Life Experience of Children Living with Extended Family

Life Experience of Children Living with Extended Family Background Information All of us, despite what social status we are, whether we are poor or rich or young or old, we still belong to a family. Our family can come from either immediate or extended family. Immediate family means we belong in a unit where parents and siblings are living together, therefore, in contrary extended family means living together in the same roof with other family members like grandparents, uncles and aunties, in laws, cousins and sometimes stepsiblings. According to Roberts (2010), families with many members in the house make an inconsistent return with about 25% in the 40’s, however decreases to 12% in the 80’s but then shows increasing of 16% in the 90’s. The main reason of why extended families still exists these days is compassion at heart. When elderly relative tentatively become old or young relatives are jobless or family that could not find any babysitter, family members tend to take up the role as a caregiver, just like a line from Robert Frost Ã¢â‚¬Ë œHome is the place where, when you have to go there, they have to take you in’ (Roediger, 2014; Lathem 2006) and take care of the family’s wellbeing. A house that filled with many relatives represent love and happiness, despite any reasons, there will always be some issues upfront for example conflict between family members and in-laws or the competition between both families in aspect such as financial and education as seen in Goodwin’s research. Goodwin (2012) states that past studies back in the 30s had found that conflict between parents greatly affect children especially in their emotional state. The question of ‘why children are acting such ways’ has been lingering in the mind of everyone especially the parents. They do not know or understand the reason of why their children are acting in that way, for example during family gathering, children sometimes seen to be quite for the whole gathering or they rather skipped the gathering than attending. Sometimes, children are put under pressure by their parents to be the same level or a level higher than their cousin in order to ‘save faces’ for their parents. However, Goodwin (2012) also said that conflict is part of our life, not many people realised how much children are affected by it and also not realising that children have feelings of their own. The reason of why this topic are chosen is because family plays a role in child’s development (Waites, 2012; Sexton Schuster, 2008), but however not all parents understand the behind reason of children’s emotion. This research is supported by Bowen’s work where he did an in-depth research that he highlights multigenerational approach shows relationship that connects many family members across generations in terms of emotions, thoughts and belief (Dattilio, 2006 as cited in Kerr Bowen, 1988, Miller, Anderson Keala 2004). Furthermore, in order for the multigenerational to keep living, it has linked to long term relationships with family members and also coping the action of others by means one family taking care of elderly, another family members follow suits and thus it continues (Dattilio, 2006 as cited in Kerr Bowen, 1988). But however, according to Dattilio (2006), Bowen later found that there are no mere exposure with individual and family to link with multigenerational transmission as the original findings were inconsistent, only to happen at emotional category. Other than that, the reason why extended family still exists these day is because they provides beneficiate towards su ccess in education through attribution from first cousins and immediate siblings (Jaeger, 2012). Hence the aim of this research is to find out the experiences of children living in extended house. Although most past studies have done towards different race and also in bigger country with bigger population like California (Figueroa Williams, 2012) and South Africa (Waites,2009), this research is focusing in our country, Malaysia where all five participants with different race from small island which is Penang to be representative. Theoretical Framework The research will focus on the life experience children faced when living in an extended family. With this, in order to be more in-depth, emotion theory modified by Schachter-Singer, a two factor emotion based theory that implies human feels arousal first, then make reasoning to why people arouse and identify it as an emotion are used. Nevertheless, children are human and human shows emotion no matter what situation they are facing. Parents that bring warmth to their children actually influences social life of the children and also their development in emotional aspect (Aunola, Tolvanen, Viljaranta Nurmi, 2013 as cited in Hart, Newell Olsen, 2003). Adding to that, another aspect the research are looking into is the parenting styles where they have three different approaches, affective also known as emotional control, behavioural control and psychological approach (Aunola et al, 2013), depending on which styles the parents living in an extended family used that could influence and a ffect the emotion of the child. Research Question The research focus mainly on the experiences of children living in extended family. With that, the research question for the research will be ‘what is the experience of children living in extended family?’ Significant of the Study The important of this study is to learn about the life experience of child living in a house with many generations of members as children is in their growing stage, it is wise to learn about their personal experience as their experience will be different from adults. Besides, nowadays many members of family are staying together with other family member as to save living cost and family bonding. Also, parents will have a better understanding of children’s emotion through the study and would be able to find appropriate educating approach to their children for a better lifestyle. The limitation of this research is the number of participants being interviewed due to limitation of time. This research will only focus on a total of five participants which will be relatively small to represent for children living in an extended family. Other than that, this research will only focus in Penang and the analysis of data might shows different results as compared to bigger country with more population. Also, some participants might be hiding some of their feelings or might fake their experiences when interview is in progress as they might feel shy or inappropriate to share. Research Paradigm The paradigm proposed in this research is post-positivism. Each participant has their own perspective and different thoughts on their feelings, which is why this research uses post-positivism as it does not only focus on single reality. Additionally, to understand how an individual feels and behave, post-positivism brings the first hand life experience of children to the research for better understanding of why they behave and how they feel living in a house with many family members. Methods Approach The research mainly focus on the experience of children living in extended family. As this research is more about experiences of children, consequently the design of the research is a qualitative type as supported in Figueroa Williams (2012). With that, the research focuses