Friday, December 27, 2019

Questions On Ancient Greek Theatre - 1413 Words

Yang Liu Instructor: William Lewis THTR 1009: Introduction to Theatre 14 December 2015 Take Home Final: Collection 3, Question 1~5 Question 1 The ancient Greek theatre was born with Greek’s belief of God in their festival. So at the beginning of its evolution it was only a worship ceremony in Greek society. Later the ancient Greek theatre was not built for the audience, but for the artist. It can reflect the partnership between the architect and the playwright and actors. Ancient Greek drama is the world’s oldest theatre and also the origin of theatre. The earliest in Athens is a theatrical tradition originated for the memorial of Dionysus religious. Since Athens is the first time in theatrical performances that will appear on the annual festival of Dionysus. As how these kinds of ritual activities beg plump become the first tragedy and comedy, academia unknown. It achieved its peak resulting in the 6th century BC, and the 5th century BC. Aeschylus Rees, Sophocles, Euripides, this three tragedian, their highest achievements of each period not only represents a process of the ancient Greek tragedy a rt a rise to prosperity and decadence, but also reflects the development of slave egalitarian social life at different stages. At that time, tragedy and comedy are two different styles of play, and no one can combine both features at same time in the ancient Greek theatre. Medea is part of the three ancient Greek tragedy. The opera tells the story ofShow MoreRelatedThe Greek Of Greek Tragedy1514 Words   |  7 PagesAllis, Greek Theatre Ancient Greek tragedy is still relevant today because the themes and issues expressed within it are still present in the 21st century such as undeserved suffering, death and relationships. The greeks produced many great works of art and theatre as well as revolutionising politics, ethics, aesthetics and philosophy with philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle and their theories such as their theories on form and Catharsis. Many people suggest that modern day theatre and performanceRead MoreTheatre As A Form Of Entertainment1460 Words   |  6 PagesTheatre is the activity or profession of acting in, producing, directing, or writing plays. Theatre is where playwrights produce plays, directors manage rehearsals and actors enact on stage. The coming together of all those components make up theatre, but there’s also a small piece missing. Theatre is complete when an audience comes together to experience the play. Theatre to many people is a form of entertainment. Just like now a days people go to the movies to indulge in a form of amusement, that’sRead MoreEssay on Ancient Greek Theatre1179 Words   |  5 PagesThe Greek theatre tradition of the time was rooted in the spirituality of its people, developed with the help and instruction from the politicians of the day and analysed by the philosophical contingent of the age. To discover how the theatre tradition of the fifth century was influ enced by the spiritual, philosophical and political mindset of its time, one must first look at how the theatre of this age was first developed. The Greek theatre tradition was born at a theatre built beneath theRead MoreTheater in Ancient Greece1631 Words   |  7 PagesTheatre in Ancient Greece Among the many inventions of the ancient Greeks, there have been a few that have specifically impacted modern day life for the better. Many of the things that are taken for granted today can be accredited to the intellectual minds of the people of ancient Greece. Our complicated plumbing and sewage systems that manage sanitation in most of the cities in the world have their roots in ancient society. The earliest concept of the crane was also developed during this timeRead MoreThe Challenges Of Seamus Heaney1406 Words   |  6 PagesIdentifying features of Greek theatrical conventions and how Heaney used these to shape his play. Heaney also presents social and political issues through The Burial at Thebes in a way that resonates with a contemporary audience. The responsibility of the translator of a piece first intended for performance are complex. The challenges can be different depending on whether a translation is commissioned for performance or for publication in text, or both. Translation of an ancient Greek play is far moreRead MoreHow Modern Versions Of Medea ( Euripides ) And Antigone ( Sophocles )1246 Words   |  5 PagesAncient Greek theatre is famed for hosting many playwrights that have stood the test of time, nevertheless concepts and ideologies present in traditional Greek theatre have become outdated. Strict gender roles were ever-present in society and a person was judged in relation to his or her compliance with these standards. Ancient Greek theatre hosts many misogynistic examples of the conformity to the gender roles of the time as well as the consequences of rebelling against the gender protocol. WomenRead MoreGreek Theatre in 5th Century Bce981 Words   |  4 PagesGreek Theatre in 5th Century BCE The Ancient Greeks, probably one of the most fascinating civilizations to study contributed several discoveries and technological advancements. One can not discuss the Greeks without discussing Greek Theatre though. Greek Theater paved the way for literature and art in later history in many ways. If it wasnt for Greek Theatre famous play writers like Shakespeare would have never done what they are so very well known for. When studying