The design and implementation of sets of strategic human resource practices continues to lack coherence and consistency

Strategic human resource management and the concept of fit Strategic human resource management largely deals with how human resource needs can be strategically managed in an organisation in order to improve work output. It is a rather new approach and concept towards the management of human resource in comparison to technical human resource management (Fey Bjorkman, 2001).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The design and implementation of sets of ‘strategic’ human resource practices continues to lack coherence and consistency specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In addition, the basic function of strategic human resource management lies within the designation and implementation of quite a number of managerial policies within an organisation with a broad objective of ensuring that the available human resource management significantly contributes to the productivity of an organisation. When business strateg y is combined with the human resource management function, strategic human resource management would reflect a relatively resilient plan of not only utilizing human resource to the optimum but also driving an organisation towards a competitive edge. Nonetheless, a thorough understanding of strategic human resource management would not be complete unless the right application of the concept of fit is correctly applied. The concept of fit is primarily the process of melding the human resource function within the strategic goals of an organisation (Wei Lau, 2005). There are quite a number of conceptual illustrations that have demonstrated that the design and implementation of sets of strategic human resource practices may not be coherent at all owing to the fact that the concept of ‘fit’ has not been understood well. Realistically, the concept of fit and the strategic human resource management lays much emphasis in improving the capacity of a firm in responding to the ext ernal factors especially those related to the hiring and utilization of human resource. This paper attempts to explore the concept of fit and how this conceptual framework can be integrated well in strategic human resource management in a firm. To begin with, it is vital to explore the two types of fit as expounded in most strategic human resource literatures. As already mentioned, the concept of fit mainly helps in the process of utilizing human resource so that the goals and objectives of an organisation can be achieved. Indeed, this is a fundamental characteristic in strategic human resource management. This implies that an organisation may not achieve its set goals in human resource practices unless the concept of fit is not only understood well but also applied to the letter.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Two major types of fit can be applied in strategic human resour ce practices. Firstly, the horizontal fit is the compatibility and equality in pattern of various human resource management practices (Wei Lau, 2005). On the other hand, a vertical fit applies when human resource practices are aligned alongside with the process of strategic management of firm. In other words, a vertical fit would imply some form of crucial step taken by the human resource function in order to attain the goals and objectives of an organisation. It is attained by initiating certain practices that are congruent with human resource needs of a firm. When the right application of these resources is put in place, a horizontal fit is attained. As can be noted, strategic human resource practices may lack the right design and implementation if the two types of fit are not understood well due to the narrow distinction between them. One of the main factors that have contributed to the little understanding of the concept of fit is the fact that the theoretical background of the concept has not been explored to the letter. If a firm has to remain competitive, it implies that the deployment of human resource management within the confines of fit concept is paramount. When human resource practices are well arranged in a firm, it is highly likely that a firm will experience a positive impact in growth and profitability since human resource is the major driver in the performance of an organisation. Hence, implementation of both types of fit is vital. Some scholars in the field of human resource development argue that the linkage between human resource practices and business strategy alongside the application of the fit concept is relatively weak when compared to the relationship that exist within the human resource practices being exercised within an organisation (Bowen Ostroff, 2004). There are quite a number of human resource practices worth noting when human resource management is being considered under the concept of fit. For instance, the ability of an o rganization to attract and retain employees of high standards is paramount. Besides, the very employees ought to be placed in positions and working criteria that are appropriate as possible.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on The design and implementation of sets of ‘strategic’ human resource practices continues to lack coherence and consistency specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Moreover, capacity building and training of employees so that they can deliver as per the expectations of a firm cannot be ignored at all. These ideals may never be implemented in a coherent manner if the concept of fit has not been understood to the letter. Hence, the human resource management practices in place within a firm should be systematic (Chan, Shaffer Snape, 2004). The effectiveness of any human resource management may be lowered substantially if each of the individual human resource practices is not given due attent ion. For instance, an employee who is intrinsically excellent cannot deliver to the expectations of a firm due to inadequate training. Besides, an employee will only be effective if the training background has compatibility with the needs of the organisation. On the same note, the concept of fit; whether of vertical or horizontal type would demand that employees be motivated over and above being trained so that they can feel to be part of the organisation. Employees who are not motivated, be it intrinsically or extrinsically, will perform below their natural potential. As a result, the desire to have strategic human resource management within a firm may just be a mirage and wishful thinking since the concept of fit has not been implemented in the right way. There are motivational theories which when well employed, will result into upward mobility in organizational growth and performance. for example, employees can be motivated through a well defined process of setting goals for the organisation. Studies have revealed that people tend to be motivated to work when there are certain goals to be achieved after a given period of time. This type of motivation is well explained by Locke’s goal setting theory (Osterman, 2000). At this point, it is undisputed that a firm can attain its short, medium and long term goals once they have been set. Nevertheless, it implies that employees will only be motivated when they are part and parcel of goal setting. Moreover, each group member within an organisation should be made to visualize the importance of the goals being set. In most cases, employees will not inject an additional effort if they have no clear idea on how the set goals are going to beneficial, not just to the organisation, they should also derive quantifiable benefits upon achieving the goals.