into a phenomenological study where the data collected will be using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Phenomenological study provides us with a real life experience on a concept, as for this study, the aim for the study of experience of children living in extended family will be investigated for further understanding on the matter. The experiences and personal view of the children are examine through description and analysis of the data collected from the interview. Through phenomenological research, investigator will gain access to participant’s experience on their life world and meaningful moments of thoughts, sensation and emotion when they live in the same roof with many relatives. Data Collection In this research, researcher will be using individual interview in order to find out about the participant’s experience when living in extended family. Semi-structured questions regarding extended family as attached will be presented to the participants and they are to share their experiences. When doing individual interview, participants might able to share more informations as they can speak freely. Besides that, investigator will have the opportunity to observe participant’s facial expression and body language as they answer questions given to them which in turn, investigator will get a clearer indication of their feelings and thus making a strong judgement on the matter. Furthermore, in individual interview, investigator could follow up with participants at that particular session if they have any doubts or unsure about what the participants say during the interview session. As the research will be a one on one interview, it would takes up approximately 30 minutes o f participant’s time. Before the interview begins, participant will be brief about the purpose of the research and also be informed once again that there will audio recording during the session even though they have already signed the informed consent form. Audio recording will be used for further transcribing. After transcribing, the transcript will be emailed to the participants to be confirm on the validity of the transcript. The recordings however will be kept private and confidential, only the investigator and the supervisor will have the access to it. Participants A total of five participants will be recruited in the study through purposive and snowball method. The reason of why only five participants are being recruited in the study is because the minimal requirement for individual interview is five candidates. In the research, the first participant will be randomly selected with the fulfilment of the ‘living in extended family’ purpose and then followed by the second participant through snowball and the process goes on till the fifth participant. Participants will be asked for permission for their participation in the research and if they agree to be involved, investigator will then make appointment for suitable venue and time to start the interview session. Participants aged 18-21 will be used for the study. This is because participant aged 18 and above are considered as an adult and they are mature enough to give rational thought and answer. Any gender or ethnicity are selected for the study. There will be no specific ethnic s election involved. In the study, no compensation will not be provided for the participants. Data Analysis and Data Modification During the individual session, investigator will carry out interpretative analysis when they proposed the questions to the participants as they try to make sense of what participant are conveying. With them, there will be a reflective diary where the investigator will be using throughout the whole process to make a simple analysis or key notes of what participant saying and making some relevant themes out of it. As the process continues, the researcher will be able to maintain the flow of interview. After the interview session is finished, each and every recordings will be transcribed before the data being analysed. However before that, the transcript will be emailed to the participants to check on the validity of the contents. After the contents are checked, the data will be analysed using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The transcripts will be break down in to several small session without changing the exact sentence or word said by participants. From the break down, themes will be formed according to the descriptive summaries of what participants said and also the initial interpretative of the issues. Furthermore, the themes will then compile into a smaller chunk depending on which theme fits in with another theme. Central concept of the data interpretation will be much clearer when the themes are divided into sub theme. IPA is used for exploration of lived experience of participant which in this research is to find out about experiences living in extended family. Subsequently, thematic analysis will be used after the interview ends when investigator listened to the audio recorder and repeatedly reading the transcripts over and over to highlight the significance of the findings and also the similarities and differences of the data. The validity of the findings are checked when all the interpretation consistent with the sub theme.

Uk Lifestyle Magazines And The Representation Of Masculinity Media Essay

Uk Lifestyle Magazines And The Representation Of Masculinity Media Essay This thesis seeks to investigate the understanding of masculinity as a construction of identity. This study explores developing identities, and how this may relate to wider constructions of masculinity in the media, with particular reference to lifestyle magazines aimed at men. Methodologies This Study focuses on For Him Magazine known now as FHM, one of the leading mens magazines that is published in 27 countries. The methodology that will be used to carry out this study will be a content analysis. Through a content analysis, 6 issues of FHM in from the years 2005 through to 2010 will be examined, in order to examine if there has been any shifts in the portrayal of men or what is meant by the term masculinity. Bibliography from year two Benwell Bethan, (2003) Masculinity and mens lifestyle magazines: chapter 6; Published by Wiley-Blackwell) Bignell, Jonathan (1997), Media Semiotics, an introduction. Manchester: Manchester University Press Edwards Tim, (2006) Cultures of Masculinity; men masculinity and feminism, chapter 1 (Routledge) Jackson Peter, Stevenson Nick, Brooks Kate (2001) making sense of mens magazines; chapter four (Wiley-Blackwell). Galician Mary-Lou, L. Merskin Debra (2007) Critical thinking about sex, love and romance in mass media: media; chapter three (Routledge) Gaunlett David, (2002) Media, gender, and identity: an introduction, Mens magazines and modern male identities; chapter eight (Routledge) Gunter Barrie (2002) Media sex: what are the issues? chapter 6 (Published by Lawrence Erlbaum Associates) Itzin Catherine, Newman Janet (1995) Gender, culture and organizational change: putting theory into practice chapter fourteen (Routledge) Litosseliti Lia, Sunderland Jane (2002) Gender, Identity and discourse analysis. (John Benjamins Publishing Company) The Construction of the Male Identity in the UK Mens Lifestyle Magazine FHM (DRAFT) INTRODUCTION: THESIS OUTLINE This thesis seeks to explore how masculinity is represented and constructed within the pages of FHM (UK) magazine of the modern male identity. Through a content analysis of the branding of masculinity in the UKs leading mans magazine, the study explores the trends and the portrayal of men but also the types of products advertised in mens magazines. It will examine the rationale of FHM in constructing the portrayals of men and masculinity and the role that FHM plays in shaping attitudes about masculinity. The central research question is: Exactly what ideas does FHM generate or convey about masculinity? More specifically, in the magazines construction of masculinity, what is emphasised and what is ignored? Considering gender and sexuality to explore and address the stereotypical representations and attitudes that are likely to be reinforced to its readers. The first chapter of this thesis demonstrates a detailed depiction of the UKs FHM position and role in the mens lifestyle magazine market, from its inception from For Him Magazine through its incredible development to its contemporary brand expansions. It also discusses FHMs influence on the mens magazine market as well as on broader industry concerns related to the young male market, particularly advertising. Essentially, this chapter offers a rationale for why FHM is an important site for investigation. Chapter 1 The mens magazine market is a moderately new phenomenon. Mens magazines today have become sites of significant inquiry that offer alternative views on the representation of the modern man. Men have purchased and read magazines in the past, though previously, the term mens magazine referred to publications structured around masculine themes to designed to interest men, such as cars, fishing, DIY and pornography. However, as sociologist Tim Edwards (1997) notes, It is, to put it simply, that they werent called mens magazines and this is what constitutes the key difference: the self-conscious targeting of men as consumers of magazines designed to interest men if not necessarily to be about men (p.72, emphasis in the original). Since contemporary mens magazines are embedded in the rise of a new lifestyle genre, they are considered mens lifestyle titles as opposed to simply mens interest magazines (Edwards, 2006).1 The growth of the mens magazine market in the UK, which saw an invasion of lifestyle titles in the 1980s, commencing with the launch of Arena in 1986. The Focus The aim of this study is to investigate and analyse the different representations of masculinity in the modern day 21st century. The endeavour of this is to answer the research question, which is; has the definition of masculinity and or the portrayal of men changed over time, in particular in print advertisements in mens lifestyle magazine FHM (For Him Magazine). Although this may sound like a popular research case study, very little academic research has been performed in the field of mens magazines and even less on the construction and representation of masculinity. This study therefore aims to firstly, classify the term masculinity, to conclude a definition, of what is means to be a men?, which is often used to ascribed to males in todays society. This study will also explore sex roles and common stereotypes that men are regularly being labelled with. This study will further examine if the characteristic that what once associated with traditional masculinity is dying out, or if t here is more than one masculine identity. Thirdly, this study will examine the presentation of male images and products in advertising exploring the emerging trends of mens images where the predominately female female-orientated markets of body enhancements, cosmetics, and personal grooming products are being aimed at male consumers. Through a context analysis, this study addresses male images in advertisements in For Him Magazine (FHM) from 2005 to 2010. Examining the changing trends in the portrayal of men and the types of products advertised in mens magazines. Furthermore, this study will argue, that masculinity makes more sense in relation to individual performances of identity than it does in terms of any measurement of gender or sexuality, a notion which is often disregarded in both popular and academic discourses about gender identity. Chapter 1: Introduction Over the last few decades the role of men in British society has changed considerably. Traditional notions of masculine images, such as males being the sole breadwinner or provider has come under attack, undermining traditional images of the masculine identity. Males have also faced a changing Image in advertising. Traditionally, females were the ones that have been associated with sex in advertising, but today males are also being used to connote or imply sexual situations in advertisements. Modern day advertisements feature provocative images of men and women in reveal outfits and postures selling a variety of products, most of which have no association with sex. There has too been an increase in product advertisements in mens magazine, most popular out of these is beauty and accessions. Suggesting that men today, have developed a conscious self-awareness of the way they look. Men in are taking great pride in their appearance, replacing beer or health supplements and abs tonners. M en now have a keen eye for fashion, and indulge in grooming/beauty products- this identity has today been coined as metrosexual. Adapting the characteristics of men, this new man has blurred the distinction of masculinity. Traditional masculinity referred to heterosexual men, interesting in extreme sports, cars and DIY. This request the question is the term masculinity (means to be macho) changing? Or is there more then one masculine identity? Metrosexuality was first developed by Mark Simpson in his book Male Impersonators. According to Simpson (2003), metrosexuality is a new, narcissistic, self-conscious kind of masculinity produced by film, advertising, and glossy magazines to replace traditional repressed, unmoisturised, unreflexive, unmediated masculinity.  [1]  However, this term has become widely used in the United States media and in the advertising industry in the late 1990s, referring to straight men who posses feminine traits and care about fashion, grooming, cleaning and using beauty products (Mereditch and Wells; 2003).  [2]  However, very little academic research exists on the meaning of metrosexuality for masculinity. This study examines modern masculinity and metrosexuality of men in the 21st century mens lifestyle magazines, within the UK, drawing particular attention FHM. However, there are limited studies on masculinity and mens images (Windholz, 1999/2000; gates 2001; Tincknell and Chambers, 2002)  [3]  . Although media across the globe are widely discussing the newly emerged phenomenon- metrosexuality- there is almost no academic research on this phenomenon. Since metrosexuality and masculinity are so closely related to each other, this study aims to explore both issues within mens lifestyle magazines. Chapter 2: Definitions of Masculinity Whilst, we have identified the main attributes that can be grouped under the term traditional masculinity, we still do not have an recognized definition of what masculinity itself might be. Craig contests that masculinity is what a culture expects of its men (1992:3). This description suggests that masculinity exists only in a cultural context, as something that stems from traditions, codes and in particular expectations commonly held by society. Similarly, Mosses definition of masculinity as the way men assert what they believe to be their manhood (1996:3)  [4]  insinuates that masculinity is widely understood as a way of behaving in accordance with ones sex-defined characteristics, either as a manifestation of ones sexual identity, or by the way of a responsibility towards the general order provided by understanding of gender. Gilmore (1990; 1)  [5]  defines manhood as the approved way of being an adult as the approved way of being an adult male in any given society. Within the cultures, where value is attracted to a notion of manhood, Gilmore further claims that there is three particular criterias that are repeatedly associated with the masculine role, firstly, to impregnate women and secondly, to protect dependents from danger (1990; 223). Berger, Wallis and Watson (1995) states that masculinity, the asymmetrical pendant to more critically investigated femininity, is a vexed term, variously inflected, multiply defined, not limited to straightforward descriptions of maleness.  [6]  Masculinity takes a variety of forms for men and it differs according to sexuality, race, class and age. It is noticed the society and media hold very distinct stereotypes towards different ethnic and race groups. For Caucasians, the most common dominate ideology of masculinity represents ideals of strength, toughness, coolness, attractiveness, heterosexuality and whiteness (OShaughnessy 2003).  [7]  However, these ideals are very difficult for men to attain in reality. With the increased attention given to mens bodies and the resurgence of their imagery with the media, men nowadays pay more attention to the media and work to improve their physical appearance (Wienke, 1998; Shilling, 1993).  [8]  These effects are further pushed f orward with the new ideal metrosexual, which simply suggests that men who possess feminine traits are ideal. As men are now facing so many identities, so what makes a man? A closer investigation is presented next. Chapter 3: Gender and Masculinity In general, the characteristics associated with men are grouped under the term traditional masculinity by many writers.  [9]  Three of its main character traits are strength, command and ambition- all useful in getting ahead, and more often than not viewed in a positive light. Even the less positive attributes associated with traditional masculinity such as competitiveness, aggression and stubbornness maintain an air of respectability in that they remain symptomatic of power and control rather than weakness. Theorists in the field of gender studies have sought to understand how these masculine traits came to be associated with the male role first and foremost, and why they continue to permeate society and popular discourse as common sense notions of gender roles. Consequently, gender as a concept is open to much greater debate than sex, and it is clear that masculinity, as one aspect of gender identity, can take on an entire range of potential meanings. Mort observes that we are not dealing with masculinity, but with a series of masculinities (1988; 195; his emphasis).  [10]  As well as recognizing that class, race and sexual orientation, and several other factors all enter the equation at the level of identity, the term masculinities refers to the fact that no two peoples performance of so-called masculine characteristics will ever be exactly the same. As Horrocks states, there is clearly not a homogenous monolithic identity possessed by all men in all contexts (1994:3).  [11]   Byne suggests that, as human beings, we are motivated to create an identity for ourselves that allows us to make sense of our position in the apparent world. In order to be understandable, this must accord with the already existing conventions, as we perceive them; no matter how we seek to position ourselves in relation to these, we still accept that they exist. Conversely, men must strive to meet an extremely demanding stereotype of the male role as provider, achiever and conqueror- a task that is, in its self unattainable, and which causes men much self-doubt and anguish. This, Kaufman conclude, also inspires fear for it means not being a man, which means, in a society confusing gender and sex, not being a maleà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦losing power and ungluing basic building blocks of our personalities (p.149)  [12]  Together, these two behaviours are more destructive than either on its own, combining to both cause the problem and make it impossible to escape from. Chapter 4: Masculinity in the United Kingdom British Men According to Benynon (2002), there are three ideal versions of contemporary masculinities in the United Kingdom. The old man is relatively uninterested in fashion, is married and holding down a regular job, and remains somewhat sexist and homophobic in outlook. The new man is narcissistic, progressive and ambivalent in his sexuality, yuppie- influenced and generally anti-sexist. When he first emerged he was viewed variously as the same as the same old wolf, but in designer clothing, a revolutionary in his relations with women and his willingness to display the emotional side of his nature, and a marketing opportunity, for new visual codes. The new lad is defensive about fashion, ambivalent in his attitude towards women (he has pornographic notions of them rather than relationship with them) and he believes life should be one huge alcoholic and drug induced festival. (Beynon, 2002, p.118)  [13]   Among the above three ideals, the new man seems to be the most popular ideal in the United Kingdom. These ideals can be illustrated by the most influential British celebrity football player, David Beckham. David Beckham defines a new trend of men in the United Kingdom. In a recent study reported in The Observer (Campbell 2003), One David Beckham: Celebrity, and the Soccerati, co-authored by Andrew Parker of Warwick University and Ellis Cashmore of Staffordshire University, highlights how Beckham successfully combines a mixture of traditional and modern values to create an inspirational healthy role model. The study praises Beckhams different public personae including the national ambassador, aggressive competitor, loving husband, doting father, fashion model and gay icon. This study further concludes that Beckhams massive popularity could influence young males, encourage greater tolerance and acceptance of a new concept of masculinity. As suggested by the author of the study, Beckham has helped create a complex new concept of masculinity by defying expectations in areas such as what clothes men should wear or how men should style their hair. Indeed, Beckham fits all of the contemporary masculinity ideals he is a combination of new man (nurturer and compassionate partner), new lad (football legend, fashionable father, conspicuous consumer) and old man'(loyal dedicated, bread- winning) (Cambell, 2003).  [14]   Chapter 5: Gender Representation in Advertising Research has revealed that advertising does not exist in a vacuum but instead is very much interrelated with the existing social relationships within society (Duffy, 1994).  [15]   Goldman (1992)  [16]  suggested that we tend to take for granted the deep social assumptions embedded within advertisements as we are so used to the quantity of advertisements around us and the routine ways in which we read them. More importantly, we do not see or recognise advertising as a sphere of ideology. In a consumer society, advertising acts as a magnet, luring individuals into embracing a consumption culture that is part of an economic and social institution that helps to perpetuate what Goldman called the supremacy of commodity relations. Interactions between individuals are now greatly being defined by the material possession of commodities. The consumer society is primarily about contentment and pleasure, but there are broad complications beyond the realm of Contentment and pleasure. One of the most important implications is the area of gender identity. Sex-role stereotype, like any other stereotype, allows us to make sense of the world that we live in. Gender, of course, is one of the most important forms of systematised behaviour in all societies, and every culture has accepted routine forms for communicating gender identity (Leiss, Kline Jhally, 1990, p. 215)  [17]  . Our everyday environment is articulated mostly by what we see in the media and the task of advertising is crucial. The target audiences self-identification with the gender images is a basic requirement for an advertisements effectiveness, and the meanings encoded in the images are persuasive cultural symbols for societal behaviour. The earliest research into the portrayal of men in sex roles in advertisements was carried out in the 1970s by many re searchers and drew many conclusions: men were portrayed as more self-governing than women. They were portrayed in different occupations in comparison to women who were usually shown as housewives, cleaning, cooking and caring for children. Specific products such as Alcohol and cigarettes were most frequently portrayed by men, while women were mostly depicted in advertisements for household products (Dominick Rauch, 1972; Schneider Schneider, 1979; McArthur Resko, 1975; Courtney Whipple, 1974). According to Fejes (1992), the results from these researchers carried out in the early 1970s, did not fluctuate much from those conducted in the late 70s and early 80s.  [18]   In the last few decades, the role of men in the UK has changed considerably there has been an increasing visibility of the male body in the media and popular culture. Men are getting increased exposure not just of their bodies, but of their lifestyles, consumption preferences and emotional needs. Men are gradually gaining on women in the display of their bodies on billboards, fashion photography and magazines. Moreover, it is not just the number of images of men that has increased; it is the emergence of a new representation in popular culture where male bodies are depicted in an idealized and erotized manner (Moore 1988; Simpson, 1994).  [19]  Furthermore, in the consumer markets around the world-the predominantly female-oriented market like cosmetics, personal grooming and even body enhancements are attracting seeing more male consumers. Through a content analysis of advertisements over six years in a magazine for men, this paper studies the trends in the representation of imag es, products and sexual portrayal of men. Chapter 6: Men in Advertising Fejes (1992) noted that Skelly Lundstrom (1981)  [20]  conducted a study on print advertisements analysing a total of 660 magazine ads from 1959, 1969 and 1979 to establish whether there was any change in the portrayal of men in print advertisements over the two decades. They found that there was a small and gradual movement towards more non-sexist portrayal of men. Fejes (1992) also noted that Lysonskis study (1985)  [21]  showed similar results. Kervin (1990) too carried out a research study on the ads, focussing particularly on Esquire magazine. He examined whether the representation of men and the definition of masculinity had changed or remained over time. The study closely examined at ads from Esquire magazine for 50 years from the 1930s to the 1980s, and discovered that specific stereotypical representations of masculinity still remained after 50 years. What is fascinating, though, is her suggestion that these stereotypes exist because they complete certain needs and concerns of the men in society relating to their sense of powerlessness as individuals. She suggested that these stereotypes may be there to offer some form of compensation, in the form of admiration from others and possession of products for the men to define themselves adequately in society. She also discovered other new constructions of masculinity emerging over the years. The form of the male body is beginning to be portrayed as an erotic spectacle, suggesting that advertisers are adjusting to the changing attitude of consumers and exploiting it. Marian Salzman, Director of Strategic Content, JWT Worldwide, in her new book, The Future of Men (2003), interestingly, notices an important gap of the young male demographic that marketers and advertisers often fail to notice. Salzman, who conversed about the rise of the metrosexuals in 2003, deems the days of the metrosexual are numbered as men want their manliness back, and they are tired of taking their behavioural and fashion cues from their female companions and from mens magazines.  [22]  But this may not be true, as Kelton Research discovered in his research which was performed on 600 men, found that men can now be classified into men who value their personal style and appearance without sacrificing their masculinity, and ubersexual men who care about their appearance from head to toe. Moreover, men may try to act laid-back when it comes to personal maintenance, but the reality is, nearly two out of three surveyed not only own a variety of grooming products, but use them again and again. More importantly, about 98% of these products- men have no qualms about strolling into a store to buy a grooming related product (Wellikoff, 2006)  [23]  . Chapter 7: The Macho The Metrosexual Lee (2003) noted that men of all sexualities are taking a wider interest in their appearance. Hairdresser is where they go for a haircut instead of the barber shop and they are turning to other form of cleanser as soap is too harsh on their skin. More men are going to the gym instead of engaging in outdoor activities such as sports and some of them are even indecisive when it comes to choosing something to wear. These men are called the metrosexual and David Beckham who has been credited as the man who is changing male behaviour is classified as the ultimate metrosexual. A few years ago, concern over weight and diet regimes was strictly womens issue and having a pot belly was accepted for a man. But now, it is completely acceptable for men to watch their weight too and follow diet plans. This new breed of man blurs gender lines. In the Future Man'(Salzman, 2003) concludes that British men are becoming metrosexuals who have embraced customs and attitudes once deemed by women. Salzman further connotes that men today are confident in their masculinity and in their sense of self. In addition, they look and feel good and are knowledgeable about fashion and accessories regardless of what people might consider these things unmanly.  [24]  This new breed of man does oppose the traditional male role. ABC news reported that Leo Burnett, a Chicago advertising firm, conducted a global study of masculinity in 2005 and half of the men in their sample say that their role in society is unclear than in previous decades. More than seventy percent of them said that advertising is out of touch with mens reality.  [25]  Reports seem to indicate there is a new form of manliness emerging that is both macho and sexual at the same time. Stephen Perrine, editor in chief of Best Life magazine in the United States, mentioned on ABC news, The new manliness is about being competent and of value. Its less of men looking into their own navels. He also listed actors like Huge Jackman and Brad Pitt as the role models for this new manliness (ABC news, 2006).  [26]   Research Questions Advertising is an incorporated part of any economy in the world. And where there is rapid growth and changes in the economic profile of a society, there is a parallel increase in consumption patterns. This study aims to examine the portrayal of men in advertising as the emerging trends indicate that the predominantly female-oriented markets like cosmetics, body enhancements and personal grooming, are being directed at more male consumers. By studying the changes taking place in the portrayal of gender roles in advertising, it would allow us to get an insight into the changes that are taking place in society at given times and trends over periods of time. RQ1: What are the changes in the images (as per the categories) of men in FHM Magazine from 1998 to 2005? RQ2: What is the classified level of dressing (as per the categories) of the male models in FHM magazines used for the various categories of pictures? RQ3: What are the differences in the race of male models in FHM magazines in the categories of photographs/illustrations? RQ4: What are the differences in the types of products advertised in FHM magazines from 2000 to 2010? RQ5: What is the classified level of dressing (as per the categories) of the male models for the various categories of products? RQ6: Has the portrayal of men in Print advertisements changed in any way over the last six years? Methodology For the purpose of this study a content analysis was chosen and deemed appropriate as it will provide an overview on the coverage and frequency of use of male models in the advertisements selected. This quantitative research method is also useful for evaluating empirically the changing trends in society, while allowing us to summarize results and report findings in accurate, quantitative manner. The unit of analysis enables replication of the study over periods of time, thus providing an opportunity for comparison and review. Sampling Selection and Sample Size Six years (72 issues) of FHM magazine, from the United Kingdom were selected for this study. These magazines were published over a six year period from 2005 through to 2010. Through a systematic random sampling method of these 72 issues, one was selected from each year making it a total of 6 issues in the sample size. The unit of analysis is all full and half page advertisements or posters that have male or female models. Those advertisements without any models were excluded from the categorization. Categorization System The advertisements and posters from each year were systematically coded by placing them in pre-defined categories. Category of dressing Description Demure dress Everyday, casual clothing, including walking shorts and sports outfits. Suggestive dress Excluding evening gowns, which expose cleavage. Mini skirts, short shorts, muscle shirts, hiked skirts that expose thighs Partially clad Models in bathing suits, wearing undergarments and three-quarter length or shorter lingerie. close- up shots of models bare shoulders. Models in nothing except a towel. Nudity Unclothed Models, including; translucent lingerie/ undergarments and silhouettes. Extent of Contact Description No contact Positioned side by side. Not touching. Tame contact

Rock Bands Essay -- essays research papers

There have been all kinds of different types of rock bands throughout the years. Most of the bands have had a different type of style. All of these different types of style are what has shaped today’s music. Some of the bands from the earlier times were: The Beatles, AC/DC, Guns and Roses and the Bee Gees. The Beatles were the greatest and most powerful act of the rock era. They introduced more innovations into popular music than any other rock band of the 20th century. The Beatles grabbed a hold of the attention in 1964 and never let go for the next six years. The Beatles were the first British rock group to achieve worldwide prominence. The Beatles knew each other and had already been playing together in Liverpool for about five years before they had begun having hit records. As composers, their craft and melodic inventive were the best. As singers, both John Lennon and Paul McCartney were among the best and most expressive vocalists in rock and as performers they were exciting and photogenic. Guitarist and teenage rebel John Lennon got hooked on rock and roll in the mid fifties and formed a band called the Quarrymen at his high school. Around 1957, the Quarrymen were joined by another guitarist, Paul McCartney. Soon another guitarist, George Harrison, joined them. The quarrymen chan ged people throughout the 50’s eventually reducing to the three core guitarist who had proven themselves. The Quarrymen changed their name to the â€Å"Silver Beatles† but soon dropped the â€Å"Silver† to become just â€Å"The Beatles†. Lennon’s art college friend, Stuart Sutcliffe, joined the band on bass. Finding a permanent drummer was hard until in the summer of 1960, Pete Best joined.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The group was forced to expand its repertoire, tighten up its chops, and invest its show with enough manic energy to keep its rowdy crowds satisfied. Sutcliffe soon quit and McCartney took over on the bass. Harrison settled in as lead guitarist and Lennon had rhythm guitar. In the middle of the 1961 the Beatles made their first recordings in Germany. The Hamburg Stint was notable for gaining the Beatles sophisticated, artistic fans. In 1961, the Beatles exploding popularity caught the attention of a local record store owner Brian Epstein, who soon became the bands manager. In 1962, Sutcliffe tragically died from a brain hemorrhage. The Beatles were signed by Martin in the m... ...comber Nightclub. They eventually got their own local television show in Brisbane. Some time after that they took on the name the Bee Gees. In 1962, they landed their first recording contract with the Festival Records label in Australia, debuting with the single Three Kisses of Love. Their first English recording New York Mining Disaster 1941 was released in mid-1967, it made the top 20. The Bee Gees single Massachusetts was a chart topper in England and launched the group on their first wave of stardom. In 1981, the groups new LP, Living Eyes, was recorded but didn’t even make the Top 40. The Bee Gees remained active until the death of Maurice in January of 2003. He died from cardiac arrest at age 53. Soon, Robin and Barry decided to quit performing as the Bee Gees. Some of the bands from the earlier times were: The Beatles, AC/DC, Guns and Roses and The Bee Gees. All of these bands had a certain style which helped shape today’s music. Some of the bands used their bad reputation to help sell their music, when some used the cooler, preppy boy kind of style. However, it seems that all of the bands no matter what the reputation were, good or bad, it grabbed all types of audiences.

