the time- lines, set a behavioral code if necessary. 6. Feedback/incentives: Promotions, feedback, raises and accolades should be showered on the deserving people. 7. Be an example: Be hands on Do not Just always delegate. At times the boss should take on projects too. She may try picking up something less attractive or uninteresting and complete it wonderfully. This sets an example to all the team about taking up challenges and about how any work is important. . Be approachable: The employees should not hesitate in approaching the supervisor with their concerns and problems. An efficient supervisor will make sure that there is enough trust and openness teeny her and the employees for the latter to come to her with their grievances. 9. Be considerate: People are not Just employees. They have families, friends and a life beyond work. Unless there is som ething urgent, do not make them work beyond the usual hours. Let them have their weekends and vacations. Be practical when setting the time-lines. This all will in turn improve the efficiency and the productivity of the employees. 10. Positive attitude: Be polite. Wish employees good mornings and be generous in thanking them. Inquire after about their families off and on. 11. Criticize instructively: When mistakes happen a good supervisor tries and understands the reasons behind the mishap. She criticizes or assesses the employee in proportion to the mistake. And it is always better to not to scream or scold in front of the others. Give constructive feedback; show them the right way to do things. . Equally important is understanding and incorporating employee feedback. A good supervisor interacts effectively with her employees, maintaining open lines of communication to ensure she stays informed bout project progress and brewing problems. Empathy If you cant place yourself in your employees shoes, you cant lead them effectively. For example, a parent might not be able to work overtime, or an employee going through a hard time might need temporary special considerations. Be as accommodating as possible in the face of genuine need, and your employees will be loyal in return. Ability to Delegate A good supervisor excels in delegating tasks to those employees best-equipped to handle them. Proper delegation streamlines a project, ensuring efficiency and maximizing profitability. Poor delegation, on the other hand, compromises a project. For example, if you delegate a vital task to an inexperienced employee, the whole project can slow. Worse, you might have to backtrack to fix errors, an inefficient use of time and resources. Flexibility No single approach to management works in every situation. Rather, a good supervisor chooses tactics based on the situation. For example, as a deadline nears, you might adopt a hard-line approach to ensure the work gets done. But your employees cant operate at full-speed perpetually, so adopt a more relaxed approach during downtime between projects. This gives employees time to recover their strength. Confidence Your employees look to you for inspiration. If you seem wish-washy or fearful, theyll assume you dont know what youre doing. That insecurity will create a negative workplace atmosphere, stifling productivity. But if you display confidence and positivist, your employees will be secure in your skills as a leader. Humility While a confident and positive outlook is important, not every decision you make will work out well. When a project fails or a choice backfires, accept responsibility and learn from the mistake. Dont blame your employees for problems that resulted from your mistakes. (1) Tame yourself You have to begin by understanding your personality and taming it. If you are too quiet, you will need to work on becoming more outgoing and decisive. If you are too decisive, to the point where you scare people, you will need to work on toning yourself down. You want to become a thoughtful, considerate leader who knows where you are going and is able to communicate that properly to the team. (2) Have a goal If you dont know where you are going, you will never arrive, and no one will be able to follow you. Your goal can e as simple as providing every customer with the best service or no injuries, no deaths on the Job or make a profit. (3) Have a clear, simple message You must be able to convey your goal in a sound bite. People can understand and retain clear, simple messages. You have to be able to repeat the message at meetings, in newsletters and in general conversations. If your people know the message, they will be able to follow. (4) Look and act like a leader People have a much easier time following someone who looks as they should. Your cl othes should be clean and pressed. Your shoes should be polished. You should walk with confidence. (5) Be trustworthy People wont follow you if they dont trust you. You must be ethical and People dont trust people who say one thing at a meeting, and then say or do something different outside of the meeting. (6) Care about your people You cant supervise people if you dont like them. You shouldnt become best friends with your staff, but you should know them and know what their problems are. Because you care, you should attend their weddings, and the funerals of their close family members. Because you are their leader, you should not attend more personal unctions, such as their birthday parties. You need to keep yourself concerned with your staff, but not intimately involved with them. If you are really not a people person, consider another, non-managerial position in your organization. Ruth Hag (wry. Managerial. Com) is the President and CEO of Hag Environmental Company, a hazardous waste consulting firm. Ruth is also a business management consultant. She trains supervisors to identify their shortcomings and tame them, while creating management systems that focus on their employees rather than themselves. She is also the author of several books, including a four-book series on supervisory management which includes Taming Your Inner Supervisor, Day to Day Supervising, Hiring and Firing and Why Projects Fail. She and her partner, Bob Hag, host the weekly radio show Manage Living, which can be heard on-demand on her site. 5 most important skills to become an effective supervisor 1 . Delegation skills: This is one of the most important supervisory skills and requires logical rules and technique for proper assignment. Effective delegation saves time, develops people, motivates the team and increases the production. Poor delegation will result in frustration, De-motivation and creates confusion among the sub- ordinates. The delegated task must be specific, measurable, realistic, agreed, time bound, ethical and recorded. 2. Interpersonal Skills: Employers appreciate supervisors who get along with people at all levels and so they hire supervisors with good interpersonal skills like communication, problem solving skills and team building skills. Interpersonal skill helps to build a trust between you and the sub- ordinates and thus able to work harmoniously and efficiently. 3. Performance valuation skills: Evaluation of employee performance is one of the most challenging aspects of a supervisors Job. This evaluation improves employees Job satisfaction and morale by letting him/her know that the supervisor is interested in their Job progress and personal development. This serves as systematic guide in planning employees further training, assist in determining special talents, skills and capabilities. PEP also provides an opportunity for employees to discuss Job problems and interests. 4. Training Skills: It is a supervisors Job to identify and impart training to the employees on regular basis. It helps in increasing the Job knowledge and skills of the employees and thus expand the overall personality of the employee to achieve individual goal and organization goals. 5. Decision making skill: This is an important skill required for a supervisor in order to complete their Job responsibilities. Best way is to solve problems by selecting one course of action from several possible alternatives where the positive outcome can outweigh possible losses. Avoiding decision may be easier; however, making own decision and accepting the consequences is the best way to stay control of your time and success.

