Food processing Essay

Junk food is a derisive slang term for food that is of little nutritional value and often high in fat, sugar, salt, and calorie. Junk foods typically contain high levels of calories from sugar or fat with little protein, vitamins or minerals. Foods commonly considered junk foods include salted snack foods, gum, candy, sweet desserts, fried fast food, and sugary carbonated beverages. Many foods such as hamburgers, pizza, and tacos can be considered either healthy or junk food depending on their ingredients and preparation methods with the more highly processed items usually falling under the junk food category. What is and is not junk food can also depend on the person’s class and social status, with wealthier people tending to have a broader definition while lower-income consumers may see fewer foods as junk food, especially certain ethnic foods. Junk food comprises of anything that is quick, tasty, convenient and fashionable. It seems to have engulfed every age; every race and the newest entrants are children. Wafers, colas, pizzas and burgers are suddenly the most important thing. The commonest scenario is a child who returns from school and plunks himself in front of the television, faithfully accompanied by a bowl of wafers and a can of cola. Children suddenly seem to have stepped into a world of fast foods and vending machines, totally unaware of the havoc they are creating for themselves. Most of the times these junk foods contain colors that are laced with colors, those are often inedible, carcinogenic and harmful to the body. These foods can affect digestive systems, the effects of it emerging after many years. Studies have found that food can cause hypo activity and lapses of concentration in children. Not surprisingly, junk food not only has physiological repercussions, but also psychological ones – far reaching ones that affect the child’s intellect and personalities. Coping intelligently with their dietary needs increases their self-esteem, and encourages further discovery. School days are full of educational challenges that require long attention spans and stamina. Poor nutritional habits can undermine these pre-requisites of learning, as well as sap the strength that children need for making friends, interacting with family, participating in sports and games or simply feeling god about themselves. Junk foods are often eaten in instead of regular food. An essential Indian diet that consists of wholesome chapattis and vegetables or snacks like upmas and idlis. Not surprisingly eating junk food leads to a sense of starvation both physically and mentally, as the feeling of satiation The survey points out that these convenience foods are preferred (86%) mainly by nuclear families where both husband and wife are working or by bachelors who wish to avoid hotel food or people who do not have time, patience or the expertise to prepare in a traditional method and contentment that comes after a wholesome meal is absent. Junk food does have some of the good things that the body needs for good health. And the body needs some salt, fat and sugar for energy to burn while we work and play. However too much fat, sugar and salt is bad for our health and eating lots of junk food will overload your body with these things. It is probably OK to eat junk food sometimes! But people should look for foods that are low in fats and salt and sugar. HISTORY OF JUNK FOOD It all began with a push toward greater convenience in an increasingly mechanized world. Electricity and then electronics brought with them an endless stream of new gadgets for the home, each promising to make life easier in some way. Many of these time- and labor-saving devices were destined for the kitchen. Factories, too, were retooled to streamline the manufacture of everything, including food. JUNK Foods actually predates from the Industrial Revolution to the end of the 19th century with the discovery of comfort food like Burgers, tacos, doughnuts, potato chips, aerated drinks and many more. Colonization is the reason for the development and discovery of different food cultures, techniques of preparations and preservation. However, canned soups, fruits and vegetables, gelatin dessert mixes, ketchup and other prepared condiments, pancake mixes, ready-to-eat breakfast cereals; sweetened condensed milk started a new trend. After the First World War, in 1917 these and more found their way into the kitchens of eager young housewives, with manufacturers often promoting their innovative products via free recipe books. There’s no denying that flavor, texture and nutrients suffered, but people began to rely on these conveniences, and their tastes simply changed to accommodate. It was, after all, an era of scientific progress. By 1937, as another world war threatened, the timing was perfect for the arrival of a processed, canned meat product called Spam. Currently celebrating its 75th anniversary, Spam was all but guaranteed to make a name for it when the U. S. government included it in war rations to be shipped overseas to Allied troops. It was economical, had a long shelf life, needed no refrigeration, and was ready to eat straight from the can. The processed meat product won a place in pantries back home as well, and for all the same reasons. During wartime, women joined the workforce in unprecedented numbers to fill in for all the men-turned-soldiers. This left less time to cook, and many of the newly employed were ready for quick, cheap, modern and convenient time-savers at the end of the day. After the war, women (whether or not they were still employed outside the home) were encouraged to embrace the frozen, dehydrated, canned and boxed foods that promised to save time in the progressive modern era and allow more time for new leisure options—for example, watching television. Fast food franchises like McDonalds were opened in 1940 were also gaining high popularity which promoted to the junk food culture. Richard McDonald, 1945 In India it came by the colonized countries and had a great impact on the cuisine in India. For e. g. Vada Pav, an Indian Fast food is an Indian and Portuguese influenced dish. The Vada is Indian but the Pav is a Portuguese preparation. In 20th century, convenience foods continued to gain in popularity and â€Å"fast food†Ã¢â‚¬â€the ultimate convenience food— joined the revolution. Fast-food chains reached from coast to coast and then around the world, from Boston to Bahrain. The mass of consumers had by now largely lost the connection between food and nutrition, and few thought much about ingesting foods to keep themselves healthy. What are the health effects of fast food? With today’s lives more on the go than ever, finding time for home cooked meals can be challenging. Before you throw in the towel and stop by the drive through, it’s important to understand and consider the health effects that fast food has on children. Right now, there is already an obesity crisis facing Indian children. More kids than ever are leading sedentary lifestyles, eating less nutritious meals and are at risk (or experiencing) significant health problems like Type 2 diabetes, heart issues and other related health concerns that are dramatically more serious in children than they are in adults. A Pediatrics study found that children who indulge often in fast food are less likely to consume as much fiber, milk and produce (all essential to a growing body) than children who didn’t eat fast food. An International Journal of Respiratory Medicine has even more troubling findings. In the study, researchers surveyed 500,000 kids from 31 countries in two age groups: ages 6 to 7 and ages 13 to 14. What they discovered was that children who ate fast food three or more times a week had greater instances in more chronic illnesses than previously thought – specifically, more asthma, eczema, and rhinitis. This was the case whether the child at hand was obese or not. While many people understand the obvious connection to weight-related conditions of high calorie, high sodium fast foods, many are unaware of the effects on respiratory health. Despite best efforts, sometimes it’s simply the only option to grab something fast, so what’s a parent to do? Be smarter about what’s being ordered. Opt for side salads, apples, baked potatoes (go easy on toppings) and other produce and healthier side options that are beginning to regularly appear on the menus of most fast food restaurants. Be mindful of sauces – skip signature sauces as these are often loaded with mayo and saturated fats and stick to mustard and light use of ketchup or BBQ sauce. Ask for menu items without cheese. While these can all help a fast food experience be more healthful, the food from these restaurants will never be health foods. Instituting the practice of prepping in advance or cooking healthy home meals so there are leftovers are great ways to skip the drive-thru and help your child lead a healthy life. Children who eat junk food three times a week have more severe asthma and eczema †¢Teenagers who ate three or more helpings of junk food had a 39 per cent increased risk of severe asthma †¢Children eating mainly fast food also a higher risk of severe eczema and severe rhinitis †¢Asthma rates have doubled in last 20 years as diets have become more centered on junk food Eating junk food could worsen asthma and eczema in children, researchers have warned. Those who ate more than three portions of fast food a week had more severe symptoms such as wheezing, runny nose and eyes, and itchy skin. Findings from an international study involving more than 100 countries, including the India, suggest fast food diets in the western world may be contributing to a rise in the conditions. Experts believe the epidemic of asthma in developed countries could be linked to a move away from natural, fresh foods to fast foods – as has happened here since the 1970s. Asthma rates in the India have doubled in the last 20 years at the same time as there has been a steady decline in key vitamins and minerals in children’s diets, while consumption of fats in oils and processed foods has soared. More than five million Indians suffer asthma, including 1. 4 million children, and the disease causes 70,000 hospital admissions and 14,000 deaths each year. In the latest study, researchers examined data concerning 319,000 13 and 14 year olds from 51 countries and 181,000 six and seven year olds from 31 different countries. The teenagers and parents of the six and seven year olds were questioned on symptoms of asthma, rhino conjunctivitis – affecting the nose and eyes – and eczema in the preceding 12 months. They were also asked about their diet and consumption of certain types of food already linked to protective or damaging effects on health, and frequency was measured as never, occasionally, once or twice a week and three or more times a week. Teenagers eating three or more helpings of burgers, chips and pizza each week had a 39 per cent increased risk of severe asthma, while children had a 27 per cent increased risk. Those eating mainly fast food also a higher risk of severe eczema and severe rhinitis, with symptoms of runny or blocked nose and itchy and watery eyes. Writing in the medical journal Thorax, the researchers said if the link was proved to be causal, ‘then the findings have major public health significance owing to the rising consumption of fast foods globally’. But it is not clear whether the extra risk is caused by junk foods or a relative lack of fresh fruit and vegetables in the diet which are known to reduce the chances of breathing problems. The study also found that eating fruit could have a protective effect on children and adolescents. Consuming three or more portions a week was linked to a reduction in symptom severity of between 11 per cent among teens and 14 per cent in children. The researchers said ‘Our results suggest that fast food consumption may be contributing to the increasing prevalence of asthma, rhino conjunctivitis and eczema in adolescents and children. ‘ Previous research has shown that youngsters eating a Mediterranean diet high in fruit and vegetables have a lower risk of asthma. A team at St George’s Hospital Medical School, London, found good lung function was linked to high intakes of vitamins C, E and beta-carotene, citrus fruits, apples and fruit juice. It is thought that high intake of salt and fatty acids such as those found in margarines could also induce asthma. Malayka Rahman, research analysis and communications officer at Asthma UK, said ‘This research adds to previous studies that suggest a person’s diet can contribute to their risk of developing asthma, and indicates the benefit of further research to determine the effects that particular food groups can have on the chances of developing asthma or the impact it may have on severity. ‘Evidence suggests that the vitamins and antioxidants found in fresh fruit and vegetables have a beneficial effect on asthma. ‘Therefore, Asthma UK advises people with asthma to eat a healthy, balanced diet including five portions of fruit or vegetables every day, fish more than twice a week, and pulses more than once a week. ‘ Top 10 Dangerous Diseases Caused by Junk Food Obesity – Updated Article with Extra Information on Obesity Diseases Junk food obesity is prevalent in the U. S. and it is extremely strenuous for the entire body, which was never intended to carry that much extra weight. Your heart will also end up working harder than it should, which eventually leads to obesity heart disease. There are also various other obesity diseases, the result of which can be fatal. IObesity Disease #1: Heart Disease. This is one of the deadliest and most common fast food obesity diseases. People with obesity usually have lower levels of good HDL cholesterol and higher levels of bad LDL cholesterol. This increases the risks of obesity heart disease tremendously. Obesity disease #2: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. This is the main cause of female infertility, and obese women have a much higher chance of developing this disorder. This obesity disease also results in excessive hair growth and irregular menstrual cycles. Obesity Disease #3: Diabetes (Type 2). This is one of the fastest growing obesity diseases. What happens here is that your pancreas is unable to supply sufficient amounts of insulin to convert sugars into energy. This means that the unconverted sugar floats around the blood, which is very harmful. Obesity Disease #4: Dyslipidemia. This is a major fast food obesity related disease, which results because of abnormally high trygliceride and LDL cholesterol levels. Dyslipidemia eventually leads to obesity heart disease. Obesity Disease #5: Sleep Apnea. This disorder means that you might actually stop breathing while sleeping, which causes you to wake up suddenly several times during the night. You may not even be aware of this disruption of sleep, but it prevents you from receiving proper sleep and results in daytime fatigue. Obesity Disease #6: Blount’s Disease. This disorder occurs when an excessive amount of weight gets placed on growing bones, making it more prevalent in children. This is especially the case with the lower part of the body. Obesity Disease #7: Arthritis. This is a condition that is a result of strain on the joints for extended periods. Excessive body weight certainly causes such strain and makes arthritis develop in younger people. Obesity Disease #8: Respiratory Problems. Obesity makes your lungs work harder, so that they get the necessary oxygen where it is needed in a timely manner. Asthma is also more common in those who are obese. Obesity Disease #9: Stroke. When the arteries, which carry blood to the brain, get blocked, the end result is a stroke. Such blockages happen in obese people much more often, because they usually have high cholesterol and blood pressure, which contributes to blockages. Obesity Disease #10: Liver Damage. It is difficult for the body to deal with fast food obesity, because these foods usually do not get distributed appropriately. When this is the case, fat can build up around the liver, which may result in its inflammation, scarring, and even permanent damage. HOW MUCH IS EATEN TODAY BY INDIANS? There has been