Greek Theatre it is virtuallyRead MoreComparing The Religions Of Hinduism And Buddhism Essay1459 Words   |  6 PagesExam II #2. Compare and contrast the religions of Hinduism and Buddhism. What were the essential differences between the two? What hope did they give to the common people of India ? Both Hinduism and Buddhism are prominent religions in the ancient and modern world. They are arguably two of the most popular polytheistic faiths as well. Most people make the mistake of grouping them as one uniform religion, but this is inaccurate. Buddhism and Hinduism do split some resemblance, but several aspectsRead MoreEssay on Greek Theater in 5th Century BCE972 Words   |  4 Pages Greek Theatre in 5th Century BCE nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;The Ancient Greeks, probably one of the most fascinating civilizations to study contributed several discoveries and technological advancements. One can not discuss the Greeks without discussing Greek Theatre though. Greek Theater paved the way for literature and art in later history in many ways. If it wasn’t for Greek Theatre famous play writers like Shakespeare would have never done what they are so very well known for. When studyingRead MoreEssay on The Function of the Greek Chorus1002 Words   |  5 Pages As man conquers the natural forces of the world, his mental focus shifts from simply surviving to answering humanitys enduring question: Why? Writers are inspired by the fabric of their society—current events, historical milestones, and popular morality. The Greeks skill in weaving stories and imagery was so intricately powerful that a complete universe was created in their legends. The chorus was one of the primary tools for elegantly s etting the stage for such detailed works. In Mythology, Edith

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

George Orwell s Brave New World And 1984 - 1537 Words

Aldous Huxley and George Orwell address the major oppressive issues by composing futuristic dystopian novels. Their societies, whether it be London or Oceania, were created in order to emphasize humanistic values. In the novels Brave New World and 1984, the authors display the resemblances and disparities of modern ideals. Both of Huxley and Orwell’s viewpoint of relationships, technology, and brainwashing reveal the underlying theme that a totalitarian state is dangerous; displaying them in various ways. For instance, the two share and diverge on the topic of social exchange. The relationships in both novels face similar yet different forms of oppression that has been enforced by the totalitarian governments. In Brave New World, there is little to no sense of ownership. Lenina, a vaccination worker, even questioned marriage that John, the Savage, proposed. Lenina stated that no one person is tied to another and may socialize as they please. Their entirely sexual relationships have no strings attached, thus no unique bond, jealousy, nor compassion. These sexual relationships and loose bonds are used to oppress their clones by focusing their energy on enjoyable activities rather than focusing on the faults of their government. Upon showing his desire to start a permanent relationship with Lenina, she reacts, â€Å"For God’s sake, John, talk sense. I can’t understand a word you say. First it’s vacuum cleaners; then it’s knots. You’re driving me crazy. Answer me this question: doShow MoreRelatedGeorge Orwell s Brave New World, 1984, And King Lear3482 Words   |  14 PagesControl is presented in various ways in Brave New World, 1984, and King Lear. The ways in which the omnipresent governments in 1984 and Brave New World deploy power and control draw significant areas of comparison to each other, as well as contrasting to the presentation of power and control in King Lear. Various methods are utilised in order to exercise power and control in 1984, King Lear, and Brave New World. â€Å"Hypnopaedia† is employed in Brave New World as a method of mass control. Infants areRead MoreAnalysis Of George Orwell s Brave New World And 19841400 Words   |  6 PagesB.N.W. v.s. 1984 Synthesis Essay Hypothesis become theories and theories become laws. Brave New World and 1984 were both predictions made in the 1900s about what the future of the world would be like. Both of these books were written during the time when communism rose, and they show a world where it would have been like if communism was never struck down. Certainly, one novel makes a better prediction of the future than the other, and this case it will be 1984. 1984 is a better prediction becauseRead MoreGeorge Orwell s Brave New World1601 Words   |  7 Pagesto predict what the future holds for our society. If one was to narrow their focus on the past century they would see the works and predictions of Aldous Huxley and George Orwell. Both Huxley and Orwell, as one could infer, composed novels that describe future societies and their inner workings. Aldous Huxley, author of Brave New World, where members of society originate from a lab and who’s lives are pre-determined by the controllers. The controller s of Huxley’s futuristic society’s fundamental goalRead MoreThe Brave New World, By Aldous Huxley And 1984 By George Orwell1680 Words   |  7 Pagescompares the two dystopian societies of Brave New World by Aldous Huxley and 1984 by George Orwell. He suggests that â€Å"Orwell feared that what we hate will ruin us. Huxley feared that what we love will ruin us† (Postman). The Party of 1984 maintained control of the people by