Professional Portfolio


Lauren Seneca

Messiah College

Fall 2011


Table of Contents


Vocational Reflection with Self-Assessment Results

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Personality Profile Summary

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Leisure Interest Assessment Summary

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PowerPoint Presentation Samples

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Research Paper Samples

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Internship Samples

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Photograph Samples


Vocational Reflection with Self-Assessment Results 

            Vocation is a term in which many definitions are used to define.  Reading Gene Veith’s book, God at Work, really brought insight as to what vocation looks like and how we can try to have a common understanding of a term that is so broadly used.  He tells us the purpose of vocation is to love and serve our neighbors as ourselves (p. 39).  What a simple answer and yet it is so hard to do.  Some would argue vocation is what you do in terms of work and making money.  Others would say it is what God calls us to do in order to fulfill his calling in our lives.  After numerous class discussions and readings on this subject, I have come to conclude that it is a combination of these multiple approaches.  My personal conclusion is that vocation can be any area of your life.  It is you choosing to utilize your gifts and talents to serve God by furthering his Kingdom on earth.  This is ultimately accomplished through loving your neighbor as yourself.  Now, this can look different for all of us.  Some feel they can accomplish this through a high business position, church volunteer role, missions work, teaching, being a parent, and so on.  I do not feel one area is more important than another, for they all work together to further God’s Kingdom on earth.  For me, I feel my first vocation is family.  If there is one thing I can do on this earth it is be a good sister, daughter, cousin, granddaughter, aunt, wife and mother (eventually).  Scripture even tells us that a house divided against itself cannot stand (Matthew 12:25).  If my “house cannot stand” how can I serve anyone? Additionally, I want to fulfill my vocation within the church, work, and leisure life.  When considering a job to pursue, my ultimate passion currently lies in being a bridal consultant/wedding coordinator.

            In terms of personality, experience, and skills, the two self-assessment tests were very accurate in pinpointing my strengths and passions.  The Personality Test proved that I am orderly and detail oriented, I like to help others, and take responsibility for my commitments.  When considering a job, the test suggests finding somewhere I can combine my insight of details and desire to help others.  Examples would be fields like teaching, counseling, human resource management, or health services.  Additionally, the Leisure Interest Assessment confirmed I am a “helper”, “doer”, and “persuader”.  In other words, I like advising others, hands on activities, and I take leadership.  These traits prove true in the experiences I have had.  One specific example that illustrates these qualities is my involvement in softball.  During my time at Messiah, I have been a four-year captain and starter.  With those roles come a lot of leadership, responsibilities, and influence.  I have organized and executed practices which require attention to detail.  Also, I have a responsibility as the liaison between the team and coaches and vice-versa.  I have learned many transferable skills such as teamwork as a result of this experience.  The fact that I love to help others show through examples such as the time my friend, Shannon, called me to talk about a frustration of hers.  She was upset that another girl at her school had the same wedding dress as her.  After allowing her to talk, I went on to explain how she will look completely different in her dress and no one would notice because their weddings are in different seasons and their colors, flowers, and venue are different.  Our long conversation resulted in Shannon feeling better and thanking me for all the advice and assurance I gave her.  I felt such joy knowing I helped someone overcome a problem.  At the end of the day, the most important thing to me is relationships.  If I ever ended up sacrificing relationships for a job, I would be acting out of character. Therefore, when looking at a job I want to pursue, it needs to be within a reasonable distance of my family.  However, this is currently a huge struggle with my boyfriend living in Kentucky, my family in Pennsylvania and my boyfriend’s family in Maryland.  Since it is such a difficult decision to make in terms of where to find a job, I am leaning towards staying near my family until I am able to come to a point where I can accept moving away from them.  Additionally, I would love working in the bridal industry because I find enjoyment out of making others happy and weddings are such a monumental experience and event in peoples’ lives.  In an ideal world, I would one day own my own bridal consulting business and be able to play the role of a stay-at-home mom as well.

            Knowing that I want to pursue the bridal industry, I think it would be beneficial to get some basic knowledge and experience by starting out as a sales consultant in a bridal store such as David’s Bridal.  While there, I would network in hopes of joining an event planning business as a consultant.  Once I would learn enough and feel confident in the process, I would begin my own bridal consulting business that I could potentially run from my home while being a stay-at-home mom and being involved in my children’s lives.  Furthermore, once my children are of age to play sports, I want to be able to coach them because of my passion and experience in athletics.  Although I have these plans and ideas, I know there is a high percentage for change and I am open to it.  I think it is great to have goals and a plan, but it is so essential to acknowledge the fact that we do not always have control and life just “happens” sometimes. 


End of Semester Vocation Reflection.pdf End of Semester Vocation Reflection.pdf
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 Personality Profile Summary


Your Personality Type:

Your approach to work is to be orderly, have a clear understanding of the objectives, and pay close attention to the facts. You care about the well being of other people and when dealing with them you are tactful, sympathetic and aim to provide them with practical help to support their needs. When working on a project, you prefer to collect the facts and information necessary before making decisions. You like to have things clearly stated and accurate and patiently look at details and procedures. You are committed to meeting your obligations and take responsibility for them.

Choosing Your Career:

People with your personality type are attracted to occupations where you can combine your abilities to make careful observations and use the facts accurately to provide help to other people. Examples of such occupations can be found in fields such as health services, teaching, human resources management, community services, counseling, and selected areas of business.

