SPRING 2020
COMM135
Journal Entries
Guidelines for Expressing Emotions
“Personality, culture, gender roles, and social conventions all govern what approach will feel right to the people involved and what is most likely to work in a given situation.” (Adler; Proctor II, P.151)
There are many factors involved when expressing emotions. As the quote above explains many considerations must be accounted for when approaching this practice of the human experience. The following is a short list of ideas to account for when expressing emotions, including & not limited to; recognizing personal feelings & the difference between feeling, talking & acting, expanding personal emotional vocabulary, sharing multiple feelings & accepting responsibility for the feelings and being mindful of the Communication Channel. All of these considerations & ideas intertwine with one another and create the environment, internal & external, that emotions are expressed within. Be sure to check in with those involved to ensure emotions are being expressed & understood properly.
I have invested many hours into the comprehension of personal emotions and the best way to express them in each moment they arise. Expressing emotions is a broad dance on a fine line that must be balanced with proper interpersonal communication. I personally believe a great place to start is emotional intelligence; the capacity to be aware of, control & express one's emotions and to handle interpersonal relationships judiciously & empathetically. This is a major key when beginning to express emotions consciously. The more I consciously focus upon this aspect, the more involved the other considerations & ideas come into play within the moment of expressing personal emotions to another.
“I” & “You” Language
“This acceptance [&] rejection of responsibility says a great deal about the speaker and can shape the tone of a relationship.” (Adler; Proctor II, P.193)
The manner in which we communicate with others sets the stage for acceptance & rejection to play out. The stability of relationships depends on the moderation of pronouns when communicating responsibility and the comprehension of when the appropriate moment to utilize the correct pronoun is occurring. Accepting responsibility (“I”) too often can create an external perception that an individual is self-absorbed (“I am bored.”). While rejecting responsibility (“You”), although sometimes positive (“You look great today!) can stimulate defensiveness in an individual who is the receiver and perceiving judgment from the speaker (“You left this place a mess.”). Furthermore, collaborative language (“We”) can empower constructive climate when expressed in an unassuming & easy going manner (“We’re in this together.”). Equilibrium is met when the Language of Responsibility is utilized effectively and the moment is aligned for each to be appropriately received.
I am practicing being consciously aware of the acceptance & rejection my personal language can create. It is sometimes challenging during a conversation to recognize the exact moment to utilize each part of responsibility language. However, the more personal awareness we all bring to the comprehension of these tones, the greater the opportunity to shape a positive resonance in all relationships. There will be challenges along the way and we will have to continually practice to elevate the Language of Responsibility, I believe we can. You have the power!
Culture & Language
“Differences in the way language is used and the worldview that a language creates make communication [through] cultures a challenging task.” (Adler; Proctor II, P.203)
Culture & Language are synonymous. Along with the impact & environment that is created, these aspects of being develop the style of the individual; in every way imaginable. Communication through cultures is the practice of comprehending the difference within consciousness. Being able to accept the importance of another's culture is expressed through the way in which we communicate compassion & compersion. Surrendering to the similarity that we all share a different culture, allows us to expand our personal expression of culture while embracing others doing the same.
I invested three years of this life living on-and-off the streets; from couches to alleys, and from vehicles to beach front parks. While living in these conditions I learned to be very accepting of the life experience of others, and to embrace while questioning for insight about the differences we all share. I believe that we all have risen from Earth, in one way & another, and that this single similarity unifies all of our differences. I practice the ability to be candor in the proper moments and to Self-Disclose within awareness of the culture I am presently embracing.
Culture & Language II
“For almost 150 years, theorists have put forth the notion of linguistic relativity: that the worldview of a culture is shaped and reflected by the language its members speak.” (Adler; Proctor II, P.206)
The best known example of linguistic relativity is that of Eskimos and their large vocabulary to describe conditions for what some may simply call snow. The distinction between the types of snow may be irrelevant for populations in warmer climates, and after the language makes these distinctions for the population exposed to them, they are more likely to see the world in different ways with a broader vocabulary to describe it. Another example of this is the fact that some words and phrases do not translate between languages. This is a direct example of the different perspectives culture & language play within society’s worldview.
Being that the personal mother language is American English, I have a very privileged experience as many of the world’s population have embarked on the task of learning this language specifically; due to many reasons, including colonization & the ease of its utilization. It is an easily adaptable language and can be transformed into new dialects very quickly (within a couple generations) to express new things from within each culture. I believe American English has afforded me the opportunity to communicate with far more people than I would have been able to in prior years of history. Simply because I am speaking a language that is planetarily recognized. I have been blessed with this mother language and utilize it to express compassion & compersion for all. Example: Everything is always as it should be, all ways.
Non-Verbal Communication
“Although many nonverbal behaviors are universal, their use is affected by both culture [&] gender.” (Adler; Proctor II, P.241)
There are similarities in non-verbal communication that we all recognize such as making eye contact, posture, gestures and so on. However gender & culture have an influence on the meaning & interpretation that is expressed. Gender plays a role in the differences between non-verbal communication from women & men. Some being physiological: height, depth and volume of the voice. While others come from socialization. Culture is then intertwined with these gender styles of non-verbal communication and new meaning is brought to the expression of each individual.
Personal perceptions of non-verbal communication that I am observing are one thing, while the ability to clarify through conscious communication allows personal comprehension of the individual being observed. In the moments that verbal communication is simply impossible (due to language barriers), being more reserved with any non-verbal communication and more aware of personal perceptions that are surfacing from non-verbal cues, creates an environment for comprehension to be universally understood. I personally utilize body language as a key indicator for others to approach & clear out. I am fully aware of how others perceive universal body language and utilize this understanding to create desirable environments. I am now learning to comprehend cultural non-verbal communication as this is a major key for being a positive world traveler.
The Challenge of Effective Listening
“This deluge of communication has made the challenge of attending tougher than at any time in human history.” (Adler; Proctor II, P.253)
Message overload is a major challenge when selection upon that which to attend to is most valid for The Self. We tend to get lost in the overindulgence of input and forget to attend to those things that are most paramount for The Self. This is a direct relation to how we listen effectively. It becomes more challenging when we are trying to listen to the views of another individual and we are being bombarded with all forms of communication simultaneously. Due to this condition, we must become more aware of that which we are meant to be giving & receiving from every interaction. The order in which we exchange an agreement depends on the context of the conversation. Therefore the main points to accomplish are ensuring the external party & The Self obtain, to the best abilities of all involved, that which is being requested by all.