keeping them under constant surveillance, whereas the government of Brave New World kept the citizens so happy, they never felt threatened enough to put up a fight. Both Brave New World and 1984 multiple methods of fear manipulationRead MoreBrave New World vs 1984757 Words   |  4 PagesAldous Huxley s Brave New World is more relevant today than George Orwell s 1984. Although both of the two totalitarian societies are based on plausible premises, the Utopia depicted in Brave New World still has a chance of appearing today, while the Big Brother-dominated society created by Orwell, being based to some extent on the totalitarian societies that existed at the time of the book s inception, is simply obsolete. Brave New World remains more believable in modern times becauseRead MoreAnalysis Of Brave New World 1251 Words   |  6 PagesThe TV and surveillance equipment in 1984 was always watching and â€Å"the instrument†¦ could be dimmed, but there was no way of shutting it off completely† (Orwell 2). Most of the people in both societies are okay with the constant surveillance and manipulation, and for this reason, they also do not mind the case system that is implemented into both societies. In Brave New World, everyone accepts their caste, even the lowest ones. The government tries to make sure that people do not socialize outsideRead MoreGeorge Orwell s Brave New World938 Words   |  4 PagesComparison of Two Governments What are the main differences and similarities in how the government in the novel 1984 and the government in the novel Brave New World control the citizens of their society? Both government are tyrannical types of governments with total control over their people. The two novels have many differences and similarities in the methods the government uses to control the people, they use methods such as psychological manipulation, torture, emotional oppression, and t. TheRead MoreDystopian Society In 1984 By George Orwell, And Harrison Bergeron846 Words   |  4 Pages   Imagine a world in which people were controlled by fear. Dystopian societies are mostly controlled by a mean and power hungry leader which makes it hard for the citizens grow, themselves and have their own thoughts.Some of the citizens don’t really know they are being controlled and others are wide awake but scared to speak up and rebel against this power hungry leaders. The works â€Å"1984 by George Orwell, â€Å"Brave New world by Aldous Huxley, and Harrison Bergeron† by Kurt Vonnegut all have dystopianRead MoreLiterary Context Of Dystopian Literature1746 Words   |  7 Pages Dystopian literature explores the many problems within our society and uses them to create a dark and nightmare world, in which squalor, poverty or oppression are present. It acts as a cautionary tale for readers and brings to light the many flaws in humanity, which makes it impossible for a perfect society to ever exist. The true horrors, which compose a fictitious dystopian world, are used as a literary tool by many authors in an attempt to magnify societies issues. Their texts serve as a moralisticRead MoreGovernment Control Of 1984 And Brave New World1653 Words   |  7 PagesGovernment Control in 1984 and Brave New World In light of current events, society is more concerned than ever about just how much power the government has over people. Individuals are concerned that those in charge might implement policies that could deteriorate certain groups’ quality of living. To some, this may be foolish, but as is shown in some novels, this could happen, and when it does, it is hard to combat. In both George Orwell’s 1984 and Aldous Huxley’s Brave New World authors depict societies

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

Whose Art Is It Essay Example For Students

Whose Art Is It Essay Whose Art Is It?, an essay by Jane Kramer, talked about John Ahearn, an artist living in the South Bronx. Kramer describes John as a white male living in a predominantly African American and Hispanic community. His artworks sparked a great controversy not only in the town but the entire city of New York. His intentions were not to offend anyone but he created such a public outcry against his works that will be look backed upon forever. John Ahearn was an active part of the community. South Bronx is known as a place of suffering, poverty, crime, drugs, unemployment, and Aids (Stimpson 18), but this did not stop Ahearn for making his artworks. His earlier works were plaster portraits of the people that lived there. Some even displayed them in their homes. So he gained acceptance in South Bronx, nobody really minded he was white. The place became home to him. On April 1, 1986, the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs began to choose? an artist to create a piece in front of a new police station in the 44th Precinct (Stimpson 19). With his gained popularity in the town, Ahearn was commissioned to make the sculpture. He believed that his sculptures should be looked upon as guardian angels or saints. He believed that the people in his work should be the everyday, real people. To commemorate a few of the people? having trouble surviving in the street, even if they were trouble themselves. He wanted the police to acknowledge them, and he wanted the neighbors, seeing them cast in bronze and up on pedestals, to stop and think about who they were and about what he calls their South Bronx attitude (Kramer 38). So he turned to his immediate neighbors and casted to make his pieces. In 1992, Ahearn