 Leisure Interest Assessment Summary


Your Leisure interests can be summarized as follows:

Your average score in each area is also shown below as a number ranging from 0 to 100 where:
0=Low  50=Moderate  100=High

 
                                                                             Social   62.50
Practical   45.83
Leading   29.17
Organizing   29.17
Artistic   16.67
Educational   16.67
 
 
0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100
 
Your leisure interests in the order you selected can be described as:
Social
"the helpers"
People with a social orientation enjoy helping and advising people. They tend to be concerned about other peoples welfare. They promote learning and personal development and are very interested in human relationships. They are often described as being helpful, responsible, warm, cooperative, idealistic, sociable, tactful, friendly, kind, sympathetic, generous, patient, and understanding.
Practical
"the doers"
People with a practical orientation generally prefer hands-on activities, and tend to focus on things in the physical world. They typically enjoy working with tools or machines, and often gravitate to toward careers that can be performed outdoors. They are often described as being frank, genuine, humble, practical, natural, and persistent.
Leading
"the persuaders"
People with a leading orientation like to influence others. They tend to enjoy persuading others to see their point of view. They often like to work with people and ideas, rather than things. They are often described as being adventurous, energetic, optimistic, agreeable, extroverted, popular, sociable, self-confident, and ambitious.
Organizing
"the organizers"
People with an organizing orientation generally like to be involved in activities that follow set procedures and routines. They like to work with data and details, have clerical or numerical ability, and carry out tasks in great detail. They are often described as being conforming, practical, careful, obedient, thrifty, efficient, orderly, conscientious, and persistent.
Artistic
"the creators"
People with an artistic orientation tend to be creative and intuitive, and enjoy activities like writing, painting, sculpturing, playing a musical instrument, performing, etc. They enjoy working in an unstructured environment where they can use their imagination and creativity. They are most often described as being: open, imaginative, original, intuitive, emotional, independent, idealistic, and unconventional.
Educational
"the thinkers"
People with an educational orientation like to be involved in activities that have to do with ideas and thinking; these are people who like to observe, learn, investigate, analyze, evaluate, or solve problems. They like to search for facts and figure out problems mentally. They prefer working with ideas rather than with people or things. They are often described as being analytical, curious, methodical, rational, cautious, independent, precise, reserved, complex, intellectual, and modest.

 PowerPoint Presentation Samples


Sample #1

Presentation Title: Capstone Essay

Class: Senior Seminar

Purpose: This presentation was developed to visually represent to my capstone essay for my Senior Seminar Communication course.

  

CapstonePresentation.pdf CapstonePresentation.pdf
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Sample #2

Presentation Title: HCR ManorCare

Class: Introduction to Public Relations

Purpose: This PowerPoint reflected a research project and paper that focused on a company's Public Relations Department.


HCR ManorCare Presentation.pdf HCR ManorCare Presentation.pdf
Size : 689.714 Kb
Type : pdf


Sample #3 

Presentation Title: Pass It On Billboard Campaign

Class: Rhetorical Theory

Purpose: This PowerPoint was done created and presented as a Pecha Kucha (20 images x 20 seconds) to inform the class of a rhetorical text.

Pecha Kucha.pdf Pecha Kucha.pdf
Size : 1329.984 Kb
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Sample Summary 

All three PowerPoint presentations reflect work that I have done in the classroom as a Communication major. The first PowerPoint is based off of my Capstone Essay written for my Senior Seminar course at Messiah College.  It's visuals reflect my views on the relationship between faith, learning, and culture.  The second PowerPoint  represents a project and presentation from sophomore year.  It assisted me in presenting the Public Relations department within a healthcare company called HCR ManorCare.  The last PowerPoint is from my Rhetorical Theory course and is a unique presentation style as there are no words, rather there are only pictures and each slide automatically rotates after twenty seconds. Overall, these PowerPoint projects taught me how to create a presentation that is attractive but not overwhelming.  I have learned the importance of only providing the important information and using the correct color schemes to keep the attention of my audience. 

Research Paper Samples


Sample #1

Paper Title: The Tiger Woods Crisis

Class: Crisis Communications

Purpose: This research paper was written to highlight a a crisis and critique its crisis communication plan.

Introduction  

When Americans think golf, they think Tiger Woods.  Woods’ influence on the game is unarguably profound and forever influential.  The 33-year-old athlete has 14 major golf tournaments in his name as he contends for the record held by Jack Nicklaus with 18 wins of major golf tournaments ("How Tiger Flubbed”).  Woods’ image was defined by his incredible focus and discipline as well as the idea of being the “squeaky-clean family man” ("How Tiger Flubbed”).  Prior to his crisis, his reputation was similar to his athletic status – simply the best.  His skills made him into an endorsing machine as he averaged $100 million a year making him the world’s first $1 billion athlete ("How Tiger Flubbed”).   

Woods’ was born December 30, 1975 in Cypress, California with the official name of Eldrick Tont Woods.  He is the only child of a Thai mother and African-American father who was an army officer.  Woods’ received his nickname “Tiger” from his father in honor of his friend and fellow soldier. His father, Earl taught and mentored him as the game of golf came early for Woods.  By age eight, he appeared on national television displaying his skills.  Woods attended Stanford University where he won numerous amateur U.S. golf titles.  His professional golf career began in 1996 at age 21.  He then became the youngest man and first African-American to win the Title of the U.S. Masters in 1997 which was the event that hurled him into stardom ("Tiger Woods Biography").