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More A firm should work on myriad of projects that require employees who are motivated, resilient and competent enough. Goal setting as a way of motivating employees comes with its own cost if it is to be successful. Firstly, there are five core principles which human resource management should bear in mind for this theory to be fruitful: the set goals should be clear, challenging, demonstrate high level of task complexity, have a feedback system and also demonstrate commitment (Boxall Purcell, 2011). The congruency of a variety of human resource measures adopted by a firm largely depends on how the vertical fir has been applied. The strategies being pursued by an organisation should be well outlined under the vertical fit. It is against this backdrop that a firm may run into demand for creating a human resource platform that is consistent with its goals and objectives (Lado Wilson, 1994). Hence, the attainment of either the horizontal or vertical fit requires strict adherence to certa in factors. These factors are also known as determinants of fit and are helpful in boosting the performance of a firm. Therefore, the performance of a firm especially in line with strategic management of human resource is dependent on these determinants. First, there are factors that lie within the human resource functions namely the policy governing human resource development within a firm, the various options adopted by a firm when deploying human resource as well as budget allocation for human resource department in addition to investment plan adopted by the firm. It is vital to note that each of these human resource function factors significantly contribute to the overall fitness of a firm. For example, investment plan or budgetary allocation determines how well a firm will run financially. Any slight interference with the investment plan or budgetary needs of a firm will grossly affect the overall performance. The second cluster of the determinants of fit fall under personal fa ctors. It is commonplace for organizations to emphasize other factors that may improve profitability of a firm while at the same time underestimate or completely ignore the relevance of personal factors. One of such factors is the capability of human resource managers to affectively run the affairs of deploying workers. Ability and talent vary from one human resource manager to another. There are common elements which all managers will often posses. However, unique capabilities such as talent is a preserve of the few successful organizations frequently seek to not only hire experts from formal training, they also emphasize the need for talent consideration as part and parcel of improving human resource development. In addition to the abilities portrayed by both top and intermediate managers, employees in the lower levels in a firm should be considered when building a strong workforce. An organisation should make use of skills, knowledge and competences of its employees to the optimu m. Finally, there are firm level factors that significantly contribute to both vertical and horizontal fit. The nature of strategy adopted by a firm is crucial. A well enhanced business strategy will enable a business organisation to have the right direction and be able to know whether the business life is in the right path. In addition, values and cultures embraced by a firm are vital in accelerating growth and is an important component in strategic human resource management. Corporate culture refers to a belief system, a set of attitude that can be shared as well as normalities that are transmitted among the members of an organisation (Wei, 2006). Through the corporate culture, the acceptable conduct of employees is outlined. When an organizational culture is clear, every member is aware of their roles and responsibilities in addition to what they anticipate from the company. Hence, through the corporate culture, the image of the company can be visualized Change management within an organisation is also pertinent as part and parcel of both horizontal and vertical fit. This organizational component is a direct determinant of performance and unless it is strategically handled by human resource managers, business failure will be inevitable. Organisational change and management is a momentous practice that cannot be eluded by managers at any level of an organisational hierarchy. Although change may be resisted at the point of initiation, it is imperative to note that proper assessment of the changes being effected should be done so that optimum benefits are derived. Besides, the sentiments of the group being targeted by a given change should be noted keenly so that the very change is not substantially resisted to an extent that it fails to meet its goals. Organisational change has two important elements worth considering. The first important aspect is the organisational change management that is concerned with drawing people closer to the organisation in terms o f their hearty commitment towards achieving the mission and vision of the organisation (Bjorkman Fan, 2002). On the other hand, organisational design aims at restructuring the entire workforce within an organisation. This requires thorough engagement of human resource experts with the right knowledge. Although the relative importance of organisational change management is sometimes not given the seriousness it deserves, its impact on performance is enormous bearing in mind that the very change can be effected in all areas of operation such as in health and safety. References Bjorkman, I., Fan, X. (2002). Human resource management and the performance of western firms in China. International Journal of Human Resource Management, 13(6): 853-864. Bowen, D.E., Ostroff, C. (2004). Understanding HRM-firm performance linkages: The role of the ‘strength’ of the HRM system. Academy of Management Review, 29 (2), 203-221. Boxall, P Purcell, J. (2011). Strategy and Human Resourc e Management (3rd ed.), London: Palgrave Macmillan. Chan, L.L.M., Shaffer, M.A., Snape, E. (2004). In search of sustained competitive advantage: The impact of organizational culture, competitive strategy and human resource management practices on firm performance. International Journal of Human Resource Management, 15(1): 17-35. Fey, C.F., Bjorkman, I. (2001). The effect of human resource management practices on MNC subsidiary performance in Russia. Journal of International Business Studies, 32(1): 59-75. Lado, A.A., Wilson, M.C. (1994). Human resource systems and sustained competitive advantage: a competency-based perspective. Academy of Management Review, 19(4): 699-727. Osterman, P (2000). Work reorganization in an era of restructuring: trends in diffusion and impacts on employee welfare. Industrial and Labor Relations Review, 53(2): 179-196. Wei, L. (2006). Strategic Human Resource Management: Determinants of Fit, Research and Practice in Human Resource Management, 14(2): 49- 60. Wei, L.Q., Lau, C.M. (2005). Market orientation, HRM importance and HRM competency: Determinants of SHRM in Chinese firms. International Journal of Human Resource Management, 16(10): 1901-1918. This essay on The design and implementation of sets of ‘strategic’ human resource practices continues to lack coherence and consistency was written and submitted by user L1ndsey to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Pinterest Tips for Freelance Writers

Pinterest Tips for Freelance Writers Like many people, I used to see the social-networking site Pinterest as merely a place to show pictures of pretty clothes and yummy food. Yet the more I learned about the marketing possibilities of Pinterest, the more I realize that I (and you) can use Pinterest to boost freelancing income. First, understand the demographics. Youll reach lots of women. In fact, 80 percent of Pinterest users are women, according to Digital Marketing Ramblings. That means that if you write stuff popular with women, such as romance novels and health articles, you stand first in line. Then, use the boards to show facets of your career and life. For example, even though I have a board for my freelancing, I also pin pictures of food, fashion, cute male celebrities. If you head to my Pinterest account, youll see that I adore the actor Justin Theroux. I also like cupcakes. Pinterest Analytics, like Google Analytics, generates comprehensive statistics on a specific websites traffic, helping marketers in their campaigns. It collects data on the percentage of change within a specific time, determining whether a product becomes more or less popular, and it guides marketing agencies towards changing strategies to gain more popularity. Oftentimes, marketing agencies change the visual content of their pins to appeal to the Pinterest community. While only certain companies such as Salesforce and Hootsuite are given access to Pinterest Analytics data, you can use a rough version of analytics to figure out the popularity of your content. So if you start a board showing pins of your published writing, create pins that show writing that appeal to the mostly-female community. Youll become more popular pinning about a traditional recipe for chocolate-chip cookies than pinning about sports or other stuff that appeals mostly to men. Like Facebook and Twitter, Pinterest uses â€Å"following† and messaging to connect users to each other. In 2014, Pinterest introduced instant messaging, a faster way to share content. When one of your followers repins or like your pin, contact them directly. Your follower will appreciate your personal response and will potentially make your boards more popular among her own followers. Youll also find boards of fellow freelance writers. For example, I went to Google and typed in â€Å"Pinterest freelance writing boards.† One of the many results was a board for breaking into regional parenting magazines. I studied the content of this board and gained potential markets for my parenting articles. I also found boards on freelance writing tips, resources. To attract more traffic to your Pinterest platform, start a board full of your own tips. Repin and like the freelancing pins that you especially connect to. In 2015, Pinterest celebrates its fifth anniversary. Its grown from a home business with 5,000 users to a valuable resource for companies such as The Gap and political wives such as Ann Romney and Michelle Obama. Use some tactics from content strategists to take your freelancing to another level. Enclosed are several resources for freelance writers who also use Pinterest: Time names Pinterest.com one of the best websites of 2011 time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,2087815_2088159_2088155,00.html Pinterest more popular than LinkedIn, YouTube, and Google+ http://mashable.com/2012/02/01/pinterest-traffic-study/ Pinterest drums up more business that Facebook washingtonpost.com/business/technology/pinterest-vs-facebook-whose-users-spend-more/2012/05/09/gIQATXkoCU_story.html 140 Amazing Pinterest Stats http://expandedramblings.com/index.php/pinterest-stats/#.U5E-wpRdWzd The official website pinterest.com/

Pregnancy and Humans in Space

Pregnancy and Humans in Space No matter where they live, many people eventually end up having kids, even in some of the most out-of-the-way spots on the planet. But, will they be able to live and work in space and have children? Or on the Moon? Or on Mars? Humans being humans, they will very likely try. Whether they succeed or not depends on a lot of factors. One vision of Mars habitats that will provide shelter for astronauts as they learn to explore the planet. Eventually, they could be raising families on the Red Planet, in more extensive habitats that may well be underground. What will those children be like?. NASA As humans prepare for a future off Earth, mission planners are finding answers to a number of questions about long-term space residency. One of the most perplexing is Can women get pregnant in space? Its a fair one to ask since the future of humans in space depends on our ability to reproduce out there. Is Pregnancy Possible in Space? The technical answer to that question is: yes, its possible to become pregnant in space. Theres nothing known about being in space that would prevent egg and sperm from uniting to make a baby. Of course, a woman and her partner need to be able to actually have  sex in space  in order to for those cells to get together in the first place. Additionally,  both she and her partner must  be fertile. Cycles infertility can be checked, and the mom and dad could then choose the right time to make that space baby. However, theres more required than doing the deed. It turns out there are significant other hurdles that stand in the way of having what it takes to make a baby and then  remaining pregnant once fertilization takes place. Barriers to Child-bearing in Space The primary problems with becoming and remaining pregnant in space are radiation and low-gravity environments. Its important to understand both.  Ã‚   The Moon has practically no atmosphere and no way to filter out harmful radiation. Humans living there would face some radiation danger from solar particles and cosmic rays. This could have a profound effect on a couples ability to start a family.   NASA Radiation can affect a mans sperm count, rendering him infertile, possibly permanently. It can also harm a developing fetus. Radiation hazards exist here on Earth, too, as anyone who has taken a medical x-ray or who works in a high-radiation environment knows. Its why both men and women are usually supplied with protective aprons when they get x-rays or other diagnostic work. The idea is to keep stray radiation from interfering with egg and sperm production. Once an embryo is created, its subject to the same radiation dangers as the mother. Conditions that Could Interfere with Pregnancy Lets say that conception happens after a couple gets together on the space station or during a trip to Mars or even after they land on the Red Planet. The radiation environment in space (or on Mars) is severe enough that it would prevent cells in the fetus from replicating. Thus, no baby would be brought to term.   Mars has a thicker atmosphere than the Moon, but it still is not enough to shield humans from radiation. This is another place where humans could face difficulties conceiving and birthing children. Credit:NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS In addition to the high radiation, astronauts live and work in very low-gravity environments. The exact effects are still being studied in detail on lab animals (such as rats). However, its very clear that a gravity environment is needed for proper bone development and growth. When astronaut Scott Kelly (and others) spent long periods on the International Space Station,  they showed significant changes in their health. Similar issues could affect a developing fetus. Such atrophy is why astronauts have to exercise in space regularly in order to prevent muscle atrophy and loss of bone mass. A growing embryo or fetus could be permanently altered, right down to the DNA. Solutions to the Radiation Problem Clearly, if people are to venture out into space on a more permanent basis (like extended trips to Mars) radiation hazards need to be minimized, not just for the adults but for any possible children born on the trips.  But how to do that? Astronauts taking extended trips into space will be on ships that are likely not to provide the heaviest radiation shielding. Once they get to Mars, for example, theyll be subjected to a lot of radiation on the surface that is not stopped by the thin atmosphere. Also, the lower gravity on Mars (and on the Moon, for those who migrate there), will be an issue.   The Orion crew capsule (shown here in water recovery testing) is a typical crew-carrying spacecraft that is shielded to protect astronauts from most radiation. Special precautions and materials must be used to protect crew members. Future spacecraft will need similar protective environments. NASA   So if permanent residencies are ever going to exist on Mars or the Moon, like those proposed by Dr. Mae Jemison for the  Hundred-year Starship, then better shielding technology would have to be developed. Since NASA is already thinking of solutions to these problems, its likely that radiation will cease to become as big a threat as it is now. Overcoming the Gravity Problem The problem of a lower gravity environment may be more difficult to overcome if humans are to successfully reproduce in space. Life in low gravity affects a number of body systems, including muscular development and eyesight. So, it may be necessary to supply an artificial gravity environment in space to mimic what humans evolved to expect here on Earth. The good news is there are some spacecraft designs in the pipeline, like the Nautilus-X, that employ artificial gravity designs. These use centrifuges that would allow for at least a partial gravity environment on part of the ship. Anyone who has ridden a ride such as the Mission Space experience at Disney Worlds EPCOT center has felt the gravitational effects that a centrifuge can supply.   The problem with such designs is that they cant yet replicate a full gravity environment, and even then occupants would be constrained to one part of the ship located in the centrifuge. This would be difficult to manage. Further exacerbating the problem is fact that the spacecraft needs to land. So what do people do once on the ground in a low-gravity environment on a place like Mars? The Future in Space: No Kids in Space Yet Ultimately, the long-term solution to the problem is the development of anti-gravity technology. Such devices are still a long way off. However, if spaceship technology could somehow manipulate gravity then it would create an environment where a woman could carry a fetus to term. Until that is a possibility, humans going to space currently are very likely using birth control to prevent stillbirths and miscarriages. If they are having sex, its a well-kept secret. But there have been no known pregnancies in space.   Nonetheless, humans will have to face a future that includes space-born and Mars- or Moon-born children. These people will be perfectly adapted to their homes, and oddly enough- the Earth environment will be alien to them. It will certainly be a very brave and interesting new period in human history!   Edited and updated by Carolyn Collins Petersen.

The Crown of Palaces Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The Crown of Palaces - Essay Example The significance of Taj Mahal lies in the fact that, the building is a piece of art which has surpassed all boundaries of calligraphy and symbolic beauty. . The monument depicts the art and culture of multiple Asian ethnicity and architectural elements of it is worth exploring technically and artistically. The paper will specifically examine the structure of tomb and the architectural sophistication and elements involved in it. I will be exploring the historical value of the monument along with its constructional method, structural design planning .and the intelligence behind it. Taj Mahal is the most beautiful and extravagant construction of Mughal empire. Taj Mahal as all know is the eighth wonder of the world and the western world still look at it as a mysteriously exquisite human creation. It is said that, during day and night, Taj reflects different colors according to the brilliance of sun and moon. Taj Mahal is believed to look most stunning during the dawn and sunset time. Ea ch corner of this mausoleum has a symbolic meaning and it represented the palaces of Queens of Mughal dynasty. Taj Mahal is a part of UNESCO heritage site and invites around 2,00,000 foreigners to the country annually. This monument is not only the resting place of Mumtaz but also is the burial place of emperor Shahjahan. Taj Mahal and its architectural journey The Gateway The architecture of Taj Mahal is the finest and most charming one that the world history has seen since centuries. This building of Mughal empire has evoked, passion, mystery and inspiration among artists, architects and poets. Looking from the perspective of architectural world, Taj Mahal is a unique piece of work that gives ample space to explore and investigate regarding. The Taj Mahal is built in 42 acres of land positioning from south to north toward prestigious Indian river Yamuna. The entire Taj building consists of five constituents namely main entrance, mosque, garden, rest house, main mausoleum . Main at traction of this monument is the gateway standing at the end of water course which has Quranic calligraphy embedded on it. Apart from this, the doomed chamber of Taj Mahal which is the point of attraction was constructed in early 20th century. The gateway of sandstone has a gate constructed with pure solid silver which adds to the prowess of Mughal Empire. This door prevented the public from getting any view of the tomb until the public arrives at door itself. The main gateway of this monument is built with black stone where calligraphy of Quranic verses is sculptured. This exquisite calligraphy is the effort and skillsmanship of various artists of Shahjahan rulership.The geometrical pattern of the gate way is vertical in symmetry and depicts the elegance and extravagance of Mughal empire. The Calligraphy of Taj Mahal The calligraphy of Taj mahal is of symbolic beauty and reflects the dignity and craftsmanship of Islamic era. The Arabic inscriptions on Taj Mahal is connected to Pers ian calligrapher Amanat Khan who was resident of the Mughal court These Arabic inscription are on black marble and writings are in vertical and horizontal strokes give out grid like appearance. As per

Moral Issues In Business Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Moral Issues In Business - Research Paper Example Moral Issues In Business Amazon’s product-service has two components: a service component and a product component. The service component has a product-service mix width of two, since the company provides two types of services: provides customers with easy access to online purchases of goods at a fee; and provides sellers with an online platform to sell their goods and services through Amazon’s library of software. The product component of Amazon’s product-service mix has a very large width that is undeterminable since the company provides customers with almost all types of products. Similarly, the length, depth and consistency of the product mix are indeterminately large (Griffin, 626). Some aspects of Amazon’s operations are characteristic of a manufacturing organization while some are characteristic of those of a service organization. The manufacturing aspects are manifest in the company’s library of software. Although Amazon provides this software for free to merchants and independent programmers, it charges a fee when these users use the software to sell their products and services through Amazon. Amazon’s operations that are characteristic of a service organization include the online platform it provides to its customers, which enables them to purchase goods through a simple mouse click. What I have read in real life for the Americans is that as a result of wealth accumulation under control by a few, the interest of laborers in the USA gets less attention and importance to the business entities. Since the interest of capitalism is profits and it relies on supply and demand, the management of an enterprise seeks out ways and means to lower labor costs in order to make its products and/or services more competitive.

Radio and Media Policy :: essays research papers fc

Some may ask why care about the radio and media (radio) policy? Because the radio shapes our views on the issues that we care most about. All our opinions are formed by information — and while some of that information may come from personal experience, we get much of what we know from the (radio). There must not be a deregulation; it would be detrimental to us all. Toomey’s argument is that radio is a community resource that is being misused, and she is a making a call to action for people to get involved with restoring that resource. According to Billboard Bulletins, one of the most important arguments presented by those opposing the deregulation, a letter signed by 30 major recording artists was sent to Michael Powell, chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The letter is in response to probable FCC plans to eradicate remaining cross-ownership rules. The letter warns Powell that further deregulation of the radio industry will have a negative impact on access to diverse viewpoints and will impede the functioning of our democracy. The artists say that previous radio deregulation has backfired, resulting in reduced marketplace competition, reduced programming diversity and the homogenization of play lists, reduced public access to the airwaves for local programming, and reduced public satisfaction with listening options.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Deregulating the industry will decrease the amount of market place competition. There is little proof that any deregulation of the industry has ever lead to increased market competition. Common sense says that there is really no way decreasing the number of competitors on the market will increase competition. According to the Chicago Maroon this possible deregulation stands to abolish six key rules on media ownership limits, including a newspaper/television cross-ownership rule (no firm can own a newspaper and TV station in the same market), a cap on radio ownership (no firm can own more than 8 radio stations in a single market), and a cap on TV network ownership (no firm can own more than one of the four major TV networks). Removing any or all of these rules would likely unleash a huge wave of consolidation of commercial media firms and make our schlock-driven and commercially-saturated mass media yet more schlock-driven and commercially-saturated. There can only be few who want this deregulation to take place, the owners and shareholders of these billion dollar companies who want to fill their pockets even more full.

Biblical Counseling

In the field of counselling, the primary considerations that those in the field who are practicing directly or indirectly have something to do with the previously held belief system, or the worldview or philosophy behind the notion of human behaviour. This goes to say that one who ventures into the business of healing and curing emotions and psychological problems must get into a thorough understanding of his/her personal approach to the study of human behaviour.The counselor seeks to explain human nature, the issue of sin or prbably emphasizing or reducing the Scriptural mandate and God’s verdict (whichever side he/she is on), and which eventually dictates intervention strategies, if any. The basic counselling idea common to or held by most psychologists increases the likelihood that the biblical understanding can be very challenging to get into, much less, practice. It is even bold as to say that counselling in whatever front is basically â€Å"religious† in nature be cause in the end, what is upheld or emphasized by the counselor expresses deep-rooted philosophy or religious beliefs.The paper’s assumption then is to provide an impetus that â€Å"sells† biblical counselling as superior, efficacious, and more attractive than the psychology models touted today. It tackles the presuppositions of both psychology and biblical counselling and the arguments in each of the specific aspects that are recognizable as valid or invalid. Discussion Counseling in the field of psychology and biblical counselling At best, psychology prefers to integrate counselling from biblical perspective as well as blend these with what is categorized as empirically tested techniques posited by psychologists.The basic way of doing the â€Å"amalgamation† or integration is that the Christian worldview takes precedence over the rest of the approaches. Although many of the concepts and premises of each theory mentioned are sound and at times efficacious, when it clashes with the faith-based theory, the former must give way to the latter. Interpreting a problem that a client suffers for instance, entails that the theoretical viewpoint that a practitioner is convinced with, expressly has better chances of properly understanding the maladjustments that the client had been suffering.To come up with the balanced worldview (an integration in other words), the balance between the realms mentioned, including the true frame of human individuals and the true nature of God (or theology) are properly considered. Thoroughly accepting the fact that there is no contest between the natural and the spiritual; only that troubles arise when one realm is overemphasized at the expense of another. This thin line or slight tension between the two levels is best expressed in the personhood of Jesus Christ, who was a perfect man as well as God.If a person starts to equate one self and others with that notion (which is usually happening) and he/she starts to thi nk that he/she is balanced, then this person surely lacks understanding or real self-awareness of the fact that he/she is deeply and seriously out of balance and this is one reason why he/she needs help. Christian counseling admittedly embraces in reality, a basic integration of the biblical precepts on the view of man and psychology’s scientific breakthroughs in addressing the dilemmas that beset human individuals.Depending on the persuasion of the practitioner, especially whether he or she comes from either the purely theological or â€Å"secular† preparation, Christian counseling can either lean to certain degrees of theology or psychology. According to Larry Crabb, â€Å"If psychology offers insights which will sharpen our counseling skills and increase our effectiveness, we want to know them. If all problems are at core spiritual matters we don’t want to neglect the critically necessary resources available through the Lord by a wrong emphasis on psychologi cal theory† (Crabb in Anderson et al, 2000).Dr. Crabb’s position certainly ensures that science in particular, has its place in counseling in as much as theology does. He made sure that all means are addressed as the counselor approaches his profession, especially in the actual conduction of both the diagnostic and therapeutic or intervention phases (Crabb in Anderson et al. , 2000). Trauma inducing and crisis triggering situations have spiraled its occurrence and in its primacy in the US and in many other countries in recent years.Its broad spectrum ranges from the national disaster category such as that of Hurricane Katrina or the 911 terrorist strikes in New York, Spain and England, to private instances such as a loved one’s attempt at suicide, the murder of a spouse or child, the beginning of mental illness, and the worsening situation of domestic violence (Teller et al, 2006). The acute crisis episode is a consequence of people who experience life-threatenin g events and feel overwhelmed with difficulty resolving the inner conflicts or anxiety that threaten their lives.They seek the help of counselors, paramedics and other health workers in crisis intervention centers to tide them over the acute episodes they are encountering. These are defining moments for people and must be adequately addressed else they lead lives with dysfunctional conduct patterns or disorders (Roberts et al, 2006). In the integrated or eclectic approach the goal of the therapy is not just relief to the patient or client. Although an immediate relief is very helpful, this may not always be the case in most illnesses.The goal as mentioned in the preceding pages is to provide long-term reduction of the symptoms and the occurrence of the disease altogether if possible. The management then is not impossible but neither is this easy. Specifically, the counselee or patient must want to heal or believe that there is going to be curative effects in the process. It presuppo ses that he/she must learn to trust the therapist in his/her capabilities as well in leading or facilitating the changes or modifications.It is very much essential that (in the perspective of a cognitive-behaviorist) that the client understands ownership to the deeds and choices in thought patterns he/she made are crucial to the recurring or occurring condition that s/he experiences (Rubinstein et al. , 2007; Corey, 2004). Basic Biblical Counseling Premises: †¢ View of human nature from psychological viewpoint Personality is more than poise, charm, or physical appearance. It includes habits, attitudes, and all the physical, emotional, social, religious and moral aspects that a person possesses.However, to be more precise, the explicit behavioral styles, perhaps, best captivate an individual’s personality and how he/she is understood. With the different behavioral styles, an overall pattern of various characteristics is seen. Like a â€Å"psychograph,† a personâ₠¬â„¢s profile is pulled together and at a glance, the individual can be compared with other people in terms of relative strengths and weaknesses (Corey 2005). Psychologists recognize there is often a fine line between mental health and mental illness. For them, it is important to understand that mental illnesses vary in their severity.For example, many adolescents suffered from various levels of anxiety or depression. Others have suffered from serious mental disorders with biological origins. Education about the adolescents` mental illness is vital for those with mental health problems as well as for the adolescents` friends and family (Corey 2005). The major force or forces responsible for the origin and development of an individual’s personality is best understood in the different perspectives. In the cognitive approach alone, it understands that an individual at varying times in his life has error-filled thinking patterns.These patterns may include wishful thinking, unreal istic expectations, constant reliving and living in the past or even beyond the present and into the future, and overgeneralizing. These habits lead to confusion, frustration and eventual constant disappointment. This therapeutic approach stresses or accentuates the rational or logical and positive worldview: a viewpoint that takes into consideration that we are problem-solvers, have options in life and not that we are always left with no choice as many people think.It also looks into the fact that because we do have options then there are many things that await someone who have had bad choices in the past, and therefore can look positively into the future. Cognitive-Behavioral approach â€Å"facilitates a collaborative relationship between the patient and therapist† (Ellis & Beck in Corey, 2004). For the Cognitive Behaviorist viewpoint, issues are dealt directly in a practical way. Here the client is enlightened as to the patterns of his thinking and the errors of these thou ghts which bore fruit in his attitudes and behavior.His/her thoughts and beliefs have connections on his/her behavior and must therefore be â€Å"reorganized. † For instance, the ways that a client looks at an issue of his/her life will direct the path of his reactivity to the issue. When corrected at this level, the behavior follows automatically (Rubinstein et al. , 2007; Corey, 2004). The systems theory portion of the therapy indicates that whatever is occurring or happening is not isolated but is a working part of a bigger context.In the family systems approach then, no individual person can be understood when removed from his relationships whether in the present or past, and this is specially focused on the family he belongs to (Rubinstein et al. , 2007; Corey, 2004). The Existential approach, as put forward by Nietzsche, Kierkegaard, Sartre, Heidegger, Rollo May, and Frankl, believes that the individual’s potential may lie dormant but that it is there waiting to be ushered in time.It recognizes that man is able to achieve great heights and that these are just waiting to be tapped not only by him/herself but that also when helped by a practitioner who is persuaded of this notion. It examines such major issues as free will and the challenges of exercising this free will, the issue of mortality, loneliness and in general, the meaning of life. That Cognitive-Behavioral, Existential, humanistic & Family Systems eclectic approach primarily involves the incorporation of distinct concepts within a single framework. †¢ Human Suffering I. Origin of SufferingSuffering is one of the symptoms of this life’s abnormality. If not for the revelation found in the Bible, there would be no other option but to accept the state of affairs in life as it is. This means that since suffering has been a part of the history of humanity, it has to be accepted as part and parcel of a normal life. However, looking at it in a biblical perspective, although suf fering is part of the human existence in this world, the fact of the matter is: it has not always been a part of life. It came into the picture only after the fall of the first couple – Adam and Eve.The Bible is clear about this, as stated in Romans 5:12 and in many other passages found in the Holy Writ. This biblical truth is important, foundational, and essential in dealing with many questions regarding suffering – and in particular, as philanthropists and charitable organizations endeavor to alleviate suffering on the children of Africa. Presently, the bleak outlook being presented pertaining to African children today are presented in two potentially devastating outcomes which might happen as results of the already destructive current crisis. The first one is the prospect (according to researchers) of death by the millions.An organization which aims to help the suffering children of Africa has estimated that by the year 2025, an estimated number of people as enormou s as 85 million may die because HIV/AIDS crisis (Blake, 2006). Second is, the inevitable outcome which will take place as the direct result of the first – children being orphaned because of the projected genocidal death toll at 2025. The same organization calculated that on that same year, 55 million children might have been orphans already. Nations and governments and charitable organizations have been mobilized ever since to help these human disasters and all of the possible ramifications.Although, evil as it manifests in many forms in life has been here already for centuries, and perhaps, as early as recorded histories could recall, the current crisis of AIDS in African continent is the most recent form of lashing. It has to be noted, lest the focus gets sidetracked to different issues which are at best symptoms of the real disease, that all of the troubles that have been pestering the existence of man on this planet are just necessary effects of sin and rebellion against God.It is to be noted though that it is never the intention of this paper to aggravate the sufferings of African people by putting the blame on them or by making them feel worse than what they are now. As was stated early on, at the heart of this thesis is the objective to help by elucidating on the true predicament of man’s existence by pointing out that which is biblical, or the biblical diagnosis on things. It really helps and better prepares the sick person to face his/her true condition by first properly diagnosing the illness.It doesn’t help if the mind continues to be in a state of uncertainty and fear because it is sure of something which could be fatal. Also, it will not help keeping the real problem under the sheets, all along hoping that it will just leave by itself, because it will not. And so, the Bible is crucially significant in addressing the issue of evil and suffering. 1. ) Death Came As A Result Of Sin. Nothing threatens the prospect of a good life t han the possibility of an imminent death.A positive vista of life – happy family, burgeoning business, and flourishing career – is easily clouded by fear when suddenly something final as death comes into the scene. Death is seen as the ultimate because it can put a period on the otherwise happy and full of promise subsistence. One theologian explained the statement of Apostle Paul in Romans 5:12 in a way that points to sin as the real culprit why there are pain, sickness, and weakness in man’s physical body. He said, in effect that, had it not been for Adam’s sin there would be no sickness in the world in the first place.Remember that death is the maturity of weakness and sickness in the body. All illnesses lead to eventual death. What the Bible is telling us about sickness, weakness, and any form of suffering endured in the body – whether mental or physical suffering – result inevitably to physical death. And the reality of death in this li fe was occasioned by the original sin of the first couple, Adam and Eve. Succeeding, generations after the first couple of humans, inherited sin as well as its product – death (Duffield and Van Cleave, 1987). It is also important to note that sin not only occasioned death, but it is its necessary outcome.The unanimous observation of many students of the Bible based on the narrative accounts as well as how it is described in certain passages of biblical books is that death is spiritual as also it is physical. The first time it hits humans, the first and immediate effect was spiritual in that it did not resulted in the first couple’s physical death. This spiritual death is actually more devastating than physical death because it altered everything within the human frame that it has set into motion a strong pull towards wrong directions.First, it separated man from God. It is the reason why man cannot respond to the things of God. As a dead body has no capacity for any re sponses to its surrounding whatsoever because it is dead, so is a man who is physically alive but is spiritually dead. A person who is spiritually dead does not and cannot respond to God and the things of God. As one preacher said when told by a cynic among his audience that he doesn’t feel the burden of sin in his life like what the preacher was trying to convey in his message.To that, the preacher wisely answered, â€Å"As a dead couldn’t feel a ton of garbage when placed on that body, so is the burden of sin to a spiritually dead person. † That’s why when Apostle Paul elaborated to the Romans the depravity of man, he zoomed in to the fact that at present, because humanity has chosen to abandon God – and the proof of it has affected all aspects of the human existence – God also had to leave humanity alone in its decision to leave the reality of God out of its thoughts and actions. The whole scenario is sobering especially when the Biblical perspective on this is considered.It’s very easy and normal to leave God out of the picture, and it’s actually what people want essentially as it is looked at face value. Man has effectively abandoned God and has erased any traces of Him from the very start – from the birth of a baby in a home where belief in God is optional at best, and as that baby developed into childhood, and as that child was reared in school (if opportunities for schooling was ever available, primary to college education), and eventually released to live life independently as an adult in a society whose culture ever since was godless.And the cycle goes on and on like a permanent process. Now, again, as pointed out early in this paper, all of these not so promising state of affairs can be tracked down back to Eden where life turned into a sudden shift (McArthur, 2008). Where there is spiritual death, the prospect of life is anything but imperfect and flawed everywhere. The original order o f things has been altered, and it’s not human species alone that has been terribly affected by the Fall; the whole creation has been â€Å"groaning† ever since (Rom. 8:22). 2.) Man’s Separation From God Precipitated Suffering. The first manifestations of humanity’s misery were quickly evident right after Adam and Eve violated God’s word to them. They, right then and there, realized their nakedness which before was not a cause of shame for them. What previously for them was just normal, and did not pose a problem, now they have trouble keeping it the way it was. They must cover their nakedness, and they must hide and keep themselves at a distance – where they feel somehow hidden – from God (Gen. 3:7-9).The fact that society disregards the reality of God in its system highlights the reality of spiritual separation. The cause for many of the troubles that history has witnessed since time immemorial was man’s broken relationship wi th its Creator. It has been the reason from the start, and it still is until now. God spoke through Prophet Isaiah, that it was man’s sin which has actually separated man from God (Isa. 59:2). Left alone, man naturally would not choose God, much less, His righteous ways as revealed by Him in the Bible.Contrary to what have been suggested by many considered pundits of humanities, and sadly, by many church denominations through what has been now known as the â€Å"seeker-sensitive† approach in church’s services, man is not naturally inclined to seek God and the things of the Spirit of God. And so, under this cursed condition, it is not supposed to surprise anybody who have searched and found in the Holy Scriptures that the world is in its current troubled state. There’s actually spiritual anarchy where every one is a rule unto himself. Every one does what he/she deems good in his/her perception of things.If it feels good, then probably, it is good. This is how man is running his life, and it translates into the overall landscape of society. Man sets the trend. What had been considered â€Å"wicked† of the past generation, if it is now palatable to the senses, and hence, has been slowly swallowed and embraced as â€Å"acceptable† by the media and the general public, it becomes legal and normatively harmless. Therefore, in Paul’s words, God in turn has abandoned man in his choice of abandoning the knowledge of his Creator. This is, to a large degree, the reason for many troubles and sufferings that nations and people have been seeing.If the Bible is true – and it is this paper’s contention that it is the true truth – then the unrestrained freedom and lifestyles which seem to describe the earth’s populace for a long period of time now, is actually a judgment of God. A preacher once answered those who cast all the blame on God in the wake of 911 tragedy in these words: â€Å"We have done a ll we could, and effectively, we got God out of our schools and government institutions, and now we are asking where He is in all of these? † The application of Scripture to human dilemma and the likeThe portion of Scripture where Jesus â€Å"You have heard that it was said to those of old,† making it appear that his statements seem to abrogate the laws in the Old Testament replacing them with his â€Å"new more authoritative† teachings is a misinterpretation and misunderstanding of Jesus’ true intentions. Jesus was actually bringing back the true message of the Old Testament Law which was made vague by mere traditions of men and their own hazy and humanistic understanding. The Lord was pointing out to His audience the glosses that were made on Mosaic laws which made the ancient commands with minimal effectivity or worse, no efficacy.Jesus’ example and the Pharisees’ are insights that can be gleaned with emphasis on the application of princip les of the Scriptures. A Christian easily becomes a legalist when his/her understanding of the Scriptures, like the Pharisees, is not based on the Scriptures’ intended application. There is only the possibility of communicating the proper boundaries within the set limits of the Scriptures when a Christian has grasped its clear and full implications (Clarke, 2001, Power Bible CD).In the New Testament especially in the celebrated Sermon on the Mount (Matt. 5-7), Jesus usually referred to Himself as the authority. His declarations were not prefaced with â€Å"Thus says the Lord. † To His disciples, He says â€Å"You have heard that it was said to those of old. . . but I say to you. . . .† This clearly points to the authority on Jesus. This does not mean though that Jesus was subverting the authority of God, for He Himself was God in the flesh (Jn. 1:1-3,14); He was the second Person of the Trinity manifested in the flesh.One of the things that He was pointing out a mong others was the fact that the Pharisees of His day were in grave error following the traditions of their elders, and in this particular case, in their interpretation of many scriptures. Hence, He said, â€Å"You have heard it was said. . . but now I say to you. . . .† The apostles after Him followed suit. In all of their letters they derived authority from the words of Jesus. Their letters, to put it simply, were just elaborations of Christ’s teachings (Riggs, 2nd Ed. ) ConclusionEmbracing a more Biblical approach, becoming less philosophical and laden with such themes as the absoluteness of God’s sovereignty, the world’s being under God’s righteous judgment, God’s initiative in revealing Himself and His redemptive plan in Jesus Christ, are the essential â€Å"tools† that a Biblical counselor must possess in order to present the true condition of men and persuade him/her to change. The following characteristics then must be inculc ated in a Biblical counselor 1. ) Lofty View of Holy Scriptures.This is to uphold the conviction of the reformers about the Word of God and endeavor to clarify any theological subjects in the light of the revelation that is in the Bible. Like many effective pastors or counselors, the Bible alone is authoritative for life in general. It is the rule of faith for Christians, like a solid and strong immovable post in a pier where the anchor of the ship is fastened securely. The Word of God is the object of the Christians’ faith. It’s not of course a matter of God versus His Word. The entire Holy Scriptures derived its authority from God.But since it was God who spoke them, Scriptures therefore are without question normative and authoritative. The Scriptures are the touchstone on which all so-called traditions, existential experiences, and reasonings must be tested. When any of these are found contrary to God’s revealed will in the Scriptures, they can be discarded w ithout any scruple for the true church of Christ. According to Barth (McCormack, 1995), to interpret and apply the Bible properly, one must observe certain basic rules. And one of the basics is that the interpreter must subject himself/herself to the authority of the Bible.What is the central theme of the passage? What is its subject matter? The reader then has to subordinate his thoughts and his personal convictions to the revelation that God has provided for us in His Word – the Bible. In fact, the ultimate goal of the counselor is to develop and establish the â€Å"counselee† for a dependence on God’s word. The reader’s humble subjection of self to the wisdom of the Scriptures was his exercise of freedom. The result of this continual subordination is transformation. The interpreter is being transformed in the process of grasping what God has revealed.2. ) Dynamic Application of Biblical Truths. To be reverent and true to Biblical revelation, one needs not to confine himself to the lingo of the ancient cultures through which the Biblical narratives and the actual words of the prophets were written. The reader and interpreter can speak the ideas conveyed through ancient cultures in contemporary ways. It’s not insubordination to teach the Bible thus. In fact, it’s the whole point of hermeneutics – to bridge the wide cultural gap. To be unimaginative in one’s handling of the Scriptures is tantamount to parroting mere words.There has to be fresh application if there will be change. Lack of imagination is sometimes proof of not being influenced or shaped by the ideas read. Readers have to engage and interact mentally with the passages of the Bible so that a fruitful meditation would express itself in lively and engaging discourse. 3. ) Christocentric (Christ-Centered). Jesus Christ is the primary theme of the whole Scriptures. It has been mentioned above that to Barth’s high view of the Bible, it was necessary for the interpreter to subordinate him/herself to particular text’s subject.And since, Jesus Christ is the central theme of the Bible, it is necessary to interpret Biblical passages in the light of His person. Jesus Christ is the unifying subject in all of the books of the Bible. But looking at Luke 24:27-45, and realizing that it was Jesus Himself who first advocated this methodology, it thus comes as a necessity to find the Christ in every passage of Biblical books; or at the least, sense a foreshadowing (in the Old Testament) of His coming redemptive sacrifice. Jesus alone can give unity among scriptural texts. 4. ) Passage-Based Interpretation.Karl Barth (McCormack, 1995) believes that although interpreters often bring with them their presuppositions as they approach the text, the mistake of using the Biblical text as vehicle to transmit one’s belief, can be avoided through the interpreter’s direct encounter with the objective truth as found in the biblical passage. The real meaning or intention of the author of the text is objectively separated from the interpreter. And so, to properly apply exegetical work on the passage, a serious examination of historical background, and serious study of the text’s linguistic composition must be considered thoroughly.5. ) Bound By True Church’s Essential and Classic Teachings. Like Apostle Paul, a counselor then must also believe that s/he is just a recipient of essential Christian teachings (1 Cor. 11:23-26). It would be sinful for him/her to doubt nor innovate on established biblical truths. Reference: Atkinson, R. L. , R. C. Atkinson, E. E Smith, D. J. Bem, and S. Nolen-Hoeksema (2000). Introduction to Psychology. 13th Ed. New York: Harcourt College Publishers. Clarke, Adam (2001). Commentary to Matthew. Power Bible CD. Corey, Gerald (2004).Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy. Thomson Learning, USA. Corey, Gerald (200). The Art of Integrative Counseling. A rticle 29: â€Å"Designing an Integrative Approach to Counseling Practice† Retrieved February 20, 2009 in < http://counselingoutfitters. com/vistas/vistas04/29. pdf> Crabb, Larry (2000). Found in Anderson et al resource. Christ-centered therapy. http://books. google. com/books? id=Rn- f2zL01ZwC&pg=PA11&lpg=PA11&dq=effective+biblical+counseling+by+larry+crabb +critique&source=web&ots=WFVYLIqP1n&sig=MqIhqE_XfGzIQODAKV5iMPjqz14# PPA19,M1Davison, Gerald C. and John M. Neale (2001). Abnormal Psychology. Eighth ed. John & Wiley Sons, Inc. Ellis, Albert (2001. Overcoming Destructive Beliefs, Feelings, and Behaviors: New Directions for Rational E)motive Behavior Therapy. Prometheus Books Kaplan, HI, BJ Saddock and JA Grebb (1994). Kaplan and Saddock’s Synopsis of Psychiatry: Behavioral Sciences clinical psychiatry. Baltimore: Williams and Wilkins. MacArthur, John (2008). Abandoned By God. Date Accessed: February 19, 2009. http://www. gty. org/Resources/Transcripts/45-14 McCorm ack, Bruce L. (1995).Karl Barth’s Critically Realistic Dialectical Theology. Published by Oxford University Press Inc. , New York. Pokrifka-Joe, Todd (2002). Appropriating Karl Barth's Theological Use of Scripture in Contemporary Theology. Proposed Doctoral Thesis in Theology at the University of St Andrews, St Andrews, UK. Date Accessed: February 17, 2009 at http://www. luthersem. edu/ctrf/Papers/2001_Pokrifka-Joe. htm Riggs, Ralph. The Life of Christ. 2nd ed. Scripture Quotations from New King James Bible (The Holy Bible, New King James Version. 1982). Thomas Nelson, Inc.