created three bronze figures: Raymond, a Hispanic, with his pit bull Toby; Corey, an African American with a boom box and a basketball; and Daleesha a second African American youngster on a pair of roller skates. They were not outstanding citizens, but were a part of the everyday struggle that Ahearn wanted to portray. Kramer explains that the people were insulted and wanted a more positive image of the town. They wanted the artwork to show them not to be struggling. Some of the neighbors wanted statues of Martin Luther King or Malcom X, or statues of children in their graduation gowns, or of mothers carrying home the groceries, or of men in suits on their way to important jobs downtown (Kramer 42). Some even evoked statements about stereotypical intent and Ahearn being a racist. Neighbors complained that Ahearn was a white man and made derogatory images about the African American and Hispanics. Some called his works to be scary and too dark. He tried to make changes with casts, making them brighter and more pleasant to look at, but the majority of the public still disapproves. After five days of being displayed Ahearn would take them all down after he had just installed them with great effort. But not the entire community disagreed with the meaning of the sculptures they know that Ahearns intent w as not to offend. Kramer talks about the multicultural controversy that was upon the community. She says that even though Ahearn was white and making sculptures of a different race, his purpose was of a positive notion. Since he has lived there, he has done nothing but positive things for South Bronx. Trying to pinch in his share for the better of the society. His affinity to these people was very special to him and Ahearn tried to show this through his artworks. On the flip side of all these facts, there was a question of racism. The people believed that, his pieces had stereotypical connotations. While living in the South Bronx, Ahearn learned to be like everybody else, from the peoples values, cultures, and traditions, and in return his neighbors learned his. He looked beyond racial boundaries. He accepted the challenge of being different and the town welcomed him. He believed that he spoke his mind through his artworks. Kramer argued that the public was complaining so much that they oversaw the tr ue meaning of the three sculptures. Ahearn once said that Art is who we are- its exactly who we are? Corey and Raymond are ?life, whether you like it or not, and if we cant look at life, at whats real life, how can we get beyond it? What are our alternatives? 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EssayWorks CitedKramer, Jane. 1994. Whose Art Is It?. Public Planet Books. Duke University Press. Stimpson, Catherine R.. 1994. Introduction of Whose Art Is It?. Public Planet Books. Duke University Press. Arts and Painting

Tuesday, December 3, 2019

Sample Report Writing Essay Example

Sample Report Writing Essay Sample Report A Formal Report Sample Reports A FORMAL REPORT THE EFFECTS OF STRESS ON BUSINESS EMPLOYEES AND PROGRAMS OFFERED BY EMPLOYERS TO MANAGE EMPLOYEE STRESS Prepared for Dr. Robert J. Olney Southwest Texas State University Prepared by Charles Dishinger Nancy Howard Bill Kiagler Sherry Seabrooke Donna Tucker November 29, 20 S-29 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Sample Reports ii TABLE OF CONTENTS Page LIST OF TABLES†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. iii LIST OF FIGURES†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ v ABSTRACT†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ SECTION I INTRODUCTION TO THE STUDY†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. Introduction†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ Statement of the Problem†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. Significance of the Study†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. Scope of the Study†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢ € ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ Review of Related Literature†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ Methods of the Study†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ Source of Data†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ †¦. l S-30 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. iv 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 4 6 6 6 6 7 8 9 10 11 Sample Reports iii LIST OF TABLES Table 1. Programs Offered by Employers to Manage Stress .. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ S-31 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Page 8 Sample Reports iv LIST OF FIGURES Figure Page 1. Age Distribution of Respondents .. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 2. Negative Effects of Stress on Work Performance .. †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ S-32 6 7 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Sample Reports v Abstract This study was conducted to determine the effects of stress on employees and the methods employers use to manage employees stress. We will write a custom essay sample on Sample Report Writing specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Sample Report Writing specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Sample Report Writing specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer It was limited to the perceptions of Central Texas business employees, who were selected using a nonprobability, convenience sampling method. A questionnaire consisting of three parts was used to collect primary data. The collected data were analyzed and interpreted using simple statistical techniques. The findings of the data indicated that the areas found to be most negatively affected by stress were job satisfaction/morale, courtesy, creativity, and productivity. In addition, personal appearance and absenteeism were listed as the areas least affected by stress. According to the results of the tudy, employers today are offering a wide variety of needed programs to manage the stress of their employees. One of the main conclusions drawn from the study was that stress does negatively affect the work performance of employees. Therefore, stress is not just an individual issue but an issue that must be addressed by both the employer and the employee; the work performance areas negatively affected have a direct effect on the company as a whole. S-33 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Sample Reports The Effects of Stress on Business Employees nd Programs Offered by Employers to Manage Employee Stress Section I Introduction to the Study Introduction Today, many organizations and employees are experiencing the effects of stress on work performance. The effects of stress can be either positive or negative. What is perceived as positive stress by one person may be perceived as negative stress by another, since everyone perceives situations differently. According to Barden (2001), negative stress is becoming a major illness in the work environment, and it can debilitate employees and be costly to employers. Managers need to identify those suffering from negative stress and implement programs as a defense against stress. These programs may reduce the impact stress has on employees work performance. Statement of the Problem The purpose of this study was to determine the negative effects of stress on employees and the methods employers use to manage employees stress. Significance of the Study There are three primary groups that may benefit from this study. The first group, consisting of employees in todays business organizations, may learn to identify ways that stress negatively affects their work performance. Identifying the negative effects may enable them to take necessary action to cope with stress. By sharing this knowledge, employees can act as a vehicle to help management implement appropriate stress reduction programs. The second group that may benefit from this study is employers who may gain insight as to how stress is actually negatively affecting S-34 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Sample Reports 2 employees’ work performance. Finally, educators can use these findings as a valuable guide to incorporate into their curriculum. By emphasizing to students the importance of developing programs to deal with stress, the students may be able to transfer this knowledge to the workplace, thereby improving the quality of the work environment. Scope of the Study This study was limited to the perceptions of full-time business employees as to the negative effects that stress has on work performance and the steps that employers are taking to manage stress. For the purpose of this study, what constitutes full-time employment is defined by the employer. This study was restricted to businesses operating in the Central Texas area. The Central Texas area encompasses all communities within Hays, Kendall, Travis, and Williamson counties. For the purpose of this study, stress is defined as disruptive or disquieting influences that negatively affect an individual in the workplace. Data for this study were collected during the fall of 2002. Review of Related Literature Barden (2001), a freelance writer specializing in health care and a former managing editor of Commerce and Health, stated the importance of wellness programs and gave specific examples of corporations that are successfully implementing such rograms. The Morrison Company currently saves $8. 33 for every dollar spent on wellness by offering programs such as weight loss, exercise, and back care. Axon Petroleum estimates that wellness programs will save $1. 6 million each year in health care costs for its 650 employees. In addition to Morrison and Axon Petroleum, Barden cited the savings for six other companies. According to the Wellness Bureau of America , the success of these companies offers concrete proof that wellness programs pay off by lowering health care costs, reducing absenteeism, and increasing productivity. Foster (2002), a professional speaker on stress-management, surveyed midlevel managers and found stress to be a major determinant in worker productivity. According to the study, the primary areas affected by stress are employee morale, absenteeism, and decision making abilities. By recognizing that a problem exists and by addressing the issue, managers can reduce stressful activities and increase worker performance in the business organization. Harrold and Wayland (2002) reported that increasing stress affects morale, productivity, organizational efficiency, absenteeism, and profitability for both individuals and the organization. The problem for businesses today is knowing how S-35 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Sample Reports 3 to determine stressful areas in their organizations and how to use constructive confrontation methods to reduce stress and improve efficiency. According to the authors, organizations that make a positive effort to deal with stress not