I spend a lot of the time in conversations listening to that which is being expressed, through verbal & non-verbal communication, to better analyze & interpret that which is being requested. The challenge occurs when the overindulgence of input slips through the conscious awareness of The Self and “the deluge of communication” swarms The Self. Along with being aware of the output of personal thought patterns that are trying to interrupt the attending process while there are a whole slew of inputs that simultaneously distract us. I do my best to pause a conversation when I get overloaded and request that the speaker repeat from the last part I can consciously reflect back upon.
Intimacy in Relationships
“Another researcher concludes that close relationships ‘may be the single most important source of life satisfaction [&] emotional well-being, across different ages [&] cultures.’” (Adler; Proctor II, P.312)
The most fundamental necessity for positive human emotion is that of intimate relationships. Along with food, water and shelter this may be one of the more valuable necessities for positive Self Actualization. Intimate relationships allow us the opportunity to express The Self in deeper, more significant manners. Being able to express The Self & understand the comprehension of other individual’s stimulates life satisfaction and emotional well-being; engaging in intimate relationships is a key necessary for these states of being to flourish. Being intimate is the essence of the human experience.
I personally believe in the dimensions of intimacy: physical, intellectual and emotional. I feel as if I am intimate with every individual on these different dimensions to varying degrees. The level to which a relationship evolves intimately within my personal experience depends on the interactions between us. I am attracted to all; therefore it becomes a balance of understanding the purpose of the attraction. Sometimes an attraction to someone is simply to be attracted to walk down a street and see someone do something that you would not do and remind The Self that is why you will not do it.
Self-Disclosure
“Communication researchers use the term privacy management to describe the choices people make to reveal or conceal information about themselves.” (Adler; Proctor II, P.89)
The benefits of Self-Disclosure include and are not limited to: catharsis, reciprocity, Self-Clarification, Self-Validation, building & maintaining relationships and social influence. The Risks of Self-Disclosure include and are not limited to: rejection, negative impressions, decrease in relational satisfaction, loss of influence and hurting the other individual. There are also a few questions to ask The Self when utilizing the practice of Self Disclosure. Is the other individual important to you? Are the amount & type of Disclosure appropriate? Is the risk of disclosing reasonable? Will the effect be constructive? Is the Self-Disclosing Reciprocated? Do you have a moral obligation to disclose? These are a few of the perspectives that give us insight into privacy management when discussing Self-Disclose.
I am better now at knowing the appropriate time to disclose the proper amount of information. It has taken a lot of practice and it continues to be the forefront of my thinking when in a personal conversation and while public speaking. I practice privacy management on a moment to moment basis and offer information willingly when questioned in an appropriate manner. I do recognize the need to balance the practice of Self-Disclosure as it takes an ideal amount to be taken positively. There are benefits & risks within every practice, the outcome is in the moderation.
Gibb’s Defense Arousing Behaviors
“After observing groups for several years, Gibb was able to isolate six types of defense-arousing communication and six contrasting behaviors that lessen the level of threat and defensiveness by conveying face-honoring relational messages of respect.” (Adler, Proctor; P.356)
Jack Gibb created a foundation to understand defense arousing behaviors and the tools to create the opposite effect. The six defense arousing behaviors and the opposite face-honoring messages are as follows, respectively; evaluation & description, control & problem orientation, strategy & spontaneity, neutrality & empathy, superiority & equality, and certainty & provisionalism. Not only was Gibb able to identify specific actions that cause this type of reaction, he also created a system to recognize and shift the behaviors. Shifting from judgmental statements to focusing on personal thoughts and feelings is one aspect of these tools. Also, being honest with others about personal intentions rather than being dishonest and manipulative creates less tension and need to feel defensive.
This structure for defense arousing behaviors and the opposing actions has opened my eyes to more tools that I was previously unaware of. I am always doing my best to create a space with less tension and more face-honoring practices. I will definitely take the time to recognize these categories when speaking with others. Especially trying to understand how specific people react and the best ways to reduce their reactions by understanding how to communicate more effectively in regards to defense-arousing behaviors.
Coping with Criticism
“Despite the accuracy of the critic, the tendency is either to counterattack aggressively with a barrage of verbal aggression or to withdraw non assertively. Because neither of these counterattacks is likely to resolve a dispute, we need alternative ways of behaving. There are two such ways. Despite their apparent simplicity, they have proven to be among the most valuable skills many communicators have learned.” (Adler, Proctor; P.367)
The two such ways being discussed in the quote above are, to ‘seek more information’ and ‘agree with the critic’. There are multiple ways to seek more information, we can; ask for specifics, guess about specifics, paraphrase the speaker’s idea, ask what the critic wants, ask about the consequences of the behavior, and ask what else is wrong. We can also, agree with the facts, and agree with the critics perception. These are a few tools that can be utilized to be able to better manage criticism. Sometimes all it takes to determine the root of the criticism is to ask questions to see what more can be learned about the feeling being expressed. In times when it is futile to have a discussion through criticism it is better to agree with the facts and the critics perception.
Personally I am able to receive criticism well and even if I have an initial reaction, I am able to recognize the reaction I am having and alter my tone & perspective rather quickly. Ultimately, the goal is to always embrace criticism off the cusp; however, the awareness I have to self-correct a negative reaction to criticism allows me to be more open to others opinions each moment. I am always practicing hearing criticism and I sometimes seek it out to be sure that I am on track. I do not fear mistakes and enjoy the opportunity to learn something that I previously misunderstood.
Managing Interpersonal Conflicts
“With the right set of communication skills, conflict can be less like a struggle and more like a kind of dance in which partners work together to create something that would be impossible without their cooperation.” (Adler, Proctor; P.380)
In order to manage interpersonal conflicts more effectively the right set of communication skills must be employed. Partners in conflict are more capable of embracing adversity when they can communicate personal perceptions & ideologies without the fear of being rejected by another. The ability to hear someone else’s issue and strive to correct the transgression enables us to better manage interpersonal conflicts. If we are able to maintain a level of openness when receiving criticism we will be able to solve the problem together.
I believe that the right set of communication skills can correct any disturbance that occurs. Now, this is not to say that conflict can always be avoided; however, the ability to de-escalate a situation is a major key to managing interpersonal conflict. This quote resonates with me because I am always practicing & developing communication skills needed to effectively manage interpersonal conflict. I enjoy conflict resolution and think that through this simple decision we can accomplish so much. “I resolve conflict.”
Collaborative Problem Solving
“It’s difficult to negotiate constructively with someone who insists on trying to defeat you.” (Adler, Proctor; P.403)
The fact is that sometimes a ‘win-win’ conflict style is the most difficult to practice. Sometimes the situation is in such a state of disarray that the reasonable solution seems to contradictive of our momentary frustration to apply the technique. When encountering this type of resistance there are a few things that can be done to bring more grounding to this possibility. Identify your problem & unmet needs, make a date to discuss, describe your problem and needs, consider your partner’s point of view, negotiate a solution and follow up the solution. Although these steps may be difficult to take in the heat of the moment, after the tension settles it may be appropriate to approach the conversation respectfully.
