Przemoc wobec najmłodszych jest zjawiskiem obecnym zarówno w krajach i rejonach ubogich, jak i wysoko rozwiniętych. Jak wynika z raportu fundacji Ark of Hope For Children, rocznie na świecie fizycznie i psychicznie krzywdzącego traktowania doświadcza czterdzieści milionów dzieci. Wpływ na występowanie przemocy ma wiele czynników, często trywialnych, bądź niezrozumiałych dla osób trzecich. Jak wiele innych negatywnych zjawisk dotyczących osób bezbronnych, temat znęcania się nad dziećmi był wielokrotnie poruszany w rozmaitych produkcjach, począwszy od filmów (m.in. dramat biograficzny "Mommie Dearest", opowiadający o dzieciństwie aktorki Christiny Crawford), poprzez nowele, utwory muzyczne, i inne formy przekazu, mające na celu poruszyć ów problem i wywołać dyskusję na temat jego przyczyn i sposobów zapobiegania.
Ze względu na niekwestionowaną popularność telewizji, kwestia przemocy wobec dzieci jest również przedstawiana w spotach reklamowych, najczęściej wykonywanych na zlecenie fundacji zajmujących się ofiarami tego typu, jak brytyjska National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC). Jedną z takowych produkcji, zrealizowanych na zlecenie właśnie NSPCC, jest "Don't Wait Until You're Certain" (tłumaczenie moje: "Nie Czekaj, Aż Się Upewnisz"), wyemitowana w brytyjskiej telewizji po raz pierwszy w roku 2013, w niekonwencjonalny sposób obrazująca tożsamość i odruchy dzieci, które przeżyły, bądź przeżywają dramat przemocy psychicznej i fizycznej.
Reklama ta wykorzystuje naturalne zachowania dzieci w wieku przedszkolnym i wczesnoszkolnym, takie jak zabawa lalkami i zadawanie pytań, kontrastując ze sobą niewinne pytania z wyrażeniami, które zasłyszały one od rodziców bądź opiekunów, takimi jak: "Shut up, you're doing my head in! I'm warning you!" (tłumaczenie moje: "Siedź cicho, boli mnie już głowa! Ostrzegam cię!"), w celu zobrazowania oddziaływania przemocy na odruchy i wypowiedzi ofiar. Jednocześnie, nawiązując do tytułu, spot ten zachęca potencjalnych świadków do przywiązywania uwagi do tego typu sytuacji, które często bywają lekceważone ze względu na umniejszanie ich wagi przez tłumaczenie ich dziecięcą wyobraźnią, bądź frazami usłyszanymi w filmach, lub z ust rówieśników.
Jedną z najpopularniejszych polskich organizacji zajmujących się tego rodzaju przemocą jest powstała w roku 1991 Fundacja Dzieci Niczyje. Porady zamieszczone na jej witrynie internetowej odnoszą się w dużym stopniu do tego, na jakie zachowania dziecka, sugerujące, że może ono doświadczać agresji, powinno się zwrócić uwagę. W sekcji "Jak rozpoznać przemoc" poruszona zostaje kwestia cierpienia emocjonalnego: "Przemoc emocjonalna to powtarzające się poniżanie, upokarzanie i ośmieszanie dziecka; wciąganie dziecka w konflikt osób dorosłych, manipulowanie nim; brak odpowiedniego wsparcia, uwagi i miłości; wymagania i oczekiwania wobec dziecka, którym nie jest ono w stanie sprostać." Dalej, autor tekstu wymienia objawy tego typu zachowania ze strony dorosłych, wśród których są także "objawy hipochondrii, histerii, obsesji lub fobii", co poruszone zostało właśnie w początkowym fragmencie reklamy NSPCC. Słowa dziewczynki: "Rabbits are scary. It's like they're looking for people to eat and I don't really like it." (tłumaczenie moje: "Króliki są przerażające. Wyglądają, jakby szukały ludzi, których mogłyby pożreć, naprawdę mi się nie podobają.") Uprzedzenie dziecka względem rzeczy, sytuacji, lub - jak w omawianym przypadku - zwierząt powszechnie uważanych za przyjazne bądź urokliwe, może być objawem histerii i irracjonalnego strachu wywołanego właśnie agresją ze strony opiekunów. Warto zauważyć, że dziewczynka nie używa przestraszonego tonu, a raczej mówi o swoim strachu w sposób neutralny, co wpisuje się w oparty na sprzecznościach koncept reklamy.
W dalszej części spotu słowa dwójki kolejnych dzieci zdają się nie mieć ukrytego znaczenia i nie odnosić się pośrednio do sposobu traktowania ich przez dorosłych. "All pigs are pink, even boy pigs" (tłumaczenie moje: "wszystkie świnki są różowe, nawet te, które są chłopcami") i "Do babies mummies teach them how to laugh, or do they know already?" (tłumaczenie moje: "Czy mamy uczą małe dzieci się śmiać, czy może one już to potrafią?"), mimo iż są po prostu obrazem ciekawości świata w młodym wieku, sugerują widzowi, jak łatwo jest zbagatelizować sugestie dotyczące przemocy w wypowiedziach jej ofiar, sprowadzając je do zwykłych pytań dziecka, które dopiero poznaje otaczający je świat, lub do wyimaginowanych obrazów.
Świat fantazji jednakże odgrywa istotną rolę w kształtowaniu się tożsamości młodych ofiar agresji. Alicja Karawaj w swoim wypracowaniu pod tytułem: "Wyobraźnia dziecka w wieku przedszkolnym" stwierdza, iż: "Wyobraźnia dziecka przedszkolnego charakteryzuje się dużą ekspansywnością jego stanów wewnętrznych. Przeżycia emocjonalne dzieci stanowią źródło wielu wyobrażeń, a wyobrażenia potęgują siłę uczuć, zwłaszcza lękowych." Również i ten aspekt pojawia się w produkcji NSPCC, kiedy to dziewczynka, podczas zabawy lalkami, mówi o niej: "Dolly's having a vodka" (tłumaczenie moje: "Dolly napije się wódki"). Warto zaznaczyć, że prócz uzewnętrzniania się emocji dziecka podczas zabawy i próby naśladowania sytuacji najpewniej przez nie zaobserwowanej, słowa te sugerują widzowi także problem nadużywania alkoholu poprzez rodziców bądź opiekunów. Uzależnienie od alkoholu, lub innych substancji wymienione zostało w artykule: "Przemoc wobec dziecka w rodzinie" autorstwa Aleksandry Sobkowskiej jako jednak z przyczyn występowania agresji wobec dzieci.
W jednej z końcowych scen spotu, siedzący na schodach chłopiec szeptem wypowiada słowa: "It's a secret, I'm not allowed to tell" (tłumaczenie moje: "To tajemnica, nie mogę o tym mówić). Obniżenie tonu głosu ma znaczenie symboliczne, odnoszące się jednakże nie tylko do ogólnie przyjętego sposobu mówienia o rzeczach, o których wspominanie zostało zabronione, ale także do biernej postawy osób trzecich wobec problemu przemocy względem nieletnich. Brak reakcji na ów problem obrazuje się ‒ przede wszystkim ze względu na tytuł ‒ jako puenta, główny problem przedstawiony w omawianej reklamie. Wyniki badań, przeprowadzonych przez TNS OBOP w roku 2012, opublikowane na stronie internetowej kampanii "Jak Reagować" sugerują, że: "[...] jedna trzecia badanych uważa, iż nie powinni się wtrącać w to, jak rodzice postępują z dziećmi i w sytuacje stosowania kar fizycznych. Najczęściej powodem braku ich reakcji jest niechęć do wtrącania się w sprawy innych (29%). Niemal połowa respondentów (47%) nie zareagowałoby, uznając zasady nietykalności rodziny lub nie czując się "uprawnionymi" do tego. Powodem braku działania u prawie jednej czwartej badanych (23%) okazał się być strach." Słowa dziecka interpretować można także jako parafrazę wypowiedzi rodziców bądź opiekunów, którzy zakazali mu otwarcie mówić lub skarżyć się innym na sytuację, w której się znalazło. Zniechęca to osoby z jego otoczenia do reakcji, gdyż nie mają one pewności co do swoich podejrzeń, co również przedstawione zostało w tytule..
Podsumowując, spot reklamowy "Don't Wait Until You're Certain" zgodnie z rzeczywistością obrazuje tożsamość dziecka, które doświadczyło, bądź doświadcza, przemocy fizycznej lub psychicznej. Zachowania ukazane w produkcji zawierają w sobie szereg cech charakterystycznych dla najmłodszych zmagających się z ów problemem. Wplecenie fraz zasłyszanych ze strony agresywnego opiekuna (opiekunów), a także zobrazowanie zjawisk zaobserwowanych przez dziecko pomiędzy odruchy i sytuacje typowe dla jego wieku pełni rolę metaforycznego przedstawienia tożsamości ukształtowanej przez dramat przemocy.
12 October 2017
23 September 2017
How The American Dream Relates To An Immigrant's Experience
The United States is often called "a nation of immigrantsin Built - also literally - by people from all over the world, it still attracts foreigners who come to America, usually with a certain idea for their future. One might ask: why is this specific place so attractive to immigrants? Is this the legendary American Dream fuelling the urge to arrive? How does it merge with their mindset before and experience after the arrival?
To answer those questions, we need to explain what the American Dream is in the first place. Rather than an actual dream (though it might be for some), it is a series of beliefs, originating from the times when the US was still a newly established country. To get into even more detail, it is a stance that everyone can achieve success and life they have always wanted - no matter where they come from or who they are, hard work and determination will provide them with an affluent lifetime. It is the idea of equal chances that makes The United States a destination for those, who, due to segregation and other obstacles, would not achieve much in their native lands.
When we mention "hard work", job opportunities come to mind first. Being able to earn a decent amount of money, usually much higher than in other countries, without having to worry about one's social status, gender, or race, might be something American-borns or most Europeans take for granted. Yet, what we perceive as a right, others need to travel the world for. A chance to shape an immigrant's future without rules other than own engagement is definitely a part of both the American Dream, and their own aspirations.
Still, equality does not only refer to pursuing a chosen career; it is always intertwined with personal freedom. "The land of the free and the home of the brave" - as some call The United States - guarantees every person that is over eighteen (or, in some cases, twenty-one) years old a right to decide how to lead their life; even if they fail miserably, it will be the consequence of their conscious decisions. They can choose to follow celebrities through the TV and magazines, or simply spend the time in a more productive way - but it is not so obvious in many African or Asian countries. When the phrase "democracy" is censored in search engines (China), or you need the leader's own permission to leave the country (North Korea; usually limited to government workers), America once again becomes a fantasy of many. When a person risks persecution for browsing internationally available websites, or death when trying to leave the country, it sets a whole new perspective not only on how valuable American freedom is but also at the minds of those who founded it, revealing them to be truly ahead of their times.
Finally, it might seem that the definition of American Dream has expanded lately. While it still holds the same basic principles, we cannot omit the role of popular culture that delivers a specific image of the States. Hollywood, the Wild West, casinos, and pop music are what many foreigners perceives America to be like. These aspects, seen as rather positive, match the definition of freedom (gambling, cowboy culture), achieving success (Hollywood), and equality (even if in its most trivial form, like male, female, and even child celebrities of every race and background). Those glamorous and fun images are, sadly, most of the time connected with other, negative situations, but so is working hard and trying to stay focused. If anything, Hollywood Hills simply add even more to the fascination with starting over in The United States.
It is no doubt that the American Dream relates to peoples' experience as immigrants in North America, in two main aspects - jobs and personal freedom. We can only wonder how the country would look like today if different values have been included in The Declaration of Independence. What is certain is that "all men are created equal" and "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" are merits that seem to have gained a wide acclaim and that have been attracting those firm about leading a self-determined and secure life.
To answer those questions, we need to explain what the American Dream is in the first place. Rather than an actual dream (though it might be for some), it is a series of beliefs, originating from the times when the US was still a newly established country. To get into even more detail, it is a stance that everyone can achieve success and life they have always wanted - no matter where they come from or who they are, hard work and determination will provide them with an affluent lifetime. It is the idea of equal chances that makes The United States a destination for those, who, due to segregation and other obstacles, would not achieve much in their native lands.
When we mention "hard work", job opportunities come to mind first. Being able to earn a decent amount of money, usually much higher than in other countries, without having to worry about one's social status, gender, or race, might be something American-borns or most Europeans take for granted. Yet, what we perceive as a right, others need to travel the world for. A chance to shape an immigrant's future without rules other than own engagement is definitely a part of both the American Dream, and their own aspirations.
Still, equality does not only refer to pursuing a chosen career; it is always intertwined with personal freedom. "The land of the free and the home of the brave" - as some call The United States - guarantees every person that is over eighteen (or, in some cases, twenty-one) years old a right to decide how to lead their life; even if they fail miserably, it will be the consequence of their conscious decisions. They can choose to follow celebrities through the TV and magazines, or simply spend the time in a more productive way - but it is not so obvious in many African or Asian countries. When the phrase "democracy" is censored in search engines (China), or you need the leader's own permission to leave the country (North Korea; usually limited to government workers), America once again becomes a fantasy of many. When a person risks persecution for browsing internationally available websites, or death when trying to leave the country, it sets a whole new perspective not only on how valuable American freedom is but also at the minds of those who founded it, revealing them to be truly ahead of their times.
Finally, it might seem that the definition of American Dream has expanded lately. While it still holds the same basic principles, we cannot omit the role of popular culture that delivers a specific image of the States. Hollywood, the Wild West, casinos, and pop music are what many foreigners perceives America to be like. These aspects, seen as rather positive, match the definition of freedom (gambling, cowboy culture), achieving success (Hollywood), and equality (even if in its most trivial form, like male, female, and even child celebrities of every race and background). Those glamorous and fun images are, sadly, most of the time connected with other, negative situations, but so is working hard and trying to stay focused. If anything, Hollywood Hills simply add even more to the fascination with starting over in The United States.
It is no doubt that the American Dream relates to peoples' experience as immigrants in North America, in two main aspects - jobs and personal freedom. We can only wonder how the country would look like today if different values have been included in The Declaration of Independence. What is certain is that "all men are created equal" and "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness" are merits that seem to have gained a wide acclaim and that have been attracting those firm about leading a self-determined and secure life.
25 June 2017
The governement should not be able to access cell phone data [argumentative essay]
The easiness of communication and almost effortless access to information have had a great impact on the lives of people in the 21st century. Even though immediate, global flow of data certainly helps improve relations between members of various cultures and citizens of countries around the world, it also possesses risk of the the personal content being easily obtained not just by intelligence agencies, but legally elected governments. The opponents of the idea of the state collecting cell phone data
claim that such procedure violates basic human rights and helps criminals develop alternative means of communication, unbeknowst to the police. Others argue that it is the first step to estabilishing a totalitarian regime, as well as to teaching citizens to censor themselves on a daily basis.
The right to privacy is one of the most important values that uphold human dignity. Supporters of surveillance often raise the arguement that if a person has nothing to hide, they should not be afraid when their phones are being monitored. However, such logic can easily be dismissed. Why do people lock the bathroom door? Why do they cover their bodies with clothes? These activities, among many others - especially being able to talk with the other person without the conversation being tracked
by the authorities - fulfill the natural desire for security and confidentiality.
Furthermore, a law allowing the government to collect cell phone data would inspire lawbreakers, particularly larger terrorist groups like The Islamic State, to estabilish new channels of communication since they would be aware of their activity being observed. Journalist Don Reisinger warns that: "[...] they've built their own "customized" tools to communicate. Those tools include an encrypted email application called Mojahedeen Secrets, a mobile app called Tashfeer al-Jawwal, and even an
Android-based news app for "terrorist-related actions," called Alemarah." 1 It means that, ironically, regulations designed to stop criminals would actually benefit them, as their technology would make it harder for intelligence agencies to track their steps.
What is more, legal monitoring of information shared by people is characteristic of totalitarianism. For instance, wiretapping was one of the main aspects of the regimes of Fidel Castro and other like-minded leaders.2 Supervising cell phone data would not just allow authorities to gather even more knowledge, since they would be able to track online activity and text messages as well, but would help construct a new totalitarian state.
Finally, lawful cell phone surveillance would spark the destruction of one of the modern world's most important qualities, the freedom of speech and expression. Knowing their communication might be observed, people would subconsciously develop a fear of expressing creative or controversial ideas. Such self-censorship would be devastating to human artistry and discourage citizens from resisting opressive or wrongful conditions.
In general, allowing governments to collect cell phone data would lead to depriving people of their basic rights and freedom of thought. As Evgeny Morozov once said: "Surveillance might reduce crime - even though the evidence here is mixed - but no studies show that it results in greater happiness of everyone involved."
________________________________________
1fortune.com/2016/05/03/terrorists-email-social-media/
claim that such procedure violates basic human rights and helps criminals develop alternative means of communication, unbeknowst to the police. Others argue that it is the first step to estabilishing a totalitarian regime, as well as to teaching citizens to censor themselves on a daily basis.
The right to privacy is one of the most important values that uphold human dignity. Supporters of surveillance often raise the arguement that if a person has nothing to hide, they should not be afraid when their phones are being monitored. However, such logic can easily be dismissed. Why do people lock the bathroom door? Why do they cover their bodies with clothes? These activities, among many others - especially being able to talk with the other person without the conversation being tracked
by the authorities - fulfill the natural desire for security and confidentiality.
Furthermore, a law allowing the government to collect cell phone data would inspire lawbreakers, particularly larger terrorist groups like The Islamic State, to estabilish new channels of communication since they would be aware of their activity being observed. Journalist Don Reisinger warns that: "[...] they've built their own "customized" tools to communicate. Those tools include an encrypted email application called Mojahedeen Secrets, a mobile app called Tashfeer al-Jawwal, and even an
Android-based news app for "terrorist-related actions," called Alemarah." 1 It means that, ironically, regulations designed to stop criminals would actually benefit them, as their technology would make it harder for intelligence agencies to track their steps.
What is more, legal monitoring of information shared by people is characteristic of totalitarianism. For instance, wiretapping was one of the main aspects of the regimes of Fidel Castro and other like-minded leaders.2 Supervising cell phone data would not just allow authorities to gather even more knowledge, since they would be able to track online activity and text messages as well, but would help construct a new totalitarian state.
Finally, lawful cell phone surveillance would spark the destruction of one of the modern world's most important qualities, the freedom of speech and expression. Knowing their communication might be observed, people would subconsciously develop a fear of expressing creative or controversial ideas. Such self-censorship would be devastating to human artistry and discourage citizens from resisting opressive or wrongful conditions.
In general, allowing governments to collect cell phone data would lead to depriving people of their basic rights and freedom of thought. As Evgeny Morozov once said: "Surveillance might reduce crime - even though the evidence here is mixed - but no studies show that it results in greater happiness of everyone involved."
________________________________________
1fortune.com/2016/05/03/terrorists-email-social-media/
13 June 2017
The causes of divorces [example cause-(effect) essay]
A high divorce rate in developing countries sparks questions related to the causes of the phenomenon. Whether the decision to end the marriage is based on severe or rather trivial concerns, the responisibility for separation is usually caused by the other person's behaviour.
First, the most common reason for leaving the partner is adultery. Although there are many types of relationships, the union of two people is the foundation of marriage. Not everyone is comfortable with their spouse having a romantic relationship with someone else, and even though polygamous relationships are present, the majority of people do not tolerate cheating.
Next, the decision to end the union might be motivated by one - or both - of the spouses' infertility. Not every childless marriage remains so by choice. Even if some couples decide to stay together, there are also people who get overcomed by the desire to have a child and decide to find a healthy partner.
Furthermore, various addictions can also contribute to a divorce. If substance dependence becomes so severe that the person starts abusing their husband, wife, or children, leaving the abuser is, in most cases, the only way to save the physical and mental health of the victims.
Finally, the relationship might end because one party has fallen out of love with the other - more often than not, they might have also already developed a romantic interest in someone else. If the spouse realizes they are not their partner's significant one anymore, they usually face serious issues with self-esteem and jealously; the best way for the couple to stop being surrounded by such negative emotions in their relationship is to end it.
To sum up, although there are many different causes of ending the marriage, the demeanour, behaviour and well-being of the spouse plays an important role in making such a decision. Not everyone is capable of succesfully fighting the difficulties they are likely to face in their relationship. What is more, leaving the partner might - just like in case of being abused by an addict - be the only way to achieve happiness in the future.
First, the most common reason for leaving the partner is adultery. Although there are many types of relationships, the union of two people is the foundation of marriage. Not everyone is comfortable with their spouse having a romantic relationship with someone else, and even though polygamous relationships are present, the majority of people do not tolerate cheating.
Next, the decision to end the union might be motivated by one - or both - of the spouses' infertility. Not every childless marriage remains so by choice. Even if some couples decide to stay together, there are also people who get overcomed by the desire to have a child and decide to find a healthy partner.
Furthermore, various addictions can also contribute to a divorce. If substance dependence becomes so severe that the person starts abusing their husband, wife, or children, leaving the abuser is, in most cases, the only way to save the physical and mental health of the victims.
Finally, the relationship might end because one party has fallen out of love with the other - more often than not, they might have also already developed a romantic interest in someone else. If the spouse realizes they are not their partner's significant one anymore, they usually face serious issues with self-esteem and jealously; the best way for the couple to stop being surrounded by such negative emotions in their relationship is to end it.
To sum up, although there are many different causes of ending the marriage, the demeanour, behaviour and well-being of the spouse plays an important role in making such a decision. Not everyone is capable of succesfully fighting the difficulties they are likely to face in their relationship. What is more, leaving the partner might - just like in case of being abused by an addict - be the only way to achieve happiness in the future.
9 May 2017
Causes of eating disorders
Distorted perception of one's own body is considered to be a mental issue which ultimately leads to a variety of physical problems. Eating disorders, as those are called, even though usually associated with women, are a serious threat for both sexes' health and development.
The influence of the famous happens to be the most prevalent cause of such condition, especially among young people. Teenagers and young adults, to whom healthly nutrition is crucial, tend to mimic their idols' physical image, which often also includes trying to achieve a similar body shape. Celebrities, who more often than not have gone through numerous plastic surgeries and used, not necessarily cheap or even safe, drugs supposed to help them lose weight, usually lie that their physique is natural - causing the fans to start a rigorous diet that has not been approved by a specialist, or even starve themselves (which is the main symptom of anorexia).
The impact of others appears to be an important factor entailing an eating disorder; in many cases, a person whose love interest is attracted to skinny people (or even openly states that they find unhealthy low weight attractive) tries to draw their attention by dieting and drastically changing their body shape in a short period of time. Such process usually involves excessive exercising or forcing consumed food out of the body - a characteristic behaviour of a victim of bulimia.
The need for acceptance and praise also plays a role in developing an eating disorder. One might believe that changing their physical apperance is what is essential to gaining friends or even improving their social status. In this case, counting calories and exercising is likely to become an obsessive behaviour, continuing for a time long enough to cause health problems and affect mental functions.
Finally, being even slightly overweigth can result in a low self-esteem. Instead of seeking professional help, a person desperate to feel comfortable in their own body might start to force it to look differently, without considering any possible negative consequences of their way of achieving the goal. Such irresponsibility is a major and characteristic obstacle in overcoming unhealthy eating habits.
Causes of eating disorders are not intricate and do not differ much from one another - the opinion and influence of others is usually the key factor in developing them. Effects, however, vary in intensity, and can affect multiple aspects of one's health.
Anorexia and bulimia result in severe problems with internal organs, such as heart and liver, as well as with a bone structure, leading to multiple fractures from minor injures; smaller changes, like weakened hair and purple spots on the skin are present too. The disorders also disturb a mental well-being, forcing the sufferer to strictly count calories, weight themselves daily, and induce a manic fear of gaining even a little weight. False perception of one's own body, a result of the said obsessions, prevents the person from recognizing the hazardous state they are in, which, at the same time, allows them to continue dieting. If left without a specialist's supervision and help, a victim of an eating disorder is almost certain to die from malnutrition and organ failure.
In conclusion, the enviroment and level of self-esteem of the person play an important role in triggering unhealthy eating habits. Whether it is the desire to look more like a certain public figure, or the effect of detracting self-values, both bulimia and anorexia can result in a variety of physical and mental struggles.
The influence of the famous happens to be the most prevalent cause of such condition, especially among young people. Teenagers and young adults, to whom healthly nutrition is crucial, tend to mimic their idols' physical image, which often also includes trying to achieve a similar body shape. Celebrities, who more often than not have gone through numerous plastic surgeries and used, not necessarily cheap or even safe, drugs supposed to help them lose weight, usually lie that their physique is natural - causing the fans to start a rigorous diet that has not been approved by a specialist, or even starve themselves (which is the main symptom of anorexia).
The impact of others appears to be an important factor entailing an eating disorder; in many cases, a person whose love interest is attracted to skinny people (or even openly states that they find unhealthy low weight attractive) tries to draw their attention by dieting and drastically changing their body shape in a short period of time. Such process usually involves excessive exercising or forcing consumed food out of the body - a characteristic behaviour of a victim of bulimia.
The need for acceptance and praise also plays a role in developing an eating disorder. One might believe that changing their physical apperance is what is essential to gaining friends or even improving their social status. In this case, counting calories and exercising is likely to become an obsessive behaviour, continuing for a time long enough to cause health problems and affect mental functions.
Finally, being even slightly overweigth can result in a low self-esteem. Instead of seeking professional help, a person desperate to feel comfortable in their own body might start to force it to look differently, without considering any possible negative consequences of their way of achieving the goal. Such irresponsibility is a major and characteristic obstacle in overcoming unhealthy eating habits.
Causes of eating disorders are not intricate and do not differ much from one another - the opinion and influence of others is usually the key factor in developing them. Effects, however, vary in intensity, and can affect multiple aspects of one's health.
Anorexia and bulimia result in severe problems with internal organs, such as heart and liver, as well as with a bone structure, leading to multiple fractures from minor injures; smaller changes, like weakened hair and purple spots on the skin are present too. The disorders also disturb a mental well-being, forcing the sufferer to strictly count calories, weight themselves daily, and induce a manic fear of gaining even a little weight. False perception of one's own body, a result of the said obsessions, prevents the person from recognizing the hazardous state they are in, which, at the same time, allows them to continue dieting. If left without a specialist's supervision and help, a victim of an eating disorder is almost certain to die from malnutrition and organ failure.
In conclusion, the enviroment and level of self-esteem of the person play an important role in triggering unhealthy eating habits. Whether it is the desire to look more like a certain public figure, or the effect of detracting self-values, both bulimia and anorexia can result in a variety of physical and mental struggles.
5 April 2017
How to mend a broken heart [process essay example]
Being heartbroken is a common condition, occuring in people of nearly all ages. Whether it is caused by an inability to confess the feelings for the other person before they fall in love with somebody else, or witnessing a spouse of thirty years cheating, following four simple steps will hopefully help you mend your broken heart.First, do not surround yourself with objects that might remind you of your partner. Although you will probably feel nostalgic and want to save the remnants of the relationship, being constantly exposed to them is certain to bring - among many happy ones - painful memories of ending your relationship (or, in case of unreciprocated love, remind you of the absence of your loved one). It is not necessary to destroy or remove anything completely; simply store all the photographs and gifs in a box and then hide it in the attic or any other place you do not visit often.
Second, try to find new a hobby or a part-time job. The more occupied you will be with tasks that require concentration and dedication, the less time you will spend thinking about your relationship and the person you loved. Nevertheless, do not indulge in behaviours that might actually help you stop focsuing on the pain, but are hazardous to your well-being, like excessive drinking and taking heroin. The relief caused by substance abuse does not last long and can lead to a severe addiction.
Next, make sure to maintain civil relations with your ex-partner, even if you ended your relationship in anger or because of their despicable behavior. Do not, under any circumstances, try to take revenge on them. Hate and vindictiveness will only increase your pain and might even cause you legal problems if you decide to physically harm anyone.
Finally, remember that even if you used to perceive the person that hurt you as perfect or the relationship has been a happy one for a long time, there are many people that can make you happy again. Refusing to recognize positive traits in others because the one you loved seemed flawless will make it difficult for your broken heart to heal. No matter how many times you have been betrayed and hurt, there is still a chance for you to find someone you can share your life with.
Follow the steps mentioned above and you will be certain to heal from the trauma and pain caused by an unfortunate infatuation.
Second, try to find new a hobby or a part-time job. The more occupied you will be with tasks that require concentration and dedication, the less time you will spend thinking about your relationship and the person you loved. Nevertheless, do not indulge in behaviours that might actually help you stop focsuing on the pain, but are hazardous to your well-being, like excessive drinking and taking heroin. The relief caused by substance abuse does not last long and can lead to a severe addiction.
Next, make sure to maintain civil relations with your ex-partner, even if you ended your relationship in anger or because of their despicable behavior. Do not, under any circumstances, try to take revenge on them. Hate and vindictiveness will only increase your pain and might even cause you legal problems if you decide to physically harm anyone.
Finally, remember that even if you used to perceive the person that hurt you as perfect or the relationship has been a happy one for a long time, there are many people that can make you happy again. Refusing to recognize positive traits in others because the one you loved seemed flawless will make it difficult for your broken heart to heal. No matter how many times you have been betrayed and hurt, there is still a chance for you to find someone you can share your life with.
Follow the steps mentioned above and you will be certain to heal from the trauma and pain caused by an unfortunate infatuation.
3 March 2017
Example book review (Harry Potter and The Cursed Child)
"Harry Potter and The Cursed Child", written by J.K. Rowling with the help of two other authors, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany is, undoubtedly, a must-have for many fans of the saga. Set twenty years after the ending of the last of seven books, "The Cursed Child" reveals the story of Harry's youngest son, Albus Severus, and another student, Scorpius Malfoy, as they become best friends, despite the odds between their families.
Unlike the first seven volumes, the story of Albus is written in a form of a stage play, which not only lets the reader explore a less known genre of a written text, but also gives them an insight into Rowling's skills, as she has never written or co-written a play before.
However, the author's popularity and abilities are not the only merits of the book. Thanks to the simplistic, yet not infantile style, readers will most likely get fascinated with the story after the first few pages, learning about Albus' relationship with his famous father. What is more, the father-son bond is not as strong as one would expect; it reminded me how even a seemingly perfect family can have unpleasant - and thoroughly hidden - secrets.
In later chapters, the plot centers on Albus and Scorpius' decision to steal the last magical time turner in order to come back to the past and save the life of Cedric Diggory, whose death was one of the main causes of Harry's depression. Sadly, playing with time turns out to be hazardous and leads to plethora of unexpected events which might change the future forever. The importance of a detail is another thing I learnt from "The Cursed Child" that I believe I will never forget -
even the smallest
decision has its consequences, often disproportionately severe.
If you are looking for a book that is both easy to read and certain to make you think deeply of the other side of - apparently - obvious circumstances, "Harry Potter and The Cursed Child" is a perfect choice. It is surely an interesting and highly anticipated read for the fans of J.K. Rowling's world of wizards, but also a thought-provoking story for those that are not necessarily familiar with the saga.
Unlike the first seven volumes, the story of Albus is written in a form of a stage play, which not only lets the reader explore a less known genre of a written text, but also gives them an insight into Rowling's skills, as she has never written or co-written a play before.
However, the author's popularity and abilities are not the only merits of the book. Thanks to the simplistic, yet not infantile style, readers will most likely get fascinated with the story after the first few pages, learning about Albus' relationship with his famous father. What is more, the father-son bond is not as strong as one would expect; it reminded me how even a seemingly perfect family can have unpleasant - and thoroughly hidden - secrets.
In later chapters, the plot centers on Albus and Scorpius' decision to steal the last magical time turner in order to come back to the past and save the life of Cedric Diggory, whose death was one of the main causes of Harry's depression. Sadly, playing with time turns out to be hazardous and leads to plethora of unexpected events which might change the future forever. The importance of a detail is another thing I learnt from "The Cursed Child" that I believe I will never forget -
even the smallest
decision has its consequences, often disproportionately severe.
If you are looking for a book that is both easy to read and certain to make you think deeply of the other side of - apparently - obvious circumstances, "Harry Potter and The Cursed Child" is a perfect choice. It is surely an interesting and highly anticipated read for the fans of J.K. Rowling's world of wizards, but also a thought-provoking story for those that are not necessarily familiar with the saga.
1 February 2017
Art vs Life in "The Picture of Dorian Gray"
Art becomes interwinded with people's lives in many ways, especially because nowadays its definition keeps broadening, and it is accessible to everyone, sometimes even without any special effort put into reaching it, as it surrounds us. Is there anyone who has not been intrigued by a photoshoot seen in a random newspaper, or who could not stop humming a song heard while on their way to work?
But, obviously, art is not just something we randomly encounter only to forget about it after a while. It might become a hobby for someone who has just started being interested in photography, a direction for an amateur writer who tries to mimic the style of their favourite storytellers, and, finally, a job when a musician or an actor gains - whether deserved or not - popularity. Still, one question remains - is there a bigger dedication to art than making a living out of creating one's own? Is it possible for it to become an actual way of living, even if marked by being exposed to criticism or seclusion? If we take aesthetism, an artistic movement from the second half of the 19th century which also comprised of certain moral and intellectual values, into consideration, the answer most definitely will be 'yes'.
One of the most popular and significant personalities of that period of time, also associated with the term 'art for art's sake' and the insight into creating it described, was Oscar Wilde, an Irish playwriter and poet. A flamboyant personality, gifted with sense of humour ('There is only one thing in life worse than being popular, and that is not being popular.'), and fascinated with then-condemned, 'dark' behaviours like homosexuality, Wilde was a dandy, whose goal was to see the two - art and life - meet, and become truly intertwined, merging with each other, and whose way of living gathered a lot of rebuke and even disdain from the Victorian society.
His well-known novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, also depicts the coorelation between artism and reality. The main character does not exclude himself entirely from the society and, in fact, takes pleasure in being able to split his life between hedonistic unconcern and victorian prudishness, which reflects the author's own experiences. As stated in Nicholas Frankel's The Picture of Dorian Gray: An Annotated, Uncensored Edition: "In the wake of the Cleveland Street Scandal, Wilde had particular reason to be cautious in his published writings. Like Dorian, he was harbouring his own secrets. Since at least 1886, Wilde had been leading a secret double life, designed to conceal his sexual orientation and extramarital affairs from from close family members and "respectable" society." Mimicking this characteristic aesthetic rethoric of divided existence, Oscar Wilde describes events in Dorian's life, as well as his choices, that eximplify various obstacles preventing artistic vision from being fully conjoint with everyday life.
The novel begins with a preface dedicated to help the reader understand the novel, but also art in general, properly. It describes the artist as a creator dedicated to the sole beauty of their creation, rather than to being a moralist or a teacher, which is a clear reference to the 'art for art's sake' mantra. However, the novel gives an impression of being an ironic sight into the society, as there are, undoubtely, similarities between the plot and Wilde's life. Whether including the author's thinly-veiled outlook on victorian morality in the story was a deliberate process or not, it might leave the reader slightly confused, but also suggest that there is a kind of picture inside of a picture - an aesthetist's double life emerging in a form of contradiction between the preface and the rest of the novel.
On the first pages of the book, Dorian Gray's life is at the verge of change. Finding inspiration in his fascination with the young man's beauty, Basil Hallward decides to paint a portrait, not only to commemorate Dorian, but also to try to put into practise the new ways of artistic creation the painter has discovered under the influence of his subject. After the portrait has been completed, the boy, who has already encountered Lord Henry's views on life, differiating from Victorian characteristics, looks at the oil likeness of himself, and wishes that, instead of him, the portrait could face the inevitable consequences of passing time. However, it is not the fact of this scenario becoming reality, but Dorian's dream itself, that reveals another (yet first in the actual plot) moment of art being in a way separated from reality. It is no secret that every human being's physical beauty fades over time, and that most probably Wilde's main character was not the only young person that wished to stop this process - but the only one that succeded, as such desire can be fullfilled only in a world of fantasy, or in art, which, surely, also includes a novel. Music, poetry, sculpture - and paintings, are amongst numerous others artistic meanings of preserving, not necessary just human beauty, but the moment. While it is not possible to stop time, there are cenrtainly methods, in the world of art, to ensure that at least short excerpts from the past can be maintained and not forgotten.
Next, as James Esch words it in his essay, Notes on 'The Picture of Dorian Gray', "Rushing headlong into a love affair with Sibyl Vane, Dorian is influenced by her acting; and his romantic attachment and idolization influences her in ways Dorian never anticipated. In fact, she decides to sacrifice her art for the reality of his love, which is anethema to him." Sibyl, a young, but undoubtely talented actress, gets mentally detached from her performances, the distraction being a strong infatuation. Love is considered to be the biggest source of artistic inspiration - from ancient forms of paintings to popular songs on the radio, the stories of lovers have been told and shown countless times, but, obviously, not all of them picture positive themes or endings. One of the most popular tragic love tales, Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, is also being performed in the novel by Sibyl. The woman, rapt with her feelings for Dorian, cannot focus on the role, spoiling the play.
In this case, love embodies real life; it does not become an inspiration, but rather an obstacle in an artistic craft. Reality, whether in a form of feelings, or many different physical aspects, can deter a person from creating. Even though, with the exception of various generes of fantasy, the world surronding the creator is usually their strongest muse, art is fundamentally just one of many parts of human life, and more often than not, gets relegated to the background by the others.
The story of Sibyl Vane proceeds as Dorian decides not to continue his relationship with the actress, citing the downturn in her acting skills as the main reason. The deeply hurt and heartbroken woman decides to take her own life. Seeing Dorian's attitude towards Sibyl's death, Basil becomes aghast. The young man percieves the tragic event as an ultimate artistic expression, a tragic sacrifice. His demeanor might fit the aesthetic narrative, but only in his own eyes. The artistic perception, together with his hedonistic aspirations, seems to have deprived him of the ability to correctly understand the situation - his former lover's untimely death was not caused by an urge to create an image of a suffering performer, but by her pain itself. There was nothing romantic or tragically beautiful about her suicide; yet again, life has proven to alienate itself from the creator's world.
As time passes, the once beautiful portrait becomes notorious, changing with every of Dorian's bad deeds. It no longer pictures a beautiful young man, not even a little smirk the likeness has developed after Sibyl Vane's death. Oscar Wilde describes it as "some foul parody, some infamous, ignoble satire". The painting is now more like a mirror than ever before - but instead of the character's body, it reflects his soul. Portraits changing by themselves exist, of course, only in fiction, but an individual percieving and opinion on art are nothing sort of unreal. If the readers had a chance to see the portrait, as gruesome as it was by the end of Dorian's life, most of them would probably despise it, not putting a deeper thought into its author skills, and focusing only at the details of Gray's apperance. A question arises - does a creation deserve disdain solely because it pictures something repulsive? Is this another clash, another 'art versus life' situation, where something natural and ingrained in human brain, like general sense of beauty, makes some pieces of art seem less valuable, despite talent and dedication put into creating it?
The novel ends with the death of Dorian Gray. It was neither a sacrifice in the name of art, as he thought Sibyl's death to be, nor was it caused by opium or the character's lifestyle in general. Dorian, still as physically beautiful in his late thirties as years ago, becomes overwhelmed by guilt. After an internal battle between the desire to lead a sinless life and the unwillingness to admit to his mistakes, he furiously stabs the portrait. What is left is the painting being as astonishing as it was when Basil painted it, and a dead gnarled man lying on the floor - the real Dorian Gray. The life becomes what it is supposed to be - not free from harm and passing time, and so does art, unchanging, confined to its own world.
'Art for art's sake', living one's life as it was a play will definitely remain singature values of aesthetism. But they probably would not emerge without being triggered by something certainly opposite, like the ethics of Victorian society and rather rigorous norms of creating art. Hence the idea of double life, of remaining pure in a physical aspect, but provocative and sometimes even corrupt inside. This conflict was clearly visible in The Picture of Dorian Gray, where it was shown as the idea of art and life usually not being fully compatibile. Whereas creative process is most often inspired by reality, and way of living can also be devoted mostly to it, it is not possible to treat them as one combined matter - just like in case of aesthetists like Oscar Wilde, whose life is a great example of an artistic mind, who became even more salient as he was surronded by Victorian mentality and ethics.
But, obviously, art is not just something we randomly encounter only to forget about it after a while. It might become a hobby for someone who has just started being interested in photography, a direction for an amateur writer who tries to mimic the style of their favourite storytellers, and, finally, a job when a musician or an actor gains - whether deserved or not - popularity. Still, one question remains - is there a bigger dedication to art than making a living out of creating one's own? Is it possible for it to become an actual way of living, even if marked by being exposed to criticism or seclusion? If we take aesthetism, an artistic movement from the second half of the 19th century which also comprised of certain moral and intellectual values, into consideration, the answer most definitely will be 'yes'.
One of the most popular and significant personalities of that period of time, also associated with the term 'art for art's sake' and the insight into creating it described, was Oscar Wilde, an Irish playwriter and poet. A flamboyant personality, gifted with sense of humour ('There is only one thing in life worse than being popular, and that is not being popular.'), and fascinated with then-condemned, 'dark' behaviours like homosexuality, Wilde was a dandy, whose goal was to see the two - art and life - meet, and become truly intertwined, merging with each other, and whose way of living gathered a lot of rebuke and even disdain from the Victorian society.
His well-known novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray, also depicts the coorelation between artism and reality. The main character does not exclude himself entirely from the society and, in fact, takes pleasure in being able to split his life between hedonistic unconcern and victorian prudishness, which reflects the author's own experiences. As stated in Nicholas Frankel's The Picture of Dorian Gray: An Annotated, Uncensored Edition: "In the wake of the Cleveland Street Scandal, Wilde had particular reason to be cautious in his published writings. Like Dorian, he was harbouring his own secrets. Since at least 1886, Wilde had been leading a secret double life, designed to conceal his sexual orientation and extramarital affairs from from close family members and "respectable" society." Mimicking this characteristic aesthetic rethoric of divided existence, Oscar Wilde describes events in Dorian's life, as well as his choices, that eximplify various obstacles preventing artistic vision from being fully conjoint with everyday life.
The novel begins with a preface dedicated to help the reader understand the novel, but also art in general, properly. It describes the artist as a creator dedicated to the sole beauty of their creation, rather than to being a moralist or a teacher, which is a clear reference to the 'art for art's sake' mantra. However, the novel gives an impression of being an ironic sight into the society, as there are, undoubtely, similarities between the plot and Wilde's life. Whether including the author's thinly-veiled outlook on victorian morality in the story was a deliberate process or not, it might leave the reader slightly confused, but also suggest that there is a kind of picture inside of a picture - an aesthetist's double life emerging in a form of contradiction between the preface and the rest of the novel.
On the first pages of the book, Dorian Gray's life is at the verge of change. Finding inspiration in his fascination with the young man's beauty, Basil Hallward decides to paint a portrait, not only to commemorate Dorian, but also to try to put into practise the new ways of artistic creation the painter has discovered under the influence of his subject. After the portrait has been completed, the boy, who has already encountered Lord Henry's views on life, differiating from Victorian characteristics, looks at the oil likeness of himself, and wishes that, instead of him, the portrait could face the inevitable consequences of passing time. However, it is not the fact of this scenario becoming reality, but Dorian's dream itself, that reveals another (yet first in the actual plot) moment of art being in a way separated from reality. It is no secret that every human being's physical beauty fades over time, and that most probably Wilde's main character was not the only young person that wished to stop this process - but the only one that succeded, as such desire can be fullfilled only in a world of fantasy, or in art, which, surely, also includes a novel. Music, poetry, sculpture - and paintings, are amongst numerous others artistic meanings of preserving, not necessary just human beauty, but the moment. While it is not possible to stop time, there are cenrtainly methods, in the world of art, to ensure that at least short excerpts from the past can be maintained and not forgotten.
Next, as James Esch words it in his essay, Notes on 'The Picture of Dorian Gray', "Rushing headlong into a love affair with Sibyl Vane, Dorian is influenced by her acting; and his romantic attachment and idolization influences her in ways Dorian never anticipated. In fact, she decides to sacrifice her art for the reality of his love, which is anethema to him." Sibyl, a young, but undoubtely talented actress, gets mentally detached from her performances, the distraction being a strong infatuation. Love is considered to be the biggest source of artistic inspiration - from ancient forms of paintings to popular songs on the radio, the stories of lovers have been told and shown countless times, but, obviously, not all of them picture positive themes or endings. One of the most popular tragic love tales, Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet, is also being performed in the novel by Sibyl. The woman, rapt with her feelings for Dorian, cannot focus on the role, spoiling the play.
In this case, love embodies real life; it does not become an inspiration, but rather an obstacle in an artistic craft. Reality, whether in a form of feelings, or many different physical aspects, can deter a person from creating. Even though, with the exception of various generes of fantasy, the world surronding the creator is usually their strongest muse, art is fundamentally just one of many parts of human life, and more often than not, gets relegated to the background by the others.
The story of Sibyl Vane proceeds as Dorian decides not to continue his relationship with the actress, citing the downturn in her acting skills as the main reason. The deeply hurt and heartbroken woman decides to take her own life. Seeing Dorian's attitude towards Sibyl's death, Basil becomes aghast. The young man percieves the tragic event as an ultimate artistic expression, a tragic sacrifice. His demeanor might fit the aesthetic narrative, but only in his own eyes. The artistic perception, together with his hedonistic aspirations, seems to have deprived him of the ability to correctly understand the situation - his former lover's untimely death was not caused by an urge to create an image of a suffering performer, but by her pain itself. There was nothing romantic or tragically beautiful about her suicide; yet again, life has proven to alienate itself from the creator's world.
As time passes, the once beautiful portrait becomes notorious, changing with every of Dorian's bad deeds. It no longer pictures a beautiful young man, not even a little smirk the likeness has developed after Sibyl Vane's death. Oscar Wilde describes it as "some foul parody, some infamous, ignoble satire". The painting is now more like a mirror than ever before - but instead of the character's body, it reflects his soul. Portraits changing by themselves exist, of course, only in fiction, but an individual percieving and opinion on art are nothing sort of unreal. If the readers had a chance to see the portrait, as gruesome as it was by the end of Dorian's life, most of them would probably despise it, not putting a deeper thought into its author skills, and focusing only at the details of Gray's apperance. A question arises - does a creation deserve disdain solely because it pictures something repulsive? Is this another clash, another 'art versus life' situation, where something natural and ingrained in human brain, like general sense of beauty, makes some pieces of art seem less valuable, despite talent and dedication put into creating it?
The novel ends with the death of Dorian Gray. It was neither a sacrifice in the name of art, as he thought Sibyl's death to be, nor was it caused by opium or the character's lifestyle in general. Dorian, still as physically beautiful in his late thirties as years ago, becomes overwhelmed by guilt. After an internal battle between the desire to lead a sinless life and the unwillingness to admit to his mistakes, he furiously stabs the portrait. What is left is the painting being as astonishing as it was when Basil painted it, and a dead gnarled man lying on the floor - the real Dorian Gray. The life becomes what it is supposed to be - not free from harm and passing time, and so does art, unchanging, confined to its own world.
'Art for art's sake', living one's life as it was a play will definitely remain singature values of aesthetism. But they probably would not emerge without being triggered by something certainly opposite, like the ethics of Victorian society and rather rigorous norms of creating art. Hence the idea of double life, of remaining pure in a physical aspect, but provocative and sometimes even corrupt inside. This conflict was clearly visible in The Picture of Dorian Gray, where it was shown as the idea of art and life usually not being fully compatibile. Whereas creative process is most often inspired by reality, and way of living can also be devoted mostly to it, it is not possible to treat them as one combined matter - just like in case of aesthetists like Oscar Wilde, whose life is a great example of an artistic mind, who became even more salient as he was surronded by Victorian mentality and ethics.
24 January 2017
Being an only child has both advantages and disadvantages
Modern families tend to differ a lot from those our grandparents or parents were raised in. While people who are now elders most of the time grew up surronded by multiple siblings, younger marriages often decide to have only one child or even remain childless. Such decision shapes not only the parents' life, but also the child's, if they decide to have one, as the enviroment a person grows up in can affect their behaviour and well-being. Being an only child has advantages as well as
disadvantages, both while growing up and in adult life.
To begin with, since the parents of an only child do not need to divide their attention between numerous children, they can provide their offspring with extra care. The parents might pay strict attention to the grades and achievments, and in case of the child having problems with a given subject, find a more judicious way to help them. Yet, the effort is not limitied only to performance at school. When there is no need to provide for other minors, the child can be given more toys and treats,
or gadgets of better quality.
Secondly, an only child - even thought they might possess a lot - does not have to share their belongings with brothers and sisters. Children tend to grow attached to their favourite toys and be reluctant to let others play with them. If they are the only ones to use their dolls or toy-cars, they do not experience jealously or fear of the things being lost or broken by someone else. Not having to share their possessions with siblings is even more crucial for teenagers. During teenagehood, one
values their personal space and individuality, and might perceive constant presence of other teenagers or younger children as tiring and intrusive.
However, if there are no children of similiar age in the neighbourhood, and contact with cousins (in case of there being any) is not regular, only children might find making friends with people their age and maintaining existing friendships difficult. As daily contact with other minors does not start until kindergarden or middle school, they develop certain social skills later than those who grew up with brothers and sisters. Moreover, in such case, being suddenly exposed to school environment
might be distressing, which can lead to fear of participating in classes and refusing to attend school.
In addition, being an only child can deprive a person of close bonds and cause the feeling of isolation. If the parents or friends are not present for a longer time, the child can develop a sense of loneliness, which can be harmful to their evolving personality and might negatively affect skills that have yet to emerge. Later in life, if the parents are no longer alive or not able to see the child on a regular basis, and the person has no family of their own, they might be left with no close
relatives they could trust or rely on in case of emergency. They can also be affected by lack of social interactions, just like children, and suffer from detrimental consequences which might vary from occasional sadness to depressive thoughts and lacking the sense of purpose.
Taking everything into account, remaining an only child provides the person with both positive and negative consequences that affect their entire lifetime. While a child can experience more attention from their parents and do not need to be concerned about privacy, an adult without a sibling will likely be afflicted with loneliness and might lack a reliable companion.
disadvantages, both while growing up and in adult life.
To begin with, since the parents of an only child do not need to divide their attention between numerous children, they can provide their offspring with extra care. The parents might pay strict attention to the grades and achievments, and in case of the child having problems with a given subject, find a more judicious way to help them. Yet, the effort is not limitied only to performance at school. When there is no need to provide for other minors, the child can be given more toys and treats,
or gadgets of better quality.
Secondly, an only child - even thought they might possess a lot - does not have to share their belongings with brothers and sisters. Children tend to grow attached to their favourite toys and be reluctant to let others play with them. If they are the only ones to use their dolls or toy-cars, they do not experience jealously or fear of the things being lost or broken by someone else. Not having to share their possessions with siblings is even more crucial for teenagers. During teenagehood, one
values their personal space and individuality, and might perceive constant presence of other teenagers or younger children as tiring and intrusive.
However, if there are no children of similiar age in the neighbourhood, and contact with cousins (in case of there being any) is not regular, only children might find making friends with people their age and maintaining existing friendships difficult. As daily contact with other minors does not start until kindergarden or middle school, they develop certain social skills later than those who grew up with brothers and sisters. Moreover, in such case, being suddenly exposed to school environment
might be distressing, which can lead to fear of participating in classes and refusing to attend school.
In addition, being an only child can deprive a person of close bonds and cause the feeling of isolation. If the parents or friends are not present for a longer time, the child can develop a sense of loneliness, which can be harmful to their evolving personality and might negatively affect skills that have yet to emerge. Later in life, if the parents are no longer alive or not able to see the child on a regular basis, and the person has no family of their own, they might be left with no close
relatives they could trust or rely on in case of emergency. They can also be affected by lack of social interactions, just like children, and suffer from detrimental consequences which might vary from occasional sadness to depressive thoughts and lacking the sense of purpose.
Taking everything into account, remaining an only child provides the person with both positive and negative consequences that affect their entire lifetime. While a child can experience more attention from their parents and do not need to be concerned about privacy, an adult without a sibling will likely be afflicted with loneliness and might lack a reliable companion.
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