Impact of Policy on Same-Sex Couples

Impact of Policy on Same-Sex Couples Same-Sex Marriages Executive Summary The public policy explored in this analysis will include section one from the family code titles, marriage relationship. This issue is more prevalent than most would imagine. In 1990 the American bureau of census reported 145,130 same-gender unmarried couples living together. That number is reported to have increased to 594,691 by the year 2000 (Pawelski et al., 2006). According to President Bush, it is up to the individual state to determine any â€Å"legal arrangements other than marriage†. This leaves the definition of marriage up to the individual governments. It is essential to define the different unions as well as have a strong understanding of the implications of each within the state of Texas. According to Bogenschnider, Theory of Paradox consists of three camps that view issues from different angles. The concerned camp tends to be more conservative with their views on the family. It also strives to protect the traditional family values. The sanguine camp is more concerned with the welfare of the children, as well as the individual rights of people of all sexual orientations. The impatient camp seeks progress and respects all members of the community regardless of the concern for the traditional family values. The concerned camp views same-sex marriage as an insult to the historical family unit and the foundations from which the family system was derived. This group is concerned with the research indicating that many stressors responsible for creating significant amount of anxiety and distress for those in the homosexual relationships. This camp is also concerned that regardless of their lifestyle homosexual individuals are still required to â€Å"conform† to traditional heterosexual family styles in order to adopt, regardless of the findings. (I don’t understand this sentence, regardless of what findings?) The teenagers facing their homosexual lifestyle were also found to be more at risk for negative behaviors, including substance abuse and suicide. The concerned camp desires to see the traditional family unit remain intact for the welfare of all individuals, especially the children. The sanguine camp views recent family changes positively as indicators of the capacity of families to adapt to new environments rather than symptoms of decline. The sanguine camp considers the positive results of these family changes for individuals, especially women. The sanguine camp contends that children have the capacity to overcome the emotional upheaval and long term consequences of divorce. They tend to focus on people who have thrived in the midst of family change. The sanguine camp regards marriage, commitment and nurturance as unchanging core American values no matter what. Contenders of this view declare that the dramatic changes in the last quarter century were not about family value but about norms and standards regarding appropriate or inappropriate behavior. For example, cohabitation before marriage became common and one of four children born outside of marriage but majority still want to be married. Regarding policy-making, the greatest concern for the sanguine camp is individual freedom. They want to keep the American core values and establish the institutional supports to help families during rapid changes. The impatient camp acknowledges the change and growth in the diversity of alternative families and their structure. Qualitative research is respected and much of the evidence regarding childrens behavioral and cognitive outcomes incorporates teacher responses along with parent responses. The research supports the changes towards same-sex marriage and welcomes significant positive research findings that support their cause. This camp suggests that families do face challenges, but ultimately have numerous opportunities to demonstrate their resilience though this alternative lifestyle. The recognition of same-sex marriages would alleviate significant amount of stress from those families who are a part of a homosexual partnership. The recognition of this partnership would allow for society to also recognize the partnership leading to a more accepted perspective. The children in these families, as demonstrated by the research results, remain near the average mark in development. However, they continue to have difficulty comprehending and accepting the lifestyle affecting their emotional and social developments. State of Texas can alleviate this stress for these individuals by recognizing these same-sex marriages and providing the same right to homosexual couples that it safeguards for heterosexual individuals. Providing this recognition will allow for all families in the state of Texas to have the same resources, rights, and privileges creating a stronger, more united state, community, and families. Public Policy Project: Same-sex Marriages The public policy explored in this analysis will include section one from the family code titles, marriage relationship. This issue is more prevalent than most would imagine. In 1990 the American bureau of census reported 145,130 same-gender unmarried couples living together . That number is reported to have increased to 594,691 by the year 2000 (Pawelski et al., 2006). According to President Bush, it is up to the individual state to determine any â€Å"legal arrangements other than marriage†. This leaves the definition of marriage up to the individual governments. It is essential to define the different unions as well as have a strong understanding of the implications of each within the state of Texas (question 1). A civil union is a legal mechanism, sanctioned by civil authority, intended to grant same-sex couples legal status somewhat similar to civil marriage. In the United States, civil unions have been established only in Vermont, Massachusetts, and Connecticut. In theses tates, same-sex couples are granted the same state-level rights, benefits, and protections as those granted to heterosexual married couples. No other states recognize civil unions. As such, same-sex couples considered to be legally united in either of those states are treated as single individuals when they cross into other states. A domestic partnership is a relationship between two individuals, often but not necessarily of the same gender, who live together and mutually support one another as spouses but who are not legally joined in a civil marriage or a civil union. Some same-sex couples enter into domestic partnership agreements to create legally enforceable contracts involving property, finances, inheritance, and/or health care. Domestic partnerships do not reach the same legal threshold as civil unions or civil marriages and, accordingly, do