I am still learning to come to terms with the other conflict resolution styles as I am always seeking a ‘win-win’. This is counter intuitive and creates conflict in some situations that it is not necessary. I am beginning to understand the time & place to apply certain techniques and to better differentiate between which to utilize. The simple fact is that sometimes, certain levels of conflict resolution are ineffective within the moment. Taking the opportunity to observe the situation and decide the most beneficial way to act is key to negotiating effectively.
Conflict Styles
“Most people have default styles of handling conflict. These habitual styles work sometimes, but they may not be effective in all situations.” (Adler, Proctor; P.383)
The authors describe 5 conflict styles that are relatively appropriate for each situation. These styles are also labeled with the potential outcome of each approach. Avoiding (Lose-Lose), Accommodating (Lose-Win), Competing (Win-Lose), Compromising (Partial Lose-Lose), Collaborating (Win-Win). Each of these styles is appropriate to use within the proper context of the situation. Simply because collaboration appears to be a win-win, the specific context may create a tension that is destructive to the relationship. Determining which style is best suited to resolve the conflict in a positive manner with the least amount of negative impact possible is crucial.
I definitely have a habitual style that I revert to. Although, it is not necessarily a bad thing to constantly look for the ‘win-win’, sometimes it is more effective to compromise with a different technique. Taking a ‘loss’ may be the best way to establish rapport with someone to empower them with an opportunity to grow. As I have previously discussed in these journal entries I am a ‘win-win-win’ type of individual, this sometimes causes those involved within a given situation to shut down even more because they are not looking for solutions and rather want to be heard.
Knapp’s 10 Stages
“...In other words, not all relationships begin, progress, decline, and end in the same linear fashion.” (Adler, Proctor; P.291)
Mark Knapp developed a model of relational stages containing two broad phases of ‘coming together’ and ‘coming apart’; while further research suggests a third phase of ‘relational maintenance’. The ‘coming together’ phase includes initiating, experimenting, intensifying, integrating and bonding. The ‘coming apart’ phase contains differentiating, circumscribing, stagnating, avoiding and terminating. Meanwhile, the ‘relational maintenance’ phase incorporates integrating, bonding, differentiating and circumscribing. This model is a great visual to begin understanding stages of relationships. As the quote implies, this is a spectrum whose lines are constantly being blurred and are not strictly linear.
This model of relational stages empowered me with the ability to see the way many of my past relationships have been occurring. Seeing the label for stages that I have experienced really got me to see the mistakes I have made and the stages I am currently in with others. Although, I do believe this model is better described as fluid, I understand that relationships move through this model fairly orderly.
Challenges of Remote Learning after Covid19
“You can’t teach people everything they need to know. The best you can do is position them where they can find what they need to know when they need to know it.” (Seymore Papert)
The challenges that have arisen during this time of remote learning have created an opportunity to better understand the personal capabilities that we all have and may need to improve upon. This time that we have spent on a kind of vacation will better reflect its purposes as we move through the challenges it presents. There's a reason for everything, imagined or otherwise and we can all gain something from this experience we are sharing. I believe that the challenges this moment has created are an excellent opportunity for humanity to determine its true desires. Give into the fear of instability and embrace the potential for new outcomes.
The Value of “effective interpersonal communication” Skills
“When researchers asked several hundred college students to identify their ‘closest, deepest, most involved, and most intimate relationship,’ the answers were varied. Roughly half (47%) identified a romantic partner. About one-third (36%) chose a friend. Most of the rest (14%) cited a family member.” (Adler, Proctor; P.312)
Regardless of the category within which our ‘closest, deepest, most involved, and most intimate relationship’ resides, the importance of effective interpersonal communication is vital to the health and wellness of each relationship. The ability to communicate effectively with those we care most about gives us the opportunity to explore further insight through the relationship. Understanding the type of relationship that is being experienced will allow for the depth of the conversation to expand as the dynamic of the relationship evolves. ‘Effective interpersonal communication’ is invaluable to thriving relationships.
Relationships Require Maintenance
What kinds of communication help maintain relationships?
Understanding the 5 love languages, and utilizing the types of communication that another may appreciate most, helps to maintain relationships. Words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, physical touch.
How well are you maintaining your important relationships through constructive communication?
I am learning how to better maintain important relationships through constructive communication.
Choose one relationship that matters to you: With family members, friends, or a romantic partner. Analyze the degree to which you and the others involved use the maintenance strategies listed above to keep the relationship strong and satisfying.
I am thinking of my closest friend, his name is Kai. We utilize all of the strategies listed, and more to maintain a healthy relationship. We are always observing our own communication styles and each other's, to ensure we are understanding each other clearly. We tend to always be positive, and when we are in a negative way, we do our best to realign with positivity. We are very open about the nature of the relationship and disclosing personal needs and concerns. We discuss the attraction between us and the steps we are always taking to express those desires in a more conscious light. When we experience contrast between us we spend time to assure each other that we will do everything in our power to stay committed to developing the relationship. We have a very strong social network and can lean on many people for emotional and physical empowerment. We are constantly sharing tasks and empowering each other to complete tasks on time and well. Two additional strategies we use to maintain and enhance our relationship is emotional & informational support. We are always discussing our emotions and determining the best plan of action for us both to be empowered. I think out of all the strategies, we are most involved with informational support. We are always sending videos and articles to each other after conversations to bring more awareness to the desires we have discussed.
What additional steps could you take to improve your interpersonal relationships?
I am personally trying to be more consistent with being assuasive within all of my interpersonal relationships. I sometimes get lost in my own life and forget to reach out to those that I care about and spend time with them so they know I am available. Even if only by phone once a month.
Self-Awareness Assessment
Upon completing the Self-Awareness Assessment I discovered that I am adept in many effective listening and communication skills that I sometimes take for granted. The skills that I must modify and reshape may seem simple in context; however the ability to become aware of them in the moments I am doing them will become the task I will embrace. The first is that of giving the appearance of listening even when I am not. The second is thinking, “I assumed he/she knew that.” The final skill I will become more aware to correct is exercising regularly to increase my listening efficiency. I will now explain what I plan to do to reshape and modify these behaviors.
