Sunday, January 19, 2020
Symbols and Symbolism in Long Days Journey into Night :: Long Days Journey into Night
 Symbolism is used throughout O ¹Neill ¹s Long Day ¹s Journey into Night, a portrayal of the  author ¹s life. The three prominent symbols, the fog, the foghorn, and Mary ¹s glasses, represent the characters ¹ isolation from reality. The symbols in  ³Long Day ¹s Journey into  Night ² are used to substitute illusion for reality. Although Mary is the character directly associated with living in illusion, all characters in the play try to hide from the truth in their own ways. At the beginning of the second act, O'Neill notes a change in setting which has taken place since the play opened. No sunlight comes into the room now  and there is a faint haziness in the air. This haziness or fog obscures one ¹s perception  of the world, and it parallels the attempts of each member of the family to obscure or hide reality. Tyrone, for example, drinks whiskey to escape his son ¹s criticism of how cheap he is. The reference to fog always has a double meaning in this play, referring both to the atmosphere and to the family. Much of the activity carried on by the Tyrone family is under-handed and sneaky, they are always attempting to put something over on somebody and obscure the truth. This brings us to the second symbol, the foghorn. Mary says she loves the fog because "it hides you from the world and the world from you," but she hates the foghorns because they warn you and call you back ². This escape is similiar to the morphine she takes, and the foghorns are the family ¹s warnings against her addictions. When they discuss the mother, Edmund resents Jamie's hinting that she might have gone back to her old habit; and Jamie is angry with Edmund for not staying with her all morning. Although they both think that she has started using dope again, they don't want to have to admit it. Because the men in the family all try so hard to deny the truth and to blame each other or the mother for her affliction, it appears that they all feel some guilt and some responsibility for what has happened to her , and to themselves. Even when confronted with the truth (that the mother is using drugs), they all still try to act as if everything were all right, to deny the reality and live in illusion. Mary ¹s glasses symbolize her inability to see things clearly. She frequently misplaces them, and really doesn ¹t want to find them
Saturday, January 11, 2020
Personal Position paper on Psychotherapy Essay
Introduction â€Å"People are always changed by disasters, and other life events, but they need not be damaged by them.†-John D. Weaver            When we study human behavior, specifically focusing on the development of personality and crucial to how a person or individual conducts him/herself, psychology offers a variety of dimensions. The concept of personality is central to our attempt to understand ourselves and others and is part of the way in which we account for the differences that contribute to our individuality. Psychologists have been particularly concerned with shaping of the personality in relation to genetic and environmental influences. We have been fortunate that the study of human personality has been thriving and fruitful. We can choose from as many models we can to help us see ourselves better and maintain good relationships.            In the course of our study, every individual counselor – therapist eventually develops his/her own approach in the therapeutic process. The path that the practitioner takes concerning his/her choice of approach or model depends a lot on his/her own personal preferences, personality and understanding of human nature. An eclectic approach is usually the direction that anyone in this field would take; however, certain emphasis is made on some specific positions simply because these are the dominant theories which help guide him/her in focusing the essentials of the process with the client. Though the attempt is said to be eclectic then, the therapist still has this open option to change or vary some details of his/her strategy along the course of the interaction or treatment phases. Discussion            There is a need for integration not only for its theoretical applicability but also for its practical usefulness. Presuppositions or philosophical conceptualizations are the pillars of any worldview, and to successfully establish a new one requires that changes or reinforcements be made at this plane. The integrative approaches were framed at this level so as to remove mental oppositions as they arise every time in one’s thoughts. When this is not adequately laid down, no audience can align their thoughts or understanding with what the author tries to convey. This paper is an attempt to convey a personal understanding of human behavior in the context of psychotherapeutic approaches that are modified for use by the author. It appreciates the accomplishments of the various approaches such as Behavioral, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Existential, Humanistic, Family Systems, Gestalt and Client-Centered developments in the profes sion. The following reflects the views of the author in the healing process of the mind and emotions. Key Concepts of My Approach            It is therefore expected that though at this point I value the primary theories or perspectives that I am thus enumerating afterwards, this also implies that I am open to the various developments that are expectedly to occur in my practice in the future. Since this is an eclectic approach at employing strategies I have found to be beneficial personally and that of others, I wish to mention many of these in the following statements. I am persuaded further that key elements or themes are found all throughout my own version of the approach. The smaller yet finer points come only in the between. For the thrust that this paper is taking, I wish to mention then my views individually, on Behavioral, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychoanalytic, Existential, Humanistic, Family Systems, Gestalt and Client-Centered approaches. Behavioral Therapy            This model utilizes what is termed as the learning theory posited by Skinner and Watson and the rest of the Behaviorism school. It assumes that the principles in learning i.e., conditioning (Associative and Operant) are effective means to effect change in an individual. Generally, the thrust of this theoretical perspective is focused on the symptoms that a person is experiencing. Just as many of the errors of the patterns of behavior come from learning from the environment, it is also assumed that an individual will be able to unlearn some if not all these by using the techniques as applied based on the learning principles. To a certain extent I believe that this still works: reinforcements are effective to some extent and in some or many people hence I am incorporating this stance separate or distinct from the Cognitive-Behavioral approach.  In behavior therapy therefore, thoughts, feelings and all those â€Å"malfunctioning†an d unwanted manifestations revealed in one’s activities can be unlearned and the work of a behavior therapist. The basic concepts include â€Å"extinguishing†– utilized when maladaptive patterns are then weakened and removed and in their place habits that are healthy are established (developed and strengthened) in a series or progressive approach called â€Å"successive approximations. When these (factors) are reinforced such as through rewards in intrinsic and extrinsic means, the potential of a more secure and steady change in behavior is developed and firmly established (Rubinstein et al., 20074; Corey, 2004). Although few psychologists today would regard themselves as strict behaviorists, behaviorism has been very influential in the development of psychology as a scientific discipline. There are different emphases within this discipline though. Some behaviorists contend plainly that the observation of behavior is the best or most expedient method of exploring psychological and cognitive processes. Others consider that it is in reality the only way of examining such processes, while still others argue that behavior itself is the only appropriate subject of psychology, and that familiar psychological terms such as belief only refer to behavior. Albert Bandura’s social cognitive approach grew out of this movement. Bandura’s method emphasizes cognitive processes over and above observable behavior, concentrating on not only the influence of the person’s upbringing for example, but also â€Å"observation, imitation, and thought processes†(Plotnik, 2005). Cognitive-Behavioral            In the cognitive approach alone, the therapist understands that a client or patient comes into the healing relationship and the former’s role is to change or modify the latter’s maladjusted or error-filled thinking patterns. These patterns may include wishful thinking, unrealistic expectations, constant reliving and living in the past or even beyond the present and into the future, and overgeneralizing. These habits lead to confusion, frustration and eventual constant disappointment. This therapeutic approach stresses or accentuates the rational or logical and positive worldview: a viewpoint that takes into consideration that we are problem-solvers, have options in life and not that we are always left with no choice as many people think. It also looks into the fact that because we do have options then there are many things that await someone who have had bad choices in the past, and therefore can look positively into the futu re. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy postulated primarily by Ellis and Beck â€Å"facilitates a collaborative relationship between the patient and therapist.†With the idea that the counselor and patient together cooperate to attain a trusting relationship and agree which problems or issues need to come first in the course of the therapy. For the Cognitive Behaviorist Therapist, the immediate and presenting problem that the client is suffering and complaining from takes precedence and must be addressed and focused in the treatment. There is instantaneous relief from the symptoms, and may be encouraged or spurred on to pursue in-depth treatment and reduction of the ailments where possible. The relief from the symptoms from the primary problem or issue will inspire the client to imagine or think that change is not impossible after all. In this model, issues are dealt directly in a practical way. Coaching the patient on the step by step procedure of CBT is a basic and fundamental ingredient. Here the client is enlightened as to the patterns of his thinking and the errors of these thoughts which bore fruit in his attitudes and behavior. His/her thoughts and beliefs have connections on his/her behavior and must therefore be â€Å"reorganized.†For instance, the ways that a client looks at an issue of his/her life will direct the path of his reactivity to the issue. When corrected at this level, the behavior follows automatically (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). Psychodynamic Therapy            The Psychodynamic perspective is based on the work of Sigmund Freud. He created both a theory to explain personality and mental disorders, and the form of therapy known as psychoanalysis. The psychodynamic approach assumes that all behavior and mental processes reflect constant and often unconscious struggles within the person. These usually involved conflicts between our need to satisfy basic biological instincts, for example, for food, sex or aggression, and the restrictions imposed by society. Not all of those who take a psychodynamic approach accept all of Freud’s original ideas, but most would view abnormal or problematic behavior as the result of a failure to resolve conflicts adequately. Many of the disorders or mental illnesses recognized today without a doubt have their psychodynamic explanation aside from other viewpoints like that of the behaviourist, or the cognitivists. From simple childhood developmental diseases to Schizophrenia, there is a rationale that from Freud’s camp is able to explain (Kaplan et al, 1994). Existential Therapy            The Existential approach, as put forward by Nietzsche, Kierkegaard, Sartre, Heidegger, Rollo May, and Frankl, believes that the individual’s potential may lie dormant but that it is there waiting to be ushered in time. It recognizes that man is able to achieve great heights and that these are just waiting to be tapped not only by him/herself but that also when helped by a practitioner who is persuaded of this notion. It examines such major issues as free will and the challenges of exercising this free will, the issue of mortality, loneliness and in general, the meaning of life. The Therapy is effective when the practitioner works with elderly care and death and dying issues. It focuses on the individual needs but takes into consideration the significant relationships and the meanings they bring into the person’s life. Transcending the issues and problems are primary intentions of the therapist at the same time being realistic that certain limitations do exist and may hinder the process of recovery (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). Humanistic Therapy            Allport, Bugental, Buhler, Maslow Rollo May, Murphy, Murray, Fritz Perls and Rogers are those that helped usher in the Humanistic theory and consequent therapy. It holds in view the individual as possessing the options or freedom to choose, creativity, and the capability to attain a state where he/she is more aware, freer, responsible and worthy of trust. Because the human mind has immense potential, the approach assesses as well that forces from the environment bear on with the individual and depending on the interplay that occurs within the individual person, the result will either be destructive or constructive to the person. In sum, humanism takes into the perspective that essentially humans are good and not evil, and that the therapy facilitates by harnessing on the human potential through the development of interpersonal skills. This results to an enhanced quality life and the individual becomes an asset rather than a liability to th e society where he revolves in (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). Family Systems Therapy            This theoretical viewpoint has been the by-product of the works of Bateson, Minuchin, Bowen, Ackerman and many others. Usually done in pairs or by a team of practitioners, family systems therapy has its roots in behavioral and psychoanalytic principles. This model understands that the family is a unit and its members or any of its members with an issue or a problem must be addressed in the context of the family as a unit. It puts its emphasis on the relationships among the family members, their patterns of communication more than their individual traits and/or symptoms. The systems theory portion of the therapy indicates that whatever is occurring or happening is not isolated but is a working part of a bigger context. In the family systems approach then, no individual person can be understood when removed from his relationships whether in the present or past, and this is specially focused on the family he belongs to (Rubinstein et al., 200 7; Corey, 2004). Gestalt Therapy            Gestalt therapy has this goal of reducing if not removing the symptoms with the rationale that the individual has personal responsibility and that the here-and-now experience is thus very important. This two-fold emphasis on the present moment as experienced by the person and that another reality is that our existence is entangled actually with other aspects and parts of the environment. It is when we understand that we are related with other things that insights to our issues are achieved and help us in finding solutions to our existence. When we are free from the obstructions of things that are â€Å"unfinished†then we reduce the obstacles and enhance the opportunities to our optimal satisfaction and fulfillment and eventual growth (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). Client-Centered Therapy            Developed and known because of the works by one person – Carl Rogers – Client Centered Therapy focuses on the person who needs aid and his/her improvement depends on the client himself although with the facilitation and assistance of the therapist. The rationale for the direction of the therapy lies in the notion that humans basically possess the ability to move towards the fulfillment of his/her possibilities. According to Rogers, â€Å"Individuals have within themselves vast resources for self-understanding and for altering their self-concepts, basic attitudes, and self-directed behavior; these resources can be tapped if a definable climate of facilitative psychological attitudes can be provided†(Rogers, 1980, p 115-117 in Rubinstein et al., 2007).            