a major shift in food habits in the metropolitan cities, about 86% of households prefer to have instant food due to steep rise in dual income level and standard of living, convenience, and influence of western countries, according to a survey undertaken by the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham). The survey on â€Å"Ready to Eat Food in Metropolitan Cities† is based on responses from 3,000 representative households with children or without children, nuclear family and bachelors mainly because many consumers in metros lead time-pressured lifestyles and have less time available for formal meals, as a result of which demand remains high for products which can be eaten on the go. In a survey, Assocham claims that Indian food processing market will show fast paced growth in the next five years. It is also estimated that this food processing industry will show the annual growth of 40-60% in next five years. This all will be encouraged by changed trade rules and increased demand among the people. The survey points out that these convenience foods are preferred (86%) mainly by nuclear families where both husband and wife are working or by bachelors who wish to avoid hotel food or people who do not have time, patience or the expertise to prepare in a traditional method. According to the survey, metropolitans are the largest consumers of processed food and are going to be the biggest consumers of processed food because of their ever increasing per capita income and lifestyle which is also changing very rapidly, disclosed DS Rawat, secretary general, Assocham. Major metropolitan cities in which respondents were interviewed by ASDF include Mumbai, Cochin, Chennai, Hyderabad, Indore, Patna, Pune, Delhi, Chandigarh and Dehradun and it was observed that there has been a surprising rise in the demand of packaged food in the Indian market, all this is because the lifestyle of people has changed drastically and also the factor that consumer’s opinion regarding their eating habits has changed in a significant manner. The majority of the working class also mentioned that it’s a boon to save time, energy and money by using these foods. Various foods helped to prevent the age-old traditional method of long preparation of grinding, cooking or fermenting for hours and hence making the work faster. Even the manufacturers prepared the instant foods according to the taste of the consumers. Rawat said that the consumer spending rate on processed food had increased at an average rate of 7. 6% annually during the years 2008 to 2010 and this was expected to continue as the consumer expense would rise with an average of around 8. 6% till the year 2012. The survey highlighted that 85% of parents with children under five year are serving these easy-to-prepare meals at least 7-10 times per month due to increased pressures at work, and increasing complexity in other household management areas, they are actively looking for ways to simplify and save time, says majority of parents. About 92% of the nuclear family feel that they have less free time than before they had kids, it is now a common fact that they are spending less time in the kitchen, and are turning to takeout, delivered food, and semi-prepared meals to help feed the family at mealtime. About 72% of bachelors prefer the convenience food because of less cost, time and energy saving, convenience in preparation and consumption in the busy and hectic life. The very term ‘instant† means simple, fast, convenient and affordable food which is easy and fast to prepare besides being hygienic, free from microbial contamination and also convenient to eat, say the bachelors. Over 65% of working women revealed that the present trend changed the habits to foods which are simple and easy to digest. Hence, the existence of these foods fulfilled all the needs of modern human being. The food habitats in India have changed due to the western influence and the usage of these foods is also on the rise. These foods are widely used in catering industries as well as at homes. There are varieties of instant/ready-to-eat foods available in the market to choose from and they have been a part of everyday life, disclosed the ASSOCHAM survey. Food manufacturers have also started concentrating on manufacturing new innovative food products and ready to eat processed food so that it can keep up with the speed of ever changing taste of the consumers. This has also increased the demand of better quality food packaging, food processing and this increase in demand has increased the number of manufacturing units in India. The demand of processed food products such as juice based drinking concentrates, bottled water, organic food, herbal tea, fortified drinks and low fat dairy products have increased very much in last five years. Canned foods, fast foods, frozen foods, instant products, dried foods, preserved foods, etc. all come under instant foods or ready-to-eat foods which has encouraged the introduction of a big range of ready to eat snacks, breakfast food, protein supplementary foods and many more, points the survey. Even though after being economical and convenient, 34% of the consumers prefer the traditional types of foods which are fresh and natural without any preservatives or artificial ingredients. About 42% of the respondent said that another advantage of instant foods that occupy less space in the kitchen or pantry, the amount of drudgery involved is less and there is a tremendous potential for commercial exploitation as it is a â€Å"rising industry. † 1) The majority of people prefer to purchase canned foods classified as: ? Canned fruits (86%) ? canned vegetables (76%) ? Other canned products (85%) 2) Instant products: These are again classified as: ? Instant mixes (65%) ? instant powders (56%) 3) Table relishes: e. g. Mayonnaise, ketchups, sauces, jams, jellies, marmalades (88%) 4) Dairy products: milk powders, dairy products like curd, cheese, cream, dairy desserts, (89%) 5) Frozen foods: These are of three types: ? Chilled foods (dairy products, eggs, meat) (920%) ? Frozen foods (highly perishable foods) (95%) ? Freeze dried foods (Coffee, meals for explorers) (85%) 6) Baked products: Biscuits, cookies cakes, breads and various other bakery items. (75%) 7) Snack foods: They are classified as: (65%) ? Jaggery based ? Cereal based ? Fried items 8) Beverages: These are divided into – (88%) ? Alcoholic drinks (wine, beer) ? Non-alcoholic which include soft drinks and health drinks (fruit based and non-fruit based) 9) Pasta foods: Vermicelli, noodles, macaroni, etc. , (82%) 10) Weaning foods: Farex, Cerelac, Lactogen (86%) 11) Health conscious foods: depending upon age, health, and gender. (75%) 12) Breakfast cereal foods: These are fruit based and non-fruit based (42%) 13) Defatted groundnuts, tailored foods/fabricated foods, dehydrated fruits and vegetables (72%) BUT WHY DO WE EAT SO MUCH IF IT IS NOT GOOD FOR HEALTH? A study by Paul Johnson and Paul Kenny at the Scripps Research Institute in 2008 suggested that junk food consumption alters brain activity in a manner similar to addictive drugs like cocaine or heroin. After many weeks with unlimited access to junk food, the pleasure centers of rat brains became desensitized, requiring more food for pleasure. After the junk food was taken away and replaced with a healthy diet, the rats starved for two weeks instead of eating nutritious fare. A 2007 British Journal of Nutrition study found that female those eat junk food during pregnancy increased the likelihood of unhealthy eating habits in their offspring. Researchers from the University of Liverpool in the United Kingdom exposed 60 children, ages 9 to 11, to both food advertisements and toy advertisements, followed by a cartoon and free food. The children ate more after the food advertisements than after the commercials for toys, the study found. The obese children in the study increased their consumption of food the most after watching the food ads, compared to overweight children and normal-weight children. Of course, junk food is also readily available at restaurant chains across the country in the form of French fries, chicken nuggets, shakes, soda, etc. Not only are most fast foods not terribly healthy, one study indicates that there may be something about fast food that actually encourages gorging. In another study, from the Children’s Hospital in Boston, teens age 13-17 were given three types of fast-food meals (all including chicken nuggets, French fries, and cola). In one meal, the teens were served a lot of food at once. In another, a lot of food was served at the same time, but in smaller portions. And in the third test meal, a lot of food was served, but in smaller portions over 15-minute intervals. The researchers found that it didn’t seem to matter how much food was served — the teens still took in about half of their daily calorie needs in that one meal. The researchers suggested that certain factors inherent to fast food might promote overeating: 1. They are a pleasure to our taste buds. They release stimulating chemicals such as Gamma Amino butric acid (GABA) or Dopamine. Or in case of synthetic chocolates, large amount endorphins are released 2. Junk food is way tastier than healthy food. Hence, it is high in palatability 3. Addiction plays a very important role when it comes to choosing junk food over healthy food. 4. Another reason for junk food craving is the mood. It has been noticed that when you are overtly stressed you crave for sweet junk food like cakes, pastries, brownies or chocolates and it also provides a high amount of satisfaction as it provides a high number of calories in a small volume Junk food vs. Healthy food It an age old war between healthy food and junk food. When it comes to choosing between health foods and junk foods, junk food has always won the race! Whether we admit it or not, although we may start off our day with eating an apple, we’ll end it with two to three slices of extra cheese pizza and coke. But why do we love junk food so much when we know that it is unhealthy for us? There are many reasons to which most of you will agree. Junk Food vs. Health Food Everyone loves greasy foods, but is they good for you? No! All the fried foods, hamburgers, hot dogs and doughnuts we eat taste so good but are not healthy. Where is the nutrition? By frying or over-cooking your food, you cook all of the nutrients out. Think of a Big Mac, with all the fat and calories going through your bloodstream. Not a good thought. All of the fats, calories, and grease from the food will clog up your arteries and can cause other health problems too. There are many reasons why you should eat healthier foods before work and school. Some of the most important reasons are that you can concentrate better throughout the day, you’re less hungry, and your study time is more productive. High-fiber foods release energy slowly, while high-sugar foods only give you a short burst of energy. Psychology Today also reports that good proteins, such as lean meats and nuts, can improve your brain function. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, raw or steamed vegetables, nuts, and foods made with whole wheat all help with keeping your body and brain healthy. Healthy foods help with concentration for school and work. Eating healthy also helps with energy levels and positive thinking. We all want to be able to focus on our day and get as much done as possible. By eating un-healthy foods and having lots of sugar you are more apt to feel sluggish, non-motivated, and feel poorly about yourself. By eating healthier, you are able to focus longer on things and have a sense of accomplishment by having energy through the day. As we all know, many of the food commercials aimed at children are for foods high in fat, sugar, and/or salt, and low in nutritional value. And some research suggests that watching ads for processed foods encourages children to eat more. Food marketers have become increasingly successful in targeting children directly through ads; for example, by using popular cartoon characters to endorse their products. Some people say that government measures are required to control obesity by restricting the food industry and its advertising practices. Hence the benefits of Balanced or healthy food: 1. Healthy foods like fruits and vegetables or whole wheat chapattis and bread are high in fiber content. Fibers release energy slowly, this food keeps our stomach full for a longer time and we feel less hungry through the day. High fiber foods also keep your gastro-intestinal tract healthy thus controlling your cholesterol and blood sugar level. 2. The proteins that you derive from lean meat and nuts improve your brain functions. Have veggies either steamed or stir-fried. They hold all the nutrients intact unlike fried foods which drain out the essential nutrients. 3. Healthy food is not processed, hence they are low on calories and do not lose out on essential nutritional values. Having multi-grain breads, sprouts, low fat diary items (like skimmed milk, home-made paneer or curd) and fruits will give you a good amount of nutrition. 4. Since these foods are low in calories and Trans fat, therefore, it will help to control your weight. If you are overweight or obese, consult a doctor or nutritionist at the earliest and follow a high fiber low calorie diet strictly. 5. A daily diet of health and nutritional food will also give you a good heart preventing all sorts of heart diseases. It will also control your cholesterol, blood sugar level and blood pressure. You see healthy food not only supplies you with proteins, minerals and essential nutrients but also has many added benefits. No disadvantages at all, only with the exception that it won’t be able to meet your temptations. Statistics have shown that now-a-days children are fond of junk food more than adults. How many of them eat fruits with that much interest as a plate of pizza? Children are a lot fussier about food but introducing them to healthy diet from the time they start eating can be a good start. Highly fatty junk foods will block their arteries and blood vessels leading to some serious diseases. Children learn a lot from adults. Therefore, it’s advisable that you hold back your temptations whenever you pass by any fast food joints. Control your temptations people, only then can you lead a happy life and give your child a healthy one. ARTICLES and LITERATURE VIEWS (Adapted from news www. Naturalnews. com) 1) Fish oil fats protect brain against damage caused by a junk food diet Friday, May 31, 2013 by: Dr. John Phillip Medical nutrition scientists have written volumes that show how the nutrients from the foods we eat daily alter our genetic structure as well as the metabolism of every one of the trillions of cells in our body. Neurons in the brain are particularly susceptible to an accurately-delivered array of nutrients and critical omega-3 fats to help maintain memory, spatial learning and cognitive function. A number of past studies clearly demonstrate that eating one high-fat junk food meal from the typical fast food restaurant measurably changes the expression of genes that help control the development and spread of cancer, and the retention of critical short term memories as well. In fact, the excessive sugar content and hydrogenated fats from junk foods are known to disrupt insulin levels in the brain and displace essential omega-3 fats needed to construct and maintain cell structure and assist electrical and chemical messaging. A research team from the University of Liverpool’s Institute of Ageing and Chronic Disease has published the result of a study in the British Journal of Nutrition that shows how fish oils could minimize the effects that junk food have on the brain. Over the past decade, researchers have demonstrated that high-fat and high-sugar diets could disrupt neurogenesis, a process that generates new nerve cells. Diets rich in omega-3 fats help prevent these negative effects by stimulating an area of the brain that controls feeding, learning and memory. Consuming fish or fish oil supplements supports normal hormone release after a junk food meal In the largest study to date, scientists accumulated data from 185 studies showing that omega.