Monday, November 25, 2019

Differences Between Baleen and Toothed Whales

Differences Between Baleen and Toothed Whales Cetaceans are a group of aquatic mammals which include all the varieties of whales and dolphins. There are over 80 recognized species of cetaceans, including both freshwater and saltwater natives. These species are divided into two main groups: the baleen whales  and the toothed whales. While they are all considered whales, there are some important differences between the two types.   Baleen Whales Baleen is a substance made of keratin (the protein that makes up human fingernails). Baleen  whales have as many as 600 plates of baleen in their upper jaws.   Whales strain seawater through the baleen, and hairs on the baleen capture fish, shrimp, and plankton. The salt water then flows back out of the whales mouth. The largest baleen whales strain and eat as much as a ton of fish and plankton each day. There are 12 species of baleen whales which live all over the world. Baleen whales were (and still sometimes are) hunted for their oil and ambergris; in addition, many are injured by boats, nets, pollution, and climate change. As a result, some species of baleen whales are endangered or near extinction. Baleen whales: Are generally larger than toothed whales. The largest animal in the world, the blue whale, is a baleen whale.Feed on smaller fish and plankton with a filtering system made up of hundreds of baleen plates.Tend to be solitary, although they occasionally gather in groups to feed or to travel.Have two blowholes on top of their head, one right next to the other (toothed whales have only one).Female baleen whales are larger than males of the same species. Examples of baleen whales include the blue whale, right whale, fin whale, and humpback whale. Toothed Whales It may come as a surprise to learn that the toothed whales include all species of  dolphins  and porpoises. In fact, 32 species of dolphins and 6 species of porpoises are toothed whales. Orcas, sometimes called killer  whales, are actually the worlds largest dolphins. While whales are larger than dolphins, dolphins are large (and more talkative) than porpoises.   Some toothed whales are freshwater animals; these include six species of river dolphins. River dolphins are freshwater mammals with long snouts and small eyes, which live in rivers in Asia and South America. Like baleen whales, many species of toothed whales are endangered. Toothed whales: Are generally smaller than baleen whales, although there are some exceptions (e.g., the sperm whale and Bairds beaked whale).  Are active predators and have teeth that they use to catch their prey and swallow it whole. The prey varies depending on species but can include fish, seals, sea lions or even other whales.Have a much stronger social structure than baleen whales, often gathering in pods with a stable social structure.Have one blowhole on top of their head.Unlike baleen whales, males of toothed whales species are usually larger than females. Examples of toothed whales include the beluga whale, bottlenose dolphin, and common dolphin.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Writing a blog for Lecture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Writing a blog for Lecture - Essay Example From the lecture, one was made to reflect on experiences during shopping in a mall, where various products offered were designed in different packages and brands that aim to entice consumers in buying them. The discussions on visual illusions that influence one’s perception and contribute to decision making were highly illuminating. These touched on the Muller-Lyer illusion (Muller-Lyer Illusion n.d.), Ponzo’s illusion (Ponzo Illusion n.d.), Ebbinghaus illustion (Vishton and Fabre 2003), and Lepper’s ambiguous lady illusion (Perceptual Ambiguity 1997). Depending on the need or demand, one’s perception is significantly influenced and therefore buying behavior is swayed by which need is most pressing. For instance, there is a need to purchase a laptop to be used for academic presentations. Manufacturers design different strategies to cater to different consumers. I could be enticed to buy a particular brand based on functionality and design and also the pric e of the product, since as a student, I do not have enough income to purchase the more advanced and technically sophisticated products, despite the intricate packaging or promotions being applied. I therefore learned that my consumer buying behavior could have been influenced by diverse internal and external factors. One’s perceptual process is assisted by external factors to aid in decision making. There could be changes to be made in future buying behavior depending on significant changes in one’s income level or serving more intricate needs that only specifically designed products could satisfy. "Perceptual Ambiguity." Illusion Works. 1997. Available at: http://psylux.psych.tu-dresden.de/i1/kaw/diverses%20Material/www.illusionworks.com/html/perceptual_ambiguity.html (Accessed October 19, 2012). Skaalid, B. 1999. "Gestalt Principles of Perception." College of Education, University of Saskatchewan. Available at:

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Role Of ALAD In Lead Toxicology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Role Of ALAD In Lead Toxicology - Essay Example The mechanism of lead toxicity involves oxidative damage by producing reactive oxygen species which inhibit the production of sulfhydryl antioxidants, inhibit enzyme reactions impairing Heine production, cause inflammation in vascular endothelial cells, damage nucleic acids and inhibit DNA repair, and initiate lipid peroxidation in cellular membranes (Lyn Patrick, 2006). The toxicity of lead is due to its property to mimic other biologically essential metals, like calcium, iron, and zinc (Onalaja & Claudio, 2000). It has been observed that lead binds to enzymes that have functional sulfhydryl groups, rendering them nonfunctional and further contributing to impairment in oxidative balance. Levels of two specific sulfhydryl-containing enzymes that are inhibited by lead are delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydrogenase (ALAD) and glutathione reductase (GR) which has been demonstrated to be depressed in both animal and human lead-exposure studies (Lyn Patrick, 2006). Polymorphisms of the ALAD gene have been associated with the accumulation and distribution of lead in the blood, bone, and internal organs in humans and animals. Lead binds with and interacts with the same proteins and molecules, and interferes with the normal activity of molecules, such as in producing enzymes necessary for certain biological processes. Like it interferes with an essential enzyme Delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase or ALAD. ALAD is a zinc-binding protein which is important in the biosynthesis of heme, the cofactor found in hemoglobin.

Monday, November 18, 2019

Building a Business Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Building a Business - Assignment Example This is a risk that many entrepreneurs must face, yet the most committed ones often manage to find a way to get the business to a point where it can thrive. If I eventually found a partner to run the business with, my share in the business would reduce to half. However, I would also only be liable for half of the debts. The ultimate goal is to become a limited liability company or corporation so that I would not be personally affected by any debts that the business would incur. This is a risk that many entrepreneurs must face, yet the most committed ones often manage to find a way to get the business to a point where it can thrive. If I eventually found a partner to run the business with, my share in the business would reduce to half. However, I would also only be liable for half of the debts. The ultimate goal is to become a limited liability company or corporation so that I would not be personally affected by any debts that the business would incur. Because the business will begin as a sole proprietorship, I would not have the ability to raise funds right away. Any money that the business would start out with would have to be personally funded by myself. This is a huge risk, especially if the business goes bust. The initial startup capital would be $50,000. This is not a huge amount, but it would get the business started at least. Because I would be running the business by myself, I would look to source sports shoes at wholesale prices and then on-sell them at retail prices. Using this selling strategy would result in very little profit at first. However, it would slowly pay off my initial capital of $50,000. Obviously, if another partner joined the business, they would be able to invest some funds. This would mean that the business would reduce its debt by up to twice as fast as I could by myself. Eventually, if the business gets to the stage of an organization, money could be raised through stocks and shares. Because Sporty Shoes would not gain instant mark et recognition, the demand would start out very low. Very few people would have heard about the brand, so customers would generally be local. Once the business gained more of a reputation, demand would increase, particularly from other states. Demand can be expected to remain high over the long term because sports shoes are needed for all types of athletic activity.

Friday, November 15, 2019

The Transmission Of Pathogens Biology Essay

The Transmission Of Pathogens Biology Essay Infectious diseases are caused by the transmission of pathogens, which are microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses. Pathogens can be transmitted by direct contact horizontal and vertical transmission and by indirect contact vehicle-borne transmission and vector-borne transmission. Pathogens are microorganisms that cause infectious disease. Bacteria and viruses are the main pathogens. Bacteria Salmonella bacterium cell Bacteria come in many shapes and sizes, but even the largest are only 10 micrometres long (10 millionths of a metre). Bacteria are living cells and, in favourable conditions, can multiply rapidly. Once inside the body, they release poisons or toxins that make us feel ill. Viruses Hepatitis C virus. DNA are enclosed in a protein coat. Transmission of pathogens Microorganisms can be transmitted in two main ways: direct contact and indirect contact. Direct contact Direct contact means that the disease-causing microbe is passed from one person to another when their bodies touch in some way. Vertical transmission happens when microorganisms pass from a mother to her unborn baby through the placenta. German measles and HIV can pass this way. Horizontal transmission happens when microorganisms pass from one person to another by touching, kissing or sexual intercourse. Examples of horizontal transmission type of contact bacterial disease viral disease touching bacterial gastroenteritis chickenpox kissing bacterial meningitis glandular fever, cold sores sexual intercourse gonorrhoea, syphilis HIV, hepatitis B Indirect contact Indirect contact happens when microorganisms are carried to a person in some way, instead of by actual body to body contact. Vehicle-borne transmission involves an object carrying the disease-causing microorganism. Examples of vehicle-bourne transmission vehicle bacterial disease viral disease droplets in the air tuberculosis (TB) colds, flu water cholera polio sharp objects tetanus HIV food Salmonella food poisoning hepatitis A Vector-borne transmission involves an animal such as an insect. For example, malaria is transmitted by mosquitoes and plague by fleas. The first line of defence Most pathogens have to get inside our body to spread infection. Once they are inside, the body provides ideal living conditions plenty of food, water and warmth. Standing in their way is our bodys immune system the bodys co-ordinated response to the invading pathogens. The first line of defence is the bodys natural barriers. These include: skin nasal hairs, mucus and cilia tears The skin Cross-section of skin The skin covers the whole body. It protects the body from physical damage, microbe infection and dehydration. Its dry, dead outer cells are difficult for microbes to penetrate, and the sebaceous glands produce oils which help kill microbes. Nasal hairs, mucus and cilia The respiratory system (or gaseous exchange tract) is protected in several ways. Nasal hairs keep out dust and larger microorganisms. Sticky mucus traps dust and microbes. These are then carried away by cilia, which are tiny hairs on the cells that line the gaseous exchange tract. Tears Tears, saliva and mucus contain an enzyme called lysozyme. This destroys microorganisms. The second line of defence Scabs If microorganisms get into the body through a cut in the skin, the most important thing is to quickly close the wound so more microorganisms cannot enter. A scab does just this. The blood contains tiny structures called platelets, and a protein called fibrin. A scab is basically platelets stuck in a fibrin mesh. The animation shows how this works. White blood cells As a wound heals, nearby blood vessels widen to allow more blood to reach the area. This causes inflammation where the damaged area becomes swollen, hot and red. White blood cells called phagocytes move into the area, and destroy bacteria by engulfing and digesting them. The third line of defence Pathogens contain certain chemicals that are foreign to the body and are called antigens. White blood cells called lymphocytes carry a specific type of antibody a protein that has a chemical fit to a certain antigen. When a lymphocyte with the appropriate antibody meets a dangerous foreign body (pathogen containing antigen), the lymphocyte reproduces quickly, and makes many copies of the antibody that neutralises the pathogen. Antibodies neutralise pathogens in a number of ways: They bind to pathogens and damage or destroy them. They coat pathogens, clumping them together so that they are easily ingested by phagocytes. They bind to the pathogens and release chemical signals to attract more phagocytes. Lymphocytes may also release antitoxins that stick to the appropriate toxin and stop it damaging the body. Tuberculosis Tuberculosis, or TB for short, is a disease caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The microorganisms are spread through the air in tiny droplets when an infected person sneezes or coughs. Most people who are infected do not show any symptoms. About 10 per cent of people who are infected will go on to suffer symptoms, which include: shortness of breath coughing weight loss tiredness fever death (in about 50 per cent of cases) Only infected people who show symptoms of TB can spread the microorganisms to other people. Prevention and control of TB (Higher Tier) The BCG (Bacillus Calmette-GuÃÆ'Â ©rin) vaccination protects about 75 per cent of uninfected people from becoming infected. Antiobiotics are drugs that kill bacteria or prevent them from reproducing. Infected people who do not show any symptoms of TB are usually given a course of one antibiotic, but infected people who are showing symptoms of TB need a course of several antibiotics at once. This is to reduce the chance that strains of antibiotic-resistant bacteria will emerge. http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/gcsebitesize/science/edexcel/health/defendingagainstinfectionrev5.shtml

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Child Abuse and Neglect :: Violence Against Children

Outline Thesis: What is Child Abuse and what are it’s effects on the child and his/her family? I. Introduction II. Different types of child abuse A. Physical Abuse B. Sexual Abuse C. Incest D. Exploitation III. Neglect A. Physical Neglect B. Educational Neglect C. Emotional Neglect D. Moral Neglect IV. Sexual Abuse A. Exhibitionism B. Sexual Acts V. Incest A. Sexual acts between relatives B. Victim statistics VI. Child Pornography A. Boomed in the 70's B. Abused passed on through generations VII. Where abused children are found A. All neighborhoods B. Low income families IX. Abuse Laws A. Laws in all states B. Abuse statistics X. Conclusion What is Child Abuse? By definition, child abuse is the deliberate and willful injury of a child by a caretaker hitting, beating with an object, slamming against a wall, even killing. It involves active, hostile, aggressive treatment. The key word in the definition of child abuse is deliberate. Why would anyone physically harm a child? The physical destruction of a child is the extreme reaction of parents to the stress of having children. Most people are not aware of the fact that deliberately hitting a child is considered a felony in all fifty states. Abuse of children is more common than most people realize. At least one out of five adult women and one out of every ten adult men report having been abused in childhood. Recognizing child abuse in its several forms is a twentieth century phenomenon. Child abuse is also more likely to be recognized in economically developed countries than in other parts of the world. Children have been beaten and abandoned for centuries, based primarily on the belief that children are the property of their parents. By educating yourself and your children about abuse, you can help prevent it from happening to your children and better cope with it if it does. (Child 6) There are four different forms of child abuse. They are physical abuse (child beating and neglect), sexual abuse, incest, and exploitation (such as child pornography). Physical abuse occurs when a caretaker deliberately beats the child. Some examples of 2 physical abuse include burning with a cigarette, striking a child, and scalding with hot water. According to social agencies, beatings of children have been multiplying over the past twenty-five years or so. The increasing number of reports could mean that in recent years, social workers, health professionals, and other experts have become better able to recognize cases of mistreatment. Child Abuse and Neglect :: Violence Against Children Outline Thesis: What is Child Abuse and what are it’s effects on the child and his/her family? I. Introduction II. Different types of child abuse A. Physical Abuse B. Sexual Abuse C. Incest D. Exploitation III. Neglect A. Physical Neglect B. Educational Neglect C. Emotional Neglect D. Moral Neglect IV. Sexual Abuse A. Exhibitionism B. Sexual Acts V. Incest A. Sexual acts between relatives B. Victim statistics VI. Child Pornography A. Boomed in the 70's B. Abused passed on through generations VII. Where abused children are found A. All neighborhoods B. Low income families IX. Abuse Laws A. Laws in all states B. Abuse statistics X. Conclusion What is Child Abuse? By definition, child abuse is the deliberate and willful injury of a child by a caretaker hitting, beating with an object, slamming against a wall, even killing. It involves active, hostile, aggressive treatment. The key word in the definition of child abuse is deliberate. Why would anyone physically harm a child? The physical destruction of a child is the extreme reaction of parents to the stress of having children. Most people are not aware of the fact that deliberately hitting a child is considered a felony in all fifty states. Abuse of children is more common than most people realize. At least one out of five adult women and one out of every ten adult men report having been abused in childhood. Recognizing child abuse in its several forms is a twentieth century phenomenon. Child abuse is also more likely to be recognized in economically developed countries than in other parts of the world. Children have been beaten and abandoned for centuries, based primarily on the belief that children are the property of their parents. By educating yourself and your children about abuse, you can help prevent it from happening to your children and better cope with it if it does. (Child 6) There are four different forms of child abuse. They are physical abuse (child beating and neglect), sexual abuse, incest, and exploitation (such as child pornography). Physical abuse occurs when a caretaker deliberately beats the child. Some examples of 2 physical abuse include burning with a cigarette, striking a child, and scalding with hot water. According to social agencies, beatings of children have been multiplying over the past twenty-five years or so. The increasing number of reports could mean that in recent years, social workers, health professionals, and other experts have become better able to recognize cases of mistreatment.