Essay --

In the novel, Emma, Austen introduced her audience to a new idea of patriarchy. While she is known to satirize society for the â€Å"faulty education of female children, limited expectations for girls and women, and the perils of the marriage market† (â€Å"Austen, Jane†). Austen expresses the irony of the men of her patriarchal society and proposes the ideal gentleman in Mr. Knightley. In Emma, Austen moves away from â€Å"a traditional idea of 'natural' male supremacy towards a 'modern' notion of gender equity† (Marsh). Jane Austen is a revolutionary in the way she transforms the idea of Nineteenth Century patriarchy by not â€Å"reinforcing the traditional gender stereotypes† (Rosenbury) but instead challenging the status quo. While her characters still hold some ties to traditional ideals, Austen proves to be ahead of her time, influencing the way gender is regarded today. In the Eighteenth and Nineteenth centuries, the idea of patriarchy ruled the many societies all over the world. Particularly in Britain, its â€Å"overarching patriarchal model† (Marsh) had â€Å"reserved power and privilege for men† (Marsh). Also during this time period feminist literature began to arise and was invaded by, â€Å"the complex social, ethical, and economic roots of sexual politics†¦ as testimony to gender bias and the double standard† (â€Å"Sexual Politics and Feminist Literature†). In Jane Austen’s writing, readers have been aware of her constant themes of female independence and gender equality. However, many have criticized the author for the fact that many of her â€Å"individualistic† female characters have ended up married. However, â€Å"for pragmatic reasons, the author’s conclusions favor marriage as the ultimate solution, but her pairings predict happiness† (â€Å"Austen, Jane†). Als... ...ied about his intentions during the entire novel, no one truly knows him. Frank’s uncle, Mr. Churchill is inferior to his wife in regards of control. Throughout the novel the reader hears more about his wife than they hear about him. Their relationship represents complete switch of the traditional idea of man being superior to woman. The Knightleys however, John and Isabella, are purely conventional and are ideal couple for Nineteenth Century society’s times. Mr. Elton does not represent true gentility while Mr. Weston too gentle. Although all of these characters have their flaws, Austen finds her perfect figure in George Knightley. His infallible nature is unrealistic, yet it gives society the ultimate gentleman to aspire for. Austen’s Emma is more than a comedic novel of manners but also a quintessential piece that fits perfectly into the lives of today’s society.

Free College Essays - Aesthetic Form of Cantos and The Waste Land :: free essay writer

Cantos and The Waste Land:   Aesthetic Form in Modern Poetry  Ã‚  Ã‚   In the Cantos and The Waste Land, it is clear that a radical transformation was taking place in aesthetic structure; but this transformation has been touched on only peripherally by modern critics. R. P. Blackmur comes closest to the central problem while analyzing what he calls Pound's "anecdotal" method. The special form of the Cantos, Blackmur explains, "is that of the anecdote begun in one place, taken up in one or more other places, and finished, if at all, in still another. This deliberate disconnectedness, this art of a thing continually alluding to itself, continually breaking off short, is the method by which the Cantos tie themselves together. So soon as the reader's mind is concerted with the material of the poem, Mr. Pound deliberately disconcerts it, either by introducing fresh and disjunct material or by reverting to old and, apparently, equally disjunct material." Blackmur's remarks apply equally well to The Waste Land, where syntactical sequence is given up for a structure depending on the perception of relationships between disconnected word-groups. To be properly understood, these word-groups must be juxtaposed with one another and perceived simultaneously. Only when this is done can they be adequately grasped; for, while they follow one another in time, their meaning does not depend on this temporal relationship. The one difficulty of these poems, which no amount of textual exegesis can wholly overcome, is the internal conflict between the time-logic of language and the space-logic implicit in the modern conception of the nature of poetry. Aesthetic form in modern poetry, then, is based on a space-logic that demands a complete reorientation in the reader's attitude toward language. Since the primary reference of any word-group is to something inside the poem itself, language in modern poetry is really reflexive. The meaning-relationship is completed only by the simultaneous perception in space of word-groups that have no comprehensible relation to each other when read consecutively in time. Instead of the instinctive and immediate reference of words and word-groups to the objects or events they symbolize and the construction of meaning from the sequence of these references, modern poetry asks its readers to suspend the process of individual reference temporarily until the entire pattern of internal references can be apprehended as a unity. It would not be difficult to trace this conception of poetic form

Big business affects public relations ethics Essay

Big business today affects public relation ethics. â€Å"U. S. corporations devote hundreds of millions of dollars annually to ? public relations in order to create goodwill for themselves. A major public ? relations goal is to make people believe that an organization exerts a ? positive and desirable force in society. This process is called image building; ideally, it creates credibility. † (Blohowiak 1987) There are two reasons regarding the deterioration of public relation ethics. First, people are driven by self gaining attitude. Second, because of the self- gain mentality, people treat costumers or the â€Å"other† as only an object or a means to achieve their desire. Individual’s self gain has been one of the strongest considerations of a man in indulging himself to a business or corporation. It is always automatic that man will seek for gain in any undertaking. Man desires for material things in life and is always in constant act of assimilating these things. This assimilation contributes to the malady of the business world today. Because of this drive of man to gain, man, most of the time is on a self- centered mode. Man is likely not to consider others in order to achieve his desires. He does not consider what ethical means to be done in order to achieve his goal rather, seeing only means that can contribute to his gain. Man becomes glued by the desire to gain. Instead of a brotherly relationship with a co- employee or a client, the relationship becomes just a functional relationship because people see each other as only a means to a desired end. They interact only by means of functions and with the reason of only accomplishing something. The relationship becomes an objective