In regards to his personal life, in October of 2004 Woods married his longtime girlfriend, Elin Nordegren.  The year 2006 brought Woods much grief as his father died in May to prostate cancer.  Woods acknowledged him as his best friend and greatest role model.  Despite his grievance, his game stayed steady as he won several events two of which were the PGA championship and the British Open.  The following year his first child was born making him not only a role model athlete but a father-figure as well ("Tiger Woods Biography").

Synopsis of Crisis

            Friday, November 27, 2009 Woods crashed his Cadillac Escalade outside his Florida home at an early morning hour.  This was the match that lit a fire to a chain of events that exposed his personal life to the world.  As a result, Woods refused to speak with the media in regards to the incident.  Instead, Woods turned to Mark Steinberg, his longtime agent and close friend to communicate for him.  Although Steinberg would describe Woods as one of his best friends, “he doesn’t allow the friendship to cloud his business judgments (Albergotti)”.   Additionally, he hired Mark NeJame, a well-known criminal defense attorney in the Orlando area, to handle matters in his defense (Albergotti).

            Following Friday morning’s accident, Woods refused to speak to the police investigators and the media (McCarthy).  The only direct communication he had was in the form of two statements posted on his webpage (Albergotti).  Much controversy arose over his initial communication to the media and his publics.  About three months passed without any public appearance or communication, Woods held a much anticipated press conference on February 19, 2010 (Skipper).  To the publics’ dismay, he read a typed 14 minute apology that was perceived as minimal effort on his behalf, however he did admit to his infidelity.  An NBC article quotes Richard Auletta who is the president of R.C. Auletta and Co. as saying, “First off, he looked like a deer in head lights.  I tell people if you can’t read with a great deal of sincerity, you’re crazy to do it that way.  It was a badly staged effort that clearly had taken a lot of thought, but he might as well have sent out a press release ("Manhattan Crisis-Management”).”  Woods did address his behavior and said he was “irresponsible and selfish” and went on to say that he recognized how much he disappointed everyone and he is the only one to blame for the incident (Skipper).  As a result of Wood’s delayed response and apology the media and publics began feeling as though he had something to hide.  The apology was meant to “stop the bleeding, Woods didn’t get it done” (Skipper).

             Not only was there controversy over Wood’s communication with the media and his publics, but rumors were started that his firm was working on paying off  a woman named Rachel Uchitel to keep quiet about the alleged affair of which she and Woods refused to comment on (Albergotti).  It made it obvious she would soon be speaking with the media when she was seen at Los Angeles International Airport with her celebrity attorney Gloria Allred (Sullivan).

A widely asked question during this crisis was whether or not golf could survive without Woods.  He is the guy who won with a broken leg, pumping fists, and intense stares and yet, he has not fought back at this crisis standing up.  As writer Sean Gregory puts it, “Woods never punched back, leaving reasonable people to wonder whether it’s all true ("Can Golf Survive”).  Viewers may actually watch golf to see how the networks handle his absence or to hear what fellow golfers have to say about his given situation.   Gregory also questioned if the networks would ignore the crisis.  However, he believes that would be a “silly strategy” since golf fans are not dumb and the media has “no reason to fear Tiger’s wrath” ("Can Golf Survive”).  If Woods were to return, would he still be good?  Insight warns fans they need a backup plan because if he does return, he may not be the golfer he once was.  Gregory quote, “Wow, it’s official: Tiger’s fight is all gone.  The claws are clipped.  And now we can honestly wonder: Will they ever come back ("Can Golf Survive”)?

In reference to Woods’ endorsers, he originally held a contract with about twelve different sponsors ("Gatorade”).  The crisis left sports marketers with tough decisions.  Standing by his side could potentially alienate consumers as a result of his allegations ("Tiger Woods Endorsements”).  After the incident, Tag Heuer, Accenture, Gillette, AT&T and Gatorade had either cut or suspended ties with Woods leaving him with seven official sponsors.  The two larger companies that stayed close with Woods were Nike and Electronic Arts Inc.  However, Nike was undoubtedly his biggest advocate ("Gatorade”).  Woods and Nike’s relationship began in 1996 when he made his professional debut.  Woods has helped make Nike golf a $659 million business which happens to be less than four percent of Nike’s overall revenue.  As a result, reports show Woods receiving $30 million each year.  Nike’s chairman Phil Knight explained Nike’s stance and mindset on the issue when he told Sports Business Journal, “I think he has been really great.  When his career is over, you’ll look back on these indiscretions as a minor blip, but the media is making a big deal out of it right now ("Tiger Woods Endorsements”).” Essentially, Nike feels Woods’ “bad” could never take away from what he has accomplished and brought to the sport of golf.  However, Woods’ endorsers lost somewhere between $5-12 billion in wealth and his top five sponsors lost two to three percent of their collective market value following the incident (Knittel).

After being analyzed by media and fans, it is safe to say Woods is on his way to recovery.  Despite his divorce, he stepped back on the green and recently competed in the 2011 Masters as a top contender.  The fans were extremely supportive as crowds stood watching him practice putting. Woods has arrived and is finally ready to punch back.