This approach is very popular today and many therapists usually incorporate this model into their own eclectic method. Rogers identified three important concepts termed as conditions: these are congruence, unconditional positive regard and empathy. Many in the mental health circles have these in their day-to-day jargon. In the aforementioned conditions, a person moves toward what Rogers call â€Å"constructive direction†when these three conditions are afforded. The Role of the Therapist            I aspire to be a therapist – counselor whose practice is characterized as empowering and collaborative. By empowering, I understand the limitations of my role and as such I am constrained at the same time to impart my best knowledge and efforts to enable my client/patient to understand him/herself, and lead the treatment to the point where he/she is able to stand on his/her own without my help anymore. Further, it means that I recognize the patient or client as a person who is not only complex, he/she is also is imbued with the nature that inherently can heal, grow and mature. They contribute to the process, and their attitude towards the whole duration of the healing relationship is a crucial aspect to the attainment of their goals. The therapist then must remove by all means any barrier or obstruction to the achievement of goals especially when these come potentially from the therapist him/herself (that’s me). By collaborative, again because there are set limitations on my capacities, I recognize the availability and expertise of others in realms that I hardly know and that working with them, collaborating with them, gives my client more options, and provides him/her the best and comprehensive interventions that there is in the field. A therapy that is beneficial looks beyond my set style and preferences of diagnosis and treatment; it is progressive and seeks to enhance the initial strategies that had been established and continually expands oneself by learning and researching. Most importantly, by collaboration, my client is the most significant â€Å"collaborator†and that notion should not be missed all throughout (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). .            The effectiveness of therapy in counselling is dependent substantially on two factors; namely, the patient’s cooperation, and the expertise of the therapist. Many experts in the field of Psychology have observed the significant contribution of the client to the over-all process. The individual’s perception of the therapist is extremely crucial to the ensuing treatment. Without the needed initial positive perception of the therapist on the part of the one seeking treatment, the whole process will not generate a desired momentum that would set the entire scheme in a strategic stance. Of course, the expertise of the therapist is another major factor – actually, the other half – but it’s a given to the whole package of treatment (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004).            Since a â€Å"working alliance†has to be established first before the actual treatment is administered, there are important or vital considerations for this â€Å"working alliance†between client and therapist to occur, and this is in prà ©cis, the intentions of this paper. What we will be considering in this paper are the challenges that new therapists face as they practice their profession. The past baggage of the client.            From any vantage point, the level of trust by client on his therapist, whether that perception is based on attractiveness, trustworthiness or as someone who knows what he may be dealing with in terms of credentials, are valid, and is the utmost concern of the helping relationship. Trust in the part of the client is necessary for the healing process. However, because the full ramifications of the issue almost always hinge on the perceptions of the client, the problems and hindrances need to be addressed or at least cited for clarity and deliberation at the outset of the relationship. As hinted above, the client may be bringing (emotional) baggage into their mutual involvement which may be due to prior engagements with other professionals in the therapeutic relations, whether positive or negative. Oftentimes, in many cases, these may be liaisons which were unsuccessful, distasteful or even traumatic for a few. The author pointed out that any form of future therapy will be affected due to these previous experiences, and it has to be dealt with right away at the outset (Horvath & Luborsky, 1993, p. 4). The fitness of the therapist            By fitness, we mean sufficient, wide-ranging exposure, and right training to the kind of illness/es or disorder/s that he may be dealing. Even with years spent in the academe will not guarantee the development of skills in handling such complex and true-to-life situations or scenarios. At times, the theoretic skills acquired, instead of enabling the new therapist, may deter or hamper the process. This means to say that the therapist must possess more than head-knowledge; he should not allow his schooling to affect him to the extent that it made him conceited with no room for more learning especially when additional knowledge are available in the patient himself. He must also have the sensitivity to employ his gut-feeling to at times, direct the course of the therapy (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). Therapeutic relationships are almost always exhausting, but it will be an undesirable experience for the alliance partners when just one of them becomes disinterested, hence as Luborsky pressed that â€Å"reciprocity†must be established, cultivated or maintained until the relationship is terminated, hopefully because the client is well (Horvath & Luborsky, 1993, p. 4). III. The Therapeutic Process            The therapeutic process is initiated by the therapist primarily as soon as the client or others who refer or brought the patient in for the assumed long haul of the healing relationship. It would be impossible to do all approaches at one time. By eclectic and as frequently emphasized, the usage of any of the methods will be dependent on the need of the patient, and other pertinent information that help guide which of these the therapist will be using. The therapist then is enjoined to be able to diagnose well; it is at this stage that any practitioner is well aware of the risks should he/she fail to diagnose properly the needs and or issues /problems of the client. However, as he/she matures and advances in the profession, many instances occur that the mistakes made in diagnosis are oftentimes corrected while at the treatment stage, hence the traits of flexibility and humility (admitting mistakes for instance) are valued highly in this pro fession (Rogers, 1980, p 115-117 in Rubinstein et al., 2007).            Employing the Behavioral, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Existential, Humanistic, Family Systems, Gestalt and Client-Centered Eclectic stance primarily involves the incorporation of distinct concepts within a single framework. The important thing is that of flexibility and resiliency on my part when to apply or implement which of the theories in the context of my client. It starts with the identification of specific problems and especially the root causes. When this is confidently achieved, the therapist is actually midway to attaining his/her goals which includes not only the relief of the symptoms that the sufferer is currently experiencing but especially the reduction of the occurrence if not altogether eliminated. The specific treatment goals are likewise essential and it helps in the remaining aspects or levels of the process. The diagnostic part by itself in most cases is considered therapeutic since many clients have experienced immediate relief; in the language of psychoanalysis, the â€Å"cathartic†effect is helpful already. In addition, another important ingredient in the process is to identify effective reinforcers which help people in crisis for instance or those in acute and chronic mental and emotional anguish to sustain their plan for change and control of their disorders. Helping the client set up a kind of self-help management program is a very effective strategy to pursue within the relationship (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). ~Identifying clients in crisis            Despite breakthroughs in scientific researches and the success of many crisis interventions by established churches, there are â€Å"fly by night†operations which prey on funding of private and government groups on such types of operations. There are those who minister lacking the necessary spiritual maturity and corresponding abilities in this kind of endeavor, hence the necessity of proper credentials to minimize abuses in the profession (Buttman, p.59). Crucial to the treatment or interventions of people in crisis is the identification of clients experiencing crisis in life. â€Å"Knowledge of the three core components of crisis intervention theory (a precipitating event, client perception of the event, and the client’s usual coping methods)†is essential in this kind of work (Walsh et al, 2005). The Goal of Therapy            Trauma inducing and crisis triggering situations have spiraled its occurrence and in its primacy in the US and in many other countries in recent years. Its broad spectrum ranges from the national disaster category such as that of Hurricane Katrina or the 911 terrorist strikes in New York, Spain and England, to private instances such as a loved one’s attempt at suicide, the murder of a spouse or child, the beginning of mental illness, and the worsening situation of domestic violence (Teller et al, 2006). The acute crisis episode is a consequence of people who experience life-threatening events and feel overwhelmed with difficulty resolving the inner conflicts or anxiety that threaten their lives. They seek the help of counselors, paramedics and other health workers in crisis intervention centers to tide them over the acute episodes they are encountering. These are defining moments for people and must be adequately addressed else they lead lives with dysfunctional conduct patterns or disorders (Roberts et al, 2006).            