The first behavior of giving the appearance of listening even when I am not will be difficult to implement. I will begin practicing this by becoming more attentive in conversations that I have little interest in, pushing myself to be more attentive, even when the conversation does not involve action to be taken. This is most difficult for me within classroom settings when I am ready to begin an assignment and the conversation seems to be jumping all over the place and with little bearing on the coursework. I will also practice appreciating all conversations regardless of the context.
The second behavior I will reshape and modify is the thought, “I assumed he/she knew that.” I will do my best to stop assuming things in general. In regards to conversation and effective listening I will be sure to ask questions that relate to the things I am assuming so as to get a clear answer from the individual whom I was assuming about. This practice will benefit both myself and the communicator as it will clear any misunderstandings between us immediately.
The final skill that I will implement is exercising regularly to increase my listening efficiency. This is something that I will do to better my interpersonal communication and my physical well being. I believe that a simple daily routine of simple workout strategies will be most effective for me to begin with as I have a very busy schedule and do not have much time to carve out for extensive training. However, with simple daily routines I believe I will be able to improve my personal well-being that will extend into my interpersonal communication skills.
Today I discussed three skills that I will reshape and modify to increase my interpersonal communication. They include; giving the appearance of listening even when I am not, thinking, “I assumed he/she knew that,” and exercising regularly to increase my listening efficiency. Through these simple adjustments I plan on becoming an even more adept interpersonal communicator.
Self-Concept Speech
“Nothing in life is achieved without effort, daring to take risks, and often some suffering.” -Erich Fromm
All of our lives are filled with stories, each of us with our own perspective, each telling in our own way. This story I am about to tell, I am very comfortable sharing. This experience has been a roller coaster encompassing the four elements. The longer I am Self-Aware, the more conscious I become of the experience as a whole. My chosen name is Andrew White and this is my experience. Today I will be sharing my personal narrative. I will elaborate on three personal strengths, which include my tenacious veracity, active beneficence and faithful fidelity. Also, I will share two weaknesses that I perceive personally, which are my being extremely outspoken and my overt perfectionism. My life mission is to inspire others to reach for greater heights, and believe in all that we are, individually & as a whole.
The first personal strength that I will discuss is my tenacious veracity. I am always adhering to the accuracy of truthfulness. I question every personal belief I construct and constantly ensure all perspectives are accounted for. Thus ensuring the most transparent form of personal perceptions. I spent nearly three years of my childhood being grounded for lying about simple daily tasks; such as brushing my teeth, taking out the trash, etc. I am grateful to my mother for maintaining such a high level of expectation for honesty, as this allowed me the opportunity to be tenaciously veracious.
Another aspect of my Self-Concept that I practice from a moment to moment basis is active beneficence. From a very early age my grandmother taught me to always maintain a moral obligation to society. Whether on the street, or in a boardroom; from a bedroom to a classroom, always treat others the way they want to be treated. Ranging from grand acts of charity to simple acts of kindness my grandmother always displayed a level of quotidian beneficence that I strive to achieve.
Faithful fidelity is the final personal strength I will explore with you all today. I learned so much from observing members of the military while I served alongside them. One of the greatest lessons I gained from my time within their ranks was faithful fidelity to a cause. Although I did not fully agree with their means of achieving success, I did appreciate their willingness to be loyal in the name of a perceived greater good. Through that experience alone I came to understand the beauty of fidelity and that which can be achieved with this value alone.
The first personal weakness we will examine is my being extremely outspoken. In the past I have utilized this skill to my detriment and have been punished many times simply for speaking out of turn. This is something I believe I learned from my younger sister. She is always directly speaking her mind. I am now learning to speak when spoken to, and speaking out only when I perceive danger.
The final personal weakness I will share is my overt perfectionism. This is something that has caused many issues for me & my team when needing to complete tasks in a timely manner. I sometimes spend too much time on completing a task to the best of my abilities and this causes a delay of gratification that can sometimes be overwhelming. I feel that I also learned this from my mother, as she herself has OCD and an extreme need for perfection.
Today I shared three personal strengths; my tenacious veracity, active beneficence and faithful fidelity. Also, I expressed two personally perceived weaknesses; being extremely outspoken and my overt perfectionism. As previously demonstrated I am learning to share consciously, and with a care for those witnessing. I am you.
PSYC 101
Comprehending Masculinity: A Reaction to The Mask You Live In
“Love rests on two pillars: surrender and autonomy. Our need for togetherness exists alongside our need for separateness.” -Ester Perel
The inner harmony of surrender and autonomy balance upon a skewed view of the manhood within. The following is a reaction to the film The Mask You Live In written & directed by Jennifer Siebel Newsom of The Representation Project. Newsom launched The Representation Project after the powerful impact of her first documentary Miss Representation; a film about the media's impact on teaching young girls to value youth, beauty and sexuality, while boys learn success comes through dominance, power and aggression. Jessica Congdon received her BA from UC Berkeley and studied film at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and is also a co-writer of both films. First, we will view manhood through a lens of family values. Then, we will approach the media stigma that is created around masculinity. To finish we will discuss the global sex culture & sexual education. Young boys & men are held to standards of manhood that are unhealthy and destructive to society.
First, we will view manhood through a lens of family values. To strike the bottom line; the man of the house. This is literally a foundation of thinking in regards to the “American Dream”. “We have constructed an idea of masculinity in the United States that doesn’t give young boys a way to feel secure in their masculinity. So we make them go prove it all the time.” (Kimmel; 05:24*) The depth to which financial security is provided for those around them has come to determine the foundation of scrutiny for men everywhere. We tell young boys that working every moment to ‘one-up’ the man next to them is the only way to succeed. I believe this documentary gives a fantastic view of current cultural ties the family plays on the essence of manhood. In this aspect the film creates a responsibility within the target audience to create new standards by which a ‘family man’ is determined. It is difficult for fathers to speak about emotions with their children as they are usually still coming to grasp their own emotions when a kid walks in with questions. “We put them on that [rejection of femininity] trajectory through our popular culture, through our parenting styles, through our educational styles and through assumptions about natural manhood & maleness that we pass along that are incredibly insulting & damaging.” (Heldman; 06:12*) From a very young age we are told to ‘man up’. We are conditioned to believe that showing signs of emotion is a characteristic of weakness. Beginning within the home, the cultural views of masculinity are enforced upon young boys; from fatherly figures ‘manly’ impressions, to the medias’ display of ‘manhood’.
Now, we will approach the media stigma that is created around masculinity. As a society we have led the media to distribute very specific, very extreme versions of a spectrum that is more diverse than imaginable.