Synopsis/Analysis of Journalism Coverage

            Woods was always in the media for his phenomenal achievements in golf but come November 27, 2009 that all changed.  The media swarmed Woods for information, but because he would not talk, their stories were not so much factual as they were “hear say” and rumors that the accident was a result of a fight he had with his wife over a suspected mistress.  The day after Woods crashed his car the Florida Highway Patrol was on their way to his home for questioning.  Before arrival, they received a phone call from Steinberg informing them that “his client wouldn’t be talking” (Albergotti).  As a result, journalist began writing articles about Woods’ lack of communication and how that was in turn hurting his case.  Ray Artigue, the president of Phoenix public relations firm and former general chairman of the PGA Tour’s Phoenix Open stated, “He’s getting bad [public-relations] counsel.  Leaving important questions unanswered allows them to linger and create suspicions about his conduct (Albergotti).” And that is exactly what happened.  Rumors became numerous and truth was lacking.  People as well as the media understood Woods’ desire to keep the issues private between him and Elin but it was unrealistic.  Writer Kevin Sullivan reiterates the point that the media wants answers and will not let the issue go until they are satisfied (Sullivan).

            Many of the articles pertaining to Woods and his incident reflect on how he should have handled his public relations crisis.  The initial articles that were published gave pieces of the story and had many unanswered questions as to how Woods would deal with the issue and how it would affect his career.  As time went on and Woods failed to communicate and the media became extremely frustrated.  They had little facts and hardly anything to give the public.  Once Woods finally held his first conference call three months following the incident, the media immediately began nit-picking.  Half of the journalists’ articles reflected on crisis management 101 and how Woods once again failed.  However, the other half found his approach to be appropriate and defended his communication timeline.

            Overall, journalists were glued to Woods’ case because of his fame.  Despite the limited information they were given, they managed to produce numerous articles whether they pertained to the crisis, Woods’ communication, or questions the fans were asking, like if he would continue his golf career or if endorsers would drop him.  Additionally, there were many blogs with personal opinions and insight to the incident.

Synopsis/Analysis of Crisis Management/Media Relations Performance

Aside from the media’s battle against Woods, they had a battle within themselves.  Coverage varied from writers supporting Woods’ communication decisions to writers who totally disagreed with his course of action.  Essentially, they all addressed the same issues and a pattern is seen in their arguments of whether Woods was right to keep silent or whether silence damaged his case more. 

As previously mentioned Woods waited three months to address his crisis aside from a few comments he posted via the internet.   As a result, opinions flew.  In a USA TODAY article by Michael McCarthy he quotes Joseph DiBenedetto, a criminal defense attorney, saying, “Unless you’re willing to tell 100% of what happened, you’re better off remaining silent.  It’s the half-truths that come back to bite you (McCarthy).”  For many fans the half truth left many lingering questions.  The half truth made Woods look like he had something to hide.  His fans would need more information before forgiveness happened. 

It is true when graduate student Jennifer Kennedy puts it, “Fans expect a lot from sporting celebrities, and though they constantly want to know more about them, fans are quick to judge any problems or imperfect qualities.  However, fans seem to forgive some athletes faster than they forgive others, if they forgive them at all, when indiscretions occur (Kennedy).”  She explains that two influential pieces are a sincere apology from the athlete and the success they have in their respective sport (Kennedy).  Woods had the success, but did he have the sincere apology in a timely manner? 

In reference to Woods’ crisis management, he did some things right and others wrong.  The fact that he waited so long was a negative move on his behalf because the media took it as though he had something to hide (Skipper).  If Woods would have come out earlier with a statement, writer Liz McNeil feels that, “He would have taken all the oxygen out of all the women’s statements” but instead one after another women spoke up saying they too had affairs with Woods (McNeil).  The public and media needed to know what happened and why, and by Woods avoiding the inevitable, he prolonged the process.  Writer Roseanne Colletti puts it this way, “I usually tell them ‘take a breath and think of this as a kidney stone, it’s gonna’ hurt a lot but as soon as it passes it’s over ("Manhattan Crisis-Management”).’”   

Well -known Australian blogger, Geoff Barbaro, would disagree with opinions that Woods was wrong to wait.  He draws his argument in the perspective of family.  Barabaro challenges his readers to think about Elin and their daughter.  Should they not have time as a family to work things out before letting the public weigh in on their personal situation that has great influence on their future as well as their daughter’s?  Barbaro says yes and would say this was a positive move by Woods.  “So many of us say that family comes first, but then we completely ignore family in this situation and focus on the Tiger Brand.  So let’s get back to some reality here ("The “Tiger Woods Crisis”’)”.  Barbaro raises a valid point.  Family is greater than losing a sponsor therefore fans and media need to take a step back and understand that his family was his first priority not the media ("The “Tiger Woods Crisis”’).  Additionally, crisis manager, Weic Dezenhall, would agree with Barbaro that Woods made the right move but for the reason that Woods is not used to answering hard questions.  If Woods would have held a press conference immediately following his accident, Desenhall believes it would have been a failure and Woods would not do well under fire (McCarthy). 