The Problems of British Society

There are many issues the British society is facing, it is not a perfect society. British society just like Chinese society,European society and American society have positive things but also some problems that need to solved. British society is not perfect, it means it has a lot of issues. We need to look at them in order to find out what problems are and also suggest some methods. This essay will discuss three important issues, firstly, we are going to discuss that waves of immigration brings tension and stress to UK.Then, it will states the social crisis from population aging. Finally, it will look at how the monarchy affects British society and presents some arguments for abolishment. â€Å"Immigration is regarded by the public as the biggest problem facing British society, a major new survey taking stock of the state of the country reveals †(Boffey, 2013). Many people think that conflict between settlers and persons born in Britain is the principal reason of division.Boff ey (2013) makes the point that during the past twenty years, both immigration and emigration grew rapidly,the number of people going in Britain is more 100,000 than leaving Britain annually since 1998. According to modood & Sault (2013),â€Å"Large-scale population flows into and out of a nation have many social and economic implications†. Therefore, it gave rise to a set of implications at national and local levels, for example,the allocation of the welfare state, degrees of concentration on health and educational provision, unemployment or skill shortages.In this situation, the speed of control and number of immigrants is necessary, the immigrant restrictionism should be made correctly. There are some suggestions have been provided, such as immigrants must learn to speak English, the governments use BELTS to process immigration and student visa applications . Actually it is a test that checks out your proficiency in English language. Only those people who have sufficient ab ility to pass the test can have quality to stay in UK. Similarity, the welfare state should be open to those born abroad who have contributed to society and play by the rules.In my opinion, it is a good method to relieve stress effectively from immigrants in the UK. Secondly, let us have a look at aging population in the UK. According to the BBC News (2013), â€Å"The UK is ‘woefully underprepared’ for the social and economic challenges presented by an ageing society, a Lords committee has warned†. (BBC, 2013). An ageing population problem is when a country has a high percentage of old generation people. The problem may lead to a series of crises in public service provision.Drabble said: â€Å"From 2010 to 2030 there is expected to be a 50% increase in people aged 65 and over and the UK is by in no position to cope unless significant changes are made, according a special inquiry by the House of Lords†. (Drabble, 2013) The Royal Geographical Society (2013) summaries two megatrends causing these demographic changes, the first reason is low / declining fertility rate. Women have been having fewer children during the past 40years; though birth rates have grown in a bit in the past 20 years. In Britain, women are presently having 1.9 children,the highest figure since 1973,but far lower than 1964. The second reason is rising longevity. Individuals have longer lifetime benefits from improvements in diet, health and preventative health care. In the 20th century, the average life span added up by 30 years. With the elderly being the fastest growing age group in UK, it will create increasingly force in healthcare and social services. According to BBC (2013),†Peers said significant changes in pensions, health care and employment practices were needed to help people ‘sustain a good quality of life’ as they aged†.Thus, the state should assist people in later life was a priority. There are some suggestions has been raisen from Royal geographical society (2013), for example, raise the age of retirement, sustain or increase levels of migration-to help fill labor /skills gaps and improve financial planning for older age by increasing older people’s incomes and reducing costs for older people. Some people argue that spending money on the elderly is a waste of money, it is better to spend on the young who can still contribute to society.However, this is the fact that the elderly ever contributed the nation when they were young. Therefore, the problem of the elderly must not be neglected. In my opinion, these suggestions are effective to solve these social problems? Finally, we will discuss the monarchy in UK. â€Å"Calls for the U. K. to abolish the monarchy and become a republic are ever-present†(Khazan, 2013), this is because there are some problems produce from the monarchy. Firstly, the monarchy is a waste of taxpayers money. According to Buckingham Palace, Ithas been acknowledged that s ustaining the royal family costs Britons 53 pence, or about 81 cents, per person, per year. The total came to about 33. 3 million pounds (about $51. 1 million) for 2012-2013, according to the Palace, up from 32. 4 million pounds the previous year (Khazan, 2013). Therefore, the public are confused to this money is given to them instead of being given to support troop or fund hospitals. And it is enough to pay for thousands of teachers, nurses or polices officers at a time of sweeping public spending cuts.(Smith, 2012) However, it has been argued by Cole that â€Å"Britain’s royal family is an affordable indulgence†. (Cole, 2011) â€Å"Britain’s royal family is worth a staggering ?44 billion as a brand, according to a new study. †(Thornhill,2012) This is no doubt that the monarchy’s quality brings in heaps of tourism revenue, millions of tourists come to England to see the Monarchy per year, and many ships in London thrive on tourism. Although there are some benefits from the monarchy, there are still some suggestions on abolishment exist. Because in the past, the monarchy was the dominant power in UK.Nowadays, all affairs are solved by the British government, and the monarchy has no place in UK anymore. There are other methods have been suggested to solve, such as make a vote too decide whether to abolish the monarchy according to the opinion of the public. In my opinion, it may be not an effective method to solve by soliciting public opinion. In conclusion, it has been discussed which three key problems are influencing the British society. These problems are about immigrants, aging population and monarchy. For immigrants, the method of group of control by setting the level is used to solve the problem.For Aging population, it is inevitable cultural phenomenon with the development of economy and technology, it has been suggested to sustain the elderly quality of life as central concentration by improving financial planning. At last, whether to maintain the royal family has been suggested to decide by making a vote in the public. Among these methods, I think solutions on issues of immigrants and aging population are effective. But for the monarchy, I think the opinion of the public may be not decisive factor to abolish the royal family.