“This hyper masculinization & hyper feminization reflect cultural tension & fear about the fact that gender is socially constructed and we respond in ways to try to organize and simplify the world, that actually end up simplifying it to such an extent that it puts pressure on young men & young women to fit into those boxes.” (Heldman; 14:41*)
From the characters we enjoy in video games & film, to the commercials & coverage that is projected into our multiple levels of consciousness and then reflected by individuals in extraordinary fashion. We have literally taken a vast spectrum and labeled it with two colors, blue and pink.
“There’s a dominance hierarchy, there are tough guys who are on the top, and there are weaklings, girls, who are on the bottom of the heap. Now this is the origin of sexism & homophobia. In sexism it's that a girl isn't as strong as a boy. With homosexuality, the gay man becomes the most stigmatized version of weakness and dizziness.” (Krupers; 24:30*)
This hyper sexualization of gender has created a specific requirement for individuals to display their own sexuality. Rather than embracing the difference of each other's sexuality and empowering healthy conversation around the subject we have created a culture of taboo. We try to hide our most primal instinct for sexual desire through a veil of elusivity & misdirection, while simultaneously producing media & a culture that draws directly upon these fundamental impulses.
Finishing our discussion we will discuss the global sex culture & sexual education. From a very early age the youngest generations upon this planet are now being flooded with hyper sexual imagery. Due to this global phenomenon masculinity has developed a new mask to project & require.
“The way that boys and men have been trained to think about and objectify womens’ bodies, and purchase womens’ bodies. Whether it's directly [through] prostitution or indirectly [through] pornography and somehow that has no relation to how they think about themselves as sexual beings and women’s sexuality. To me it's naive to think that there’s no connection.” (Katz; 01:00:01*)
Young children are now being tasked with comprehending high levels of cognitive thinking to differentiate reality & fantasy. We are asking them to understand their desires and act in a respectable manner when there is no proper guidance from the ones they are looking to for education on the matter. “I call what we do to our little boys & men, the great set-up. We raise boys to become men whose very identity is based on rejecting the feminine and then we are surprised when they don’t see women as being fully human.” (Heldman; 01:04:11*) Shifting the global culture will be a challenge. However, if we begin to create a new culture of sexual education & positive self-expression, we will give future generations an opportunity to make new decisions.
We discussed manhood through a lens of family values. Followed by an approach through the media stigma that is created around masculinity. Finishing, we discussed the global sex culture & sexual education. We are starting to shift the standards of manhood towards healthy and constructive patterns of actions by observing the improper actions and course correcting the journey. “It’s a choice and many times the choice is rooted in our privilege. So while we as good men don’t perpetuate the violence, we are part of the collective socialization, the fertile ground that's required for the violence to exist.” (Porter; 01:07:00*) A potential impact this documentary has planted within society is that we now have, more than ever, the ability to create a new perspective of masculinity and the inherent will to make it so.
PSYC 130
Community Project Report Part II
ADDRESS a specific issue in your community.
Unfortunately, there is an epidemic of opiate drug use spread through the physical community that I reside within. Along with tenants being in the building that use these derivatives of prescription drugs there is also a vast community living on the streets within the nearby vicinity. I am specifically speaking about the ten block radius around 12th & Imperial Transit Center and the San Diego County Library. Declining resources have led a diverse population of lower income individuals & families to resort to means lesser than human rights should encompass with regards to health. (I can argue the lifestyle of the majority population of the planet and the desire for western medicine practices; that is a whole different conversation.) However, due to the longevity of prior generations' lifespan, and the consistent need for medical assistance we have created a monstrous beast out of “big pharma” (prescriptions & insurances). This industry as a whole chews the population up and spits them out to a life of meager needs and desires. A majority of the stories that are told from the experience of a street-drug user are that they were injured in their youth and resorted to less attractive ways to acquire “medicine” with age because they can not afford the coverage and it is readily accessible on the street.
REVIEW what changes have already been tried (from your own personal knowledge).
Many solutions have come from the bottom-up and top-down approach and there is a diverse set of resources to help overcome this epidemic; from local methadone clinics and religious outreach that spreads hope & faith for the individual, to “The War on Drugs” and local task forces that deliver a legislative perspective. These solutions have been widely unsuccessful as the number of opiate users & prisoners have been on a steady rise since the 1980’s. The reason I think these solutions have been widely unsuccessful is because the culture of the planet has shifted into the mindset of drug users; and the mindset shift should include the competency of the individual about the effects & outcome when utilizing any form of stimulus & depressant. We are learning to scientifically understand our global health status within this generation, it will take time for the competency to set in.
IDENTIFY what type of change you want to occur.
I am creating a mindset shift in the global perspective of “drug use”. To better understand the effects of drugs we must personally accept that we have a population to heal. We will shift the mental health of the world by accepting that we all have trauma that is reflected in a multitude of manners. To grow together as a singular population we must listen to those of us with critical living conditions (mentally & physically) that need tending and work together to empower everyone we see. This is an internal-out change. This is an education of responsibility. We need to go within as conscious individuals and reflect upon the state of our collective experience and communicate with those around us with humble knowledge & guidance. We are taking on a task handed to us from generations gone by, it is now upon us to decide the outcome we choose. The con is the weight of the challenge. The pro is the amount of change ahead. We will have time before the shift is actualized and manifested into physical reality. We will have to be persistent in the face of adversity and resilient in times of defeat. Through the dedication we show we will be rewarded with a new way of living for all and a cohesive partnership with all.
NAME the community intervention strategy you will use.
All of the Community Intervention Strategies apply to the needs of the community problem within my physical community. Citizen participation is key to a mindset shift. We will first educate ourselves to release the stigma around “drug use” as a collective. Then we will embrace a culture of responsible & respectful drug-use. We need to look to our native roots and understand that “drug use” is an altered form of consciousness. It must be respected and utilized as a tool, not a plaything to be thrown around. Networking & Collaboration is vital to spread a global culture shift. This is grassroots at its finest. It is upon every individual to understand their personal impact upon the planet and the respect that must be had when given the responsibility to choose. Every conversation is a two-way consultation. The level of formality is the difference. Utilize every opportunity to share a little guidance with someone and you will be given guidance back. Information Dissemination & Community Education may be the most important strategies amongst this group for this community problem & solution because the population being educated is a key factor for this to take hold. Understanding the responsibility that comes with all “drugs-of-choice” (in all forms of habits) and the respect that must be given to altering personal consciousness is the first step. Public policy is important to uphold the infrastructure that is already in place. We need to utilize this time that public policy is in place to comprehend the pros and cons of the system to create the next way of living.
Community Project Report III
ADDRESS issues related to power & privilege regarding the group you are helping.