not afford couples the rights, benefits,and protections of civil marriage (Pawelski et al., 2006). The definitions are helpful but in the state of Texas any same-sex unions/marriages are banned. Protecting the sanctity of life and marriage at the 79th Texas state Congress 2005, Texans voted on a constitutional amendment defining marriage in fall of 2005. SJR 6 defines marriage as between one man and one woman. Texas voters adopted this amendment on November 8, 2005. Texas now joins 14 states that statutorily and constitutionally ban same-sex marriage. Significant research has been conducted on this topic from many perspectives. It is essential to understand the effect of same-sex relationships on the family system and the individuals within that system. It is very difficult for those in a same-sex relationship to cope with the stigma that society has placed on these relationships. Same-sex relationships have many of the same characteristics that heterosexual relationships possess. According to the research of Todosijevic, Rothblum, Solomon (2005) there are many factors contributing to the success of the same-sex relationship. Given the mixed results on demographic similarity and relationship satisfaction among same-sex couples, it is possible that couple similarity in level of outness may be more important for relationship satisfaction than couple similarity on demographic variables. For example, similarity on actual age (a demographic variable) may be less important than developmental stage in the coming out process (including level of disclosure to others). Couples who are discrepant on outness may have conflict around such issues as where to live (e.g., in an obvious gay neighborhood), whether to bring a partner to work-related social events, and how to introduce their partner to family members. Beals and Peplau (2001) found that discrepancy in openness among partners was not predictive of relationship satisfaction. In another study on this topic, Jordan and Deluty (2000) investigated the correlation between openness and relationship quality in 305 lesbians in committed relationships. Their results indicated that the degree of openness regarding sexual orientation was positively correlated with relationship satisfaction. They also concluded that discrepancy in openness in disclosure between partners was negatively correlated with relationship satisfaction. In addition, Jordan and Deluty (2000) discovered that negative affectivity (e.g., depression, anxiety, fear, anger, guilt, sadness, neuroticism) was not significantly correlated to relationship satisfaction. While, in a 45-year-long study of marital stability and marital satisfaction in 300 heterosexual couples, Kelly and Conely (1987) found that negative affectivity in both genders was negatively related to relationship satisfaction. This demonstrates the significance of same-sex relationships and how they appear much healthier than those of heterosexual partners. It is important that same-sex couples experience satisfaction in their relationships, but also find acceptance within the homosexual community. They experience a significant amount of distress from outside of the homosexual community. As a result they rely heavily on their peers to provide support. The gay lifestyle is a stressful lifestyle. In a study by Todosijevic, Rothblum, and Solomon (2005), gay couples reported experiencing a significant level of anxiety regarding contraction of HIV/AIDS. Further, gay and lesbian couples indicated facing stress from their families due to disapproval of the lifestyle such as â€Å"rejection, lack of support, and lack of understanding by the family due to their sexuality† (p. 165.) In their study of two hundred adolescents and early adult lesbians, Cantor and Neulinger (2000) reported that 47.5% of the interviewees disclosed having made some attempts at suicide at some point in their life. Thirty one percent of these lesbian adolescents and young adults who reported suicide attempts contributed it, at least partially, to their sexual orientation. Furthermore, in high school age males, 36% of the homosexual students surveyed reported having made a suicide attempt at some point in their life compared to 8.9% of their heterosexual counterparts (where is this information coming from?). Data such as this indicates the moral dilemma for the homosexual community, which creates unnecessary stress for homosexual individuals and their families. There are many milestones in life that homosexual individuals have a more difficult time achieving. Society paints a particular picture within which individuals are anticipated to fit snugly. Society expects homosexuals to conform to the norms that it has diligently created over the course of the history. A study was done recently that examined how the courts evaluate same-sex couples when they are attempting to adopt children (Connolly, 1998). The researchers found that the courts expect same-sex couples to conform as best possible to the traditional model of families. Since these couples are not allowed to marry, they are expected to demonstrate their commitment to each other in ways that heterosexual couples do not have to exhibit. Homosexual couples must realize that their demonstration of commitment must be more pronounced than heterosexual couples. They must also work to overcome their persuasion into the model in which the rest of society fits. As more and more same-sex couples are adopting or having children through artificial insemination, concerns regarding the integrity of family structure and developmental outcomes of children in these alternative families are brought to discussion. Golombok, et al. (2003) examined the quality of parent-child relationships, socioemotional and gender development in a community sample of lesbian parents with seven-year olds, and had a control group of heterosexual two-parent families. Demographics of both the lesbian and heterosexual families were similar. There were no statistically significant differences in mother-child relationships with regard to warmth toward child or emotional involvement. Family structure, not mothers sexual orientation, showed significant effects for overall parenting quality and enjoyment of motherhood. There were also no statistically significant differences in the frequency of conflicts with the child. Family structure, with single mothers, having more severe disputes (It seems like this sentence is missing something). Lesbian mothers also reported smacking their children less than heterosexual mothers. Lesbian mothers also engaged in more imaginative play with their children than heterosexual mothers, as single mothers did more often than heterosexual mothers. Fathers showed statistically significant higher levels of emotional involvement and frequency of smacking with their children than co-mothers. Socioemotional development showed no statistically significant difference in conduct problems, hyperactivity, emotional symptoms or positive social behavior as reported by mothers and teachers. The study also showed no differences in children’s behavior according to gender when comparing boys and girls in both heterosexual and lesbian families (Golombok, et al., 2003). Flaks, Ficher, Masterpasqua, Josephs (1995) compared lesbian couples with heterosexual parents and their children, ages three to nine. Their study found that sexual orientation of custodial parents is not a significant variable in successful development of the child and that there were no differences in children coming from divorced heterosexual or same-sex parent families. The purpose of their study was to address concerns of the courts when involved in custody cases. They showed no significant differences with parents sexual orientation or gender of child in outcomes of cognitive development or behavioral adjustment. The study did find that lesbian parents had more parenting awareness skills than heterosexual parents; this was statistically significant. This finding, with further statistical analysis, was shown to be related to gender, with mothers having better parenting skills than fathers. Wainright, Russell, Patterson (2004) examined family type heterosexual parents and same-sex parents, and outcomes in school, psychological adjustment and romantic relationships. Romantic relationships and sexual behavior was not associated with family type. The quality of the parent-child relationship determined better school adjustment. Anderssen, Amlie, Ytteroy (2002) reviewed twenty-three evidenced-based research studies from 1978 to 2000, assessing outcomes for children with lesbian or gay parents. Historically, the Scandanavian courts have not ruled against custody related to sexual orientation of the parent. However, evidenced based research regarding outcomes of children of same-sex parents is needed, since legal rights to adopt or become foster parents is not afforded to same-sex couples as they are to heterosexual couple. Emotional functioning was the outcome most often studied, followed by sexual preference, stigmatization, gender role behavior, behavioral adjustment, gender identity and cognitive functioning. No differences in emotional functioning were shown between same-sex (lesbian) parents and heterosexual parents. There were no differences in sexual preferences in offspring with parental sexual preference. Due to expressed negative attitudes which was received from outsiders, children of same-sex parents experienced stigmatization and teasing. The studies showed that few youngsters were teased no more than other children, and they developed stable relationships with peers as children of heterosexual parents (who said this?). There were no differences in gender role behavior, behavioral adjustment, and cognitive functioning. This significant research shows that the homosexual community faces difficult boundaries, restrictions, and stereotypes, but this community still manages to maintain relationships, raise their children, and live out daily life with less negative outcomes than heterosexual individuals. This leads into the Theory of Paradox with three stances on the subject of same-sex marriages showing negative and positive conclusions (question 6). Striving to protect the traditional family values, the concerned camp tends to be more conservative with their views on the family. The sanguine camp is more concerned with the welfare of the children, as well as the individual rights of people of all sexual orientations. The impatient camp seeks progress and respects all members of the community regardless of the concern for traditional family values. The concerned camp views same-sex marriage as an insult to the historical family unit and the foundations from which the family system was derived. The research indicates many stressors that are responsible for creating significant amount of anxiety, distress, and other negative reactions for those in the homosexual community. The research indicated that regardless of the homosexual lifestyle these individuals are still required to â€Å"conform† to traditional heterosexual family styles in order to adopt, regardless of the findings (This sentence is not clear. Regardless of what findings? Are there findings contrary to the outcome of court decisions on qualification of homosexual parents to adopt?). The teenagers living a homosexual lifestyle were also found to be more at risk for negative behaviors, including suicide. The concerned camp desires to see the traditional family unit remain intact for the welfare of all individuals, especially the children. The sanguine camp views recent family changes positively as indicators of the capacity of families to adapt to new environments rather than symptoms of decline. The sanguine camp concerns the positive results of these family changes for individuals, especially women. The sanguine argue that children have the capacity to overcome the emotional upheaval and long term consequences of divorce. The contenders of this view tend to focus on people who have thrived in the midst of family change. The sanguine camp believes marriage, commitment and nurturance to be unchanging core American values no matter what. According to the sanguine, the dramatic change in the last quarter century was not about family value but about norms and standards regarding appropriate or inappropriate behavior. For example, cohabitation before marriage has become common and one of four children is born outside of marriage but majority still want to be married. Regarding policy-making, the greatest concern for the sanguine camp is individual freedom. They want to keep the American core values and establish the institutional supports to help families through rapid changes. The impatient camp acknowledges the change and growth in the diversity of alternative families and their structure. Qualitative research is respected and much of the evidence regarding childrens behavioral and cognitive outcomes incorporates teacher responses along with parent responses. The research supports changes towards same-sex marriage and welcomes significant positive research findings to support their cause. This camp finds that families do face challenges, but ultimately have numerous opportunities to demonstrate their resilience through this alternative lifestyle (question 7). The families affected most by the failure to recognize same-sex marriages are those homosexual couples who have children. The family members of homosexual couples are also affected by the stereotypes that are involved with the homosexual lifestyle. Principle one addresses the question of if policies or programs set unrealistic expectations for families assuming financial and caregiving responsibilities of dependent, seriously ill or child with special needs. Principle two addresses family stability and explains that policies and programs should help maintain the stability of couples relationships, especially when children are involved (Bogenschneider, 2002). When looking at the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) from the perspective of a homosexual family, it does allow for incentives to marry in the state that recognizes homosexual marriages. With the current statue of DOMA, children may not have continued financial support from one of the parents if the homosexual parents separate (NCRF, 2004). Massachusetts legalization of same-sex marriage allows for the children of these families to have some financial security if their parents should divorce or if one of the parents were to die. The issue with the DOMA policy is that it does not allow for financial protection to non-biological children of same-sex relationships (Coolidge Duncan, 2001). Carlson (2004) found that DOMA actually protects the sanctity of heterosexual marriages by not allowing homosexuals to marry legally. The justification here is that homosexual relationships are sterile and that the children from these relationships will not have any kinship to, at a minimum, one of the parents and it could possibly be both of the parents. Carlson (2004) also found that marriage is an evolution in itself (questions 2-3). Question 4: Examine the Implementation of the Policy and Statute (p. 307) – how has the Department implemented this policy? How has subsequent legislation (if any) revised this policy? Note: This flows right into question 5 below. Question 5: Go to page 306 and answer question #1 (Family Impact Questions): Reviewing rules, legislation, and laws to point out how legislation does or does not address families’ needs. The goal of the previous research and the comprehension of the policy is to allow the policy holders to see the detrimental results that have occurred as a result of the failure to recognize same-sex marriages. Homosexual families are suffering as a result of the failure to acknowledge the relationships that are closest to them. Children, according to the research, are well adjusted and develop normally but they are not able to develop socially because of the limitations that are placed on them from being a part of a homosexual family system.. They encounter numerous roadblocks and challenges as a result. The systems that surround them are also aversely affected creating much distress for all individuals that come in contact with each member of the family. The homosexual partners also experience significant distress as a result of the failure of the state of Texas to recognize any union between two individuals of the same sex. These individuals fight uphill battles daily with the simplest household activities, such as medical care/insurance, monetary matters, and significant custody concerns if children are involved. The recognition of same-sex marriages would allow these homosexual families to experience more acceptance and give them the opportunity to continue with normal, daily activities without hindrance (question 8). The recognition of same-sex marriages would alleviate significant amounts of stress from those families who are a part of a homosexual partnership. The recognition of this partnership would allow for society to also recognize the partnership leading to a more accepted perspective. The children in these families, as demonstrated in the research results, remain near the average mark in development, but continue to have difficulty comprehending and accepting the lifestyle affecting their emotional and social developments. Texas can alleviate this stress for these individuals by recognizing these same-sex marriages and providing the same right to homosexual couples that is provided to heterosexual individuals. Providing this recognition will allow for all families in the state of Texas to have the same resources, rights, and privileges creating a stronger, more united state, community, and families. References Anderssen, N., Amlie, C., Ytteroy, E. (2002). Outcomes for children with lesbian or  gay parents. A review of studies from 1978-2000. Scandinavian Journal of Psychology, 43, 335-351. Bogenschneider, K. (2002). Family policy matters. Lawrence Erlbaum Associates:NJ. p.94-97. Brewer, P., Wilcox, C. (2005). The Polls—trends: Same-sex marriage and civil  unions. Public Opinion Quarterly, (69) 4, 599-616. Cantor, C., Neulinger, K. (2000). The epidemiology of suicide and attempted suicide among young Australians. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 34(3), 370-387. Connolly, C. (1998). The description of gay and lesbian families in second-parent adoption. Behavioral Sciences the Law: Special issue: Families and Courts, 16(2), 225-236. Flaks, D., Ficher, I., Masterpasqua, F., Joseph, G. (1995). Lesbians choosing  motherhood: A comparative study of lesbian and heterosexual parents and their children. Developmental Psychology, 31, 105-114. Golombok, S., Perry, B., Burston, A., Murray, C., Mooney-Somers, J., Stevens, M., et al. (2003). Children with lesbian parents: A community study. Developmental Psychology, 39, 20-33. Jordan, K., Deluty, R. (2000). Social support, coming out, and relationship  satisfaction in lesbian couples. Journal of Lesbian Studies, 4, 145–164. Kelly, E., Conely, J. (1987). Personality and compatibility: A prospective analysis of  marital stability and marital satisfaction. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 58, 27–40. Lewis, R., Derlega, V., Berndt, A., Morris, L., Rose, S. (2001).An empirical analysis of  stressors for gay men and lesbians. Journal of Homosexuality, 42, 63–88. Meyer, I. (2003). Prejudice, social stress, and mental health in lesbian, gay, and  bisexual populations: Conceptual issues and research evidence. Psychological Bulletin, 129, 674– 697. Pawelski, J., Perrin, E., Foy, J., Allen, C., Crawford, J., Del Monte, M., Kaufman, M., Klein, J., Smith, K., Springer, S., Tanner, J., Vickers, D., (2006). The Effects of marriage, civil union, and domestic partnership laws on the health and well-being of children. Pediatrics, (118)1, 349-364. Pope, S. (2004). The magisteriums arguments against same-sex marriage: An  ethical analysis and critique. Theological Studies , 65(3), 530-555. Todosijevic, J., Rothblum, E., Solomon, S. (2005). Relationship satisfaction,  affectivity, and gay-specific stressors in same-sex couples joined in civil unions. Psychology of Women Quarterly, 29, 158–166.

Mexican American Essay

The Mexican American experience has been one of adversity, and endurance. The plight of these native people has been ignored, and many times erased from the American conscience. They have struggled for acknowledgement, fought for equality and have gone to battle for respect. This population has been victimized, and driven to the ground by the powerful grip of American society. Efforts were repeatedly made to shape Mexicans into what others perceived them to be. The language they should speak, the things they should learn, and the way they should live, were decisions they were unable to control. This lack of power allowed the U.S. to take advantage of Mexican rights, labor and land. In addition, this produced a loss of Mexican identity and culture. Several thousand agricultural workers migrated to the U.S. in the early twentieth century. The majority of these persons were Mexicans that found work on farms, where white owners welcomed their cheap labor. Growers minimized local opposition to Mexican immigration by promising that the Mexicans would return to Mexico, following picking season. This broken promise enabled the growth of systematic oppression toward incoming Mexicans. By migrating to the U.S., they hoped to find more prosperous means of living. The Bracero Program was implemented as a tool for Mexicans to migrate and work in the U.S. The Bracero Program offered a dramatic solution for Mexicans to work through visas in the U.S. This program offered thousands of workers the opportunity to work on farms, and get paid. Unfortunately, it had its failings. Basically the program was a way for the American employers to exploit Mexican workers, and pay them very small wages. Race became the main justification for discrimination and subordination of Mexicans. On a social side; class, race, and gender are the means by which people are set apart. Mexican identities became lumped together, and were referred to as the bottom of the barrel, in the Anglo American eyes. This culture is viewed as a rejection of assimilation. In current debates over the increasing unemployment rates, Americans seek to use Mexicans as scapegoats. This is often due to the number of Mexicans that migrated to the U.S., and are willing to preform manual labor for minimal payment. These Mexicans have been exploited by imperialism and globalization. It is this exploitation that brings about migration and changes to their culture and identity. In the United States, we live in a society that proclaims equality, free of discrimination, opportunity, liberty and freedom to all its citizens. However, that is only a faà §ade. Reality is the gentrified urban areas, neglect and ignorance of the presence of racial and gender inequalities that saturate society. Social stratification impeded racial relations in the U.S. far more than any other racial differences. Minorities experience the majority of wealth in the hands of the white population. Whites refer to government programs for minorities as a handout, or minorities being lazy. For many decades people have been using race as a way to classify humans into different social categories. Unfortunately, Mexicans have been placed in the underclass category. This is due to their financial income, occupations, and legal right to be in the U.S. Regrettable, Mexican Americans are viewed as inferior, and seem to be at the bottom of the social hierarchy.

Study On The Retail Industry In India - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 11 Words: 3427 Downloads: 4 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Marketing Essay Type Research paper Did you like this example? Many changes have occurred in the marketing environment in recent years. Undoubtedly, the marketing environment will continue to evolve and change, often in very significant ways, in the coming years. Shifts in consumer behavior, competitive strategies, government regulations or other aspects of the marketing environment can profoundly affect the fortunes of a retail sector. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Study On The Retail Industry In India" essay for you Create order Besides these external forces, the industries may engage in a variety of activities and changes in strategic focus or direction that may necessitate minor or major adjustments. The research aim is to highlight the current situation of the Indian Retail Industry as well as to provide facts and figures regarding the probable loopholes and the scope for augmentation. During the recent years of globalization, economies in Asia and the Pacific grew rapidly until the current global economic and financial crisis appeared in mid-2007. This acceleration of growth, in which international trade has played an important role, has helped Asian and Pacific countries to make impressive strides in economic development (ESCAP, 2009). At the same time, empirical evidence suggests that in some supply-constrained larger economies in Asia and the Pacific, such as China, India and Indonesia, wealth through trade has been accompanied by rise in inequality. The basic aim of the paper would be to analyz e the retail industry in India and to understand the issues prevailing in this industry and the future prospective of the retail industry. The aim of the paper would be to answer the following research questions; Is Indian retail industry sustainable? How does the Indian retail industry compete with the industries all around the World? Is the retail industry more beneficial than other industries in India? Does the involvement of government in this industry is satisfactory? What improvements could be made in the Indian retail industry ? The Literature Review Like some other retail industries the Indian industry is divided in two sectors i.e. organised and unorganized one. The organised portion deals with the trading activities practiced while possessing licenses and having registrations for sales and income tax. This division includes corporate backed hypermarkets and retail chains and the privately owned large retail businesses. Secondly, the unorganized one who practices traditional style of low-cost retailing like grocery stores named as à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Kiriana Storesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬?, general stores, Paan / Beedi shops, convince stores, hand carts and pavement, vendors, etc. Moreover, the traditional markets are preparing to adopt new designs like departmental stores, specialty stores and supermarkets. The Indian retail sector is greatly split with 97 % of its being executed by the unorganized retailers like the traditional family run stores and corner stores. The organized retail however is at a very embryonic stage although efforts are being made to boost its share. The sector is the largest source of employment after agriculture, and has deep penetration into rural India generating more than 10 % of Indiaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s GDP. The fact of Chinaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s retail sector becoming saturated, international retailers considers India as the last retailing frontier left. Though, the Indian Government restrictions on the FDI are creating uncertainties among the international players like Walmart, Tesco and many other retail giants struggling to enter Indian markets. As of now the Government has allowed only 51 per cent FDI in the sector to à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"one-brandà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ shops like Nike, Reebok etc. Therefore, other international players are taking alternative ways to pierce the Indian retail market indirectly via strategic licensing agreement, franchisee agreement and cash and carry wholesale trading (since 100 per cent FDI is allowed in wholesale trading). The structure of Indian retail is emerging swiftly with shopping malls becoming increasingly common in the large cities and development plans being projected at 150 new shopping malls by 2008. However, the traditional formats like hawkers, grocers and tobacconist shops continue to co-exist with the modern formats of retailing. Modern retailing has helped the companies to increase the consumption of their products for example: Indian consumers would normally consume the rice sold at the nearby kiranas viz. Kolam for daily use. With the introduction of organized retail, it has been noticed that the sale of Basmati rice has gone up by four times than it was a few years back; as a superior quality rice (Basmati) is now available at almost the same price as the normal rice at a local kirana. Thus, the way a product is displayed and promoted influences its sales. If the consumption continues to grow this way it can be said that the local market would go through a metamorphoses of a change and the local stores would soo n become the things of the past or restricted to last minute unplanned buying. Research Methodology Introduction This section spells out the procedures and the methods that the researcher can employ in achieving the objectives of the project so highlighted in the abstract of this paper. It defines location of the study, research procedures and analysis plan that would be put in consideration when carrying out this particular research. The research is supposed to start with the clear understanding of the research objectives as well as the hypothesis. Success of the project will depend on the provision of satisfying information in line with the objectives and hypothesis (Myers, 2002). The objective of the research just as a recap is to identify the effective mechanisms risk exposure and fÑ–nà Ã‚ °ncÑ–Ã Ã‚ °l policy considering the à Ã‚ °nà Ã‚ °lysÑ–s of à Ã‚ µmà Ã‚ µrgÑ–ng markets used in order to gain the competitive. It is important to note here that this research was mainly based on the questionnaire even though other research method ologies were briefly discussed. Sample questionnaire used is as shown in the appendices. Research methodology is a master plan specifying the methods and procedures for collecting and analyzing the data. It is a strategy or blueprint that plans the action for carrying through the research project data. A research design involves a series of rational decision-making choices depending upon the various options available to the researchers. Broadly it is composed of different elements like: the purpose of the study, the unit of analysis, time dimension, mode of observation, sampling design, observation tools, data processing, and data analysis. Mainly two techniques of research, Qualitative and quantitative are utilized. Though both of the methods have their own significance, the use of exploratory quantitative research design for this study appears to be appropriate. Research Design Research is an endless effort for truth. It certainly bring to light new knowledge or corrects previous errors and misconceptions and adds to the existing body of knowledge in an orderly manner. The research was aimed at highlighting the significance of branding for an organization and to evaluate the importance being given at pizza hut setup. This part deals with procedure adopted to conduct the study. The researcher had to depend on the related literature and structured questionnaires. Descriptive data were typically collected through a questionnaire survey, an interview or observation. Primary research. Primary research is the collection of data that does not exist. This can be through numerous forms: including questionnaires, telephone conversations, surveys, etc. As pertained to this project, the primary sources would likely be the risk exposure and fÑ–nà Ã‚ °ncÑ–Ã Ã‚ °l policy considering the à Ã‚ °nà Ã‚ °lysÑ–s of à Ã‚ µmà Ã‚ µrgÑ–ng markets. The major merit with conducting primary research is that it accurate. However, the disadvantage of primary research is that it may be time consuming, as it involves dealing with people from various regions, the human sources may only become resourceful out of their own willingness, and this may take them quit sometimes before making up their minds to tell you what they know or give you their side stories about your questions (Focardi Fabozzi, 1998). Secondary research on the other hand is the collection of existing data, that is, in contrast to primary research. For example: rese arch on experiments or specific subjects. The merit of secondary research is that ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s not time consuming however a disadvantage is that the information retrieved may not be relevant. Data Collection In research studies, the source of data is two-fold. Data comes from the inner world of libraries as well as from the outer world of human being. It is either the shelved data or it is the data acquired live from the people involved in the study. This research being in the marketing, and the prime subject of the study is retail sector, the researcher aims to collect data mainly from the respondents. After considering the various methods of data collection such as ethnographic style, survey, experimental style, and narrative enquiry, a questionnaire survey was chosen as it allows the collection of highest opinions within the time span of the project as well as the fact that the results could be accurately mapped and correlated to provide quantitative information. Choice of research philosophy Another aspect that is of great significance in this research would be the research strategy. Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s the research strategy shows which methods a researcher adapts to answer the research objectives or questions. There are types of research strategies that can be employed in conducting a research study. These include experiments, case studies, survey, theoretical perspectives, cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. It is imperative to examine some of these strategies while paying particular attention to the case study method which will be applied in this particular research. Survey is another important research strategy that has was popular in conducting this research. Surveys à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"allow the collection of a large amount of data from a large population .This implies that the researcher can conduct surveys and question specific groups of people to obtain large amount of information relevant to the subject of the survey. The data is usually collected from the people either via questionnaire or orally. The purpose of the survey was to establish and analyze views of respondents in order to find what they think about particular situation, case or statement. However, despite the fact that the views from a large number of respondents can be gathered through the survey strategy, the data obtained may not all reflect to the objective of the research at depth (Kendrick, 2009). Case study is a research strategy which involves investigation of a particular contemporary phenomenon in the real life situation using multiple sources of evidence. More elaborate explanation on the nature of the case study as a research strategy was given by Frenkel, Hommel, Dufey Markus, (2005). in whose view case study represents à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"a specific way of collecting, organizing, and analyzing dataà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢. Grounded theory represents a strategy which posits that the data is collected through observations and compared to various theoretical frame works in order to discover which of the data is the most appropriate. This leads the researcher into making predictions about the studied phenomena prior to putting the findings into test. However, the aim of grounded theory is to make studied data records well-developed and understood and to verify relationships between the findings and the case study in question (Frenkel, Hommel, Dufey Markus, 2005). Questionnaires This research was mainly carried out by the use of a questionnaire. The questionnaire enabled the information to be gathered from many respondents who were directly involved in risk exposure and fÑ–nà Ã‚ °ncÑ–Ã Ã‚ °l policy considering the à Ã‚ °nà Ã‚ °lysÑ–s of à Ã‚ µmà Ã‚ µrgÑ–ng markets. Use of a questionnaire as a quantitative method for collecting data from the sources is the most appropriate method of collecting mass responses and as such, providing a good method of comparative analysis. The questionnaire will cover a number of data sources to find out opinions and views regarding the planning strategies required in risk exposure and fÑ–nà Ã‚ °ncÑ–Ã Ã‚ °l policy considering the à Ã‚ °nà Ã‚ °lysÑ–s of à Ã‚ µmà Ã‚ µrgÑ–ng markets. Designing good questionnaires requires significant skills and experience. The researcher embarks on the study by setting up survey question naires that address issues relevant to the interviews conducted. It is important to pilot or test the questionnaire as fully as possible before distributing them to the interviewees to fill them. A sample questionnaire is like the one shown in the appendices below. This questionnaire enabled elaborate information to be obtained from the players in the restaurant industry (Lam, 2003). Interviews In order to achieve the purpose of the investigation, the key focus lies on finding out which techniques should be applied. Interviews were the best method for understanding this research. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“A respondent interview is one where the interviewer directs the interview and the interviewer responds to the questions of the researcherà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬?. And to add more weight on this observation, Borodzicz, (2004). added that the standard survey interview is itself essentially faulted and that it therefore cannot serve as the ideal ideological model against which to assess other approaches. He Borodzicz, (2004).also elaborates by describing interviews as the verbal exchange of information between two or more people for the principal purpose of one person or group gathering information from the other. And that Semi structured interviews enable one to fix and control circumstances in order to collect appropriate data while remaining flexible and responsive (Borodzicz, 2004). In or der to analyze the psychological and behavioral reasons for decisions of the sources, the collected primary data should be collected through the distribution of questionnaires. They however emphasized it is very important to note that questionnaires should reach the right people, to allow for an appropriate amount of information to be collected. Different types of interviews that the researchers may opt to apply to their studies. The three are inclusive of structured interviews, semi-structured interviews, and unstructured interviews. (Pritchard, 2005). Structured interviews consist of closed-ended questions, where the structure of the questions, responses and the interview itself is decided prior to the interview. The interviewer has more control over the responses, and can lead the interview into the direction they want. However, the responses received are limited. Semi-structured interviews consist of closed and/or open-ended questions, allowing the interviewer to have some co ntrol over the responses and the interview. Although the open-ended questions allow the interviewee to express themselves and encourage them to present their views and opinions. Unstructured interviews consist of open-ended questions that do not restrict the intervieweeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s responses, therefore collecting a wide range of information. This kind of interview is more supple in-terms of the questions being asked and their ordering, all depending upon the interviewees responses. After considering these different types of interviews, Questionnaires are considered more useful for this study. This is necessary, as it allows gaining a deeper understanding of the participantsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ views. In the usage of the interview the management of organizations in à Ã‚ µmà Ã‚ µrgÑ–ng markets were interviewed to get there view on how they operate (Silva, 1995). Data Analysis Process The process involves the researched applying reasoning in order to understand and interpret the data collected. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“In simple descriptive research, analysis may involve determining consistent patterns and summarizing the appropriate details revealed in the investigationà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬? (Zikmund, 2003, P. 73). Sectors of the market chosen to research and why you chose these sectors Use of research tools such as questionnaires, interviews, relevant journals, periodicals and data sampling and machines would be utilized in the process conducting the interview. Experts would be needed to conduct the research. In implementing the activities, both the quantitative and qualitative approaches was considered, where by qualitative data are those that would be based on the spoken words while the quantitative data would be generated from the overall data collected based of accuracy and efficiency The research project was scheduled to run for a period of one year and a few Months within which industries in à Ã‚ µmà Ã‚ µrgÑ–ng markets would be put under scrutiny and rigorous investigations to ascertain the objectives of the research. Research validity and reliability A debate about the findings of the preceding literatures on retail industry considering the à Ã‚ °nà Ã‚ °lysÑ–s of à Ã‚ µmà Ã‚ µrgÑ–ng markets inevitably includes a discussion of à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‹Å"researchà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢, normally referring to the way in which the data were collectedà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬?. This research being a phenomenological, all questions are related to theoretical characteristics discussed in literature preview. The process would therefore be accurate in collecting, analyzing and sampling data; hence the validity of result would be quite high. Considering that there are many different aspects of validity, which influence the validity of the research in general. Relationship between your research aim, research questions, research objectives and research methods. The methodology which was exploited here mainly through the questionnaires and the interviews were most appropriate as they enabled the most information to be obtained. Many respondents could be reached within a short period of time while sampling enabled a comparison to be carried out on the different organizations in à Ã‚ µmà Ã‚ µrgÑ–ng markets. They helped in the real understanding on retail industry considering the à Ã‚ °nà Ã‚ °lysÑ–s of à Ã‚ µmà Ã‚ µrgÑ–ng markets has actually been carrying out its activities which have actually helped it in realizing a competitive in the market (Borodzicz, 2004). Anticipated Outcomes The retail industry in India is currently growing at a great pace and is expected to go up to US$ 833 billion by the year 2013. It is further expected to reach US$ 1.3 trillion by the year 2018. As the country has got a high growth rates, the consumer spending has also gone up and is also expected to go up further in the future. In the last four years, the consumer spending in India climbed up to 75%. As a result, the India retail industry is expected to grow further in the future days. Despite the fact that the Indian retail market is expected to grow but some challenges are still required to be addressed. These challenges include the deficiency of sufficient infrastructure amenities, elevated prices of real estate, divergence in consumer groups, tax structure, limitations in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), shortage of trained manpower and low retail management skills. The research will focus to highlight all the challenges being faced to the Indian retail market and to sugges t the strategies and methodologies to cater these challenges. The effective management of above said challenges will not only enable to achieve the projected growth in the retail sector but will also enable to enhance the factor of consistency in growth. Appropriateness of triangulation to research The essence of applying triangulation is for the sake of indications of applicability of several methods (excess of two) in the course of the study in consideration of checking double or even triples results checking otherwise known as cross examination. The idea behind the concept is for the researcher to express a high degree of confidence in consideration of the results of diverse methods that give similar results. In case a single method was applied by the researcher, there is a higher tendency of believing that the results are valid. The application of more that a single method may result to a clash of the results. The application of about three methods attempting to derive an answer may lead to a similarity of answers from two out of the three methods used. In case of an occurrence of a crash there is then a need of reframing the question (HSE, 2006). Timeline: Ghant chart Activity Weeks Week commencing 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Explore literature Writing literature review Reading on methodology Writing methodology Questionnaire design Collection of qualitative data Collection of quantitative data Analysis of qualitative data Analysis of quantitative data Writing conclusion Submission of first draft Revision and submission of final draft Limitations of the research Limitations are usually present in every research and these limitations actually tarnish the results of the research. Certain limitations are also associated with this research. One of the biggest limitations of this research is lack of budget and lack of time. Besides that there are certain other limitations like the non-serious attitude of the respondents might tamper the entire results of the research. The interviews that will be conducted and the questionnaire cannot be fully utilized in this scenario because the respondents are not serious in their attitude when they are filling out the questionnaires or when they are giving the responses to the researcher. The lack of time given by the respondents can also be another limitation of this research. If the respondents have lesser time than it is highly probable that they might not take the research properly and ultimately the final results of the research would be affected in this scenario. Finally, it can be said that certain ch unks or sources of secondary research can also be treated as a limitation of the research. This is because of the fact that these sources are not valid or they are not updated therefore the data that is attained from these sources might affect the entire results of the research. Therefore, the researcher should take utmost care about all these constraints and try to minimize it.

Definition Essay Marriage - 838 Words

What is the Definition of Marriage? What is the definition of marriage? Over the years, the word marriage has been challenged from its current definition as listed in Merriam-Webster s Dictionary as an act of marrying or being married between a man and a woman. Marriage can also be defined in the Oxford Dictionary as the formal union of a man and a woman, typically recognized by law, by which they become husband and wife. The word marriage becomes a special type of bond between two people that share the same desire to become the other person’s life partner. Marriage can be challenging between two people based on their current government state laws, in their religious and cultural beliefs as well as challenging to the word to be defined†¦show more content†¦Wedding ceremonies are often held in a variety of religious chapels for the couple based on their belief. On the other hand, many relationships are accepting a new common trend as couples are now living together, as if they are indeed married but with out a legal certificate nor have gone through any ceremonial traditions. According to Robinson, couples prefer to simply live together without ceremony or state license. Robinson also includes this type of relationship between couples are also referred to as â€Å"common-law marriage.† Today, it is common to find more couples living together as if they are married. Since 2001, the number of couples living together without the traditional ceremonial traditions by law has risen throughout the states (Slater). This type of marriage can become challenging because the commitment to one another is tested in more ways than one. 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