In the integrated or eclectic approach the goal of the therapy is not just relief to the patient or client. Although an immediate relief is very helpful, this may not always be the case in most illnesses. The goal as mentioned in the preceding pages is to provide long-term reduction of the symptoms and the occurrence of the disease altogether if possible. The management then is not impossible but neither is this easy. Specifically, the counselee or patient must want to heal or believe that there is going to be curative effects in the process. It presupposes that he/she must learn to trust the therapist in his/her capabilities as well in leading or facilitating the changes or modifications. It is very much essential that (in the perspective of a cognitive-behaviorist) that the client understands ownership to the deeds and choices in thought patterns he/she made are crucial to the recurring or occurring condition that s/he experiences (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004).            Moreover, the identification of specific treatments or interventions according to the diagnosed issue will be accommodated and implemented based on the chosen treatment modalities fit with the therapeutic approach utilized. It may be a single modality based on a single approach (e.g., learning principles and desensitization for a patient with specific phobias) or it maybe a combination of many modalities (CBT, Rogerian, Phenomenological, or Family systems) (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). The Nature of the Relationship between the Therapist and the Client            The client throughout the process is a person in need of help and support and this reality is throughout reinforced in the process until the need to terminate the relationship. The therapist is the helper, who ushers the client to discover insights into his needs and problems and until the client is able to stand on his/her own the therapist aids him/her in more ways than one. Because of usual and common abuses that either the client suffers or that the therapist at times undergoes, definite boundaries are set in place at the outset. This must be established at the initial stage and from time to time emphasized to mind either of the parties in the limits of the relationship. The therapist is guided by morality and ethics of his/her profession in the proper exercise of his/her duties and bound by law to implement this in the process and make this known as well to the client. The therapist terminates the relationship readily or refer the cli ent to another competent practitioner should the limits be reached and the relationship has become unrealistically difficult for either of the two parties. Best Practices for Techniques            Techniques or the utilization of various modalities come in a variety of forms and each when employed has the potential to meet the individual’s needs. The modality of choice at particular client/patient depends on such considerations as family support, financial constraints or financial capability, the patient’s preference, diagnosis, and age of patient (Rubinstein, et al., 2007). Employing the cathartic method, teaching the client to examine his/her thought patterns, to discern the errors of judgment and gain insight into him/herself, and to handle with patience the whole process are fundamentals in the process. When the therapist is able to shift effectively in various standpoints and enables the client to gain a better, realistic and eradicate unrealistic expectations of the self and others, they are both on the way to achieving wholeness and healing that which the client so need and aspire. This requires practice, or con stant training and endurance on the part of the therapist (Rubinstein et al., 2007; Corey, 2004). VII. Methods of Therapy            Every theoretical approach has its own assumptions. In the psychodynamic theory, the following three assumptions help guide a student of human behavior or an expert in this field determine the underlying factors that explain the overt manifestations of specific behaviors. These assumptions therefore, help guide the diagnosis of the presence or absence of mental illness. They are the same assumptions that guide the therapist in choosing what treatment that will better help heal, cure or alleviate the symptoms.            These assumptions are: â€Å"There are instinctive urges that drive personality formation.†â€Å"Personality growth is driven by conflict and resolving anxieties.†â€Å"Unresolved anxieties produce neurotic symptoms†           (Source: Kaplan et al, 1994).            The goals of treatment here include alleviating patient of the symptoms which specifically works to uncover and work through unconscious conflict. The task of psychodynamic therapy is â€Å"to make the unconscious conscious to the patient†(â€Å"Models of abnormality†, National Extension College Trust, Ltd). Employing the psychodynamic viewpoint, the therapist or social scientist believes that emotional conflicts, or neurosis, and/or disturbances in the mind are caused by unresolved conflicts which originated during childhood years. In the psychodynamic approach the treatment modality frequently used includes dreams and free association, at times hypnosis (as preferred by either the therapist or by the client). The therapist actively communicates with the client in the on-going sessions. The scenario appears that a given patient may have up to five times a week session and runs up to five years in length (Rubinstein et al., 2007).            The methods of therapy incorporate the methods of the eight models. In Behavioral Therapy – the development of behavioral skills that encourage effective actions which is done through incorporating principles in learning or classical and operant conditioning. It utilizes shaping, modeling and such concepts as behavior modification, counterconditioning and exposure, and systematic desensitization.  Behavioral or action therapies utilize insight just as much as the psychodynamic model. Just as the cognitive–behavioral model also recognizes the concept of insight as well, this is only a matter of emphasis or focus. In behavioral/cognitive-behavioral therapies the focus is on the modification or control of behavior and insight usually becomes a tangential advantage. Techniques include CBT through such strategy as cognitive restructuring and the current frequently used REBT for Rational Emotive-Behavior Therapy where irrational beliefs are eliminated by examining them in a rational manner (Corey, 2004; Davison and Neale, 2001). Whereas in insight therapies the focus or emphasis is on the patient’s ability in understanding his/her issues basing on his inner conflicts, motives and fears. Techniques then include reflection of feelings and free association; the former as employed in the client–centered therapy and with the latter in psychodynamic therapy. Cognitive Strategies are utilized to promote functional thoughts which are likely to result in adaptive and healthy habits (Corey, 2004; Davison and Neale, 2001).            Client-centered therapy avoids the imposition of goals on the patient or client during therapy. It is the client who takes the lead in the session and of the conversation. It is the job of the therapist to create the conditions conducive to the client’s positive judgment of those experiences that are intrinsically satisfying to the client. The ‘goal’ then is to reach the point where the client desires to be a good and â€Å"civilized person.†Unconditional positive regard enhances this atmosphere however, and although the goal may be difficult to achieve, unconditional positive regard eventually, according to Rogers, encourages even the â€Å"`unbehaved†to conform or even transform (Corey, 2004; Davison and Neale, 2001). Gestalt therapy techniques on the other hand, include the I-language, The Empty Chair, Projection feelings, Attending to Nonverbal Cues, and the Use of Metaphor (Corey, 2004; Davison and Neale, 2001).            The techniques may sound a lot like pulling â€Å"this and that†from one’s tool box but in practice it is far from whimsical and impulsive. There is given time to much thought and analysis per client and an evaluation in between is mustered in order to be kept on track according to the specific goals that had been established at the outset. Here, professionalism counts and much of the efforts poured into every patient’s benefit.            In order to avoid what Corey says as a syncretistic and hodgepodge type of â€Å"eclectism†a theoretical rationale must be underpinning in the overall approach of the therapist (Corey, 2001, Article 29 in Lazarus, 1986, 1996; Lazarus, Beutler, & Norcross, 1992). This means that I as the therapist must establish firmly my own worldview, which contains my value system, and communicates this at the outset to the client and intermittently in the therapeutic process.