What inequities or disadvantages is this group experiencing? Give examples. This specific group experiences shorter lifespan expectancy, higher morbidity rate and greater need for utilization of medical facilities. However, due to steep medical insurance prices and the waning market of providers, many are finding themselves at a grave disadvantage. Example: An individual that has a steady job, pays all their bills and has a slight drinking problem, is one day injured on the job becoming unable to work. The individual may take a time of leave, and even may receive unemployment and get medical bills covered. This coverage only lasts for a short period in the grand scheme of an individual's life; eventually the cost of medical expenses falls into the lap of the patient, as the conditions (mental & physical) follow them for a lifetime. If they are lucky they find another outlet for income, if not things become unmanageable quickly. Soon, with medical bills rising and no way to make a steady income, the individual turns to “street drugs” to cure their personal pain & an addiction to prescription based opiates. The snowball is rolling and steering the course becomes an afterthought.
What other groups are exerting power and control over the group I am trying to help? Give examples. (Reader Chapter 4, Effecting Social Change in Diverse Contexts, pg. 119)
This is a conspiracy example: It is believed that local governments; mayors’ offices, city councils, etc. utilize this population as a way to usher in the development of infrastructure within their city limits. It is said that they will move a large portion of this population into a specific part of a town and then will lobby the taxpaying citizens to get them to pay taxes to further develop the town's infrastructure; business brings culture, culture brings law enforcement, law enforcement moves the population in question to the next town needing gentrification.
EXPLORE what issues need to be addressed regarding cultural humility in order to help this group.
What assets/strengths does this group already have that can be leveraged or utilized?
This specific group has so much resilience it is hard to compare to many things. Through all the turmoil an individual goes through while living life this way, the majority are slowly and surely figuring out how to contribute to a community and to reach for higher desires. This can be leveraged to work hand-in-hand with these individuals to figure out a solution that is a win-win-win for everyone.
How can the larger community be educated in having a deeper awareness and acceptance of this group? What would they need to know to change their opinions? (Reader Chapter 4, Effecting Social Change in Diverse Contexts, pp. 119-123)
The most important thing to remember about individuals living on the streets is that they have a story. They are living through a life of trauma & desertion and it must be difficult to bear the ignorant judgement of society 24/7. Having a simple conversation with someone in this life position and recognizing their existence is enough to bring the love back into their heart. It will also show you the humility within that is looking for an outlet. These conversations don't have to be that in depth and no solutions have to be discovered. Simply talk with them about the weather and their beautiful smile, bring joy to the moment and let that be enough. Give them a reason to want to participate with society on a deeper level. Be a friendly neighbor.
EVALUATE my own beliefs about the group I am trying to help.
What assumptions, stereotypes or biases did I originally hold toward this group? (Don’t say “none” - everyone has some!)
I assumed that everyone on the street made a choice to be there. I made a choice to be there, however, many homeless individuals had a life experience that was always headed for the streets. I also assumed anyone living on the street was uncontrollably mentally-ill. Now I know many people from the streets that maintain a level of sanity and can maintain intelligent thinking patterns.
What has changed in my viewpoint or understanding about this group?
I now see everyone as an individual with a story and I never judge anyone for a certain perception that society may hold. I would rather engage in conversation, become friendly with someone, and create an integrated social culture amongst all humans.
What personal responsibility do I feel I have in addressing the needs of this group?
I feel responsible to empower individuals in the moment. Everyone that knows me from the homeless community knows, “If I got it, it’s yours.” Put simply, I have shown that I can be asked for anything; resources, money, time and if I have it to give in that moment, there is no question, which is more times than not. However, if I do not have it at that moment, you can always ask next time and the opportunity may be different.
What is my best hope for this group and in getting their needs met?
My best hope for this group in getting their needs met is that one day we will have a global culture that empowers individuals to build a life that is thriving, and will give everyone the opportunity to live that life within the simplest of human rights.
Self Disclosure
Self-disclosure is a basis for my Self-image. I utilize the ability to speak about personal experiences with complete candor as a way to communicate a mutual feeling of understanding. I believe Self-Disclosure is most effective through humble perspectives. I am learning the relevance of time & place for the depth to the Self-Disclosure between certain relationships & environments.
PSYC 161
Reflective Paper
SECTION 1: MOTIVATIONS FOR HELPING
I am inspired to be a helping professional because of my personal life experiences; from my own experience as a client in therapy, to my natural ability to empower others within their own strength. I have spent many years with many types of psychologists; from the chaplain on base while serving in the US Navy to marriage counseling with a former wife. Also, I have done many types of therapy itself; from cognitive behavioral therapy to sensory deprivation therapy. Overall I am a helping professional. I will continue to learn and expand my personal scope of competence & practice to serve the most quality transformation I am able to bring to this experience.
The thoughts and feelings I experience about my inspiration to become a helping professional are eternal & infinite. All of my lives experiences have led me to become a leader in the helping profession. I think I became inspired to enter this field of expertise due to my personal experience with Self-Actualization. I feel like I am supposed to be here to empower others to see their true potential and then take action to reach their passion-fueled lifestyle.
I am very open about my past experiences and share openly about the path that has led me to where I am going. A major impact on my desires to empower others is the experience I have of living on the streets. Through the hardships and growth I experienced in my time living on the streets I gained a deeper desire to ensure others have an easier time navigating the environments within which they may find themselves, whatever/wherever those environments may be. My time spent living on the streets along with many other of my personal life experiences has inspired me to empower others. My goal is to create a system that an individual can follow to lead a passion-fueled lifestyle that positively affects the community at large.
SECTION 2 : BIASES AND BELIEFS
Although my mind creates biases, beliefs, and prejudices I always recognize & observe them before creating an unfavorable response towards anyone. I am constantly observing The Self within and determining that which is not serving The Self. I am an open book with open arms and I always live by the standards of innocent wonder. Also, I am able to separate the acts of an individual from the individual themself as I am aware of external sources that create reactions within others. As a communications major I always believe when a bias, belief, and prejudice surface it is best to discuss them with those involved; whether about an individual or a group, discussing these things with the others involved (instigators and receivers alike) creates the space for these biases, beliefs, and prejudices to be removed and transformed.
Biases, beliefs and prejudices typically stem from cultural & generational roots. In order to transcend these ideas, we must become aware of them and discuss them amongst each other to evolve the cross-cultural understanding. I have had an experience within this life to be open to all types of lifestyles; from the wealthy mindset of an ego, to the humble mindset of the heart and vice-a-versa, to everything in between. Therefore I am open to listen & discuss any topic under the sun; from murder & drug usage, to birth and sexual preferences/desires. I am always open to discover more and appreciate every opportunity afforded to me to understand that which I am learning about. I manage this mindset by constant awareness of the personal perspective the ego creates within The Self while simultaneously embracing the multiversal co-existence of perspective the heart creates. As stated previously I am always observing the personal biases, beliefs and prejudices that the mind creates; therefore, I check-in with The Self and ensure I am balancing all personal perspectives that are created therein.