Recommendations on Handling Crisis

Every fan has their own opinions has to how Woods should have dealt with the crisis, but professional Kevin Sullivan, founder of his own communication firm and former White House communications director under President George W. Bush, gives three suggestions as to what Woods should have done regarding his communication.  First he says to not delay.  Woods had a great opportunity to hold a press conference prior to the Chevron World Challenge which benefits his along with others’ charities.  By doing this, Sullivan suggests it would minimize his incident and refocus attention on the golf tournament and how it benefits his organization.  Secondly, if he has something to own up to, he should do so in order to receive forgiveness.  Lastly, disarm critics with a sense of humor.  A suggestion was made to have said the crash was a result of his excitement for Black Friday shopping.   Sullivan makes a good point when he says, “Anything that actually addresses the incident will bring Woods one step closer to putting it behind him (Sullivan).”  Similar advice was given in an article from MSNBC.  The first piece of advice was to again, not wait.  The second was to not run from the truth because of the potential rumors that can form.  Lastly, do not hide.  People need to see you in order to get a sense of sincerity ("How Tiger Flubbed”).

Perhaps, Woods should have looked to Kobe Bryant for advice.  Bryant, an NBA star, was charged with sexual assault in 2003.  However, the charges were dropped because the so-called victim refused to testify.  Therefore, a civil suit was settled out of court.  Like Woods, Bryant had the “squeaky-clean reputation” and was seen as a good citizen and family man (Kennedy).  Bryant was actually the third most sought out athlete with endorsers.  Immediately following the accusations, he spoke with the Los Angeles Times and claimed his innocence.  However, once DNA tests proved otherwise, (that he did actually engage in intercourse with the victim) he called a press conference admitting his fault in committing adultery but not rape.  During his statement his wife stood by his side to exemplify her support, he apologized for his wrong action of committing adultery, and he publicly apologized to his wife.  Writer Jennifer Kennedy states, “The statements lent credibility to Bryant’s case by illustrating his strong relationship with his wife and past precedent of good behavior (Kennedy).”  Additionally, Bryant cooperated with authorities showing he had nothing to hide.  After his initial interaction with the media, Bryant kept quite to let the issue surpass.  In the end, his jersey is still one of the highest selling as he fully recovered and won in the court of public opinion (Kennedy).

It is quite obvious Woods did not follow the same steps as Bryant.  Perhaps Woods’ crisis would have been shorter and less criticized by fans and media if he would have admitted his fault right away.  Although Babaro argues Woods needed to concentrate on his family, maybe he would have been more successful with his family if he satisfied the media and then stayed quite.

Recommendations for the Future

            It is almost impossible to avoid crises all together.  As a result Woods needs to look back on this crisis and honestly examine his actions and how he dealt with the situation.  It would be smart for him to take note on the positives and negatives earlier discussed in order to prepare him for any future issues.  He will most likely never make the same mistake again and future crisis may be on a much smaller scale, but Woods needs to figure out how to win in the court of public opinion.

After reading Bryant’s crisis and how he dealt with it, although cliché, it is safe to say – “honesty is the best policy”.  Woods owes it to his fans and the media to be honest a transparent.  Yes, it is his personal life but he plays a large role in the public arena and as a result his decisions and actions affect more than just himself.  From now on Woods needs to show his face early with sincerity to the public and clear up the situation as soon as possible.  After that, like Bryant, he can lay low and work on the personal part.

In the end, media has great power and will not stop fighting until they get what they want.  In order to make future situation less publicized and have shorter media attention, Woods needs to practice open, two-way symmetrical communication.  The media’s tone could potentially be less harsh if he is willing to work with them and answer questions.  It all boils down to effective communication.  Writer Steve Adubato summarizes it bests when he says, “When it comes to crisis communication, what you say matters a lot.  But, when you say it often what mattes a lot more (Skipper)”.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, superstar or not, Woods is a human being prone to failure and mistakes.  Nothing about being famous exempts him of this trait and it is important the media and his fans understand that.  Yes, Woods is a major role model for many children and even adults, but that is what makes his job that much harder.  His life is under a magnifying glass but that comes with the territory.

Overall, Woods had a difficult crisis to deal with because it was so personal.  Although, it is argued Woods waited too long to address his crisis and as a result turned the scenario into a larger media scandal then need be.  You live and learn, and that is exactly what Woods did.  In the end effective, transparent, two-way communication with the media will heighten chances of a more accurate story, diffuse rumors, and help in the court of public opinion.

 


Works Cited

Albergotti, Reed. "How Tiger's Top Man Is Managing the Crisis - WSJ.com." Business News &    Financial News - The Wall Street Journal - Wsj.com. The Wall Street Journal. Web. 20 Apr. 2011. <http://online.wsj.com/article/SB1000142405274870355800457458209156            1335288.html>.

 

"Gatorade Becomes Third Major Sponsor to Cut Ties with Tiger Woods - ESPN." ESPN: The Worldwide Leader In Sports. The Associated Press, 27 Feb. 2010. Web. 20 Apr. 2011. <http://sports.espn.go.com/golf/news/story?id=4950137>.

 

Gregory, Sean. "Can Golf Survive Tiger Woods' Hiatus? - TIME." Breaking News, Analysis, Politics, Blogs, News Photos, Video, Tech Reviews - TIME.com. TIME, 12 Dec. 2010. Web. 20 Apr. 2011. <http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1947320,00.html>.