only help build trust among their employees, but also increase the productivity of their employees and the organization as a whole. Maurer (2002) stated that stress-induced illnesses are prevalent in the workplace today, and stress is the problem of the sufferer and the employer. Stress causes absenteeism and can lead to other problems such as drug addiction, alcoholism, depression, and poor job performance. According to Maurer, the annual Barlow Corporation Forum on Human Resource Issues and Trends reported that large numbers of companies noticed severe levels of stress exhibited by employees. The forums panelists agreed that more needed to be done in the workplace to help employees manage stress. Some of the suggestions were to expand wellness programs, offer stress-management seminars, and teach staff how to balance work and family life. Maurer also noted that Olympic TeamTech, a computer management company, has dealt with employee stress by providing training programs, monitoring employee concerns, and meeting once a month to be proactive instead of reactive. Olympic TeamTechs turnover is less than the industry average. Schorr (2001), a stress-management consultant, stated that stress causes problems in the workplace which negatively affect employee health and organizational productivity. Stress can lead to problems such as job dissatisfaction, alcoholism, absenteeism, physical ailments, and poor job performance. If managers know how to prevent and cope with stress, productivity can be increased. Many companies instituted stress-management programs that led to a decline in absenteeism, a decrease in sickness and accident costs, and/or an increase in job performance. Schorr reported that a stress inventory, available from a stress-management program, can assist executives and managers in assessing employee stress. The inventory can identify the sources of stress, which may include physical elements as well as other factors. Once these sources have been assessed, the program can provide the necessary skills for coping with the problems, and participants can learn that there are alternative ways of reacting to stress. Methods of the Study Source of Data Data for this study were collected using a questionnaire developed by a group of students at Southwest Texas State University. The questionnaire was divided into S-36 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Sample Reports 4 three parts. Part one consisted of a list of 15 work performance areas that may be negatively affected by a persons level of stress. Respondents were asked to indicate whether stress increased, decreased, or had not changed their work performance in each area. They were also asked to indicate from the list of 15 work performance areas the area that was the most negatively affected by stress and the area that was the least negatively affected by stress. In the second part of the questionnaire, a list of 17 programs was provided and the respondents were asked to indicate which programs their companies had implemented to manage stress. Part three was designed to collect demographic data for a respondent profile, including full-time employee classification and age group. A copy of the questionnaire is contained in Appendix A on page 12. Sample Selection The respondents involved in this survey were employees working in companies located in Central Texas. A nonprobability, convenience sampling technique was used to collect primary data. Each member of the research team was responsible for distributing three questionnaires to members of the sample. To ensure confidentiality, respondents were given self-addressed, stamped envelopes in which to return their completed questionnaires to Southwest Texas State University. Controls were used to eliminate duplication of the esponses. Statistical Methods Simple statistical techniques were used to tabulate the results of this study. The primary data were analyzed using a percent of response. To compute the percent of response, the number of responses to each choice was divided by the total number of respondents who answered the question. In question one, the percents of responses for the negative effects of stres s on the 15 work performance areas were reported. The results of the next two questions were tabulated by totaling the number of respondents who chose an area they believed was least or most affected by stress. The fourth question reported the percent of respondents whose employers offered the listed programs to manage stress. Questions five and six asked the respondents to indicate if they were considered full-time employees and to indicate their age group. Limitations of the Study This study may be limited through the use of a questionnaire as a data collection instrument. Because questionnaires must generally be brief, areas that may have been affected by stress may not have been included in the questionnaire. S-37 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Sample Reports Also, all programs that may be available to employees for managing stress may not have been included in the study. The study may also be limited by the use of a nonprobability, convenience sampling method. The sample of business employees for the study was chosen for convenience and may not be representative of the total population of business employees. Care should be taken when generalizing these fi ndings to the entire population. Finally, the use of simple statistical techniques may introduce an element of subjectivity into the interpretation and analysis of the data. All attempts have been made to minimize the effects of these limitations on the study. S-38 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Sample Reports 6 Section II Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations Introduction This study was designed to determine the effects of stress on employees and to discover methods employers use to manage employees stress. Sixty questionnaires were distributed to business employees in the Central Texas area, and the response rate was 78. 3%. This section includes the Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations. Findings The findings will be presented in three sections according to the following characteristics: Demographic Profile, Areas of Job Performance Affected by Stress, and Programs Employers Offer Employees to Manage Stress. Demographic Profile All returned responses from the sample were considered full-time employees by their employers. The respondents were also asked to indicate their age group; all age ranges were represented in the results, as shown in Figure 1. The breakdown consisted of 2. 1% under the age of 20, 33. 7% between 20 and 29, 29. 4% between the ages of 30 and 39, 26. % between 40 and 49, 5. 4% between 50 and 59, and 3. 3% were 60 and over. AGE GROUP 5 1 Less than 20 1 6 2. 1% S-39 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. 26. 1% 5 50 to 59 Figure 1: Age Distribution of Respondents 29. 4% 4 40 to 49 3 33. 7% 3 30 to 39 2 4 2 20 to 29 5. 4% 6 60 or over 3. 3% Sample Reports 7 Areas of Job Performance Affected by Stress The respondents were given a li st of work performance areas that might be affected by stress and were asked to identify whether stress increased, decreased, or had no change on their work performance. Only respondents who indicated stress negatively affected an area were considered in these findings. Of the 15 areas listed, four areas were identified as having a response rate of more than 50. 0%. These areas were as follows: job satisfaction/morale (73. 9%), courtesy (65. 2%), accuracy (52. 7%), and creativity (51. 6%). Similarly, Schorr (2001) stated that a significant number of employees creativity is negatively affected by stress. Also, Harrold and Wayland (2002) agreed that morale is strongly affected by stress. Falling within the range of a 30. 0 to 50. 0% response rate were cooperation (49. %), organizational skills (46. 3%), initiative (45. 2%), productivity (42. 8%), alertness (39. 4%), decision making abilities (39. 1%), and perseverance (35. 5%). Harrold and Wayland (2002) established that increasing stress and anxiety are having a negative influence on an individuals organizational efficiency and productivity. The findings that negatively affect work performance are sho wn in Figure 2. Figure 2: Negative Effects of Stress on Work Performance 15 13 11 9 7 5 3 1 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 S-40 10 42. 8% 73. 9% 39. 1% 52. 7% 51. 6% 28. 0% 46. 3% 65. 2% 20 30 40 Productivity Job Satisfaction/Morale Decision Making Abilities Accuracy Creativity Attention to Appearance Organizational Skills Courtesy Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. 50 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 60 49. 5% 45. 2% 26. 6% 39. 4% 35. 5% 25. 8% 28. 3% 70 Cooperation Initiative Reliability Alertness Perseverance Tardiness Absenteeism 80 Sample Reports 8 Central Texas employees indicated the area they believed was most affected by stress and the area they believed was least affected by stress. According to the results, job satisfaction and productivity were thought to be most affected by stress. On the other end of the scale, areas least affected by stress were personal appearance and absenteeism. However, Schorrs (2001) study found that, on the average, individuals experiencing stress are more inclined to be absent or tardy. Programs Employers Offer Employees to Manage Stress Question four listed 17 programs offered by employers for managing stress. Respondents were asked to indicate which programs their companies had implemented to manage stress. The responses for each program are shown in Table 1. Table 1: Programs Offered by Employers to Manage Stress. TYPE OF PROGRAM Insurance RESPONSES 72% Breaks Educational Assistance/Reimbursement 51. 0% Access for Disabled 42. 6% Alternate Schedule 34. 0% Employee Assistance Programs 34. 0% Wellness Programs 34. 0% Flextime 29. 8% Stress Management Seminars 29. 8% Training Programs 29. 8% Piped Music 17. 2% Assigned Parking 17. 0% Employee Empowerment Programs 17. 0% Ergonomically Correct Furniture 17. 0% Financial Counseling 8. 5% On-Site/Assistance with Child Care S-41 69. 2% 4. 3% Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Sample Reports 9 Insurance received the highest number of responses (72. 0%), whereas, therapy received the lowest (2. 1%). Playing classical music and creating a comfortable work environment were found by Foster (2002) to be low cost stress reduction programs. Although these are inexpensive programs to implement, a relatively small response rate was given for piped music (17. 2%) and ergonomically correct furniture (17. 0%). Maurer (2002) stated that it is necessary for companies to design programs that enable employees to assess stressful situations and develop a rational mode of behavior. In contrast to Maurers research, only 17. 0% of the respondents indicated that Employee Empowerment Programs are being offered by their employer. A response rate of 34. 