Estimate a Population Parameter

Estimation is a procedure by which a numerical value or values are assigned to a population parameter based on the information collected from a sample. The assignment of value(s) to a population parameter based on a value of the corresponding sample statistic is called estimation. In inferential statistics, _ is called the true population mean and p is called the true population proportion. There are many other population parameters, such as the median, mode, variance, and standard deviation.The following are a few examples of estimation: an auto company may want to estimate the mean fuel consumption for a particular model of a car; a manager may want to estimate the average time taken by new employees to learn a job; the U. S. Census Bureau may want to find the mean housing expenditure per month incurred by households; and the AWAH (Association of Wives of Alcoholic Husbands) may want to find the proportion (or percentage) of all husbands who are alcoholic.The examples about estimat ing the mean fuel consumption, estimating the average time taken to learn a job by new employees, and estimating the mean housing expenditure per month incurred by households are illustrations of estimating the true population mean. The example about estimating the proportion (or percentage) of all husbands who are alcoholic is an illustration of estimating the true population proportion, p.This article explains how to assign values to population parameters based on the values of sample statistics. For example, to estimate the mean time taken to learn a certain job by new employees, the manager will take a sample of new employees and record the time taken by each of these employees to learn the job. Using this information, he or she will calculate the sample mean, then, based on the value of he or she will assign certain values to _.As another example, to estimate the mean housing expenditure per month incurred by all households in the United States, the Census Bureau will take a sa mple of certain households, collect the information on the housing expenditure that each of these households incurs per month, and compute the value of the sample mean, Based on this value of the bureau will then assign values to the population mean, _. The sample statistic used to estimate a population parameter is called an estimator.The estimation procedure involves the following steps. 1. Select a sample. 2. Collect the required information from the members of the sample. 3. Calculate the value of the sample statistic. 4. Assign value(s) to the corresponding population parameter. Remember, the procedures to be mentioned above assume that the sample taken is a simple random sample. If the sample is not a simple random sample, then the procedures to be used to estimate a population mean or proportion become more complex. Estimate a Population Parameter Estimation is a procedure by which a numerical value or values are assigned to a population parameter based on the information collected from a sample. The assignment of value(s) to a population parameter based on a value of the corresponding sample statistic is called estimation. In inferential statistics, _ is called the true population mean and p is called the true population proportion. There are many other population parameters, such as the median, mode, variance, and standard deviation.The following are a few examples of estimation: an auto company may want to estimate the mean fuel consumption for a particular model of a car; a manager may want to estimate the average time taken by new employees to learn a job; the U. S. Census Bureau may want to find the mean housing expenditure per month incurred by households; and the AWAH (Association of Wives of Alcoholic Husbands) may want to find the proportion (or percentage) of all husbands who are alcoholic.The examples about estimat ing the mean fuel consumption, estimating the average time taken to learn a job by new employees, and estimating the mean housing expenditure per month incurred by households are illustrations of estimating the true population mean. The example about estimating the proportion (or percentage) of all husbands who are alcoholic is an illustration of estimating the true population proportion, p.This article explains how to assign values to population parameters based on the values of sample statistics. For example, to estimate the mean time taken to learn a certain job by new employees, the manager will take a sample of new employees and record the time taken by each of these employees to learn the job. Using this information, he or she will calculate the sample mean, then, based on the value of he or she will assign certain values to _.As another example, to estimate the mean housing expenditure per month incurred by all households in the United States, the Census Bureau will take a sa mple of certain households, collect the information on the housing expenditure that each of these households incurs per month, and compute the value of the sample mean, Based on this value of the bureau will then assign values to the population mean, _. The sample statistic used to estimate a population parameter is called an estimator.The estimation procedure involves the following steps. 1. Select a sample. 2. Collect the required information from the members of the sample. 3. Calculate the value of the sample statistic. 4. Assign value(s) to the corresponding population parameter. Remember, the procedures to be mentioned above assume that the sample taken is a simple random sample. If the sample is not a simple random sample, then the procedures to be used to estimate a population mean or proportion become more complex.

Please pick a catchy title for me Personal Statement

Please pick a catchy title for me - Personal Statement Example My home has been my place of healing. I understand the effect of a comforting smile or hand and reassuring confidence of friends and family and doctors has on a patient. As a result, my GPA has improved to 3.72 and I am sure I will make it better. The presentation of health problems in the world has increased my attention in medical studies, but my life has been my drive. I am aware that medicine is not by any means a glamorous source of easy to go money. I understand the long working hours and antisocial character that comes with it. It is an intrinsic sacrifice that I am willing and eager to take just like my parents have done with me. Medicine has been a long part of my life and I am happy that a chance to give it a new role has finally come. I eagerly wait to join a community of experts who share my kind of enthusiasm to share their knowledge and experiences, to facilitate my growth into a renowned doctor and make my parents

Building and construction management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Building and construction management - Essay Example .......................................... .......................... p.13 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY An analysis of an expansion project on a residential house is described. The project’s compliance with civil and neighborhood regulations pertaining to the proposed changes is put into perspective. An account of the technical specifications of the proposed changes is included, with detailed explanations of the context for the proposed expansion based on accepted housing construction techniques. Finally, recommendations are given for additional expansions of the project. INTRODUCTION The property in question is a brick constructed, detached house in a neighborhood where most dwellings date back to 1970, and were mostly level in placement. The project location is a corner plot on Guildford road, within the urban boundaries of Fleet. The actual lot encompasses 500 square meters, and is rectangular in shape. The house is equipped with a flat roof double garage attached, with a north-easy s ide elevation. The house possesses a driveway and small garden in the front of the dwelling. The backyard lawn includes a rear garden, a patio and shrubs. The front and rear of the property are shaded with trees. The project will add Dormers to the structure, often suggested as a way to better appreciate trees. (FamilyHandyman.com, 2004), (Sebastino, 2012) Often popular in Queen Anne style houses. (La Chiusa, 2006) A proposal is underway to expand this property with an extension of the first floor; requiring modification and construction of the roofing elements to support the addition. The proposed roof is intended to measure 6 metres at the apex, ranging from 3.5 metres at the eaves. It will include dormers on the front and rear roof elevations. A juliette balcony is to be included in the rear of the expansion. The windows here, and elsewhere for the expansion will be 1.5 metres tall, set down 0.5 meters below the roof's ridge, and 1.4 metres wide. Dormer windows will extended 2.2 metres from the roofline. (Hart.gov.uk, 2008) The garage contains a utility room that will be enlarged to dimensions of 2.5 by 3.8 metres. Tiles, bricks and matching components will be used that are compatible with the portions of the house that already exist. Local developmental plan policies have been consulted, and there is no anticipation of a harmful impact to the house itself, or the community at large. The expansion proposal for the house would be highly visible on Guildford road and neighboring streets. However, the additions are connected to the primary house without intruding onto other properties, and do not contrast sharply with the overall character of the neighborhood. The extension will incorporate elements from the ground floor that rise 3.8 meters anterior to the front elevation and 2.3 metres at the eaves, rising up 3 metres to the top of the roof. The eaves assist in the diversion of rain water away from the walls of the house, reducing the potential for erosion b y separating wetness on the roof from the walls of the house. They may also influence the transmission of heat. (DBH.gov, 2004), (Yourhome.gov.au, 2012) No side windows on the Guildhall property are extant, and the rear windows should not create privacy challenges, due to the distance involved between the adjoining dwellings, in addition to the tree on the edge of the property that allows screening of the immediate line of sight. The property in question is regarded as a natural extension of the pre-existing residence, with no apparent incompatibility with

Asian Culture Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Asian Culture - Assignment Example In China for example, there is extensive application of Chinese traditional medicine which comes in various forms like balms, powders, tincture, pills together with raw herbs. The Chinese medical practice is majorly used as protective mechanisms to common bodily disorders; it extends to countries like Japan and Tibet. More over, the application of Chinese medicine has also been widely adapted in the Western Countries especially the USA where a good number of the population currently considers the use of Chinese medicine (Carteret 2011). The other common traditional Asian culture is the aspect of martial arts which is considered to be an imperative stage that every member of the population has to undergo. Martial art is practiced in countries like China, Korea, Japan and even Tibet. In China, there is the practice of Karate, Taekwondo and Judo; they are means that ensure a person maintains good health through constant practice and also develop personal defense mechanisms in the process of physical attacks. Such kind martial art has not only been adapted in the Western Region but also in other parts of the world for military purposes, health purposes and for leisure. Consequently, there is also the dimension of religious beliefs; each of the Asian countries practices unique religious practices however; some religious activities are shared among some of these nations. In India, there is Hinduism as the dominant religious practice; although there are other religious practices such as Buddhism, Hellenism and Brahmanism. Some of these religious beliefs such as Buddhism are shared among the Asian countries like in China and Tibet. The practice of such religious beliefs has also been extended to the Western Region where a good number of the population tends to resort to the Asian religious practices in periods of psychological

E Business of Qatar Airways Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

E Business of Qatar Airways - Research Paper Example Since by using the internet every organization in the world becomes a local competitor. However, almost every organization now realizes that the internet is a very supportive technology for better-dealing clients and reaching into the global markets (Summers et al., 2003, p.67; Watson et al., 2000; Rao et al., 1998). This paper presents a detailed analysis of the ‘Qatar Airways’ airline company regarding its current and future use of e-business and internet technologies. The basic aim of this research is to provide a deep insight into the presently working web-based business structure and further enhancements in e-business technologies. This paper will also address the basic idea to develop a novel business model and how Qatar Airways can apply an appropriate web-based business strategy to enhance its business. This research will present the idea regarding the implementation of the new web-based/e-commerce technology for the potential enhancement of the business and mark etplace. In addition, this research will cover Qatar Airways present online business technology, its key benefits, functional specification, and implementation steps for the implementation of the new internet and business technology that can enhance the Qatar Airways business support, offer a better competitive edge, support business operations and provide strength for effective handling of the business operations. This business sector I have selected is the web-based platform for airway’s business. Additionally, the business sector I have selected is new in the field of e-commerce business. At present, a lot of airway companies are offering web-based business support, for instance, web-based booking, online payment and other facilities. However, our research is about a bit different e-commerce based business platform for the Qatar Airways Business.