I practice communicating intentions, boundaries, and desires before establishing any relationship and then inquire further responses as the relationship grows. Things change and are never static therefore the discussion must be open to have at all moments. In specific regards to clients I ensure they are fully aware of the level to which we are intertwining our experiences and where the lines must be drawn. Genuine unconditional positive regard is how I live every moment of this experience. I am always expanding upon the positives that every individual shares with this reality and how their ‘negatives’ have in fact led them towards these realities. The most influential individuals have a past experience that is filled with many ‘negatives’ that the individual was able to utilize to become who they are. Shadows are necessary to see the depth of an image, without them the picture becomes flat.
SECTION 3 - SELF CARE
I continue to seek out professional therapeutic expertise. To gain a better understanding of The Self and to learn new skills to empower others. The best way to understand a practice is to partake in it personally. Also, I spend a lot of time on Self-Care with a healthy spiritual connection & lifestyle. I believe in order to do our most focused work we must also let go at times, releasing a schedule to go with the flow, for even a few hours on a weekend, can open us up to be our most productive Self when within a time-constrained schedule. I enjoy letting go and going out dancing on a regular basis.
I am always calm, safe, and at ease because of my ability to adapt with resilience through any life event. I know that everything is occurring for a reason and I am always utilizing that understanding to take action upon why the event is occurring. Utilizing my example of living on the street, I was never worried while in that situation because I knew it was leading to my next life experience. Which then became school when my mind opened enough to desire further education. Now, with a stable foundation because of hierarchical needs being met I am able to turn to the next step which is creating a business that is impact-driven and dedicated to quality service. The direct future goals are to complete school and get a simple job as a helper within the mental health industry while simultaneously building an online business that will philanthropically empower generations to come. Along with physical needs being met I spend a lot of time on internal Self-Care, from simple walks on the beach to deep meditations of Self discovery, personal compassion-fatigue is well balanced and understood.
SECTION 4 : TAKE-WAYS FROM THE COURSE
Three things that I will take away from this course include the Three-Stage Model, the General Ethical Principles of helping and the various skills that were addressed within the context of the book “Helping Skills” by Clara E. Hill.
The Three-Stage Model is highly effective at explaining how to move through and within the different levels of the process of change, here is a quick description of all three stages:
“The goals for the exploration stage are establishing rapport and a trusting relationship; attending, listening, and observing; helping clients explore their thoughts and narratives; facilitating the expression of emotion; and learning about clients...The insight stage builds on the foundation of the exploration stage. Going beyond exploration to insight and understanding requires a deep sense of empathy and belief in clients. In this stage, helpers see beyond defenses and inappropriate behaviors, and help clients come to accept and understand themselves more deeply… After clients have explored and gained insight, they are ready for the action stage, during which helpers collaborate with clients to explore the idea of change, explore options for change, and helps them figure out how to make changes.” (Hill, P.117/228/334)
The ethical principles are extensive and important to maintain a healthy practice of helping. “Many ethical codes stress the importance of six basic ethical principles.” (Beauchamp & Childress, 1994; Kitchener, 1984; Meara, Schmidt, & Day, 1996) The basic ethical principles are as follows: Autonomy, Beneficence, Nonmaleficence, Justice, Fidelity and Veracity. There are many skills discussed within this book; from questioning practices, to resources for further investigation. I will be utilizing the book shared by this course for a while during this transition into the helping profession.
I have learned and been reminded of so many things through this course alone, not to mention all the other great courses in the mental health field one of the biggest things I will take away is the need for Self-Care specifically to avoid compassion fatigue. In my past experiences I have run into compassion fatigue because of my inability to recognize the need for Self-Care. In the past I have put all my energy into empowering others and forgetting entirely about the needs I was craving.
I appreciate that while first entering into this field there is so much support from supervisory rolls. It is empowering to know that all along the way there will be continual guidance within the field. Knowing that when I come across an internal blockage there will be others there to inform and empower me with the proper mindset and tools to balance the energy.
I have read this book from page to page as we have moved through this course, unlike other classes where skimming and review have been enough because this book communicates the most simple & complex ideas in a way that can be translated into an applicable practice. Clara describes things like compassion in a way that have not been expressed before. Which I will quote to finish this experience.
“Compassion involves feeling aware of and open to suffering without judgement (Vivino, Thompson, Hill, & Ladany, 2009). Compassion goes beyond empathy and understanding by genuinely allowing oneself to feel the pain and suffering and desire to relieve it. Another way to think of compassion is loving kindness, of genuinely caring about the other person because of who they are, not because they deserve it or not. Often, we sit in judgment of ourselves and others, and trying to think about empathy and gaining compassion can help us shift into a more open and caring posture toward self and others.” (Hill, P.35)
PSYC 245
Review of “Relations among psychopathy, moral competence, and moral intuitions in student and community samples”
In a scientific research paper released in the Legal & Criminological Psychology Journal in 2018 by Jeremy G. Gay and the East Central Regional Hospital, Mental Health Campus in Augusta, Ga the authors proposed two hypotheses. First, “that the moral intuitions to prevent harm to others and preserve fairness would be significantly lower in participants with elevated psychopathy scores.” (Gay, Vitacco, Hackney, Beussink & Lilienfeld; 2018) What is the effect of lower moral intuitions on individuals experiencing higher psychopathic traits? The Moral Foundations Model created by Jonathan Haidt, Craig Joseph and Jesse Graham contains five basic foundations for morality (moral intuitions). These moral intuitions are as follows; preventing harm to others (Harm), preserving fairness, equal rights and justice (Fairness), practising loyalty towards one’s in-group relative to treatment towards out-groups (In-group/Loyalty), respecting authority within hierarchical relationships (Authority), and practicing purity or sanctity of body, mind and soul (Purity/Sanctity). Second, the authors hypothesized, “that psychopathy would not be directly related to moral judgement deficits but would be indirectly related to moral judgment deficits by way of moral intuitions.” (Gay, Vitacco, Hackney, Beussink & Lilienfeld; 2018) What is the effect of lower moral judgment on individuals experiencing higher psychopathic traits? Moral judgement refers to the determination a person makes about an action (or inaction), motive, situation, or person in relation to standards of goodness or rightness. “According to the Moral Foundations Model, moral intuitions arise automatically before moral judgements are made, and people subsequently justify their intuitions by way of moral reasoning.” (Gay, Vitacco, Hackney, Beussink & Lilienfeld; 2018)