Friday, January 3, 2020
Racial Implications in Heart of Darkness - 619 Words
Racial Implications in Heart of Darkness The plot of the novella Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad centers around a seafarer named Marlow and his journey up the Congo River and his exploits there during a time of imperialism. Once Marlow joins the Company as a captain for a ship heading to the Congo to trade, he encounters instances of oppression of the African natives by members of the Company. This character narrates the majority of the novel and often takes on the role of a passive observer, although he sometimes gives his input on the situation. In recent years, the state of Marlow and even Conrad’s opinions on race have been questioned due to the thematic element of oppression of blacks by whites presented in this work. Though many believe Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad to be a novel with racist undertones and an offensive view of African imperialism, it illustrates the discovery of a new world and new people by Europeans in the 19th century with an impressionist take as opposed to a racist one. Though the book has many thematic elements, Conrad’s writings on race seem ambiguous to many readers. However, some critics believe that Marlow or even Conrad cements his racist point of view in Heart of Darkness and makes it very prominent during scenes in the Congo. Chinua Achebe, the Nigerian author of anti-imperialism novel Things Fall Apart, argued in a lecture that Joseph Conrad wrote his novel with a spiteful view of blacks and fueled the Western stereotype thatShow MoreRelatedEssay about Heart of Darkness1745 Words  | 7 Pagesdepth review of Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness, a classical novella that illustrates without bias the motives behind human intentions and the extremes individuals can go to achieve wealth and profits at the expense of others with the aim of shedding insight into the rise of European imperialism, the imperial history, its politics and evil activities in the colonized African tribes along the river Congo during the eighteenth and nineteenth century. The Heart of Darkness is an exceptionally figurativeRead MoreThe Oral Tradition Of Storytelling1510 Words  | 7 Pagesculture. It is a white man who informs Ayah and Chato of the loss of Jimmie, symbolizing as the racial issue of Native Americans dying in the service to a nation that oppressed them. Because of the way Jimmie dies, they are no longer able to mourn him traditionally, and that is taking away a big part of Ayah’s way of life. Ayah being tricked into signing away her children to the white doctors is another implication in the context of Native American history. There was the almost genocide of Native AmericansRead More The Meaning of Heart of Darkness in the Post-Colonial Climate3726 Words  | 15 PagesThe Meaning of Heart of Darkness in the Post-Colonial Climate Since its publication in 1899, Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness has rarely been disputed on the basis of its literary merits; in fact, it was long seen as one of the great novels of the burgeoning modern era, a sort of bridge between the values and storytelling styles of the waning Victorian period and those of the modern era (Gatten), and regarded a high-ranking space amidst the great literature of the century, if not theRead MoreDeviant Sexuality Is Denoted By The Spaces And Womens Sexual And Economic Freedom1582 Words  | 7 Pagesresembling Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness (1899) detailing a journey from London to Africa. The darkness in Conrad’s title referring firstly to the unknown nature of the African landscape and perhaps has racial implications, but more importantly the moral darkness in a non-western space, deemed the counter to the â€Å"civilized†world. However, here the discovery is reversed, Anna traverses from a colonised area to England, and the nature of discovery is sexual exploration: Anna’s racial ambiguity in the textRead More lighthod Light and Dark in Joseph Conrads Heart of Darkness2308 Words  | 10 PagesLight and Dark in Heart of Darkness      Joseph Conrads repeated use of darkness in his novel Heart of Darkness has been widely interpreted. Readers have arrived at many different conclusions about the use of darkness throughout the novel. The critics themselves cannot agree what the darkness means.        The critics draw different conclusions about the use of darkness. For some critics, the use of darkness is seen as an intentional literary device. For example, Gary Adelman and MichaelRead MoreThe Old Testament1235 Words  | 5 Pagesthe hearts and minds of their believers with it. Prophets were enlightened and blessed beings that had much knowledge about the religious matters and their teachings are of still very significant and valid. The Bible instructs numerous cases of the Social Injustice, Idolatry, and Ritualism. God s picked prophets, for example, Hosea, Micah, Jonah, Ezekiel, and Isaiah, give occasions of these themes. Through these picked prophets a superior comprehension of Gods expectations and implications canRead MoreMy research paper is entitled, Analyzing Heart of Darkness through a Feminist Lens. Through this3100 Words  | 13 PagesMy research paper is entitled, Analyzing Heart of Darkness through a Feminist Lens. Through this paper, I will investigate and examine Heart of Darkness by means of Feminist Criticism and literary theory. I aspire to thoroughly analyze the entire narrative, in order to pull out and pinpoint various aspects and examples linked to feminist theory. I want to investigate and spotlight specific occurrences, in the novel, where characteristics of Feminist Criticism can be found or applied. I specificallyRead MoreASAM 5 Notes Essay6590 Words  | 27 Pagesothers, of measu ring ones soul by the tape of a world that looks on in Two voices of contemporary double consciousness Two different life narrative: Jay Z up from poverty, west on the anxieties of middle class black Similar conflict, reconciling racial otherness with wealth aspiration marked by whiteness Watch the throne: (2011) A love letter to affluence A negotiation between the history/experience of blackness and arrival into American dream. Poverty and wealth Hybridity In the century passedRead MoreEssay about Universal truth (Shakespeare)1860 Words  | 8 Pagesadventurer who is black and her heart fully consents. Othello confirms this, â€Å"She lov’d me for the dangers I had pass’d.†(I.iii.167). She boldly professes her love and devotion to Othello before the Duke and an already angry father when she says, â€Å" That I did love the Moor to live with him†¦Othello’s visage in his mind, And to his honour and his valiant parts †¦ my soul and fortunes consecrate†¦Let me go with him.†(I.iii.247-258) In â€Å"Othello†racism and inter-racial marriage have both traditionalRead MoreHow to Read Lit Like a Prof Notes3608 Words  | 15 Pagesc. An act of sharing and peace d. A failed meal carries negative connotations 3. Nice to Eat You: Acts of Vampires a. Literal Vampirism: Nasty old man, attractive but evil, violates a young woman, leaves his mark, takes her innocence b. Sexual implicationsâ€â€a trait of 19th century literature to address sex indirectly c. Symbolic Vampirism: selfishness, exploitation, refusal to respect the autonomy of other people, using people to get what we want, placing our desires, particularly ugly ones, above
Thursday, December 26, 2019
The Moral and Psychological Development of Milkman - Free Essay Example