 

Gregory, Sean. "Tiger Woods Endorsements: Which Sponsors Will Back Out? - TIME."    Breaking News, Analysis, Politics, Blogs, News Photos, Video, Tech Reviews - TIME.com. CNN, 16 Dec. 2009. Web. 20 Apr. 2011.  <http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1948181,00.html>.

 

"How Tiger Flubbed Crisis Management 101 - Business - Sports Biz - Msnbc.com." Msnbc.com - Breaking News, Science and Tech News, World News, US News, Local News- Msnbc.com. MSN, 13 Dec. 2009. Web. 20 Apr. 2011. <http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/34380319/ns/business-sports_biz/>.

 

Kennedy, Jennifer. "Image Reparation Strategies in Sports: Media Analysis of Kobe Bryant and Barry Bonds." Elon University. Web. 11 Apr. 2011. <http://www.elon.edu/docs/e- web/academics/communications/research/09KennedyEJSpring10.pdf>.

 

Knittel, Christopher R., and Victor Stango. "Shareholder Value Destruction following the Tiger   Woods Scandal." University of California and Graduate School of Managemen, 5 Jan. 2010. Web. 5 Apr. 2011. <http://faculty.gsm.ucdavis.edu/~vstango/tiger004.pdf>.

 

"Manhattan Crisis-Management Guru Breaks Down Tiger Woods | NBC New York." NBC New York - Local News, Weather, Traffic, Entertainment, Events, Breaking News | NBC New York. NBC, 23 Mar. 2010. Web. 20 Apr. 2011.   <http://www.nbcnewyork.com/news/local/Manhattan-Public-Relations-Guru-Breaks- Down-Tiger-Woods-84815812.html>.

 

McCarthy, Michael. "Crisis Management Experts Question Woods' Approach - USATODAY.com." News, Travel, Weather, Entertainment, Sports, Technology, U.S. & World - USATODAY.com. USA TODAY, 30 Nov. 2009. Web. 20 Apr. 2011. <http://www.usatoday.com/sports/golf/pga/2009-11-30-tiger-woods-crisis- management_N.htm>.

 

McNeil, Liz. "Tiger's Team Failed at Crisis Management, Says Expert - Elin Nordegren, Tiger Woods : People.com." People.com : The #1 Celebrity Site for Breaking News, Celebrity        Pictures and Star Style. People Magazine, 05 Jan. 2010. Web. 20 Apr. 2011.             <http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20334534,00.html>.

 

Skipper/EPA, Joe. "Tiger Woods Apology Provides Lesson in Crisis Communication | NJ.com."   New Jersey Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - NJ.com. 23 Feb. 2010.   Web. 20 Apr. 2011. <http://www.nj.com/busines>.

 

Sullivan, Kevin. "How Tiger Woods Should Handle His Sudden PR Crisis - Devil Ball Golf - Golf Blog - Yahoo! Sports." Yahoo! Sports - Sports News, Scores, Rumors, Fantasy Games, and More. Web. 20 Apr. 2011.<http://sports.yahoo.com/golf/blog/devil_ball_golf/post/How-Tiger-Woods-should-handle-his-sudden-PR-cris?urn=golf- 205542>.

 

"Tiger Woods Biography." Biography.com. A&E Television Networks. Web. 20 Apr. 2011. <http://www.biography.com/articles/Tiger-Woods-9536492>.

 

"The “Tiger Woods Crisis” - Personal Needs v Good Communications." Geoff’s Gobbledegook. 2010. Web. 20 Apr. 2011. <http://geoffbarbaro.x.iabc.com/2010/02/23/the-tiger-woods- crisis-personal-needs-v-good-communications/>.

 

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Sample #2 

Paper Title: The Expectancy Violation and Just Friends

Class: Communication Theory

Purpose: This paper demonstrated the Expectancy Violation in the movie Just Friends.

Introduction

            Expectations are a daily happening for people.  They are sometimes bad and sometimes good.  They are sometimes controllable and other times not.  A theory that works to explain this phenomenon is the expectancy violation theory.  The expectancy violation theory has evolved from a model of Judy Burgoon that sees communication as a prediction of what will happen.  An artifact that represents this theory well is Just Friends.  Just Friends is a film about two best friends in high school (one male and one female) reuniting.  The comedic film illustrates continual expectancy violations as the two, Chris and Jamie, seek to rekindle their long lost friendship. 

Summary of Theory

            In 1978 the original purpose of the expectancy violation theory was to understand proximity violations and interactions (Gudykunst 150).  Judee Burgoon’s research and work hones in on how communication works to characterize the nature of relationships (Signorielli 43).  Burgoon introduced the expectancy violation theory which was based off of Edward Hall’s idea of “proxemics” which is people’s use of space.  Burgoon sees this personal space or proxemics to be the “invisible, variable volume of space surrounding an individual that defines the individual’s preferred distance from others” (Griffin 85).  Therefore, the expectancy violation theory includes verbal and nonverbal expectations and violations (Gudykunst 150).  Emory Griffin gives us the four different zones of proximity held by Americans.  The first is the intimate zone which is about zero to 18 inches.  The second is the personal space containing 18 inches to four feet.  Third is the social zone which has a diameter of four to ten feet.  The last zone for proximity is the public zone which is ten feet and beyond (Griffin 85).  In other words, these distances are what the majority of Americans expect in given situations.  However, Burgoon does argue that sometimes it is better to violate one’s space because it is “a superior strategy to conformity” (Griffin 86). 