relationship and that they don’t care to other employees and costumers. The â€Å"I† and â€Å"thou† relationship is no where to be found. Customers and other employees are treated up objects. They are not recognized as also beings with human dignity. People in doing business do not look at the welfare of the â€Å"other† and becomes glued with self centeredness. Because of self gain which gives birth to treating others as only objects of their desire, the public relations ethics deteriorates. The business world today is full of deception that a lot of cases and dilemmas have been produced. People does not give emphasis on the quality of service they render instead their emphasis is on the amount of profit they will get from every transaction. Money becomes the criteria of doing business and of everything. The true meaning of inter human relationship vanishes. People do away from the very essence of it. They find meaning in assimilating material things which is a true deviation from their essence. Their essence as social being is to treat others as subjects, as beings with human dignity. People also deviate from the will of God because the will of God dictates that they must treat others with respect and love. God wants people to have a harmonious inter human relationship. It makes Him sad to see people using other people just to satisfy caprices. Greed becomes the theme of the business world today and great virtues and values are hard to find. The drive of man for self gain is very strong. It is very difficult to overcome. This is the reason why we have a deteriorating public relations ethics. People seem to care for the assimilation of money and nothing else. Material possessions drew people’s attention and they become fixated with it. Even in a lifetime, it is very difficult nowadays to detach from this sad reality of our existence. Life in the business world is always a tale of thinking to do what’s right and thinking to do what is beneficial to one’s self, very hard but interesting battle that every people is facing. With big business processing big investments for big profits, big business executives will not think twice in manipulating public relations activities to make the picture suit their interests over other competitiors.

Paul Lutus Advertising Essay

In his article entitled Consumer Angst written in 2007, Paul Lutus claimed that â€Å"No matter how true any single advertisement is, modern advertising, taken as a whole, tells a lie — that you need the thing being advertised. † To explain his point, Paul Lutus further claims that valuable consumer goods need not be advertised because it is a necessity by itself and no promotion is needed for it to attract and obtain sales. Moreover, he explained that the quality of the product should speak for itself and there is no need to â€Å"waste company’s money asserting the obvious†. In his above-mentioned arguments, Paul Lutus obviously focuses only on one aspect of advertising which is to sell. He missed to appreciate the other function of advertising which is to inform. Advertising, as defined by Wikipedia. org, â€Å"is the form of communication whose purpose is to inform potential customers about products and services and how to obtain and use them†. The primary purpose of advertising is to create public awareness about a certain product or service that is being advertised. It aims to communicate to the intended audience that such a product or service exists. As Taflinger (1996) claims â€Å"the basic purpose of advertising is to identify and differentiate one product from another in order to persuade the consumer to buy that product in preference to another. † Advertising is usually used to create a unique image that will be identified to a product or service. The message that is being communicated usually highlights the best features of the product – its uniqueness, usability, best characteristics, etc. – that will customer’s attention to it. After providing information on the product or service features, advertising’s goal is to entice customers to try out the product. It is therefore safe to claim that the end-goal of any advertisement is to generate sales in terms of product or service. However, while it is true that every advertising campaign is aimed at generating revenue for the brand that is being advertised, it is not proper to claim that all advertisements are lies. Even premium brands such as Nike, Armani, Prada and others do advertise their products. These brands are sought after and have all proven to be of good quality. But these brands still invest on advertisement. Advertising has become an important part of today’s business. With new products sprouting like mushrooms everyday, competition has become stiff and advertising has taken a big role in allowing the product or service to compete in the market. In his article entitled â€Å"Educating the Consumer about Advertising: Some Issues† Stephen Gotlieb (1991) explains that advertising â€Å"promotes competition among producers of products and services, keeps prices low through the development of mass markets, encourages store owners to stock a variety of items, supports free expression by funding media sources, and spurs invention†. The more you are seen and understood by your customers, the bigger chance you have to stay in the mainstream. It is therefore important to get you message through, so that your product or service gets noticed. Or else, your offer will just perish. Also, with the competition getting tighter, advertisers today cannot afford to rely on false claims for their products of services. With a lot of other options available in the market, a single wrong claim will trigger the customer to try out other product. It is the role of advertising to entice customers and encourage them to try out the product. Once the customer is convinced with the advertising claim and decides to avail the product or service, it is now the role of the product to prove itself and embody what is being stated in the advertising claim. It is therefore crucial to communicate the message that best embodies the product. Once advertised, the product or service is already exposed to t he public eye and scrutiny. Unless the customer has already tried out the product or service, their perception of the product will depend on the advertisement. It will either make or break the future of the product or service depending on how you position the message about the product. Therefore, while an advertisement is typically used to create or alter the consumer’s perception of a product and induce them into buying it, it cannot be said that it is Always  a lie. For obvious reasons, advertisements only highlight the good side of the products or services. We cannot blame the advertisers to do this. While they are obviously banking on the good side of their offer, we cannot accuse them of telling us a lie. The beauty of advertising is it gives the customers the chance to evaluate the competing products or services even before purchasing it through the product claims.