Sample details Pages: 3 Words: 825 Downloads: 5 Date added: 2019/08/08 Category Religion Essay Level High school Tags: Song of Solomon Essay Did you like this example? The coming of age, also known as bildungsroman, is a literary genre typically used in novels, that targets the psychological and moral growth of the protagonist. The moral and psychological development of Macon Dead III, or Milkman, in Toni Morrisons Song of Solomon is due to the pivotal moments he experienced throughout his life. A pivotal moment is defined as an event that is crucial to the development or success of something. An example of a pivotal moment in which was crucial into the development of Milkman was meeting Guitar. The significance of Guitar in Milkmans life is seen as Milkmans naive and egocentric nature matures into someone who eventually finds his true identity. Before this development, Milkman is a selfish and immature individual who lacks any kind of sympathy for others. He seems to share the same characteristics as his father, Macon Dead Jr: greedy and quite arrogant. On the path to his development, he digs deep into the past of his family and finds their values. He comes across his aunt Pilate and his fathers caretaker, Circe, in which they both reveal a past that Milkman is unfamiliar with. It is clear that the formation of this relationship caused a clear change in his life, connecting to the theme of finding your true identity and becoming one within yourself. Milkman before his first encounter with Guitar, was an individual struggling to find the true values in life. It is as if he is still a child due to his immature personality and lack of self identity. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "The Moral and Psychological Development of Milkman" essay for you Create order For the majority of his adolescence, he has been surrounded by an arrogant, aristocratic father and a submissive mother who is scared to stand up to her husband. Milkman is also scared to stand up to his father, along with the rest of the people living in his estate. Like his father, he sees value in materialistic objects and is very indifferent. Milkman has no respect for women nor the impoverished black people that live in the town. In addition, he is not able to maintain a long, loving relationship with women as he is constantly disbanding the people who care for him. Due to his lack of commitment to his family, his community, and basically everything else, he is rather alienated in society and not up to date to the racial conflicts that are occurring. Unlike Guitar who firmly believes in justice, Milkman does not care about the racial injustices happening nor does he care about fighting for it. Despite Guitar recommending Milkman to become apart of the Seven Days Society, Milkman declines as he drifts aimlessly through life. When Milkman reaches thirty one years of age however, he hears that there is a possibility of gold existing inside a cave in which his father grew up. Milkman thinks that if he acquires this gold, he will most certainly have the wealth and power that he needs to be free of his father. Although embarking on a journey to find gold, he is on a journey to find his true identity.The commencement of Milkmans psychological development was when he took a trip down South. In chapter 3 of part 1, the story shifts to the perspective of a 22 year old Milkman. After revealing a story regarding her behavior at the wedding of the granddaughter of one of her fathers former clients, Ruth is viciously slapped by Macon. Milkman immediately jumped to protect his mother, knocking his father to the floor. He threatened to take his life if he was to ever abuse her like that again. Later, Macon explains the story behind his estranged relationship with Ruth to Milkman. Overwhelmed by his fathers sordid story, Milkman leaves and heads for Southside, hoping that Guitar can help him sort out his confusing thoughts. Guitar knows that if Milkman wants to fly, he must first cease his arrogance, and his materialistic values. Guitar tells Milkman Wanna fly, you got to give up the shit that weighs you down. His mission to find Pilates gold allows him to learn where his nickname came from and the history of his family. Also, he rids all of his material possessions while he was in Pennsylvania, which enables him to understand the concept of flight. In addition, it makes Milkman realize that his life shouldnt be about the greedy need for materials; something his father failed to notice. Progressively, while in Virginia, Milkman learns his family has traces in Shalimar. Upon arriving, he feels somewhat connected to the people there. This feeling of connection is a feeling that is lacked in his own home town, which is quite strange. His mission to find Pilates gold takes him back to his ancestral roots, enabling him to learn the origin of his name and to reconnect with the black community This connections reminds him of his feelings when he is with Pilate and because of this, Milkman becomes eager to discover more of the past.
Wednesday, December 18, 2019
Mao Zedong Of The Peasant Movement - 1005 Words
Written Summary of Group 4 Presentation The Summary of Document 8.2 Brief Introduction: Document 8.2 is the first four sections of â€Å"Mao Zedong’s Report on an Investigation of Peasant Movement in Hunan†, which was written by Mao Zedong when he visited Hunan province in 1927. In this document, from personal perspective, Mao argued the importance of the peasant issues, then described how the peasant associations became organized, how the peasants fought with the local tyrants and gentry, and how they became powerful in rural areas. Finally, Mao gave his own definition of â€Å"It’s terrible!†and â€Å"It’s fine!†. Main Points: 1. The surge of China’s peasant movement was inevitable, and it would be extremely influential on Chinese revolutionary. There†¦show more content†¦Firstly, basing on his investigation, the report strengthened Mao’s understanding about Chinese revolution and peasants. Secondly, at that time, the report would promote the development of nationwide peasant movements in China. Therefore, the report was greatly helpful in developing new ways of revolutionary for Chinese communist party leaders. The Summary of Document 8.4 Brief Introduction: Document 8.4 is called â€Å"Three Main Rules of Discipline and Six Points for Attention†, which is the original draft of a regulation written by Mao Zedong in 1928, in order to guide the Red army’s behavior and make them adhere to it. The document also includes a piece of article called â€Å"The Rise of Guomindang†, of which the author is unknown. The article introduces the history of the first collaboration between CCP and GMD from 1923 to 1927. Main Points: 1.After Yuan Shikai died in 1916, politically, the 1911 Revolution failed. 2.Sun Yat-Sen’s collaboration with CCP and Comintern was aimed at ending the warlords’ dominance sphere. Because of this, Sun’s political stance became more militaristic and leftist tone. 3.The first CCP-GMD collaboration was from 1923 to 1927, and the founding of the Huangpu Military Academy in 1924 was a remarkable example. 4.Sun Yat-Sen passed away on March 12, 1925, due to liver cancer. His death was a big shock to Kuomintang. Conclusion: The aim of â€Å"Three Main Rule ofShow MoreRelatedMao Zedong Essay1030 Words  | 5 Pagesup the gun.†- Mao Zedong In the early 1900th widespread of nationalism and equality took hold of Europe and Asia. It was a time of hunger for power and land, leading to rivalries between countries which led to World War I. This war was catastrophic and it had a large death toll, it was known as the war to end all wars. Hatred was born after the war, and a new form of ideas arose such as socialism. These political ideas were later a great influence to Mao Zedong. Born into a peasant family, he wasRead MoreCultural Revolution And Its Effects On Chinese Economic And Development1457 Words  | 6 PagesCultural Revolution, refers to a political movement that leads by Mao Zedong during May 1966 to October 1976. The original intention for Cultural Revolution is to prevent the restoration of capitalism. Mao want to clean the force who block the development. However, because of the failure leadership, this movement goes to a wrong way and become out of control. This ten years revolution seriously impact Chinese ec onomic and development, it gives Communist Party and its people a big damage: school closedRead MoreMao Zedong1391 Words  | 6 PagesMao Zedong is considered to be one of the most controversial political leaders of the twentieth century. He has been known both as a savior and a tyrant to the Chinese people. From his strategic success of the Long March, to his humiliating failure of the Great Leap Forward, to the Cultural Revolution that shocked the country and took countless lives, Mao has significantly influenced the result of what China is today. From humble origins, Mao Zedong rose to absolute power, unifying with an iron fistRead MoreThe Great Leap Forward By Mao Zedong1410 Words  | 6 PagesMay Fourth Movement seems as the start of the New Cultural Movement. This New Culture movement made a lasting impact on the following critical decades. And finally the PRC is established by the Communist Party by the leader of Mao Zedong. The developing of the economic and the level of people s life should be increasing. However, for the following decades, the left mistake had a rapid develop, the economic suffered a great backward, the great damage of the zoology, and people s life became worseRead MoreMao Zedong Five Year Plan Case Study896 Words  | 4 PagesThis investigation assesses to what extent did Mao Zedong five year plan in 1953 succeed or fail? Investigating the success of Mao’s reform movements; Five Year Plan, the Great Leap Forward, and Cultural Revolution which has proved to have affected China, but was Mao a successful leader to these policies? A leader, who gained the support of his people, while keeping his goals clear throughout his rule, these policies will be analyzed. Zedong was a Chinese communist revolutionary, poet, and the foundingRead More Womens Freedom during Chinas Revolutionary Period Essay1360 Words  | 6 PagesWomens Freedom during Chinas Revolutionary Period During the revolutionary period in China from 1921 to 1934, although there were undercurrents of an actual feminist movement, according to Kay Ann Johnson in Women, the Family Peasant Revolution in China, women’s progress resulted more as a necessity of the war than the leadership’s commitment to emancipate women. Furthermore, when tension arose between men and women, the leadership usually appeased men over women. By not discussingRead MoreChina Has Been A Communist Country1534 Words  | 7 Pagesat that time, to Japan as a compensation for their participation in the war. About three thousand students from many universities in Beijing rose against this decision and gathered in Tiananmen Square in May 4th, 1919, which is called May Fourth Movement. The government of Republic of China arrested a lot of students and its people. Moreover, merchants, banks and workers ended up closing their businesses. Republic of China was already at the track of failure at that moment. In constant chaos, YuanRead MoreMao Zedong And The Great Leap Forward1640 Words  | 7 PagesDid you know that Mao Zedong is in fact the greatest mass murderer in world history? On the other hand, did you know that without Mao Zedong, China would not be the world power with a leading economy that it is today? These seemingly contradictory statements are only part of the persistent dispute about Mao’s complicated and controversial legacy. The leadership of Mao Zedong in China from 1921-1976, including the Great Leap Forward, his Five Year Plans, and the Cultural Revolution, significantlyRead MoreMao Zedong Essay1906 Words  | 8 PagesGlobal history Pd 7. Mao Zedong Hero or Villain?! Through out all of history we have seen so many heroes and villains all over the world. But one place in particular was in China, with a leader who goes by the name of Mao Zedong. Mao Zedong was a well-known communist leader in china who actually lead the Chinese Communist Party. He is one of the most important people/historical figures in history. At first he was helping China at the beginning of his ruling, nut then his actionsRead MoreMao Zedong s Leadership Style And Policies1485 Words  | 6 Pagesleadership of Mao Zedong, some scholars are skeptical and even critical of Mao’s contribution towards China’s progress. This paper would like to examine how Mao Zedong’s leadership failed by investigating his leadership style and policies and how it impacted China as a whole. Historical Perspective Mao was born in 1893 in a village of Shaoshan under the province of Hunan, Southern China (Mao Zedong (1893-1976): Major Events in the Life of a Revolutionary Leader , n.d.). At an early age, Mao has been
Monday, December 9, 2019
Hobbit Essay Example For Students
Hobbit Essay The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien is set in a fantasy world that has differences, as well as similarities, to our own world. The author has created the novels world, Middle Earth, not only by using imagination, but by also adding details from the modern world. Realistic elements in the book enable readers to relate to the setting, yet have the ability to imagine exciting events and organisms not found on Earth. The majority of differences between Middle Earth and todays world are found in objects and the actions of characters that can not be carried out or created in our world. The most abundant example of this in The Hobbit is the presence of magic. Gandalf, the wizard, is able to help the adventurers out of a number of dangerous situations by using his magical powers to harm their enemies. He set Wargs afire while he was trapped in a tree and created a bolt of lightening to kill many of the Goblins who had surrounded the group in a cave. The magical ring, which was a key to helping the group succeed in the book, allowed he who was wearing it to become invisible to others. Also, there was a black stream in Mirkwood that made he who drank out of it suddenly very drowsy and forgetful of previous events. All of these examples of happenings and objects found in Middle Earth are physically impossible in a world such as ours. Several of the organisms in the book are not known to exist on Earth. Hobbits, of course, are fictional characters, as are dwarves, elves, goblins, and trolls. Many species of animals are able to vocally communicate with humans and dwarves in the novel, which is not possible on our planet. Beorn, a human who is able to morph into other creatures at an instant, is an excellent example of such fiction. The dragon, Smaug, is the main adversary of the fourteen adventurers and is a type of creature that has long been used in fantasy writing. Although most of the characters species are merely creations of the author, they all exhibit a sense of realism that causes them to seem almost human. There is a vast difference between Middle Earth and the modern world, but there are also several similarities. In Middle Earth, there live humans, and hobbits, which are very much similar to miniature people. The language spoken and food consumed in the novels world are found in modern society. Also, the fact that Thorin Oakenshield is heir of the throne of the King under the Mountain and inherits all of the riches of the kingdom is like the parliamentary system of England. The environment and terrain the group passes through on their adventure is primarily the same as lands unchanged by humans and surrounded by nature appear today. In the novel, there are forests with miles of trees, high, rocky mountains, and flowing rivers just as there are here on Earth. It is not possible that a fantasy story such as The Hobbit could occur in real life. However, I do believe that fantasy can effectively teach us about reality. There are morals, lessons, and themes to be found within the text that can help us gain knowledge and live our lives more productively. Bilbo Baggins took a stand and raised enough courage to do something he had never thought of doing before, going on a great adventure. This choice caused Bilbo to gain endurance, bravery, an appreciation of his life, and many valuable experiences that made him a wiser person. Thorins selfish act of not wanting to share the dragons riches with the other towns citizens caused only bad events to occur. This teaches us that kindness and giving to others will not only benefit them, but will also cause you to feel more content inside. When the group of fourteen was staying with Beorn to rest, he gave them suggestions and information about the journey that lie ahead of them. He informed them about a black stream out of which they should never drink, no matter how thirsty they may be, for it would put them to sleep for days. If they had not listened to his words,
Monday, December 2, 2019
Pragmatism and teachers role free essay sample
Price, who coined the term Pragmatism, saw it as more a technique to elope us find solutions than a philosophy or solution to problems. Price used it as a means for developing linguistic and conceptual clarity (and thereby facilitate communication) with intellectual problems. He wrote: Consider what effects, which might conceivably have practical bearings, we conceive the object of our conception to have. Then our conception of these effects is the whole of our conception of the object. William James on Pragmatism: William James is the most famous philosopher of Pragmatism and hes the one who made Pragmatism itself famous. For James, Pragmatism was about alee and morality: the purpose of philosophy was to understand what had value to us and why. James argued that ideas and beliefs have value to us only when they work. James wrote on Pragmatism: Ideas become true just so far as they help us to get into satisfactory relations with other parts of our experience. We will write a custom essay sample on Pragmatism and teachers role or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page John Dewey on Pragmatism: In a philosophy he called Instrumentalist, John Dewey attempted to combine both Prices and James philosophies of Pragmatism. It was thus both about logical concepts as well as ethical analysis. Instrumentalist describes Dweebs ideas the conditions under which reasoning and inquiry occurs. On the one hand it should be controlled by logical constraints; on the other hand it is directed at producing goods and valued satisfactions. What is the Role of a Teacher According to Pragmatism? According to pragmatism teacher is a friend, guide and philosopher to the child.He must educate the child in social environment so that he may attain social efficiency. There must be positive relationship between teacher and taught. His behavior towards children must be sympathetic. His attitude should be democratic and child must have academic freedom. His function is to suggest problems to his pupils and to stimulate them to find for themselves solutions which will work. His emphasis is not on the knowledge as arranged and systematized in the text-books. He wants the children to do one experiment or to have a particular experience. Doing is more important than knowing. Like Socrates the Pragmatist teacher wants his pupils to think and act for them, to do rather than to know, to originate rather than to repeat Pragmatism and School John Dewey maintains that school is a Miniature Society here a child gets real experiences to act and behave according to his interests, aptitudes and capacities. Pragmatists regard school as a social institution where the child gains real experiences of actual life which develop in him social sense and a sense of duty towards society and the nation.Group games, working in laboratories and studying in libraries with others are the various activities and experiences which inculcate in children social qualities, social attitudes together with a spirit of mutual help and cooperative activities. In this way, according to Pragmatism the school is not a centre of education alone but it is also a community centre of various activities and experiences. Contribution of Pragmatism in Education Aims It lays more Stress on social and vocational efficiency. Teacher It gives important place to teacher. Student It stresses on child-centered education.Teaching Method New teaching methods are the contribution of pragmatism. Curriculum It lays more stress on experience and learning by doing. Evaluation of Pragmatism Opposition of Pre-determined Ideas pragmatism opposes pre-determined ideals and values. They are man-made and change according to the changes In circumstances, time and place. Opposition of Eternal Truth Pragmatism does not have any faith in eternal truth. Pragmatists believe that if the result of an activity is satisfactory then it is true otherwise not. No Fix System of Education. Pragmatism provides academic freedom to every institution which leads them nowhere. Pragmatism gives no fixed ideal to education. Such an education is bound to be fruitless. Emphasis on Material and Negation of Spiritual Values There is no room for spiritual values in pragmatism. It gives more Weight age to material values. Without spiritual values, we cannot achieve happiness, contentment and peace of mind and can go astray. Laxity in Discipline Pragmatism allows full freedom to the child who is not proper at the school Stage and it leads to serious chaos and confusion. Condemnation Of Formal Education Pragmatism advocates that all knowledge should be acquired through direct personal experiences. But knowledge is so vast and the span of life so short, that it is quite impossible to receive all knowledge through direct experiences. Hence acquiring all knowledge needs personal experiences and formal education both. Negation of the Past Pragmatism gives undue importance to the present. It ignores both past and future. The study of past is important to understand the present. Also there is need to link the present with future. Pragmatism is a Method Only. Pragmatism is not a philosophy of life but only a method of education, growth and development. In the words of William James There is absolutely nothing new in the pragmatic method.It is just empirical attitude. It has no dogmas and no doctrines save its methods. Pragmatism believes in Pluralism which is not proper. Merits of Pragmatism Project Method Project method is a gift of pragmatism. Through this method child attains knowledge by solving his practical problems. He performs the problematic acts in natural conditions. This method lays emphasis on learning through experiences. Importance of Child Opposing bookish knowledge and formal education, pragmatism lays great stress upon the development of childs individuality by his own efforts.This makes education child- centre. Emphasis on Activity The principle of learning by doing is the main contribution of pragmatism. Children are active by nature. It emphasizes on the activity of the child. It prepares the child for future life in a very effective manner. Revolutionized the Process of Education This philosophy has infused life and zest in contribution. The concepts of New Education, Progressive Education and Activity-centre curriculum which have changed the education outlook are the contribution of pragmatism.Social and Democratic Education pragmatism infuses in a child a spirit Of freedom, initiative, equality and also a sense of responsibility in relation to rights and duties of a citizen. This develops in the child love for democratic values and social efficiency which bring harmonious adjustment and development of personality. Progressive Attitude Pragmatism emphasizes the qualities of freedom initiative expression, experiences congenial, environment, purposeful creativity and development of human values for the welfare of whole mankind.
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