            Furthermore, there are three core concepts that make up the expectancy violation theory.  They are expectancy, violation valence, and communicator reward valence (Griffin 89).  To define expectancy, author William B. Gudykunst says it is the continual pattern of predictable verbal and nonverbal conduct (Gudykunst, 151).  Another definition given by Griffin states that expectancy is “what people predict will happen, rather than what they desire” (Griffin 89).  Basically, the term “expectancy” is what a person assumes will happen in any given situation.  Therefore, expectancy is not based off of one’s desires.  In Nonverbal Communication in Close Relationships we learn that expectations are predictive and prescriptive.  Predictive refers to what will happen in a given circumstance and prescriptive refers to what should happen in a given circumstance.  An example of a predictive expectation is that a child might expect a present from her parents for their birthday because they always receive one.  An example of a prescriptive expectation is a child might expect their parents to give them a gift because that is what parents do (Guerrero 35). 

Additionally, people hold expectations that can arise from the context of the situation, the relationship factor, and the communicator characteristics.  The context represents the cultural norms.  Context is also the setting of the conversation.  The relationship factor takes account of the similarity, familiarity, liking, and relative status.  Communicator characteristics include things such as the person’s demographics (Griffin 89).  So, for example, if I have not seen my boyfriend for a month, I would expect our next encounter to begin with a great big hug.  This expectation is formed because of the context of not seeing him for an extended period of time and in it is a cultural norm in the United States of America.  Also, our relationship would support this expectation since we are dating.  Last, the communicator characteristic is relevant because a hug is part of the culture in which he was raised.  Therefore, anything less than a hug would violate my prediction of what would happen.

            Moreover, violation valence is an important concept of this theory.  Griffin says it is “the positive or negative value we place on a specific unexpected behavior, regardless of who does it” (Griffin 90).  So when we have an expectation it can be violated both negatively and positively.  The person whom the violation is against decides the valence of the violation. A person’s reaction to a violation is unique to their character, upbringing, values, and experiences.  However, a large factor in deciding if the violation valence is positive or negative is dependent on the culture in which someone is born.  For instance, an individualist culture would be more likely to respond aggressively to proxemic violations, where as a collectivist culture would most likely withdraw (Gudykunst 154).  An example of a positive violation would be my boyfriend surprising me with flowers when he picked me up for a date.  I had no expectations of flowers because usually when he picks me up for dates he does not bring any.  Therefore, I have experienced a positive violation because I find his actions to benefit me and make me happy.  If I were asked on a date and the guy never showed up, that would be a negative violation because my expectation was not met in the way I had predicted. 

            The third component to the expectancy violation theory is the communicator reward valence.   The communicator reward valence is a “mental audit” we place on others’ behaviors.  We ask ourselves questions such as, “How do I feel about this person?” or “How will this affect the future?”  The relationship factors include features such as language style, appearance, social skills, and personality (Gudykunst 151).  Griffin includes, “age, sex, place-of-birth demographic facts asked for on application forms, but they also include personal features that may affect expectation even – physical appearance, personality, and communication style” (Griffin 89).  An example we talked about in class was about if a student places a negative violation on their teacher’s behavior, they are more likely to respond in a way that would not harm their future since their teacher is ultimately in control of their grade. 

            Additionally, Burgoon explains how humans adapt to each other.  The Interaction Adaption Theory falls under the expectancy violation theory as people try to adjust their approach to another’s conduct when it does not match what is needed, projected, and preferred.   She says there are three factors that make up a person’s initial interaction position.  An interaction position is a person’s predisposition towards an interaction.  The first element is requirements.  Requirements are the results that satisfy our basic needs of survival, belonging, safety, and self-worth (Griffin 93).  These are the things we as humans need to happen, as displayed in Abraham Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.  The second element is expectations.  Expectations, as stated earlier, are the things we need to happen.  Third, there are desires which are what we wish to see happen.  Burgoon uses an example of her interactions with her friend Bob.  First off she describes herself as a “people person” and places high importance on intimate or otherwise known as close relationships (requirement). When she and Bob greet one another they either clasp each other’s elbows or stand side-to-side and give a shoulder hug (expectation).  She expresses that she likes how their nonverbals show how much they enjoy each other’s company (personal desire).  Burgoon goes on to explain that if Bob her to greet her with a bear hug instead of their usual interaction, she would adapt to his new way of expression because it was a positive violation.  In the same way, if it was a negative violation, she would adapt because of the idea of reciprocity.  Basically, she would respond to his actions with a similar behavior (Griffin 93). 