Research and development of media projects. topic about feminism Essay

Research and development of media projects. topic about feminism - Essay Example They were searching for ace ladies without against men with a stance on post-feminism (Litosseliti. 2014, p. 11). The use of term post-feminism appeared in 1980s describing the backlash against second-wave feminism and now it has become a label for a wide range of theories that are critically examining the previous feminist discourses and challenges of second-wave feminism. The media has played a vital role in post feminism as according to Patricia Bradley the movement of feminism was highly packed with the mass media. Feminism believe that the media had presented the women in a manner that was only limited to the cleaner, housekeeper, domestic servant and the sex object to serve the men’s sexual needs. However the medias role also promoted the positive role so that the female could be able to show her abilities in other sectors of life. In the 1960s the female was limited to playing only one role as getting married in her early age of 20 and started her family life being turned into a woman maintaining & keeping house up, taking care the kids of her man and providing the services to her man. Her devotion was limited to her home and she could not be able to expect a lot from her life. Females were legally subjected to her husband via â€Å"head of the family† and there was no right a woman had in terms of property or other legal rights from her husband’s property. The 38% women were limited to the jobs of teaching, nursing or secretary only. In 1960 the percentage of female doctors were 6%, lawyers 3% and the engineers were less than 1%. (Litosseliti. 2014, p. 8). Post-feminism is known as a response against the contradictions that were seen and unlucky deficiencies of the second-wave feminism. It however, speaks to the accomplishment of feminism in the achievements of its objective. The term was utilized generally to represent a contrast with predominating

Interview Questions - The influence of a parent or other family Essay

Interview Questions - The influence of a parent or other family memebers on participation in Sport - Essay Example ho encouraged students to engage in sports, who discouraged them from engaging in sports, whether parents participate in physical activities, and the role of health in promoting the participation of a child in physical activity. On this note, the minor themes that relate to the major theme of this report are; family, health condition and childhood. The research conducted manages to highlight these themes through fifteen questions, which focus on the role of parents in promoting physical activities amongst their children, their role in hindering physical activities amongst their children, the role of health care in sports, and the manner in which an individual engaged in physical activities. By looking at how the fifteen questions are structured, though they depict a minor theme, an answer to them contributes in answering the major theme of the research. This major theme is the role of parents or family in influencing their children to engage in sports/ physical activity. In this report, the four individuals interviewed highlighted the importance of family members in their socialization process, and this process led them to engage in physical activities. Family socialization process refers to the methodologies that people learn, and thereafter develop into adulthood possessing the characteristics that they have. For instance, there are high chances that an adult person who is a fan of football engaged in the sport during his or her childhood (Sansone and Harackiewicks, 430). Chances are likely that this engagement was motivated by their parents or family members. This is because as a child, a person requires guidance in all the affairs of their lives; from education, to the sports and recreational life they engage in (Sansone and Harackiewicks, 417). From the findings of the interview, this report proves that parents, through their guidance, play a role in influencing their children on the kind of physical activity they engage in. This report analyzes the

Discuss the impact of fear and anger when caring for clients in the Essay

Discuss the impact of fear and anger when caring for clients in the health care setting - Essay Example An important indicator of quality care is the presence of a healthy interpersonal relationship between a patient and health care provider, or a relationship that is free of fear and anger. Sadly, there are several instances in which patient-provider relationship is beset by unconstructive emotions such as fear and anger. These particular negative approaches in dealing with patients contribute to discrimination, abuse and marginalization in the heath care contexts. According to some studies, patients who belong to the lower class or are poor usually feel that they are being treated badly by health care providers (Yamashita et al., 2005, 64). Health care providers, on the other hand, are continuously confronted with difficult emotions such as fear and anger. They are at times overcome by fear of an indefinite future. Consequently, these fears become manifested; caregivers spend a great amount of time confronting their fears alone, believing that nobody could understand them. They also fear that they will be competent as caregivers, that they would not be able to cope with the nursing task physically. And they fear of their lack of ability in coping with emotional tension. However, these are only instances of internal fear (Mccabe, 2004, 6). There are health care providers who are fearful of their patients, especially if their patients are mentally disturbed or emotionally unstable. This fear makes the delivery of health care services inefficient. Fear cripples the capability of a health care provider to competently meet the health needs of his/her patient which then could result in conflict. Interpersonal communication between health care provider and a patient could lessen the fear that the former feels for the latter. Understanding directly and emphatically the personality, behavior and needs of a patient could dispel fear (Silverstein, 2006, 33). Suppressed fear and anger does not easily head off, it just accumulates and flares up in

Objective responsibility Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Objective responsibility - Essay Example Moreover, a public administrator should be in a position to make decisions based upon their ethical reflection and analysis of a case. When making such decisions, public administrators need to consider whether to pass their objective responsibility or not. According to Cooper (2010, 72), the objective responsibilities of public administrators are defined by both accountability and imposed obligation, which are "responsibility to someone else for something. Basically these responsibilities externally create a palpable source of obligation, creating some of responsibility. Sources of objective responsibility are characterized by factors such as superiors and subordinates, elected officials, and citizens. The multi-faceted principal responsibility of public administration in a big way complicates a public administrators role as an agent (Cooper 2010, 72). It is however important to note that the balance of objective responsibility is the element role of public administrators. How effectively these administrators apply the balance of objective responsibility to their decision-making processes defines their fundamental preparedness to make ethical decisions. Conflict of interest, Cooper, pages 112 - 121: cooper points out that a conflict of interest occurs when an individual or organization becomes engaged in multiple interests. One of these interests has the probably of corrupting the motivation of an act in another interest. Since the content of a conflict of interest is different from the fulfilment of impropriety, a conflict of interest can be found and voluntarily defused before the happening of a problem. Cooper (2010, 113) notes that, "Conflicts of interest involve collisions between these various kinds of influences and the interests of the public we serve". He states further that the fiduciary role is endangered when people lose trust in professional

Models for Change Business Process Reengineering Essay Example for Free

Models for Change Business Process Reengineering Essay Assess Business Strategy Like many other approaches, BPR claims to align organisation change (and IT development) with business strategy. This is important because BPR concentrates of improving processes which are of primary strategic importance. The assumption is that strategy is already determined, and that it is externally focussed, dealing with customers, products, suppliers and markets. BPR is quite distinct from strategic planning. Select Processes Here we choose those processes on which we will concentrate our reengineering effort. This choice involves a number of steps. Identify Major Processes A process as a structured,measured set of activities designed to produce a specified output for a particular customer or market, process is an interrelated series of activities that convert business inputs into business outputs (by changing the state of relevant business entities). Determine Process Boundaries This is easy to say and hard to do. Some processes, such as product manufacture, are fairly obvious, though there may be doubt whether to include activities such as materials procurement within this process. Sometimes the boundaries between processes which follow one another (eg marketing and sales, delivery and installation) are hard to agree. Processes which involve more than one company can also cause boundary problems. Assess Strategic Relevance Usually reengineering will concentrate on a small number of processes. This may seem suboptimal, but provided the processes chosen are complete (not parts of processes) and the reengineering is thorough, a flow-on effect will probably mean that unsatisfactory neighbouring processes will soon become candidates for redesign. So we should begin with those processes which are most critical to the organisations strategy. At UTS, for instance, the major strategy might be to obtain more money from industry. Processes directly contributing to this strategy would be good candidates for reengineering. Qualify Culture and Politics This step (which is even less quantifiable than the others) assesses the culture and politics of the organisational units performing activities within the process, and how these units are viewed in wider organisational politics and culture. Processes in a medical school, for instance, may be harder to reengineer than those in a business school, both because the medical school places a high value on its independence and because it is highly regarded by the rest of the university (or even society). Since successful reengineering ultimately depends on the cooperation of those performing the process, it is better to deal with processes where the culture and politics are favourable. Creating a Process Vision Creating a strong and sustained linkage between strategy and the way work is done is an enduring challenge in complex organizations. Because business processes define how work is done, we are dealing with the relationship between strategy and processes.In BPR, as in all design work, creating the vision is the crucial stage; and it is also the least structured. In assessing strategy and selecting processes we were trying to understand things which (in theory) already exist. Similarly when we come to assess existing processes and resources. For design and implementation we may be helped by guidelines, methodologies and examples of similar systems. But in creating a vision we are more or less on our own. There are a number of techniques, which are known to help in the creative process. When working on process visions it is also helpful to consider in which areas of the business we wish to redesign processes. Davenport deals with two aspects of vision creation: the search for a vision an d vision characteristics. Vision search Process visons must be related to strategy, so we may look to the organisations strategy for inspiration. This assumes that the strategy is sufficiently specific to give a sense of direction (eg improve quality of service to regular customers rather than improve quality). Thinking about strategy also keeps the vision search at the right level broad but specific. Because much BPR work supports a customer focused strategy, it is important to have customer input to the vision. More generally, the customer is the one receiving the business output, and this includes internal customers; it is important that we know the output is right before we start working out how to produce it. Benchmarking, in the context of creating a project, means seeing how other people do it. This is related to the idea of adopting best practice, though if we want competitive advantage we may have to do better than best; nevertheless, it is good to find out what is best so far. We are looking for ideas, not imitating, so we may look for benchmarks in quite different types of organisation; in fact this may be easier, since our direct competitors may not wish to reveal their best practice to us. Vision objectives and attributes Process visions, like strategies, should be easy to communicate to the organization, no threatening to those who must implement (or who are affected by) them, and as inspirational as measurable targets can be. [Davenport,p119] The process vision shows what we want our new process to do and to a very limited extent how it will do it. These are respectively the process objectives and attributes. The objectives should have a customer or business focus they must truly be concerned with outcome. They must according to all the experts be measurable we must be able to tell how we have done. And they should be simple and non-contradicty we dont want a long list of competing objectives, nor objectives whose measures are only comprehensible to a mathematician, economist or accountant. Typical objectives would be reduce delivery time by 50% or double the number of potential customers contacted per month. The attributes indicate how we intend to achieve the objectives, perhaps in terms of technology or general principles. It is somewhat unusual to develop objectives and means simultaneously but since BPR is aiming for radical objectives it is necessary to have some indication of how they will be achieved before management will be prepared to commit to the design phase. Notice that it is important at this stage to consider a variety of means before the vision is finalised. Adding attributes to our objectives might give reduce delivery time by 50% by outsourcing delivery services or use to internet to double the number of potential customers contacted per month without increasing staff. Davenport points out that radical change will only be achieved by setting ambitious objectives creativity must be encouraged by setting impossible goals. Understand and Improve Existing Processes Some proponents of BPR advocate starting with a clean slate but most (including Davenport) recommend that we spend time studying existing processes. There are a number of reasons for this: †¢People in the organisations (and customers) will use language based on the existing processes. We need to use this language to explain our proposals. †¢When implementing the new processes we will have to plan change from the current situation the existing processes. †¢The existing processes may be causing problems which we could easily repeat if we do not understand them. Existing processes may also contain activities for avoiding problems which we might not anticipate. †¢The existing processes are the base from which we measure improvement. Studying the existing processes includes the following activities: †¢The current process flow is described using any suitable diagramming method. Such a method should indicate the sequence of activities, trigger events, time taken for each activity and any buffering delays. †¢The current process is evaluated against the new objectives and assessed for conformance to the new attributes. †¢Problems with the current process are identified. It is important to remember that reengneering is not meant simply to rationalize existing processes. †¢Short term improvements to the current processes are proposed. It is not advisable to postpone simple improvements until complete reengineering is done. Assess Social and Technical Resources In this step we judge whether we have the resources available to proceed with the project. Social resources refer to the organisation and the people in it. Is the organisation used to change? Are there key supporters of BPR? Does the organisation have a tradition of team work and open discussion? Is there an atmosphere of trust? What skills are available? Are people willing to learn? If social resources appear to be inadequate, they will need to be developed before or during the reengineering project. The same applies to technical resources, though these are easier to judge. Is appropriate technology available to support the new processes? This means hardware, software and skilled people. Limitations particularly occur with network infrastructure. Again, missing capabilities will have to be developed, although in this case (unlike social resources) outsourcing is a possibility. Design and Implement New Processes Design and implementation of the new processes can use any suitable methodology, but a number of points need to be remembered. †¢Since BPR is performance oriented the methodology must be able to predict performance during design. †¢BPR projects are meant to be done quickly the methodology should support this. †¢Stakeholders (both customers and those who will be operating the process) must be involved. †¢We are looking for radical design as well as radical vision so there will be more brainstorming. †¢For any design proposal we must be able to assess feasibility, risk and benefit. †¢It would be difficult to achieve the previous objectives unless the methodology was strongly based on prototyping. 5 stages of reengineering: †¢preparation †¢identification †¢vision †¢design technical, social †¢transformation These stages are very similar to Davenports, although they go into more detail about process modelling. Manganelli pays more attention to improving existing processes and his methodology has more emphasis on entities rather than processes ie it has more of a data base flavour. Davenport (1993) notes that Quality management, often referred to as total quality management (TQM) or continuous improvement, refers to programs and initiatives that emphasize incremental improvement in work processes and outputs over an open-ended period of time. In contrast, Reengineering, also known as business process redesign or process innovation, refers to discrete initiatives that are intended to achieve radically redesigned and improved work processes in a bounded time frame. Contrast between the two is provided by Davenport (1993):

Company Act 2013 Analysis

Company Act 2013 Analysis Introduction The awaited new company Act 2013 has replaced the 1956 Act with prime objective to counter the present day challenges and in line with rapid developments, integrations, globalisation of financial markets and growing economy of the world by Lok sabha on 18 Dec 12 and in Rajya sabha on 08 Aug 13, has been received Hon’ble president assent on 29 Aug 13. The new act emphasized changes and improvised governance structure business-friendly corporate regulations, modification of e-management, enforcement, share holder protection, enhanced accountability, improved institutional structure, enhanced disclosure norms, efficient merger acquision, introduce the role of whistle blowers, one Person Company, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) changes. The Companies Act, 2013 not only simplifies the mergers, acquisitions and restructuring process but also modifying the previous constraint, regulatory body like National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT)and facilitates an effective impact on w orld business environment. This paper is analysis of the Company Act 2013 regarding modification and new initiative taken in the field of MA framework and trying to prove that the new MA structure is in line with global context and in improving the efficiency and smoothness of doing business in India. Objectives The prime objective of this paper is to establish a healthy comparison between Companies Act, 2013 and Company Act 1956 regarding MA process. To evaluate the new initiative taken and its impact. To find out the possible measures or necessary step to overcome the existing lapses. Scope Scope of the study is limited to study the new regulation and mostly focusing on the new development of as per Company Act, 2013. Limitation The new Company Act, 2013 has become fully implemented from 01 Apr 2014. So the actual output and the consequences the corporate sector faced cannot be measured in this sort time horizon. Further the paper is based on the secondary data so the realistic situation may be different. Research Methodology This paper is an exploratory type research and based on the secondary data information from the following sources, Research journal available online, Article published in magazine news paper, various websites blogs, media reports and personal interaction interview of professional on media. Literature review Maximum references is taken from the ‘Company Act, 2013: Rules, Circulars Notifications’ published by Ministry of Corporate Affairs, India, which emphasise the all aspect of company rule regulation. Reports of various agencies like PWC, India’s report on ‘ Company Act,2013, Key highlights and analysis’, Nov 2013,Deloitte’s ‘Company Act, 2013, Fresh thinking for a new start’, Oct 2013, Assocham’s, ‘Mergers and acquisitions in the era of Company Act, 2013’ Feb 2014, Ernst Young LLP’s report on ‘India Inc Company Act 2013 an overview’, Sep 2013 and KPMG India’s analysis on ‘Company Act 2013, New Rules of the game’, Oct 2013, which were emphasise on the business friendly corporate regulation, improved CG norms, enhance accountability, raise levels of transparency and protect interest of investors. Development of Company Act The expedition of Companies Act, 2013 as follows: 2008  On 23rd October 2008, Companies Bill, 2008 was introduced in the Lok Sabha to replace existing Companies Act 1956. It is based on the recommendation of J.J. Irani committee 2012 The Companies Bill, 2012 was introduced and got its assent in the Lok Sabha on 18 December 2012. 2013 Companies Bill, 2012 was passed by the Rajya Sabha on 8th August, 2013. After having received the assent of the President of India on 29 August 2013, it has now become the much awaited Companies Act, 2013. The Act comprises of 29 chapters, 470 clauses 7 schedules. The key high lights of Company Act, 2013 are the extent of subordinated legislation. Which contain 300 references in the Act to rules which may be prescribed to implement and operational. New Initiative and changes: 1. Simplifying procedures for restructuring [section 230-232] To provide for a simpler and faster process of mergers and acquisitions, the new Company Act provides following initiative like: (a) Fast track merger[section 233]: In 2013 Act contains provisions that merger process between 2 or more ‘small companies’ and between a holding company and require approval of ROC, OL, members holding at least 90% of total number of shares and majority of creditors representing 9/10th in value. This will taking less in the High Court (NCLT under 2013 Act) process and will facilitate easy completion of the process. (b)Multilayer investment subsidiaries [section 186]: In 2013 Act One of the measures adopted to prevent money laundering and to ensure transparency is to restrict one’s ability to set up multiple investment companies. (c) Registered Valuers [section 247]: For valuation to be made in respect of any property, stocks, shares, debentures, securities, goodwill or other assets or of net-worth or liabilities under 2013 Act, will be done by a person registered with the Government as a valuer. Registered valuer shall be appointed by the audit committee. (d) Minority buy-out [section 236]: The New Act has introduced new 6 provisions relating to minority buy-back which will provide greater flexibility to the promoters/ acquirer in realigning the control and management. The key provisions like purchasing capacity of share holder having more than 90% holding, act under the SEBI Regulations, price determined by a registered and provision of delisting guideline etc. 2. Outbound merger: 2013 Act introduced provision for an Indian company to be merged with a foreign company and vice versa which will require prior approval of RBI under FEMA rule. 3. New types of companies permitted: One person company (OPC) whose paid-up share capital does not exceed INR 0.5 crore or whose turn over does not exceed INR 2 crore would be a private company. These companies enjoy more choices and flexibility. 4. Objection by minority: Objection to the compromise or arrangement can be made only by persons holding not less than 10% of the shareholding or having outstanding debt of not less than 5% of total outstanding debt as per the latest audited balance sheet which will save the companies from being dragged in long drawn court (NCLT under 2013 Act) process by minority holders who is holding even single share. Threshold will ensure that merger / demerger etc. process moves smoothly and swiftly in accordance with the law. 5. Postal Ballot Voting by Postal ballot through post / electronic mode is made applicable to all companies. 6. Buy-back of securities To provide to shareholder in a joint venture an exit in a tax efficient manner or to reward shareholders Buy-back of security has often been used. Under 1956 Act, it is possible to carry out more than 1 buy-back in a financial year as long as conditions were complied with. 2013 Act has restricted the ability of a company to do multiple buy-backs of securities. 7. Other changes: Approval threshold i.e. Compromise or arrangement would require approval by a majority representing 3/4th in value of the creditors and members. The scheme of compromise and arrangement need to be compliant with the Accounting Standards and Auditor’s Certificate to that effect needs to be filed with NCLT in accounting treatment. Valuation report to be given to shareholders / creditors along with notice convening meeting for a compromise or arrangement. The notice for compromise or arrangement need to be given to CG, Income tax, RBI, SEBI, Stock exchanges, ROC, OL, CCI, if necessary, and other sectoral regulators / authorities, to enable them to make representations. Participation and resolution for compromise or arrangement need to be passed through Postal ballot. Treasury stock: Holding of shares in its own name or in the name of trust whether through subsidiary or associate companies by the transferee company as a result of the compromise or arrangement will not be allowed and any such shares shall be cancelled / extinguished. Takeover Offer may be included as a part of compromise and arrangement in the manner as may be prescribed in rules issued by SEBI. Merger of listed into unlisted company: In case of compromise / arrangement between a listed transferor company and an unlisted transferee company, NCLT may provide that the transferee Dispensation of meeting of creditors: Meeting of creditors can be dispensed only if 90% of the creditors in value agree to the scheme by way of affidavit. Combining authorized capital on amalgamation Minority shareholders Exit route: After passing resolutions at board meeting and not by circular resolution, the proposal of amalgamation, merger or reconstruction can be considered and approved by Board of directors only by The scheme of compromise or arrangement shall clearly indicate only one appointed date from which date the scheme shall be effective not at a date subsequent to the appointed date Capital reduction will require approval of NCLT. Comparison analysis: 1. For outbound cross-border deals The Companies Act, 1956 does not permit. The Companies Act, 2013 allows, subject to RBI approval, both inbound and outbound cross border mergers and amalgamations between Indian and foreign companies. 2. The Companies Act, 2013 states that an application need for the Tribunal to make compromise or arrangement involving CDR, with matters like (a) A report by the auditors of the company about fund requirements after the CDR will conform to a liquidity test (b) A valuation report in respect of the shares and the property and all assets, tangible and intangible, movable and immovable, of the company by a registered valuer. The Companies Act, 1956 does not contain any specific provision regarding a high court approval of a CDR scheme 3. Under the Companies Act, 2013, the Tribunal will not sanction a scheme of capital reduction, merger, acquisition or other arrangement unless the accounting treatment prescribed in the scheme is in compliance with notified AS and a certificate to that affect by the company’s auditor has been filed with the Tribunal. Currently, SEBI has done this job. 4. The Companies Act, 1956 does not prohibit companies from creating treasury shares under the scheme. The Companies Act, 2013 prohibits such practices. 5. The Companies Act, 2013 clarifies that the merger of a listed company into an unlisted company will not automatically result in the listing of the transferee company. There are no such provisions under the Companies Act, 1956. 6. Under the existing Companies Act, 1956 any shareholder, creditor or other interested person can raise objection. However, under the Companies Act, 2013, only persons holding not less than 10% of the shareholding or having outstanding debt not less than 5% of the total outstanding debt, can raise objections to the scheme. 7. The Companies Act, 2013 empowers the Tribunal to dispense meeting of creditors if 90% or more of such creditors or class of creditors (in value terms) agree to scheme through affidavit. Though the Companies Act, 1956 does not provide such action. 8. Under the Companies Act, 1956 the terms â€Å"undertaking† and â€Å"substantially the whole of undertaking† are not explicitly defined. Under the Companies Act, 2013 provide the specific definitions of above. 9. The Companies Act, 2013 prohibits a company from making investments through more than two layers of investment companies subject to certain exceptions. There is no such restriction under the Companies Act, 1956. 10. The Companies Act, 2013 includes specific provisions requiring the company to send a notice of the scheme inviting objections/suggestions from inter alia the Income tax authorities, RBI, Competition Commission of India and such other sectoral regulators or authorities likely to be affected by the scheme. Currently, the Companies Act, 1956 does not require such notification to regulators/authorities. 11. The Companies Act, 1956 does not have specific entrenchment provisions (akin to veto rights). However, the Companies Act, 2013 stipulates that the articles of the company can include entrenchment clauses. 12. The Companies Act, 2013 also includes specific provision stating that contracts or arrangement between two or more persons as regards share transfer be enforceable as contracts. There are no such specific provisions under the existing Companies Act, 1956. 13. Under the Companies Act, 1956 preference shares are mandatorily redeemable within a period of 20 years. However, the Companies Act, 2013 will permit companies with infrastructure projects to issue preference shares, which are redeemable beyond 20 years, 14. The Companies Act, 2013 introduces the well-recognized internationally concept of class action suits in India Steps for improvement To improve and to make efficient the MA regulation, there needs to be address the interests of wider stakeholders including financial institutions, minority stake holders, employees, customers, vendors, regulators and the society at large. Effective system having following points Effective, diversified and independent board that is able to challenge management on its strategic choices Clearly defined roles for board and management Constructive board meetings Robust monitoring of business performance Management assurance like management controls, internal and external audit Openness and transparency in dealings with stakeholders A constant effort to improve accountability and drive better performance by focusing on the most substantive issues The ability of the board and management to work together in defining the optimum business model for success The ability to identify, access and manage emerging risks Conclusion With rapidly changed global environment, there is a requirement for adopting and sustaining good Governance practices for value creations and building corporations of the future which contains the measures practices regarding merger acquisition fast track process, protection of shareholders interest etc. The Companies Act, 2013, adds robust and progressive new provisions with investor-friendly regulation and also retains the old provisions. The 2013 Act features some new provisions in the area of mergers and acquisitions, apart from the existing provisions by simplifying and rationalising the procedures involved and ensuring higher accountability for the company. It is definitely take some time for implementation from which we can derive further more relevant information and result of company act. There are some part of this act which is still need to be relooked but overall while compare with other globally accepted company law like Japanese model, European model and American Anglo -Saxon model. Whereas no model/rule/regulation are perfect and better but the initiative taken for improvement must be considered as the first step towards growth and flourishing keeping the view of current changing scenario.