The authors created two studies. The first study was an undergraduate sample recruited from a regional public university. Upon answering the catch questions correctly and completing all measures the final sample included 121 students from the Psychology Department’s web-based research participation pool, 36 male (30%) & 85 females (70%) were selected. 80 participants identified as Caucasian (66%), 24 as African American (20%), 6 as Hispanic (5%) and 1 as each Asian(1%) and American Indian/Alaskan Native (1%). The mean age of the first sample was almost 20 years of age (M = 19.62; SD = 2.46). The second study sample was recruited from Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) and paid $.55 after answering the catch questions correctly and completing all measures. The final sample was 205 community residents from across the United States. 76 male (37%), 128 females (62%) and 1 transgener were selected. 172 participants identified as Caucasian (85%), 14 as African American (7%), 8 as Asian (4%), and 1 as each American Indian/Alaskan Native & Hispanic. While 8 participants identified as Multiracial (4%) and one participant declined to respond. The mean age was almost 42 years of age (M = 41.82; SD = 14.97) “Participants received an introduction explaining that the purpose of the study was to assess the relation between personality and decision-making.” (Gay, Vitacco, Hackney, Beussink & Lilienfeld; 2018)
To assess the “relationship” between personality (psychopathic traits) & decision-making (moral intuitions/judgements) three specific measures were utilized. To measure psychopathic traits the Psychopathic Personality Inventory-Revised-Short Form (PPI-R-SF) was chosen. To measure moral intuitions the Moral Foundations Questionnaire (MFQ) was selected and to measure moral judgement a Moral Competence Test (MCT) was distributed. The answers given from each participant for each test were then cross-referenced to determine the “relationship” between psychopathic traits, moral intuition and moral judgement. Through these measures the first study concluded,
“Zero-order correlations revealed no significant relationships between [the first four variables in Table 2 of the publication]... With regard to moral intuitions, however the moral intuitions of Harm [-.29, -.56], Fairness [-.31, -.37] and Purity/Sanctity [-.19, -.22] were negatively correlated with PPI-R-SF total and PPI-R-SF Coldheartedness Factor scores [respectively]. The PPI-R-SF Self-Centered Impulsivity Factor was also negatively associated with Fairness [-.24] and Purity/Sanctity [-.18] but not Harm [-.16]. The PPI-R-SF Fearless Dominance factor was positively associated with the moral intuition of In-Group/Loyalty [.18]...These results suggest that psychopathy is not significantly associated with deficits in moral judgment in an undergraduate sample; in addition, we detected no significant indirect effects, as moral intuitions did not mediate the relationship between psychopathy and moral judgement.” (Gay, Vitacco, Hackney, Beussink & Lilienfeld; 2018)
This means that within this undergraduate sample the individuals with higher psychopathic traits may display less concern for harm prevention and societal fairness, however, they are still able to determine right from wrong.
While the second study had similar findings,
“Zero-order correlations again revealed no significant relationships Between [the first four variables in Table 4 of the publication]...With regard to moral intuitions, Harm [-.36, -.22, -.54] and Fairness [-.26, -.22, -.43] were negatively associated with the PPI-R-SF total, PPI-R-SF Fearless Dominance Factor, and PPI-R-SF Coldheartedness Factor score [respectively]. Similarly, Harm [-.18] was negatively associated with PPI-R-SF Self Centered Impulsivity Factor scores. Purity/Sanctity [-.14, -.14] was also negatively associated with PPI-R-SF total and PPI-R-SF Self-Centered Impulsivity Factor scores [respectively]...These results suggest that psychopathy is not significantly associated with global deficits in moral judgement [amongst a community sample].” (Gay, Vitacco, Hackney, Beussink & Lilienfeld; 2018)
This is also to say that in a community sample individuals with higher psychopathic traits may be able to understand that something is morally impermissible and act out regardless, to suit a desire. As the authors explain, “Across both samples, psychopathy dimensions were not significantly related to impaired moral judgement.” (Gay, Vitacco, Hackney, Beussink & Lilienfeld; 2018)
I selected this study because I wanted to research something that had to do with intuition and what better form than moral intuition. I did not fully understand the context of the study itself when I first selected it. I had selected another topic prior to this and I didn't feel a complete connection to the research itself. On the last day we had to select a topic I found this article and submitted it for approval after only reading the abstract. I have never done a research review paper before so I was not quite sure what I was getting into. After a discussion with the professor it was suitable to select three categories and focus on those; Harm, Fairness and Purity/Sanctity. Upon spending numerous hours within this study I am still only beginning to understand the full scope of the information.
This research corresponds to this course and classroom discussion through the criminalization of mental health. There are many perspectives of mental health through a criminal lens, simply by the nature of this topic. Mental health is the root cause for many testimonies within court; this study is directly related to the insanity defense as discussed within the textbook for this course. “The law recognizes that, under certain circumstances, people are not responsible for their behaviors and it would be unfair and perhaps ineffective to punish them.” (Barlow, Durand & Hoffman; P.587) This research determined that an individual that is pleading the insanity case still may possess the potential to determine the moral judgement yet chooses to proceed in ulterior fashion.
The strengths of this study is the depth to which they questioned the participants. They gathered so much information to cross-reference that they were able to determine many things that I don’t think they even predicted finding. Also, completing two studies within one, by splitting into two samples, offers a lot more validity to their findings. Honestly, it may sound like a cop-out, but the only weakness I felt this study had was the language it was written in. Not the actual language but the terminology that was used throughout. It became very easy to get lost in all the information because a lot of the acronyms and such got very repetitive. I spent most of the time trying to figure out which test they were talking about in each sentence and trying to correlate that to the provided graphs. The authors provided their own insight into the limitations and failures as well, “First, neither study relied on a clinical or forensic sample...Second, future research should examine the validity of the MCT in populations with higher levels of psychopathic traits (e.g. criminal samples).” (Gay, Vitacco, Hackney, Beussink & Lilienfeld; 2018)
I believe this research is leading us to better understand the proper way to assess the criminology of psychopathy within an individual on a spectrum. It is leading us to better understand when someone should and should not be able to plead the insanity case. The researchers did an extensive briefing on their findings and even made a comment about future testing in this subject; “[on clinical and forensic samples]...in studies using such samples, however, it will be important to control for broader antisocial and criminal deviance to ascertain the distinctive contribution of psychopathy, if any, above and beyond such deviance.” (Gay, Vitacco, Hackney, Beussink & Lilienfeld; 2018)
I recommend looking into the roots of moral intuitions and moral judgments to determine how these aspects of being are learned so we can teach them with intention.