0% in the category of wellness programs/on-site fitness facilities was obtained. Barden (2001) reported programs that improve an individuals physical condition are both a positive and an effective method of managing stress. The remaining methods for managing stress were varied. Listed in decreasing percentages, they are as follows: breaks (69. 2%), educational assistance/ reimbursement (51. %), access for disabled (42. 6%), alternative schedules (34. 0%), Employee Assistance Programs (34. 0%), Wellness Programs (34. 0%) flextime (29. 8%), stress management seminars/classes (29. 8%), training programs (29. 8%), assigned parking (17. 0%), financial counseling (8. 5%), and on-site/assistance with child care (4. 3%). Conclusions On the basis of the findings, several conclusions concerning the effects of stress on Central Texas business employees can be drawn. The findings of this study indicated stress does negatively affect the work performance of employees. Job satisfaction and productivity were indicated as two areas most affected by work-related stress. Therefore, stress cannot be considered just an individual issue because reduced job satisfaction and lower productivity has a direct effect on the company as a whole. From this study, it can be concluded that employers have realized the importance of managing stress in the workplace because of the wide variety of programs now offered to manage stress. Of all the programs offered by employers, insurance is the most frequently offered means for managing stress. Because insurance acts as a security net for employees and is offered the most, it can be inferred that employers contend that insurance is the most effective means for managing stress. S-42 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Sample Reports 10 Recommendations Based on the findings and conclusions in this study, the following recommendations are made: 1. 2. Employers should conduct a survey of the programs they already offer to discover which programs are the most effective for managing their employees stress. 3. Employees should share their ideas for managing stress with their employers in order to help their employers implement appropriate stress reduction programs. 4. Educators should incorporate into their business curriculum discussions of stress in the workplace and ways to manage stress. 5. S-43 Employers should offer various stress reduction programs to help employees manage stress because stress is prevalent in the workplace. Additional research should be done. First, other areas negatively affected by stress should be studied to determine if stress affects other aspects of an employees life. In addition, other factors should be examined to learn what the personal and work-related causes and symptoms of stress are for an individual. Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Sample Reports 11 Bibliography Barden, Nancy Ray. Wellness Programs: Everyone Wins. Commerce and Health, November 2001, 28–42. Foster, Lucy Barnes. Workplace Stress: Changing the Pattern. Sales and Marketing Journal (2002), 32–33. Harrold, Robert and Wayland, Michael. New Methods to Reduce Workplace Stress. Industrial Concepts, June 2002, 19–21. Maurer, Marcia K. Is Stress Running Your Life? Modern Office Innovation, February 2002, 27–28. Schorr, Leslie. Coping with Stress, Boosting Productivity. Employment News, Spring 2001, 23–26. S-44 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Sample Reports Appendix A Questionnaire The Effects of Stress on Business Employees Students in the Graduate School of Business at Southwest Texas State University are conducting this survey to determine perceptions of the effects of stress on employees. The survey also is designed to determine efforts employers are making to help employees manage stress. Please return this questionnaire in the enclosed postage-paid envelope by Friday, November 8. 1. How does stress most often affect you at work? Please mark one response per line. AREA AFFECTED Productivity Job Satisfaction/Morale Absenteeism Decision Making Abilities Accuracy Creativity Attention to Personal Appearance Organizational Skills Courtesy Cooperation Initiative Reliability Alertness Perseverance T di S-45 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. INCREA SE DECREA SE NO CHANGE Sample Reports 13 2. Which one area from question 1 do you believe is most affected by stress? 3. Which one area from question 1 do you believe is least affected by stress? 4. Which of the following means for managing stress does your employer offer? Please mark all that apply. __ Employee Assistance Program On-Site/Assistance with Child Care Assigned Parking Employee Empowerment Programs Educational Assistance/Reimbursement Breaks Wellness Program/On-Site Fitness Facility Financial Counseling Access for Disabled Stress Management Seminars/Classes Training Programs Therapy Alternative Schedules (part-time, time off for family, etc. ) Flextime Piped Music Ergonomically Correct Furniture Insurance (security net for employee/family) Other (please specify) Note: Questions 5 and 6 are included in this questionnaire as a means of developing a demographic profile of our respondents. 5. Are you classified as a full-time employee by your employer? Yes 6. No Please check your age group. Less than 20 20 to 29 30 to 39 40 to 49 50 to 59 60 or over Thank you for taking time to help us. We value your input. S-46 Copyright  © Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.