Artifact Summary

            Just Friends was produced by Roger Kumble in 2005 (Just Friends).  It is a romantic comedy Christmas film.  The two main characters, Chris Brander and Jamie Palamino, are played by Ryan Reynolds and Amy Smart.  Chris was obese during high school and felt like an outsider despite being best friends with Jamie one of the most popular cheerleaders in the school.  Chris had a secret crush on Jamie for as long as they were friends.  While at Jamie’s graduation party, he finally works up the courage to express his feelings by writing a note in her yearbook.  Chris becomes publicly humiliated when Jamie’s ex-boyfriend reads Chris’ note aloud at the party.  After hearing the note read, Jamie kissed Chris on his check and said how she loves him like a brother. Chris left in a ruckus due to all the humiliation and his crushed dreams.  Ten years later Chris becomes a “stud” in the Los Angeles music industry as a record producer.  He is now a handsome and fit man with the reputation of a womanizer.  Right before Christmas his boss sends him to take a rising pop singer, Samantha James, to Paris to sign a deal.  Against his will Chris sets off on a private jet with her that makes an emergency landing in New Jersey, ironically close to his hometown.  As a result Chris takes Samantha with him to his mother’s house for the night.    Being back in his hometown brought back daunting memories of his humiliating past.  That same evening he goes to a local bar where he runs into some friends and Jamie, who happens to be a bartender there while she is finishing up her teaching certificate.  Feeling like a new and improved man Chris makes it his goal to seduce Jamie just like all her ex-boyfriends did.  As they reconnect, Chris realizes that her friendship is more important than a one-night stand.  He really cares about her.  But when Dusty Dinkleman, a nerd from high school that used to be in love with her too, shows up on the scene, Chris is determined to win over Jamie once and for all.  Several complications come with his plan as Chris tries to get out of the “friend zone” and set his newly developed ego aside to find his old self, the one Jamie wants back.  In the end, Chris finds himself, makes it out of the “friend zone”, and woos Jamie. 

            Without a doubt, Just Friends is a well designed example of the expectancy violation theory.  Chris and Jamie are in this perpetual cycle of expectancy violations both positive and negative which create a confusing situation for the two as they seek to understand “boundaries” to their relationship with each other.  To start, back in their high school years Chris and Jamie were inseparable.  Jamie’s attention to Chris made Chris feel that there was a potential romance.  He found himself extremely jealous when Jamie found a new boyfriend and then overjoyed when she dumped him.  As previously mentioned, the situation at Jamie’s graduation party turned into a complete mess.  Jamie felt no violation as her reaction was a kiss on Chris’ cheek and a hug with and explanation of how she felt this close relationship to him as a brother.  However, Chris experienced a huge negative expectancy violation as his dream of a romantic relationship with her was crushed.  He expected her to reciprocate the romantic feelings and embrace his initiation at a relationship.  Despite his hopes and expectations, Jamie did not reciprocate, leaving Chris embarrassed.  Because he placed a negative valence on the occurrence he felt that he could never face Jamie or the rest of his peers from high school ever again.  As a result he pursued a career in California where he received a new chance at who and what he wanted to be (Just Friends). 

            When Chris and Samantha’s plane had to make an emergency landing (because the microwave on the plane caught on fire) Chris experience another negative expectancy violation especially when he found out they were close to his hometown.  He predicted he would take Samantha to Paris to make his boss happy with no interruptions.  Additionally, Samantha was another expectancy violation.  She is perceived as this sweet, hot pop singer that is eco-friendly, but when he meets her she ends up to be this controlling psycho woman desperate for love (Just Friends). 

When Chris takes Samantha home, she physically violates him as she is very touchy in front of Chris’ mother, who is obviously uncomfortable with the situation.  Despite the negative valence Chris places on the violation, he has act as though it does not bother him because if he does not get her to sign the record deal, his job is on the line.  Therefore, his future dictates his reactions to the violation (Just Friends). 

            Furthermore, the evening Chris arrives in his hometown, he goes out to the local bar where he finds Jamie to be the bar tender (a pleasant surprise).  When he asks to meet up with her the next day, she offers lunch, which greatly disappoints Chris because a “lunch date” puts you in the “friend zone”.  Chris feels like he picked up where they left off, but he is determined to change that.  The next day he picks Jamie up and they eat at the local diner that was one of “their spots” in high school.  While there both Chris and Jamie experience expectancy violations.  First, Jamie expects Chris (despite his weight change) to be the same guy she knew in high school, however Chris negatively violates her expectations as he though she wanted him to be like the other guys she dated in high school.  Much of the violation came from not understanding what the other person wanted.  Although both placed a negative valence on their encounter they were still cordial to each other because of their past friendship.  As a result of their past, they agreed to see each other again (Just Friends) . 

            On the flip side, Samantha was being shunned by Chris because he would do anything to delay continuing their trip to Paris in order to send more with Jamie. One example of this is when Chris talked her into playing a gig at a local restaurant to widen her fan base.  She fell for his idea and experienced a huge negative expectancy violation, because when she arrived at the “restaurant” it was actually a biker bar with an extremely rough crowd that booed her performance.  As a result of her negative valence she no longer trusted Chris and became bitter towards him (Just Friends).

            In addition, Chris is surprised to see Dusty Dinkleman while in town.  In high school, Dusty was a pimple faced nerd who wrote a horrendous song for Jamie in hopes to woo her.  His attempt in high school failed, but his chances now were greater as Dusty is now this handsome EMT who loves children.  Where people like Jamie find this to be a positive expectancy violation, Chris finds it to be negative because of his jealousy and nerves that Dusty might win over Jamie before him.  As a result, he is very rude and sarcastic to Dusty and tries to manipulate situations so that Dusty would not be able to tag along.  For example, