Executive Summary

The US inflation rate rose to 6.8% over 2021 where used car prices proved a major driver of inflation. The average used car sold for more than $27,000 in November 2021, a 27% increase in just one year. A worldwide shortage of semiconductors took place because of COVID-19, a hurdle in manufacturing new cars. More demand and low supply of cars caused inflation and used car prices have risen 45% over 12 months. However, this surge price of used cars is supposed to drop as new car inventory will improve and the chip issues would alleviate in the months ahead.

Introduction.

The annual inflation rate for the United States hit 6.2% for the 12 months of 2021, considered the highest in more than the last three decades, as measured by CPI. There are a bunch of factors involved in inflation, but used-car prices have proved a major driver of U.S. inflation in 2021. Used car prices soared by 32% in the year 2021; conversely, the price of used cars fluctuated by an average of 0.6% from 2009 to 2019 (Simes, 2022). This insane cost of a used car has risen because of high demand and low supply. The pandemic of COVID-19 disorders supply chain as a shortage in the essential auto components of vehicles such as semiconductors and chips. Shortages in semiconductors prove an obstacle in manufacturing new cars; therefore, buyers had no choice, but they had to buy used cars, which became the reason for inflation (The used-car market sent American inflation soaring, 2022).

Discussion.

The used-car market sent U. S inflation soaring in 2021.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), annual consumer-price inflation in the U. S had reached a much higher level than expected. The US inflation rate rose to 6.8% over 2021, which is the highest point since 1982. There are involved others factors, but surging prices for used cars have been a major driver of inflation in 2021. In November, the average used car sold for more than $27,000; statistically, this is a 27% increase in just one year and 41% higher than the pre-pandemic average of two years ago (What to expect in the 2022 used car market, 2022).

Graph 1: Used Car Prices are Up nearly 40% During the Pandemic.

Source: U. S BUREAU OF LABOR STATICS.

The major reason for the surge in used car prices is because of the pandemic, as the US saw auto production drop 99% during the period of covid-19. The automobile industry has become dependent on microchips, from engine management to driver assistance. The automobile industry could only build fewer cars than planned because of the worldwide microchip shortage. This short supply and more demand pushed new car prices up and many shoppers entered the used car market. Respectively, inflation took place, and the prices of used cars surged, too.

Used Car Price Bubble Predicted to Pop Soon.

Used car prices could decline by 30 percent shortly as the need for the global chip shortage is fulfilled, say in a report published by multinational financial firm KPMG. The KPMG report indicates that microchips will eventually be available enough and will facilitate automotive manufacturing to meet supply and demand. If this happens the used car market will collapse. Further, KPMG reported arguing that Americans who bought used cars during the surge in prices could find themselves driving an asset worth less than they paid for it in the time of inflation So, in case of the bubble bursts, trade-in values would crash (What to expect in the 2022 used car market, 2022).

Conclusion.

To sum up, the future of used cars as assets depends on inflation. If the high inflation period stretched and continued, this would create a new floor for used cars as assets. Otherwise, in the case interest rates were raised to lower inflation, demand would decrease, causing used car values to plunge. On the other side, The KPMG report also argues that chip supply issues would as it is until mid-2022, in the same regard, the full supplies of semiconductors will not be available until 2023, which give us a sign that perhaps the price of used vehicle will remain on a surge for at least another next 12 months (What to expect in the 2022 used car market, 2022). However, most reports and experts argue that the current frenzy in the used-car market will come to an end very soon as the microchip shortage and other supply chain problems ease.
REFERENCE.
Fortune. 2022. What to expect in the 2022 used car market. [online] Available at: <https://fortune.com/2021/11/01/used-car-prices-high-carmax-2021/> [Accessed 3 January 2022].
Gharehgozli, O., 2021. Current State of US Economy Post-Pandemic and the Future of Core Inflation. SSRN Electronic Journal,
Symes, S., 2022. Used Car Price Bubble Predicted To Pop Soon. [online] Notorious. Available at: <https://www.motorious.com/articles/news/used-car-price-bubble/> [Accessed 3 January 2022].
The Economist. 2022. The used-car market sent American inflation soaring in June. [online] Available at: <https://www.economist.com/graphic-detail/2021/07/14/the-used-car-market-sent-american-inflation-soaring-in-june> [Accessed 3 January 2022].
Advisory.kpmg.us. 2022. Used car prices could crash – will they? [online] Available at: <https://advisory.kpmg.us/articles/2021/used-car-prices-could-crash.html> [Accessed 3 January 2022].
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2022-08-16 08:26:16

Introduction.

This case study is aimed to help Managers understand leadership roles and functions in the future. It helps us to understand the function of organizations and their interrelation with people. It happens when Girish Sharma, a State Administrative Officer in Clarion, calls from his mentor to take on the challenge of a new posting. It requires him to leave the mantle of the administrative officer and work in the managerial capacity for the benefit of the rural poor. This case study calculates the entire journey, with the finest of details, in which both the chief and the organization undergo transition and transformation.

Case.

(August 2004) It was a different practice for Girish as it was a committee; this was altogether different as it was a unique form of project and deputation posting being funded by the World Bank. The journey started when he reached Narsinghpur for the office, and there was no protocol, not even a single vehicle, to reach his destination. The office was on rent, and he had never faced such an experience before. On the first day, he met with Chauvin, a district finance manager who informed me that he was on deputation posting and belonged to accounts services, and met with Dip Anker Chakravarty, who told him that his designation was a district task manager. It was how miserable the condition was that there was no person in the office. DFM told him that the Narsinghpur project never had a full-time DPM since the start of the project in the district in 2001-02. On the first day, the experience left him in a state of shock and disappointment.

Results.

After a long assessment, he decided to accept the challenge and had a long pondered with DPM and DFM. He came up with a solution. He fixed an urgent meeting with PFT, and they will scrutinize the projects. They will examine the plans. This not only resulted in clearing a huge backlog, but cross-learning across PFT was also a great outcome. When he paid to visit with the World Bank team at the time of his transfer, all crew were so impressed that they recommended a project extension for another 5 years for the entire state.

 
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2022-08-18 08:41:15

Introduction:

Many ways can be used for Excel data analysis, such as descriptive statistics and regression analysis.  As well, we use correlation matrix and graphs for comparison as regression lines; Bar charts, trend lines, etc.  The details of each aspect are given in the following section. This analysis shows that data on the section is more volatile than the course. While both variables satisfy the property of the classical linear regression model and are normally distributed with constant mean and constant variance. The result of the regression analysis shows that both variables are not related because of their highly insignificant. So, to find the appropriate relationship, we will have to add some relevant variables to the model as multiple linear regression models can remove the specification bias.

Co-Variance Analysis:

Different analyses can be run on the project of given data, which describe the demand for tutoring at the MCOB tutoring center during 2019. However, Co-variance analysis appears the most acceptable. Co-variance is about data variability. It tells us how much two random variables fluctuate together. Co-variance has resembled the variance and the variance describes how the single variable varies. Our results given in the table tell us that the covariance between both variables is almost 443444.4. Covariance and variance move together. It means the values of both variables are highly correlated with each other.

Table # 1: Co-Variance between course and section

•   Course Section
• Course 1088490
• Section 443444.4 1219263

Descriptive Statistics:

Descriptive statistics analysis is the main analysis that is required for the analysis before any regression. Descriptive statistics are considered the key part of any analysis. Descriptive statistics analysis of course and sections is following.

Table # 2: Descriptive Statistics of the course and section

1. Descriptive Statistics Course Section
2. Mean 3652.484 22057.59
3. Standard Error 38.45429 40.66836
4. Median 3304 22114
5. Mode 3302 22114
6. Standard Deviation 1044.655 1104.803
7. Sample Variance 1091304 1220590
8. Kurtosis 1.168211 -0.58067
9. Skewness 1.264636 0.674953Range 5075 4275
10. Minimum 1301 20586
11. Maximum 6376 24861
12. Sum 2695533 16278505
    Count 738 738

As in the above-given results, the mean of the course is 3652, and the mean of the section is 22057, which is higher than the mean of the section.  Moreover, the cross-comparison of both variables across time subjects and dates is given below. The standard deviation shows the dispersion of the data. It is higher in the section than in the course.

However, the standard error of the course is 38.45, while the standard error of the section is 20057.59, and the standard deviation of the course is almost like the standard deviation of the section. The maximum number of the course is around 2695533 and the maximum number of the class is 24861. From the comparison, we can see that the section on descriptive analysis is richer in numbers than the courses.

Regression analysis.

Regression analysis is mostly used to check the impact of the independent variables on the independent variable or the outcome variable.

The value of the R square is not high, and the value of the adjusted R square is also not high in the case of having one independent variable. We will check for its fluctuations with time. On the other side, its R square is also not high, so it is not a good kind of regression that proves that variables are not highly related to each other. When the R square is too low, it indicates that we have variables that we have added to the model but are irrelevant to the dependent variable. hence, in this scenario, the adjusted r square will also be lower than the explanatory model. It will decrease due to two reasons one for the decrease in the degree of freedom and the other reason due to the addition of the irrelevant variable.

Conclusion:

Based on the above analysis, it is concluded that data on the section is more volatile than on the course. Regression results show that both the coefficient and the intercept are insignificant. There is no relationship between both variables, so, it’s a spurious regression. As the ordinary least square estimate is not statistically significant, it can be concluded that it has no significant impact on the regressor on any level of significance. Moreover, when the model is not giving good estimates, it shows that there is some specification bias. it may be due to the missing variables, wrong functional form, etc. Also, graphs represent that data is stationary and that both mean and variance are constant over time. It is one of the main properties of the classical linear regression model that data is normally distributed.
Usually, the investigator seeks to verify the causal impact of one variable upon any other. So, to remove the problem, which is present in our model, we should include the independent variables that are related to the dependent variable and uncorrelated with the error term.

 
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2022-08-20 09:11:44

Introduction.

Risk analysis, risk assessment, and risk procedures are deeply rooted in investing and financing decisions. You cannot avoid risk; instead, you can identify, quantify, assess and minimize risk while taking on any investment. Risk identification, risk quantification, and risk assessment is the first stage of any investment procedure.

Risk profiling:

Risk profiling refers to a process that enables an investment advisor or financial planner to choose an appropriate level of risk for the client. Risk profiling is a combined product of three factors.

• risk tolerance
• risk required
• risk capacity
  

  Risk profiling and suitability:

Different factors combine to affect risk profiling and suitability. Usually, a financial planner or manager gets the idea of “what worse could happen”? The following questions need to be answered.

⦁ Death:

What would happen in the case of the death of the bread earner? Funeral and other charges as well as cut on the income of the person.

⦁ Health issues:

Any health problems flowing through the generations in your family? Is there any risk of serious health injury among any of the family members? What would happen if health issues dent your earnings?

⦁ Employment loss:

To what extent are you dependent on your job? Is there any other source of income? What would be your earning source if you lost your job?

⦁ Marital/Family issues:

What would be the effect of your marriage breakup on your finances? How many dependents do you have? State-sponsored dependents as well as dependents on you.

⦁ Assets and properties:

How many assets and properties do you own? Are there any pledges or lines attached to them? How would you repay your loan attached to the property and what is the percentage of the loan?
Usually, investors are divided into six categories based on the risk-taking approach and growth and returns. Which are;
⦁ Conservative
⦁ Mediocre
⦁ Balanced
⦁ Growth
⦁ Aggressive
⦁ Very aggressive

Income and expenditure analysis:

While planning your personal financial goals and financial needs. One question is most important.

“How much is enough”?

Some people get engaged in financial planning and analysis very later in their age when there is less time in retirement, which results in higher contributions and more percentage of their income.

Currently, the client has the following incomes and expenses in progress as attached to annexure A.

Currently, the Client is earning almost 27,000 per year as salary excluding a bonus. The annual increase in salary is expected to be increased by 2.5% per year, equally matching inflation, along with a 12% increase after two years. All this shows that the client has enough money to spend and he can afford to take risks So I will assess and classify him with an aggressive approach. Mr. Kayle f has ample time left, i.e. almost 28 years, plus he is expecting a pay raise of 12% after graduation.
The only major expense in the upcoming years is his Master’s degree in HRM, which too will recover with a 12% pay raise in the coming years. He had to keep a plan for some out-of-pocket expenses and scenario planning in case of job loss and spare the remaining funds for investment.

Own assets in different classes and forms but not any investing account or share. Assets include;
Current account – HSBC £101,000
Saving account – HSBC £1,200
Premium Bonds £40,000 (initial) + £300 (6 months’ gains reinvested)
Life assurance See below
ISA’s None
Unit Trusts None
Car £40,000

Cash flow and scenario analysis:

Cash flow and scenario analysis refers to dealing in different domains and funds to meet different classes of liabilities, including;
⦁ Emergency fund & protection
⦁ Pensions(occupational pension & state pension)
⦁ Buying a house
⦁ Early retirement at the age of 60

Emergency fund & protection:

An emergency fund is a fund set out of your income and family income to meet life’s unexpected events. This fund will help you in bearing your expenses in the case of any unseen and sudden expenses, such as any major injury or any major repairs, or any other expense. The value and amount of this fund depend upon several factors such as your income, size of your house, your lifestyle, your total personal budget, and your current financial standing.

Several financial and management gurus suggest different levels of emergency funds; some suggest that you should have 8 months of income as an emergency fund. some suggest you should have 3 months of your income as an emergency fund; it depends upon your age bracket and your lifestyle.

As in the case of Mr. Jasmine, he has a yearly income of around £65,000, while a net income of around £32,850. As Mr. Kayle F, is currently single and has no immediate liability except which is also going to be settled in 15 months, further he has no plan of getting married any sooner I would suggest he separate income equal to 6 months as an emergency fund; this will help him to meet his household expenses as well as any major or unexpected outcomes.
The next question is in what form funds should be kept for an emergency fund. Several options are available, but preference should be given to the most liquidated sources, i.e. either a savings account or either in cash or money market funds or any precious metal.

Pensions:

After setting up your emergency funds. The next step is to plan for your post-retirement earnings and how you would live after retiring from the profession and job. pensions funds and calculation of pension calculation are very difficult to calculate due to various factors such as inflation, the last salary of your career, your age of retirement, or early retirement. Several options are available for establishing a pension after your retirement including estate pension, occupation pension, and voluntary pension. Occupation pension is further divided into defined contribution plan and defined benefit plan.

Pension funding varies based on your lifestyle, your way of living, your expected income, and your choices. Four steps of pension planning are:

⦁ Identify the type of pension plan needed
⦁ Estimate funds required at the time of retirement
⦁ Interest prevailing and forecasted
⦁ Identify monthly contributions

After setting up an emergency fund & protection, Mr. Kayle F needs to find a way of getting pensions after retiring from the profession. We will recommend him pensions plans based on interest rates, contribution percentage, and current salary.

Mr. Kayle F should find an investment in a plan which gives more interest than average inflation and had a rate, of return equal to or greater than the mortgage rate which is 6.5%. Employer will contribute 3# of gross salary towards pension fund so I would suggest Kayle F to invest in a defined benefit plan instead of defined contribution so he would give fix periodical payment to match your post-retirement expenses and you would never be on the edge of bankrupt.

Buying a house:

Buying and financing your home is one of the most significant and biggest financial decisions you could ever make So you should take all the reasonable steps to ensure that you get the cheapest financing facility as well as your favorite house. Before deciding on a housing loan, you should save enough to pay the down payment of your home loan and you should get yourself free from other loans, i.e. credit card and mortgage to secure enough funds to pay the housing loan.

Financing agencies consider various factors before approving your home loan I.e. your credit score, your other liabilities, your approved exposure, age of your job and stability, and ability to repay.

Currently, a good apartment has a financing range of between 20-30 years and it costs around 50-60 lac GBP. Generally, your agencies allow 35-40% of your income as home rentals to get your apartment in your name. Mr. Kayle F should repay all the credit card loans, wait for another 15 months to repay the mortgage on care as well as consider economic conditions which expect interest rates to fall and then apply for home financing on which interest rate should not exceed the current interest on t-bills as it is a long-term investment, average loan and interest expense combine should not be more than 30% of your net income including bonuses and tax deductions and advance payment should not be more than 5% of the value of your home. Kayle F also needs to keep a check on inflation in housing prices, which is more than the general inflation of 2.5%.

Early retirement at the age of 60:

When people do want to retire at an early age, they should develop an ambition and vision to retire early at the very early stages of their life and career. Should follow an investment strategy named FIRE: Financial independence retire early. This strategy needs heavy funding at later stages of your career as well; you need to be financially stable to think and decide about early retirement. Another factor of early retirement is you will not be medically insured and you won’t be covered under medical insurance till the age of 65 in case of any emergency or medical illness. You have to find a way to cover the gap. Another factor that needs to be answered is to pay all of your loans and settle your liabilities five years earlier than regular, as well as you have to do all the expected tasks before retirement, such as major repairs, replacing your car, and completing renovations and other work.

Mr. Kayle F should also choose a plan from social security which is most suitable for early retirement as early receiving of benefits can reduce their benefit up to 30% So he should choose from the list which starts an early return. He should also create and plan for a 10-year buffer zone between his retirement age, i.e., 60 and 70 years; to avoid a mishap, he should invest in a high return, a high-risk plan which gives him at least a 15-20% return for the next 28 years.