Factors Causing Substance Abuse Relapse

Factors Causing Substance Abuse Relapse Relapse among substance abusers after treatment is an old phenomenon that has always been the nemesis of nations all around the world (Golestan, Abdullah, Ahmad Anjomshoa, 2010). For long, studies have found that through several generations, relapse to substance abuse after treatment remains one of the greatest challenges in the treatment of all forms of substance abuse including alcohol, marijuana, heroin and cocaine (Marlatt George, 1984; Polivy Herman, 2002; Witkiewitz Marlatt, 2004). Many a study posits that when people attempt to change an undesired or problematic behavior, there is a high possibility of an initial lapse (Golestan et al., 2010; Marlatt George, 1984; Witkiewitz Marlatt, 2004). Drug dependency has been typified as a persistent relapsing disorder (McLellan, Lewis, O’Brien Kleber, 2000). In clinical terms, relapse is defined as a return to a maladaptive use of substance, such as marijuana, alcohol, tobacco, heroin, cocaine or other illicit psychoactive drugs after having been previously treated for the same substance abuse disorder (Witkiewitz Marlatt, 2004). Researches on the substance abuse phenomenon posit that on the average, within a year of receiving treatment, most patients revert to previous levels of substance use (Hall, Havassy Wasserman, 1990; Witkiewitz Marlatt, 2004). Substance abuse clients and counselors both consider relapse as a major challenge militating against substance abuse prevention strategies (Golestan et al., 2010). Global statistics on the rate of relapse to substance use is disturbing. Both counselors and clients admit that whereas it is tough for a client to quit the use of drugs, it is even tougher to stay off the drug after intensive treatment (Ducray, Darker, Smyth, 2012; Moeller et al., 2001). Notwithstanding the client-focused and intensive treatment modules available for substance abuse, most treated clients return to the use of the abused substance after a period of abstinence (Polivy Herman, 2002). Substance abuse is shrouded with personal and social problems including the health of society regarding its political, social, economic and cultural issues in various degree (Hendershot, Witkiewitz, George, Marlatt, 2011). The price for using and abusing illicit drugs are weighty and incontestable. The attendant health complications, poor psychosocial functioning and adverse economic implications such as government’s expenditure on treatments and rehabilitation of substance abusers have all been well documented (Burger, 2008; Parrott et al., 2004; Pressley McCormick, 2007; United Nations Office on Drug and Crime’s report, 2013). Piggot, Carson, Saha, Torbeyns, Stock and Ingenito (2003) have stated that relapse to substance abuse could lead to such consequences as cognitive impairment, non-adherence to medication, personal distress, imprisonment and hospitalization. Decades of research on substance abuse have implicated psychosocial factors such as mental health, significant life events and social functioning as playing critical roles in influencing the relapse rates and the abuse of drugs among clients who have previously been treated for substance abuse disorders (Hammerbacher Lyvers, 2006; Melberg, Lauritzen, Ravndal, 2003). Contextual factors such as living and working environments have been considered as relevant when accounting for relapse precipitants in substance abusers (Reece, 2007). Consistently, researchers have identified psychosocial factors including self-efficacy, negative affects, ineffective coping responses and a host of high-risk situations as precipitating the relapse to substance use (Connors, Maisto Zywiak, 1996; Larimer, Palmer Marlatt, 1999; Marhe, Waters, Van de Wetering Franken, 2013; Mattoo, Chakrabarti Anjaiah, 2009; Reece, 2007). Several other psychosocial factors including fights and interpersonal conflicts, peer pressure, divorce, strained relationship with friends, family and co-workers (Broome, Simpson Joe, 2001; McLellan, Lewis, O’Brien Kleber, 2000) have been found to increase the risk of relapse to substance abuse. Community supports (Ibrahim Kumar, 2009), support from family and friends (Broome et al., 2001) and stressful life events (Wills, Vaccaro McNamara, 1992) have also been found to determine clients relapse state after rehabilitation. Information about psychological and social (contextual) factors relating to relapse and substance abuse may both be critical and important for planning clinical intervention strategies as well as contribute to aftercare and community-based interventions. Literature is replete with studies correlating cultural and religious variables to relapse to substance abuse. Ethno-cultural identity and religiosity have been found to moderate substance use among particular groups of people (Chen, Dormitzer, Bejaro Anthony, 2004). In particular, there has been a significant negative correlation found among people with higher levels of religious practice (religious devotion) and substance abuse (Chen et al., 2004; Kliewer Murrelle, 2007). Since four decades ago when scientific approach into the study of relapse has started (Marlatt Gordon, 1984), there has been ample evidence that suggest various relapse rates for various substances. In one earlier study, about 90% of alcoholics who received treatment experienced at least one relapse over a 4-year period (Polich, Armor, Braiker, 1981). In another study, Cornelius et al. (2003) found that 66% of the respondents had resumed their drug use within six months after treatment. There exist various relapse rates for the various substances of abuse. Differences in these rates could be attributed to several factors including the definition of relapse, individual’s variables, characteristics of the addiction and the effectiveness and success of treatment (Connors, G.J., Maisto Zwiak, 1996). Substance abuse and relapse phenomenon have been conceptualized and explained through a number of theories. In particular, the Cognitive-Behavioral Model of Relapse Process (Marlatt Gordon 1984, 1985; Witkiezie Marlatt, 2004) and the Relapse Syndrome Model (Gorski Miller, 1982; Gorski, 1990) have expansively explained the process and indicators involved in relapse to substance abuse. Other theories that explicate relapse to substance abuse include the Stress-diathesis Model (Gatchel, 1993), the Self-medication Hypothesis (Duncan, 1974; Khantzian, Mack, Schatzberg, 1974), the Bidirectional Model (Biafora Jr. et al., 1994), the Psychological Distress Model (Mercier et al., 1992) and the Behavioral Choice Model (Bickel Vuchinich, 2000). The Cognitive-Behavioral Model of Relapse Process and the Relapse Syndrome Model – the foundations of this study are discussed comprehensively in the next chapter. In general, substance use is attributed to a number of factors, including, psychosocial, biological and contextual variables (Nordfjà ¦rn, 2011). In particular, psychosocial factors have been known to be critical determinants of relapse to substance abuse. Significant life events, psychosocial distress and self-efficacy have all been identified as significant predictors of relapse to substance abuse (Hendershot, Witkiewitz, George, Marlatt, 2011; Nordfjà ¦rn, 2011). Studies have found major positive and negative events, similar to those found in the general population, have significant influence in the lives of substance abusers (Melberg et al., 2003; Witkiewitz Marlatt, 2004). Periods such as the loss of a loved one, or social occasions and events such as funerals, wedding celebrations, and birthday parties have been found to have influenced the return to alcohol and drug abuse (Melberg et al., 2003; Saunders Kershaw, 2006). For instance, a client discharged from a substance abuse rehabilitation facility after treatment could remain sober for a long period only to lapse during a funeral or wedding celebrations. Unquestionably, the role of psychological distresses, including depression, interpersonal conflicts, and anxiety in substance abuse and relapse have long been noted (Grant et al., 2004). Continuous interpersonal conflicts with a spouse or a co-worker, for example, could lead to depression, or outburst of anger and frustrations. The individual could revert to alcohol and drugs to either help take cope the situation or to empower him or her to face the perpetrator. Empirical supports linking psychological distress to substance use and abuse exist. In one study, clients with psychological distress were found to abused alcohol and drugs than those without any psychological distresses (Grella, Hser, Joshi, Rounds-Bryant, 2001). Self-efficacy, defined as one’s belief that a task can be carried out successfully to achieve a desired outcome (Bandura, 1997), has been associated with substance abuse and relapse (Nordfjà ¦rn, 2011). Clients who show low levels of self-efficacy, for instance, have been found to have shown high levels of alcohol and substance abuse (Hendershot, Witkiewitz, George, Marlatt, 2011). Individuals who lose confidence in themselves and in their efforts to succeed, no matter the venture, could for long remain depressed and frustrated. The individual may then resort to substance use, amid the frustration, to enflame some happiness. Gradually from a lapse, the substance abuse behavior may continue and become a full blown relapse. 1.1 Statement of the problem Unquestionably, the abuse of alcohol and drugs remains problematic in most countries of the world. The 2013 World Drug Report by the United Nations Office on Drug and Crime (UNODC) revealed that over 35 million people, representing 0.8% of the adult population worldwide use heroin, cocaine or a combination of both. Of this population, it is estimated that 10-13% will become drug dependent and will forfeit their sobriety (UNODC Report, 2013). The UNODC’s statistics for 2013 on the worldwide estimate of substance abuse is even more frightening. The report revealed that in 2012, between 167 and 315 million people aged 15–64 were estimated to have used an illicit substance in the preceding year. West Africa is not excluded from the problem of drug trafficking and abuse. About a decade ago the region was declared as a transit route for hard drugs (Drug News Africa, 2012). According to the Ghana Demographic Health Survey Report (GDHS) for 2009, the sub-region had become not only a transitory route, but more disturbingly, a consumer market of these illicit psychoactive drugs (GDHS Report, 2009). The report concluded that the abuse of hard drugs was on the increase and had attracted the attention of most health professionals in Ghana (GDHS Report, 2009). The Out-patient Monthly Morbidity Returns (OMMR) records for 2012 from the Department of Psychiatric of the Regional Hospital, Sunyani, showed that of the 2,284 patients who accessed the facility for the year, about 596(26%) were alcohol and drug abuse related cases. In the same year, out of the 1,047 new cases seen, 413 were substance abuse related disorders, with 138 having been either re-admitted or treated on at least one other occasion for the same diagnosis. This statistics showed a 12% increase in substance abuse and relapse cases as compared to that of the preceding year (OMMR for Psychiatric Unit: Regional Hospital, Sunyani, 2012). The Drug News Africa states that about 1.25 million Ghanaians in 2012 had drug addiction problems, mostly marijuana (Drug News Africa, 2012). Studies on substance abuse in Ghana (Affinnih, 1999a Lamptey, 2005; Redvers et al., 2006) estimate more worrisome statistics. In no doubt, more people may be abusing drugs in Ghana than is estimated. This is very disturbing since the rates of relapse to substance abuse after treatment remain high. For instance, Brandon, Vidrine and Litvin (2007) noted that the relapse rates for most individuals after the cessation of alcohol or tobacco for a year ranges from 80 – 95%. Notwithstanding the type and frequency of the drug in use, the penalties are always grave. Witkiewitz and Marlatt (2004) noted that violence, legal problems, depression and suicide attempts are some of the adverse consequences of substance use. The availability and the increasing use of these illicit psychoactive drugs results in its dependence with its attendant psychosoci al adverse effects. Undoubtedly, substance abuse has profound health, economic and psychosocial consequences to the individual, family, community and nation. Studies (Berk, 2007; Large, Sharma, Compton, Slade, Olav, 2011; Witkiewitz Marlatt, 2004) have shown a number of physical, psychological and health-related consequences following the continuous use and abuse of substances. At the personal level, substance abuse has been associated with adverse biopsychosocial consequences, including heart failure, erectile dysfunction, hypertension, cancer, stroke and capillary haemorrhages, irritability and restlessness, mild paranoia, physical exhaustion, mental confusion, loss of weight; fatigue or depression and unemployment (Davison, Neale, Kring, 2004; Kring, Davison, Neale, Johnson, 2007). Similarly, the families of substance abusers also share in the consequences. In particular, the loss of productive hours in care of the substance abuser and the cost of treatment have been documented (Moos, 2007; Redve rs et al., 2006). A number of social and economic implications have also been noted at the community and national levels. Increase in crime rates, unemployment, poor academic or job performance, school dropout, divorce and the diversion of scarce national resources for treatment and rehabilitation of substance abusers have been associated with substance abuse (Burger, 2008; Parrott et al., 2004; Pressley McCormick, 2007). 1.2 Aim and objectives of the study Willig (2008) argues from a pragmatic viewpoint that the aim of research is not about generating abstract truth free from the experience of people but rather to provide insight that will inure to the benefit of humanity. Hence the aim of this study is to explore the psychosocial precipitants of relapse and the rate of relapse among substance abusers in the Sunyani Metropolis. More specifically, the objectives of this study are: To explore the various psychosocial factors that contribute to relapse of substance abusers in the Sunyani Metropolis To estimate how often respondents return to pre-treatment levels of substance abuse after treatment To explore the role of the family, culture and religion in relapse or abstinence among respondents. To explore the preventive/coping strategies clients use to prevent relapse. To explore the psycho-socioeconomic consequences of relapse to the respondents, their families and society. 1.3 Relevance of the study In 2005, a total of 86,003 outpatient attendances were recorded by the three psychiatric hospitals in Ghana (Ofori-Atta et al., 2010). Substance abuse disorders were among the top psychiatric diagnoses for the attendance, accounting for about 22.8%. Even more frightening was the number of substance abusers projected to develop psychological disorders in the course of time. The passage of the Ghana Psychological Bill and the Ghana Mental Health Law in 2012 mandates the Ghana Health Service to employ Clinical Psychologists to all regional and district hospitals in the country to treat and manage the myriad psychological problems faced by clients. In no doubt, substance abuse and relapse would be one of the major clinical diagnoses these clinicians would encounter. Reece (2007) has postulated that contextual and environmental factors are critical determinants of relapse among substance abusers. Certainly the environmental conditions of Europe and elsewhere are significantly different from those in Ghana and the rest of Africa. Consequently, one cannot readily attribute the factors found to have precipitated substance abuse and the resultant relapse of a different context to that in Ghana. More widely, findings from this research would aid Clinical Psychologists, Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurses, policymakers and relatives of clients to better understand the psychosocial factors that precipitate the relapse phenomenon and the rates at which relapse to substance abuse occur when deciding how best to offer treatment options to develop effective relapse preventive strategies which are contextual in the management of the relapse phenomenon. Furthermore, although there are studies on substance abuse in Ghana (Affinnih, 1999a Lamptey, 2005; Redvers et al., 2006), there is a paucity of data regarding the psychosocial factors that influence relapse to substance abuse. The rates of relapse to substance abuse among substance abusers have also not been well documented. Of equal importance, the findings from this study would add to the literature on the relapse