Conclusion and recommendation:

The client has enough funds in the current account to finance the initial investment, plus he should transfer his funds from the current account to the investment account to

As Mr. Kayle F wants more travel in the upcoming years along with his graduate degree, as well as financing for his home and paying off the credit cards, and running finance I would suggest the following plans and steps for him;
⦁ Create an emergency fund from his salary account for 6-8 months as he is going to get admission to university so he needs additional funds to meet his expenses.
⦁ Transfer his funds in his current account to any saving account or in the form of any other liquid asset which also gives returns
⦁ Visit different pension planners and schemes.s and intuitions to decide about an adequate pension strategy and scheme
⦁ Visit different banks and talk about your credit rating and score as well as interest rates and choose wisely a 20 years mortgage plan having interest not more than 4.5%i.e. less than 10 years of the loan.
⦁ Choose a pension institution that gives benefits before the age of 65. Get an insurance plan to cover the gap of 5 years between health insurance schemes and your retirement age.
⦁ Financial planning should give recommendations about any associated companies and pension schemes with good returns.
⦁ I had suggested a more aggressive strategy for investing and financing their future goals and in ads as 15%-20% risk in opposition to 85% growth for their 60% of the investment.
⦁ For the remaining 40%, he should invest one hyper-aggressive scheme which gives a 25-30% return.
At last financial planners and institutions don’t enforce or ask to enforce their recommendations, and the decision rests with the client to either accept the proposal or reject the proposal.

References

⦁ CFA, A., 2020. Investment Risk Profiling: A Guide for Financial Advisors [WWW Document]. CFA Institute. URL https://www.cfainstitute.org/en/research/industry-research/investment-risk-profiling (accessed 12.9.21).

⦁ financial planning [WWW Document], n.d. . Jama Punji. URL https://jamapunji.pk/financial-planning/retirement-planning (accessed 12.9.21).

⦁ Fowler, J., 2021. Why an Emergency Fund Is More Important Than Ever [WWW Document]. Investopedia. URL https://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/0812/why-an-emergency-fund-is-important.aspx (accessed 12.9.21).

⦁ How to Assess a Financial Client’s Risk Profile – dummies [WWW Document], n.d. . dummies. URL https://www.dummies.com/careers/how-to-assess-a-financial-clients-risk-profile/ (accessed 12.9.21).

⦁ Kagan, J., 2021. Retirement Planning [WWW Document]. Investopedia. URL https://www.investopedia.com/terms/r/retirement-planning.asp (accessed 12.9.21).

⦁ Kurt, D., 2021. Emergency Funds [WWW Document]. Investopedia. URL https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/emergency_fund.asp (accessed 12.9.21).

⦁ Maverick, J.B., 2021. The Importance of a Client’s Risk Assessment [WWW Document]. Investopedia. URL https://www.investopedia.com/articles/investing-strategy/082916/importance-clients-risk-assessment.asp (accessed 12.9.21).

⦁ Napoletano, E., 2020. How To Retire Early: A Guide To Early Retirement [WWW Document]. Forbes. URL https://www.forbes.com/advisor/retirement/guide-to-early-retirement/ (accessed 12.9.21).

⦁ Scenario Analysis [WWW Document], n.d. . Corporate Finance Institute. URL https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/knowledge/modeling/scenario-analysis/ (accessed 12.9.21).

⦁ The importance of matching income to expenditure [WWW Document], 2015. . University of Cambridge. URL https://www.finance.admin.cam.ac.uk/policy-and-procedures/financial-procedures/chapter-2-budgetary-planning-control/monitoring-and-6-1 (accessed 12.9.21).

⦁ The importance of planning: How cash flow analysis can help – Holden & Partners [WWW Document], 2019. . Holden & Partners. URL https://www.holden-partners.co.uk/the-importance-of-planning-ahead-how-cash-flow-analysis-can-help/ (accessed 12.9.21).

⦁ Williams, T., 2021a. 6 Prerequisites for Buying a House [WWW Document]. Investopedia. URL https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/091415/5-financial-prerequisites-buying-house.asp (accessed 12.9.21).

⦁ Your Risk Profile [WWW Document], n.d. . Canaccord Genuity Wealth Management Australia Logo. URL https://www.canaccordgenuity.com/wealth-management-australia/investment-management/your-risk-profile/ (accessed 12.9.21).

Annexure-A

• Per month (£) Per year (£)
• Earned income (gross) £65,000
• Dividend income (net)* £450*
• Premium bond income (net)** £50** 600
• *Estimate
• **Average
• Interest Received £150 1,800
• Total 67,850

Outgoings

• Total 32,150
• Net income before interest 32,850
• Fewer loans 5,636
• Net income 27,214

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2022-08-21 09:26:42

Facts:

Luke is an employee of the ABC company. He has been asked to work on a project that involves building an adult entertainment retail store on an ABC Company development. Luke’s brother, Owen, lives next to the planned development. It has come to Luke’s attention that once the development is made public, property values in Owen’s neighborhood will drop significantly.

Issue:

Luke has a dilemma either should he disclose his development plan for Owen or keep his knowledge of this adult entertainment development confidential? This is an ethical issue, as there are two sets of positive values: loyalty to Luke’s company or loyalty to Luke’s brother. If Luke Keeps his knowledge confidential, his brother will suffer, whereas if Luke discloses the information to his brother, he will probably face consequences at work. Luke has to choose between either one; his ethical obligation to the company or economizing his brother from a future financial loss.

Ethical Theories:

Two approaches to business ethics,

1) Golden Rule and

2) Virtue Ethics are used for the analysis of the business ethics issue.

The Golden Rule:

According to the principle of The Golden Rule, one should treat others as one wants to be treated. in our case, Mr. Luke can disclose the forthcoming plans of Mr. Owens, so that he will be aware of a predicted loss. Consideration of others will lead to companies performing better. Regarding this rule, Owen should be treated with truthfulness, as Owen has a plan to sell his property. One would not take advantage of someone or lie to get ahead. One should treat people honestly and fairly in business because s/he wants to be treated in the same way. So, it would be truthful, considerate, and fair in how you treat others if Luke informs Owen about the upcoming situation.

Virtue Ethics:

Aristotelian Virtue ethics argue that we acquire virtue through practice. Virtue ethics deal with a person’s nature rather than with ethical duties and rules, or the consequences of particular actions. Virtue ethics in business focuses on the individual employee morality definition such as How do they behave and what are their values? Further, Aristotle suggests that there is not one single good as morality is relative. So, in our case, Aristotelian virtue ethics provided flexibility to Luke so that he could disclose the information to his brother. From the case, it is clear that Mr. Luke’s virtues and ethics would be in abiding by the rules and privacy policy of the ABC company.

What Should Luke Do About it:

As a member of the Ethics Department of ABC Company, it is my responsibility to advise Mr. Luke to take the best course of action. He shares ethical responsibility with the company and provides information to his brother. By following – The Golden Rule and Virtue Ethics, I will encourage Mr. Luke to educate his brother about the upcoming plans for the development of land recently purchased by ABC to build an adult entertainment retail store.

Disclosing any sort of confidential information regarding the company is unethical and Mr. Luke should keep his personal or social interests separate from the company’s interests but in this case, especially if we follow The Golden Rule and Virtue Ethics, Luke seems to have the flexibility to educate his brother. There would be no direct loss to ABC company if Luke disclosed the information, but Owen’s property value will decrease, so Golden Rule allows Luke to communicate about the issue. Also, the ABC company plans to build an adult entertainment retail store which is not considered a good ethical business, so virtues ethics theory, too, allows Luke to inform Owen.
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2022-08-22 09:58:04

CASE STUDY PROJECT
REPORT

Summary of the Situation:

Introduction.

The introduction should gain attention, have a clear thesis, and preview the main points.
A summary of the situation (This section should not contain analysis)

•  Briefly familiarize your audience with the relevant people, issues, and facts in the case.
• Concerns and Issues:
• Corporate-Wide Issues:

⦁ Poor Visioning Across the Entire Organization

Third Bank wants to shift its organizational culture to a “participative organization” and transition to a company where teams are self-driven and every voice is heard. This is the company’s new vision Communicating and implementing the vision effectively is integral to successfully transforming the organization (Testa 2001).

Third Bank did not effectively communicate this new vision to all their branches and employees. This is evident from the behavior displayed by managers at various Third Bank firms. Many managers believe strongly in the classical management style, which prioritizes hierarchy, separation of power, and bureaucracy. These managers do not have buy-in to the new vision of a participative organization; rather, they are disinterested in the vision. A probable reason for their apathy and rejection may be that they have an entrenched mental model that prevents them from picturing the change.

Entrenched mental models are fixed thought structures that influence how people make decisions and opinions. Another reason might be that the vision was not communicated well. Visions are effective when the organization adapts them to its audience and highlights the values that the change will bring. The managers may have felt overwhelmed and uncomfortable with such a transformational change. They may not have identified any meaningful values because of the vision, therefore preventing them from buying into the change.

Branch Specific Issues:

⦁ Poor Organizational Communication Skills

The Third Bank branch in Carson, Texas, is known to have one of the lowest quality rates. The CEO, Damon Hauss, stressed that the organization is facing a lack of participation. Mr. Hauss questioned in his speech if various divisions and managers were aware of the work of other departments, and no one could respond. Interaction across functional units is poor and in need of improvement. In the management retreat speech, executives stated their goal was to strive for increased communication across all the divisions and to encourage ideas from every corner of the organization.

With the previous management’s lack of communication and the continued mergers, the employees feel that there is no change. The employees have no motivation to further work on completing the company’s goals. Many teams are labeled as troubled groups due to distrust in the corporation. The previous managers were not interested in the nurturing of teams, leading to low performance and morale.

The teams are no longer trying to interact and share ideas due to the previous management’s stifling environment. Even when employees were introduced to a new management team, they seemed in low spirits because the previous management team had lost faith. Poor communication seems to be a problem occurring across multiple levels in the organization as Mr. Hauss himself has addressed the problem publicly.

⦁ Previous Leadership Style is Authoritative

Third Bank, formerly known as the “big, lumbering bureaucratic giant,” wants to shift towards being a participative company. Unfortunately, not every division made a smooth shift; some are still facing distrust due to the authoritarian leadership that was previously in place. Authoritative leadership is when the leader heavily exerts influence and complete control over the followers. Within this scope, communication is discouraged, and followers suffer a loss of individuality, loss of interest, and stunted personal growth due to the abuse of power and hierarchy evident.

Third Bank employees have mentioned that they feel they lack a role in the organization, lose willpower, and fail to have their voices heard. They distrust the new shift to a more participative organization, considering it a “phase” that will not last. These problems occur due to managers who fail to collaborate and encourage their teams during the shift and instead pay “lip service” to executives, fostering distrust and lack of motivation.

Potential Solutions

• Solutions Targeting Overall Corporation:
• Communicating New Vision Effectively to Employees:

This solution applies to both the overall corporation and is branch-specific. The employees in this organization are disillusioned with the new vision of a ‘participative organization.’ Upper management needs to receive buy-in from employees at all levels by highlighting the values of their new vision; a shift to a participative organization (Appelbaum et al., 2009). When communicating the vision to managers across the branches, executives should adapt the vision to the managers by framing it in such a way that it feels easy to accept and implement. If the change is too drastic, employees feel overwhelmed and lose interest.

Executives should also model the vision by valuing input from any employee, practicing active listening, and opening channels of communication across divisions. Frequent meetings with managers to set performance expectations and ensure that they are focused on the goal of a participative organization will garner commitment. When communicating to employees, management should stress that the vision will ensure every voice is heard, and the company will prioritize employee development and career opportunities.

⦁ Implement a Constructive Climate Strategy in their Business Plan:

A constructive climate is an atmosphere that promotes group members’ satisfaction and achieving their personal best. It entails four factors: Providing Structure, Clarifying Norms, Building Cohesiveness, and Promoting Standards of Excellence. Providing structure establishing goals and roles for employees; giving the company stability. Third Bank employees have mentioned that they lack a part and are demotivated at work. Instituting these factors will increase employee purpose and grant motivation.

Clarifying Norms places understanding and expectations on how to behave and should be established to help employees enhance their understanding of their team’s dynamic. Building Cohesiveness creates a sense shared by all the members that they belong; thus, it holds the group together. This is an essential step as it will increase participation and interaction of the group, enhance productivity, and allow for high member satisfaction.

This is due to the constructive environment created that allows Third Bank employees to express their viewpoints, give and receive feedback, accept opinions different from their own, and feel comfortable doing meaningful work. Lastly, managers must Promote Standards of Excellence, which will define performance expectations and require results to establish expectations, review employee work results, and reward them appropriately. This targets the issue of Mangers failing to be involved in their employees’ work and the lack of morale employees face to be successful. (Northouse, 2021).

⦁ Follow up and give Feedback to Employees:

One of the most important things that can help employees feel seen or heard in an organization is to not only listen to their concerns but also give constructive feedback. One can effectively listen by repeating what someone has said through paraphrasing. Paraphrasing has the role of making one feel they are being listened to and understood. The managers of Third Bank can create a positive environment by being the first to try this out. Also, the ongoing issue of communication is a prominent issue for the lack thereof in Third Bank and many other organizations. Managers need to follow up on the issues that are at hand to see if the problem has been resolved and get information regarding the matter.

Branch Specific Solutions:

Team Building Activities: Team building activities have been seen to be highly effective in the workplace when it comes to promoting positive communication and building trust among co-workers. Managers should show interest in the lower division’s activities and initiate team meetings to address concerns faced by employees. Listening to the concerns of members who feel left out and showing them empathy is remarkably effective when trying to make one feel heard and valued (De Vries, Bakker-Pieper, Oostenveld 2010). Team building activities like conducting team trips and meetings would help members bond and feel included.

⦁ Focus on Human-Oriented Leadership:

The Chicago teams were said to have breathing room and a culture of respect among individuals on the team. Due to the friendly environment, the teams were willing and able to challenge themselves to succeed. Employee morale and trust in management are two crucial aspects leaders should focus on when communicating with teams. ‘Charismatic leadership is strongly related to human-oriented leadership and human-oriented and charismatic leadership are much more saturated with relational content than task-oriented leadership’ (de Vries, R. E.; Bakker-Pieper, A., & Oostenveld, W., 2010). Human-oriented leadership focuses on interpersonal relationships within teams to improve group performance, job satisfaction, leader effectiveness, and motivation.

The previous managers were not good at task-oriented leadership, so to boost employee morale in the current state, human and relational-oriented leadership is the best choice. There have been many studies done that investigate the relationship between leadership styles and organizational outcomes; a meta-analysis on leader’s consideration (e.g., human-oriented leadership) and initiating structure (e.g., task-oriented leadership) revealed positive effects on outcomes (de Vries et al, 2010).

‘Charismatic executive leadership communication, featured by executive leaders’ envisioning, energizing, and enabling change communication behaviors, largely contributed to employee’s positive reactions to change, both in terms of openness to change and in behavioral change’ (Men, Yue & Liu, 2020). There is a high chance that this solution will work as it is the result of studies done by many experts listed in the article.

An example of human-oriented leadership is knowledge sharing. When leaders share knowledge and ask for input from teams, it empowers followers and creates an environment where followers are not afraid to share ideas, which is the opposite of what is happening at The Third Bank right now.

⦁ Manager Intervention:

Discuss with managers to make changes and aid their transition by providing coaching, guidance discussions, and books to allow them to become a supportive leader who guides and advises and takes input and feedback, and encourages the employees to depend upon him in a mutually beneficial and effective way. Implement leadership communication skills such as modeling the vision energizing the employees by creating value and, enabling and empowering followers to be involved, granting trust and responsibility (Men et al., 2020). Third Bank should consider this solution since the feedback given will not be implemented until the manager acts upon it and takes steps to adjust the issues.

Recommendations and Action Plan

Problem Prioritization:

⦁ Failed Visioning Implementation
⦁ Poor Communication
⦁ Previous Authoritative Leadership Style

The primary problem that needs to be targeted is vision. The company’s vision is looking to shift toward a participative organization but has failed to implement this shift in all divisions equally. This problem is the root cause of all the other critical issues listed. The next issue that requires attention is the poor communication skills present, which is why the company faces issues, both inter-divisions and within divisions. Lastly, an authoritative leadership style is a problem only within certain divisions.

Solution Prioritization

The overall company-specific solutions should be addressed first, then branch-specific issues, since fixing the overarching problem will work as a catalyst to improve the particular divisional matters.
⦁ Communicate New Vision
⦁ Implementing a Constructive Environment
⦁ Team Building Activities
⦁ Focus on Human-Oriented Leadership
⦁ Manager Intervention

Action Plan Steps

1. Executive Directors should create a new action plan proposal.
2. The proposal should outline the new vision, and the steps managers should implement to create a constructive environment. These include ________________________
3. Inform managers at each branch of the new action plan. The plan must convey the vision explicitly: Being a participative organization that values employee interaction and feedback.

Conduct Team Building Activities:

Can be achieved by hosting a team workshop to build camaraderie and trust.
When: A day where everyone is in the office, with no upcoming essential deadlines. It can also be done when welcoming new members, when we need to get the creativity flowing before starting a new project, and when celebrating successes.

Each division must participate.

Depending on the particular activity chosen, the division may be divided into groups and teams. Every employee’s participation is crucial to building group encouragement.

Who Implements:

The head of the HR (Human Resources) department would be responsible for organizing and overseeing the event, delegating tasks, and ensuring that things are all set for the actual team building day.

Anticipated Cost:

Depends on the activity being conducted.

The HR division should collaborate with the Finance team to allocate a budget for the decided activity for the month. Cost-friendly options can be used when budget limitations are in place.

Consistency is key.

Third Bank should host team-building activities through a monthly activity that is fun and engaging within the office, such as solving a puzzle, hosting a scavenger hunt, building a spaghetti and marshmallow tower, or hosting a brainstorming and feedback session. Additionally, they could also host quarterly team-building events outside of the office to engage the group and keep them excited about retreats such as camping, volunteering, taking a cooking class, or doing an escape room challenge.

Evidence of Successful Outcome: Similarly, TongWei Group Co was successful in team-building implementation. The corporation wanted to “enhance teamwork… cohesion, promote communication and collaboration…, and create a team atmosphere of… responsibility and warmth.” The company did so by hosting fun games such as ice-breaking camps. The activity made the company realize that “the power of the team is indestructible” and how only through working together can the team become stronger and thus could better contribute to the Tongwei dream (Tongwei, 2022).

Manager Intervention:

Who Implements:

The director in charge of each division must intervene and discuss with managers to assist in their shift to support and encourage their teams.

How:

The director should refer to the previously discussed action plans and ensure the divisional managers implement those actions. Additional aid can be given through coaching, guidance discussions, and books. Managers who continue to face struggles can attain one-on-one coaching to help them make needed changes. For instance, UC Davis offers a course on “Coaching Skills for Managers Specialization” that will help one gain active listening, communication, management, and coaching skills. This particular online course takes four months to complete and provides instructor guidance.

Anticipated Costs:

The price for this course was not explicitly disclosed but mentioned offering financial aid assistance if needed. Many other courses offer free classes or sessions. Additionally, if Third Bank decides to purchase a subscription, they may be able to receive corporate discounts for the courses.

Moreover, guidance discussions are a means for the director to discuss and advise divisional managers by providing feedback and suggestions to assist managers. This should be of no cost and would occur when directors sense a need to intervene or when managers reach out for help.

Evidence of Successful Outcome = UC Davis Course Reviews:

“While I was only auditing this class, it has easily been the MOST useful Coursera class that I have taken thus far. The examples were realistic and relatable and helped me see where I can improve by increasing my self-awareness and giving me tools to think through current and future situations. This is a great and informative class, particularly if you are a fledgling manager like myself or finding yourself stuck and/or feeling disconnected from your staff!” – Kiera R. K. (Coursera).

Potential Drawbacks

⦁ Time Restriction:

Depending on the complex schedules of employees, they might not all be working on the same day and time. Everyone may not be present to participate in the activities hosted, which might allow some members to feel excluded.

⦁ Cost Consideration:

Time is money, and although team building does serve a great purpose in helping an organization succeed to its full potential, there is still the payroll consideration for the time spent.

⦁ Inconsistent Engagement:

Lack of consistent participation in the organization is certainly something to take into consideration. Not everyone may see the true benefits of team-building activities and may disrupt or ignore the rules or guidelines of the activity. This can affect the experience of other co-workers and negatively impact the team through the lack of cooperation.

References
Appelbaum, S. H., Carrière, D., Chaker, M. A., Benmoussa, K., Elghawanmeh, B., & Shash, S. (2009, July 10). Rx for Excessive Turnover: Lessons in Communicating a Vision. Industrial and Commercial Training.
de Vries, R. E., Bakker-Pieper, A., & Oostenveld, W. (2010, September 4). Leadership = Communication? The Relations of Leaders’ Communication Styles with Leadership Styles, Knowledge Sharing and Leadership Outcomes. Journal of Business and Psychology.
Men, L. R., Yue, C. “A., & Liu, Y. (2020, October 21). Vision, Passion, and Care: The Impact of Charismatic Executive Leadership Communication on Employee Trust and Support for Organizational Change. UF College of Journalism and Communications.
North ouse, P. G. (2021). Introduction to leadership: Concepts and practice. Introduction to Leadership: Concepts and Practice | Online https://edge.sagepub.com/northouseintro5e
Testa. (2001). Organizational Commitment, Job Satisfaction, and Effort in the Service Environment. The Journal of Psychology, 135(2), 226–236. https://doi.org/10.1080/00223980109603693
Tongwei New Energy Design Company launched themed team-building activities. (2022). In China Business News. Athena Information Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
UC Davis University of California. (2022). Coaching Skills for Managers. Coursera.

 
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2022-08-22 10:06:18

Background

Since approximately 13 years ago, Syra and Sam have been together and have had 4 kids.
together. Multi-lingual Sam was born abroad; he didn’t finish high school; he speaks many
languages, including English. He’s also managed small companies on occasion. In addition to
being born in Australia, Syra has a degree from a university and operates her own company.
Both were pursuing their formal training when they encountered the home nation of Sam.
wife, Syra.

Sam was granted a spousal visa and they were married within a year. It is Syra with
her new partner, who is now caring for the children at a house they own. Sam’s contact with the
The younger kid is regulated by Family Court rules. The three older kids have decreased contact.
He was kind and quiet, yet deeply devoted to his spiritual ideas when Syra first met.
him.

Over the years, he insisted that his children adhere to a rigid daily worship ritual. At first,
Syra was captivated by Sam’s faith and commitment to the cause. He started visiting places of
worship after they arrived in Australia. The asceticism and volunteerism led him to become
extremely active in his new religious group. When she wasn’t caring for her small children, Syra
had three additional children over six years and worked full-time.

Termination was not an option for Sam because he thought it would weaken his manhood. Paradoxically, it was
the women from the religious community that encouraged Syra to seek contraceptives.
There was a lot of friction between Syra and Sam over several topics. Sam exerted a great degree of control over Syra and the children’s everyday lives. The children are required to do minutes of prayer services in the afternoons and evenings, which makes them tired for school and then behind with their schoolwork.

In many cases, Sam would prescribe how prayers must be conducted, only to alter the regulations without explanation. Irfan would beat the youngsters in the face or swing the children around on one arm if they did not follow the instructions properly. Syra claims that although she was exposed to some physical abuse, it was the children who suffered the most.

Sam had demanded that Syra attend worship with him while she was significantly
pregnant with their second child. Syra was weary and asked if she should leave. Angry with her,
Sam shoved her onto the railroad tracks. A frightened Syra traveled miles to a family member’s
home, and spent the night there, where she remained for the night. Then, when Syra returned
home after the birth of their youngest child, a friend offered to watch the other children so that
Syra and Sam could have a vacation from taking care of the younger ones. Sam refused, and
Syra questioned him about his reasons for refusing to participate. Several times he smacked her
across the face while she was holding the infant, and he warned her not to challenge his authority.
in front of the children in particular.

Literature review:

In this case study, the issue of intimate partner violence and domestic violence has been
discussed in detail. This case study is related to Syra and her communication with Sam. Sam is
a registered partner who has his terms and conditions. Their relationship became more difficult,
and she eventually shut off entirely. After Sam barred Syra’s relatives from the house because
they didn’t comply with the norms of his religion. Syra grew more isolated. Syra, who was a
bridesmaid, was not allowed to attend a significant family wedding because Sam would not let
the children go. It was difficult for Syra to make acquaintances outside of the religious group.
and she did not think she should.

Despite having separate bank accounts, Syra and Sam pooled their money. Although
Sam made little or no money. Syra was the main breadwinner for her family. As a result, Syra
was constantly chastised for even small expenditures. These excursions were costly and took
several months to save up for, but Sam persisted in taking them. With small children, and
particularly while pregnant, Syra found these visits to be upsetting since housing conditions
were low and public places were usually dangerous. Syra and the children were on one of these.
excursions when they saw an event that was especially upsetting to them. He thought that his younger relative had violated a holy rite, and punished him by burning an impression deep into his palm to remind him of the transgression. Family members watched in horror. A similar penalty has been threatened every time Sam believes his children to be disobedient. It took Syra as well as the children a while to come to grips with the fact that they would be murdered. Her sister had told her that when she would come one day, they would all have been dead, and she would be left alone.

Syra had attempted to quit the partnership twice before the ultimate breakup. As part of
the local family violence support service, shelter accommodation was arranged. Thereafter Syra
consults an attorney to obtain an order of protection, as well as a
psychologist to attempt to identify and comprehend her experiences over the previous
several years. From the refuge and these experts, Syra got crucial assistance. Sam came with his
lawyer and supporters from the religious community on the first day of the hearing. It was his
denial of any domestic violence that led him to agree to a two-year protection order, without
admitting anything. She felt secure in the courtroom and was shielded from Sam or his lawyer’s
direct approach. Her main concern was how Sam would respond to her taking the children away.
from him.

Her lawyer arranged for Syra to mediate over the phone, in an attempt to find a solution.
for the children, with Sam’s help. Sam disputed all of the facts behind the breakup of the
relationship, thus this procedure was a failure. Syra filed a complaint with the Family Court in
the end. A psychologist was contacted to determine the children’s desires. As they were in their
early to mid-teens, the three elder children made it plain that they did not like seeing their dad.
They were certain that they did not even want him. The court granted Syra the right to live in the
The United States and Sam contact with the younger kid only once every two weeks and then
overnight contact. To keep Sam informed about the children, Syra was obliged to email
him regularly. A single phone call had to be avoided. When it comes to Sam’s conduct, Syra
thinks that a psychologist might uncover significant dangers.

Separation and Family Court orders took three years. Ivonne and her children were
housed in different places after they left the shelter, and sought out numerous agencies for
financial, legal, and emotional assistance. A modification in handover arrangements was required
for the youngest kid, who, by that point, was sleeping with Sam at night. A cousin of Sam’s once
told Syra that Sam and the youngest kid had been sobbing for hours together. Despite her
knowledge, Syra felt extremely worried when the agreed-upon handover time passed. The children
were very worried about what Sam would do when he returned them to their new home, resulting
in one of them requiring substantial therapy assistance. Syra sees how deeply Sam’s abuse has
impacted the three older children.

To get the original contact orders restored, Syra is seeking help from her lawyer.
She thinks that allowing overnight contact may be harmful to the youngest kid. This. means he
has no touch with the kid. She thinks they get along well, and Sam considers the kid to be his
favorite.

Unresolved property issues persist. Although the couple has property and money in Sam’s
native nation, Syra does not have enough money for legal action that would allow them to settle.
their assets. As a result, she is no longer eligible for legal aid funds and is unable to privately
finance any future proceedings. After many years of abuse, Syra is in a new relationship that she
finds fulfilling. She has learned to be wary, though, and to be vigilant for any indications of
abuse she may have been exposed to for years. They are developing a company together, while
also caring for Syra’s four children, who are under their care. She thinks she and the children
have made it during the worst of their suffering. But she thinks there will always be a chance that
Sam may lose his temper.

Crisis management:

In this area, we will discuss how the crisis related to domestic violence would be
managed.

Cognitive behavioral therapy on the mechanics of and health issues for abusive
relationships should be included in treatment interventions with victims of child violence. As a
the general rule, information is given on: the cycle of violence (e.g., the honeymoon period; building
tension and eruption of violence), and the increase in the amount and duration of violent acts
over time.

Abusive dating relationships include the use of power and control (e.g., isolation,
jealousy and as well as possessiveness)

A stressful incident may lead to psychological and emotional problems. In the therapy of
DV clients, identifying, confronting, and changing skewed cognitions and beliefs may be helpful.
Women who have been abused typically acquire three types of erroneous ideas, according to
Douglas and Strom (1988, referenced by Webb, 1992).

Before being engaged in an abusive relationship, the client may have had certain views.
(i.e., women are inferior to men)

As a result of the abuse, certain beliefs are formed (i.e., he wouldn’t hit me if I were a
better partner)

I’m a syrup – I can’t make it on my own. Many victims of domestic abuse may benefit from
training in skills and coping mechanisms. Some clients may have established methods of
interacting with others that limit conflict, which may not be in the client’s best interests.
Communication, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities are among the talents that may
be acquired.

Dependent upon findings of the assessment as well as the course of treatment, additional
therapies may be added to address particular symptoms such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
When it comes to alleviating guilt and shame, emotions, exercising social skills, and
building trust in others, group therapy may be beneficial. There are many different types of
groups that may be provided, from support groups to trauma-focused therapy.

Most therapies intended for domestic abuse victims are ineffective. (Kantor & Jasinski,
1998). Domestic abuse victims have been the subjects of very few outcome studies. To establish
if the treatments given are suitable and successful in improving safety and reducing post-traumatic symptoms, additional case studies, experimental designs, and long-term studies are
needed.

While domestic abuse reporting laws and regulations continue to grow in popularity,
clinicians and researchers who treat domestic violence victims and their children should be ready
to handle numerous ethical issues. Professional evaluation of child abuse in this group has
a unique difficulty because of the obligation to report it. However, physicians and investigators
should be aware of the local regulations regulating their obligation to report (Azar, 1992).
Depending on the jurisdiction, scientists may be excused from reporting.

Locale-specific definitions of childhood abuse may also differ. For example, exposing
children to marital violence is considered emotional abuse in certain jurisdictions. A
A failure to protect a finding may also be pursued in other jurisdictions. As important as it
is to provide a safe environment for young children. Clinicians should also be aware of it.
the problems that the violent offender, older victim, as well as worker may have to
deal with (breaking confidentiality, impediments to building rapport). Practitioners
Those who discover allegations of abuse must be prepared to react professionally and ethically, according to the report.

Reference:

Piquero, A. R., Jennings, W. G., Jemison, E., Kaukinen, C., & Knaul, F. M.
(2021). Domestic violence during the COVID-19 pandemic-Evidence from a
systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of criminal justice, 74(C).
Harvey, P. (2021). Domestic violence in the Peruvian Andes 1. In Sex and
violence (pp. 66-89). Routledge.
Muldoon, K. A., Denize, K. M., M. Talarico, R., Fell, D. B., Sobiesiak, A., He imerl,
M., & Sampsel, K. (2021). COVID-19 pandemic and violence: rising risks
and decreasing urgent care-seeking for sexual assault and domestic violence
survivors. BMC medicine, 19(1), 1-9.

post
2022-08-19 05:14:53

Introduction

According to Villanova University, data sources are a component of Business
Intelligence refers to a variety of stored data (raw data from which meaningful information can be
derived). (Body Section, para.6) Secondly, data sources can also refer to a location whereby
various forms of data relevant to business intelligence are stored (Introduction section, para 1 ).
From these definitions, it is evident that data sources are essential in providing the necessary
sources of raw data from which essential decisions that will promote a business can be made.
(Edwards, 2019).

Business Intelligence, which relies on various types of datsources,es are key since they serve as the
building blocks for the configuration of Business Intelligence. The existing sources of data for
Business Intelligence includes web services, databases, RSS feeds, and flat files. Databases are
considered to be the traditional source of data for Business Intelligence. Some of the well-known brands that offer databases for use in Business Intelligence include Oracle, DB2, SQL, Amazon SimpleDB, and many others.

Secondly, flat files are a source of data
for BI, which involves the utilization of Microsoft Excel (“Business Intelligence (BI). Using
Data for Better Business Results”, 2020). Thirdly, RSS feeds involve web feeds that allow
users and applications to access updates from websites that have meaningful data to guide
Business Intelligence. Finally, various web services can be used to extract data that can in turn
be used to guide the direction of Business Intelligence.

Data sources are essential in offering raw data that guides the decisions that are made.
within a company. From the meaningful information acquired from data sources, an entity can determine whether a certain strategy is benefitting the organization or not. Making data-driven decisions helps the company stay ahead of its competitors and, more importantly,
remain relevant to the existing market.

I have been exposed to various forms of data sources, specifically web services. I know
of a plugin called Alexa, which helps you to collect information about different existing business
websites. For instance, to optimize a company’s website, you can optimize by looking at

the keywords consumers use to search for competitors. Such data-driven strategies are a
sure way of getting ahead of competitors. Additionally, I have heard about how google
analytics can be used to acquire useful information that can guide the decisions of a business.
Without a doubt, Business Intelligence depends on how much data is available and there are a
variety of data sources that a business can use.

References

Business Intelligence (BI): Using Data for Better Business Results. Villanovau.com. (2020).
Retrieved from https://www.villanovau.com/resources/bi/overview-of-business-intelligence-bicomponents/.
Data Source Types | Logi Analytics BI Encyclopedia. Logi Analytics. (2019). Retrieved from
https://www.logianalytics.com/resources/bi-encyclopedia/data-source-types/.
Edwards, J. (2019). Understanding Data Sources. Docs.oracle.com. Retrieved from
https://docs.oracle.com/cd/E17984_01/doc.898/e14695/undrstnd_datasources.htm.

post
2022-08-24 15:54:08

Abstract:

The effects of cannabis use in university students as a coping mechanism for anxiety and stress have been extensively documented and supported in many studies. Respectively, the articles in this literature review highlight the effects of the use of cannabis in university students as well as students’ positive perceptions of cannabis use. Most of the studies talk about; Students’ motivation behind using cannabis and the role of stress as a motivation for cannabis misuse. Sequentially, the connection between stress and the use of cannabis. This paper gives balanced coverage of the existing literature on the chosen topic. The strengths and limitations, as well as considerations for future research, have also been considered. The scope of the literature has been indicated for use in this literature review. Also, meets the criteria of reliable literature as including the most recent and relevant studies; most of them are quantitative and a few are qualitative studies.

Introduction:

Cannabis use is continuously rising in university students as a coping mechanism for anxiety and stress. The use of marijuana has reached its highest position in the last few years. Marijuana use has been continuously rising among university students over the past five years and will remain at historically high levels among university students in 2020. According to Whiteley et al., (2021) “among college students, 44% reported using marijuana in the past year in 2020, compared to 38% in 2015, representing a significant increase. For young adults not in college, annual marijuana uses in 2020 remained at 43% the same historically high level as recorded in 2018 and 2019″ I have chosen this topic for a comprehensive literature review because the finding of this research area is very interesting and essential to know.

Some studies prove that the use of cannabis leaves an ailing effect on students’ health. Extensive scientific research has documented serious harm to the brain development of teenage students who regularly use cannabis as drugs as a coping mechanism for anxiety and stress. The excessive use of cannabis leads to mind-altering compounds that affect both students’ brains and bodies (Benz et al., 2021). As well, Heavy marijuana uses in students showed problems in scholastic performance, memory, and focus. Studies prove that students who were addicted to cannabis drugs got lower grades compared to students who did not use marijuana (Buckner et al., 2013). On the other side, a bunch of studies also, show that the balanced use of cannabis is beneficial in various considerations.

This paper has balanced coverage of what is available as literature. I have indicated the scope of the literature before using it in this paper. Also, it fulfills the criteria of analyzing and comparing literature as I have included the most recent and relevant studies; most of them are quantitative and few are qualitative studies.

Background

The use of cannabis has historical significance. Cannabis was first used medicinally around 400 ad. Later, in the U.S., during the 19th and early 20th centuries, cannabis was widely utilized as a patent medicine (Schepis et al., 2021). As well, the plants of cannabis have been used as drugs for recreational purposes as well as in various traditional medicines for centuries from native to southern and central Asia.

Today, cannabis is the most commonly used illicit drug. In the same regard, the use of cannabis among college students is widespread. According to a survey, the use of cannabis is rising among college students over the past 4  years (Hershkowith et al., 2021). The research represents a record of the highest use of cannabis since the 1990s, especially the significant increase in the annual use of hallucinogens, and a substantial increase in university students as a coping mechanism for anxiety and stress (Lanaway et al., 2019). Most users report experiencing problems related to cannabis use, including poor academic performance, procrastination, low productivity, memory loss, and missing days of work or class (Kilwein et al., 2020)

. This Literature Review aims to evaluate university students’ perceptions of cannabis use as well as the effects of cannabis use on students’ health. Apart from the above. This literature review focuses on the following research query:

1. Problems associated with using cannabis to cope with stress.
2. The use of cannabis is an unhealthy coping mechanism for anxiety and stress.
3. Role of stress as a motivation for cannabis misuse.
4. Students’ Motivations behind using Cannabis.
5. Students’ positive perceptions of cannabis use.

Literature review.

Many studies have already been taken on the effect of the use of cannabis on university students. Most of the studies emphasize that there is a link between students’ health and the effect of the use of cannabis. Most of the following studies show health problems because of cannabis use; however, students’ positive perceptions of cannabis use have also been discussed.

The use of cannabis is an unhealthy coping mechanism for anxiety and stress.

Böke & Heath (2019) found that stress is a common experience for university students. The stress of the study leads them towards the use of drugs as coping that ironically pushes them more towards the stress. In the experiment of this study, undergraduate students (N = 5,917) were examined so that it relationship can figure out between perceived stress and engagement in substance use. The results of this study indicate that higher stress is associated with students’ use of drugs, which is an unhealthy coping mechanism for anxiety and stress.

Role of stress as a motivation for cannabis misuse.

Another study by Hyman & Sinha, (2009) examines the role of stress as a motivation for cannabis misuse in university students. This research consists of a systematic review of studies that is gathered from Psych. INFO. On the other side, medicine databases were conducted to make them more effective and reliable. The findings of this study prove that people use cannabis as a stress-coping strategy which causes negative life events in the life of the user. In the discussion of the study, the researcher mentions that the use of cannabis for stress-coping purposes was most evident when examining chronic as compared with experimental use. However, this study also apprised that many individuals can use cannabis without consequences, but these individuals could be at the greatest risk for addiction. So, overall, this integrity-based research adds factual and scientific knowledge to the particular research area.

Kayser (2021) lists the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder because of the use of cannabis. According to Kayser (2021), misuse of cannabis causes many psychological disorders. This study investigated the connection between the use of cannabis and obsessive-compulsive disorder. They have used mixed methods for their research. This research is conducted through an online survey. The survey of the research contained measures of OCD symptoms, cannabis misuse, and cannabis use motives. The results of the study showed that the severity of obsessive-compulsive disorder was related to the quantity of cannabis use, as OCD increased with more cannabis misuse.

Problems associated with using cannabis to cope with stress.

Previous research, the study by Hyman & Sinha (2009) has covered a connection between stress and cannabis. Spradlin & Cuttler, (2019) also focus on elucidating the nature of this link. Researchers examine whether cannabis use motives, such as using cannabis to cope with negative affect or not. This study was conducted on a sample of 578 cannabis-using college students. They completed an anonymous online survey. This survey was designed to measure their early life stress, frequency of cannabis use, chronic stress, and problematic use of cannabis. The finding of the study shows that the early life stress of the victims was significantly associated with more frequent cannabis use. The results of a series of parallel multiple mediation models of this study further revealed that cannabis coping motives aligned with using cannabis to cope with negative effects. So, it suggests that both early life stress and chronic stress may lead to the use of cannabis to cope with stress, which relates to the finding of Kayser et al., (2021).

Students’ positive perceptions of cannabis use.

Another study by Person et al (2017) finds students’ positive perceptions of cannabis use. This qualitative study explored post-secondary students’ perceptions of cannabis use that shows that students thoughtfully use cannabis by balancing various considerations. Participants of the study were 20 undergraduate students at a small liberal arts university in Atlantic Canada. To know their perception, semi-structured interviews were conducted. Also, a thematic analysis technique was used to analyze the interview. The finding of the study shows that students were thoughtfully using cannabis as they had various considerations in their minds in terms of health and academic performance. Further, the findings of the study found students were confident, satisfied, and held positive perceptions of cannabis use.

Students’ Motivations behind using Cannabis.

O’Callaghan & Joyce (2015) investigate the students’ motivations behind using cannabis in university. Students (n = 189) aged 17 to 29 years were part of the study. The survey was completed to assess the intention of the students to use cannabis. They were assessed on three questions: first, they were asked about the advantages and disadvantages of using cannabis; second, what they think and what they should do with cannabis use; and last, what are the factors that might encourage them to use or not use cannabis in the university. The finding of the study shows that the consumers believe that cannabis helps them feel relaxed, forget their worries, and relax from stress. As well, consumers believe certain factors, such as the force of habit, feeling stressed, and the company of being around other people who used can cannabis, ve encouraged them to use cannabis (O’Callaghan & Joyce, 2007).

Summary.

This literature review documented a bunch of qualitative as well as quantitative studies on the subject area of cannabis use and its effect on university students as coping for stress and anxiety. There is a discovered connection between health and the effect of the use of cannabis. Victims suffer from health problems such as suffering from lack of sleep, sleep disturbances, and decreased time to fall asleep (Buckner et al., 2013). Excessive use of marijuana in students causes problems in scholastic performance, memory, and focus. Students who were addicted to cannabis drugs got lower grades compared to students who did not use marijuana (Benz et al., 2021). But some students also showed positive perceptions of cannabis use. Also, there is a direct role of stress as a motivation for cannabis use in university students. People use cannabis as a stress-coping strategy and many individuals use cannabis without consequences. There is an interesting motive behind the use of cannabis in university students. Students believe that cannabis would help them feel relaxed, forget their worries, and relax from stress. In the same regard, consumers use cannabis as a force of habit, and because of the company of being around such as their friends and family.

Implication.

Public policymakers usually go through three major phases. First of all, they understand and identify the problems. In the second step, they used results to make policy, and set the agenda,  and thirdly, implementation and evaluated results. The finding of this literature identifies the problems in the use of cannabis that fulfill the basic requirements for policymaking.

Apart from policymaking, implications for Counselors, Clients, and Counseling could be derived through the findings of these studies. Most of the studies show that the use of cannabis causes different diseases, as the finding by Lee et al (2007). The results of this study can be used in counseling as a counterargument for those who do not believe in the effects of the use of cannabis.

The findings of these different studies help counselors to figure out the symptoms of their clients. Also, the finding of these studies can could help counselors support students in having the alternative solution to cope with the stress that does not involve any type of drugs. Finding ofBöke & Heath (2019) prove that Students get stressed and to avoid the stress they use drugs which ironically push them more towards stress.

Also, many studies have found that students face problems in academic performance and poor health because of the effects of cannabis use. These all help a counselor in guiding his clients. The finding of ‘Callaghan & Joyce (2015) can help counselors to understand the psychology of the students who use Cannabis. Most students use cannabis to feel relaxed and to forget their worries. So, the findings of this research can prove effective in controlling the use of cannabis.

Feature Research.

The articles presented in this paper all explain and identify the effects of cannabis. Ultimately, many researchers have concluded that there is a link between the use of cannabis and the poor health of students. These articles have significance because they enlighten a controversial, so it would be extremely beneficial to continue to research more on this topic so that we can have more accurate and scientific knowledge. A mixed-method (both quantitative and qualitative) could be used to continue this research area, but for this social issue, the qualitative method seems more effective. There should be surveys, experiments, and observational studies on the students who are addicted to cannabis. Also, the use of existing data should not be ignored.

Conclusion.

The use of cannabis is continuously rising in university students as a coping mechanism for anxiety and stress. Among university students, 44% reported using marijuana in the past year in 2020. The documented research is based on the serious harm to the brain development of teenage students who regularly use cannabis as a drug. Also, these problems further affect the scholastic performance and memory of the students as many studies prove that students who were addicted to cannabis drugs got poor grades and most of them could not graduate, compared to students who did not use cannabis. But true in all cases, some research also holds a positive perception about cannabis use, in terms of consideration of its moderate use as many.

This literature review fulfills the criteria of analyzing and comparing literature as it includes the most recent and relevant studies and most of them are quantitative. The study of Hyman & Sinha, (2009) examines the role of stress as a motivation for cannabis misuse in university students, making the greatest contribution to the understanding and development of the chosen topic of this literature review. This research consists of a systematic review of studies and medicine databases conducted tool. The findings of this study prove that people use cannabis for stress coping. Also, it teaches that maybe any individual can use cannabis without consequences, but he would be at the greatest risk for addiction. So, this study adds factual and scientific knowledge to the understanding and development of the chosen topic of this literature review.

In short, this paper has logically ordered research that focuses on themes rather than the authors. The concept of all studies moves from broader concepts to a more specific focus, having profound relevance to the topic of chosen research. Along with that, these articles do come with some limitations. In general, the findings of some studies could be questioned. In most of the studies, the participants were younger at public universities and are not a representative sample of all university students. Maybe the individuals who participated in these studies may not represent the entire population; however, the presented articles explain and identify the effects of cannabis use.

Reference
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Amroussia, N., Watanabe, M., & Pearson, J. L. (2020). Seeking safety: a focus group study of young adults’ cannabis-related attitudes, and behavior in a state with legalized recreational cannabis. Harm Reduction Journal, 17(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12954-020-00442-8
Benz, M. B., Aston, E. R., Mercurio, A. N., & Metrik, J. (2021). The Potential Impact of Legalization of Recreational Cannabis among Current Users: A Qualitative Inquiry. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1080/02791072.2021.1959966
Böke, B., Mills, D., Mettler, J., & Heath, N. (2019). Stress and Coping Patterns of University Students. Journal Of College Student Development, 60(1), 85-103. https://doi.org/10.1353/csd.2019.0005
Braun, V., & Clarke, V. (2006). Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qualitative Research in Psychology, 3(2), 77–101. https://doi.org/10.1191/1478088706qp063oa
Buckner, J. D., & Zvolensky, M. J. (2014). Cannabis and related impairment: The unique roles of cannabis use to cope with social anxiety and social avoidance. The American Journal on Addictions, 23(6), 598–603. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1521-0391.2014.12150.x
Buckner, J. D., Bonn-Miller, M. O., Zvolensky, M. J., & Schmidt, N. B. (2007). Marijuana use motives and social anxiety among marijuana-using young adults. Addictive Behaviors, 32(10), 2238–2252. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addbeh.2007.04.004
Buckner, J. D., Ecker, A. H., & Vinci, C. (2013). Cannabis use vulnerability among socially anxious users: Cannabis craving during social interaction. Psychology of Addictive Behaviors, 27(1), 236–242. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0029763
Buckner, J. D., Walukevich, K. A., Lemke, A. W., & Jeffries, E. R. (2018). The impact of university sanctions on cannabis use: Individual difference factors that predict change in cannabis use. Translational Issues in Psychological Science, 4(1), 76–84. https://doi.org/10.1037/tps0000147
Deasy, C., Coughlan, B., Piro nom, J., Jourdan, D., & Mannix-McNamara, P. (2014). Psychological Distress and Coping among Higher Education Students: A Mixed Method Enquiry. PLoS ONE, 9(12), e115193. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0115193
Hyman, S., & Sinha, R. (2009). Stress-related factors in cannabis use and misuse: Implications for prevention and treatment. Journal Of Substance Abuse Treatment, 36(4), 400-413. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsat.2008.08.005
Jackson, K. M., Merrill, J. E., Stevens, A. K., Hayes, K. L., & White, H. R. (2021). Changes in Alcohol Use and Drinking Context due to the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Multimethod Study of College Student Drinkers. Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, 45(4), 752–764. https://doi.org/10.1111/acer.14574
Kayser, R., Senter, M., Tobet, R., Raskin, M., Patel, S., & Simpson, H. (2021). Patterns of cannabis use among individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder: Results from an internet survey. Journal Of Obsessive-Compulsive And Related Disorders, 30, 100664. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jocrd.2021.100664
Kilwein, T. M., Wedell, E., Herchenroeder, L., Bravo, A. J., & Looby, A. (2020). A qualitative examination of college students’ perceptions of cannabis: insights into the normalization of cannabis use on a college campus. Journal of American College Health, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1080/07448481.2020.1762612
Lanaway, D., & Burlew, A. K. (2021). The Influence of Distressed Coping on the Relationship between Perceived Racial Discrimination and Cannabis Use among Black College Students. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1080/02791072.2021.1990443
Lee, C. M. & Woods, B. A.( 2007). Marijuana motives: Young adults’ reasons for using marijuana. Addictive Behaviors, 32(7), 1384–1394. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addbeh.2006.09.010
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O’Callaghan, F., & Joyce, J. (2007). Cannabis: What Makes University Students More or Less Likely to Use It? Journal Of Applied Biobehavioral Research, 11(2), 105-113. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1751-9861.2006.tb00022.x
Pearson, M. R., Bravo, A. J., & Sotelo, M. (2019). A cross-cultural examination of college marijuana culture in five countries: Measurement invariance of the Perceived Importance of Marijuana to the College Experience Scale. Addictive Behaviors, 96, 11–17. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addbeh.2019.04.004
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Introduction

Culture plays a major role in any society. Every country has its own cultural values, and norms, which could be considered its most costly asset and sometimes become the reason behind its identity. In simple words, culture is a system or the way we see and do things as a society and an important part of the way we experience life. (Culture and Society | Boundless Sociology, 2021). The aim of this is to compare and contrast the culture of Pakistan and Canada which can be done by focusing on three main parts of the discussion: The daily lifestyles, festivals, and historical places of both countries.

Pakistani culture represents the sub-continent and Islamic culture. In Pakistan, people used to celebrate different festivals according to Islamic culture which is because of religious influence as 98% of the population of Pakistan is Muslim (Enoote,21).  Pakistani culture has festivals such as Eid, Shabraat, and Qurbani which are pure Islamic values. On the contrary, Canadian culture has been influenced by European culture and traditions, mostly by the British and French. In contrast to Pakistani culture, Canadian culture seems diverse that represents cowboy hoe-down to sophisticated cultural events (Toolstoy, 2021). For example, Canadian festivals such as Vancouver, the Calgary Stampede, Edmonton Folk Festival. So, the reason behind dissimilarities is the different cultural backgrounds these two countries have, as Pakistani culture is embedded with Islam values whereas the Canadian carries the liberal stuff influenced by the British and French.

The next discussion part which can help in comparing the culture of Pakistan and Canada is the historical places of both countries. Historical places have a soul and this soul always has a great impact on the culture of that country.  We can find a variety of historical places that signify the unique traditions and culture of Pakistan. Harappa, Mohenjo- Daro, and Taxila are the most renowned historical places in Pakistan which are historical because of their precious history. For example, Harappa has been recognized with the Indus Valley Civilization which is considered the most developed Civilization in the old Bronze Age. On the other side, historical places of Canada are some of the most impressive natural wonders in the world such as Fort Garry Hotel, Dawson, Yukon Territory, Fortifications of Québec (Chorney-Booth, 2021).  So, what makes both countries different, is the reason because of how historical they are. Pakistani historical places are more known for their old being whereas Canada has places that are natural wonders.

Conclusion

In this essay, I have compared and contrasted the countries of Pakistan and Canada by analyzing their differences and similarities in festivals, and historical places. Finally, we find out that Pakistani culture is traditional and conservative, on the contrary, Canadian culture is liberal. In Pakistan, people celebrate festivals according to Islamic culture whereas Canadian culture is diverse (Chorney-Booth, 2021). the cultures of Canada and Pakistan are different from each other and these differences make both countries’ cultures great and unique. This topic has appealed to me that there should be a compression between these two countries on lifestyles of the people.

References

Toalstoy, S., 2021. Why Is Culture so Important to Society? [online] Reference.com. Available at: <https://www.reference.com/world-view/culture-important-society-2f69d99fe0698d43> [Accessed 3 April 2021].

Courses.lumenlearning.com. 2021. Culture and Society | Boundless Sociology. [online] Available at: <https://courses.lumenlearning.com/boundless-sociology/chapter/culture-and-society/> [Accessed 3 April 2021].

Chorney-Booth, E., 2021. These are Canada’s most beautiful natural wonders. [online] MSN. Available at: <https://www.msn.com/en-us/travel/tripideas/these-are-canada-s-most-beautiful-natural-wonders/ss-BB1cf9pn> [Accessed 3 April 2021].

 
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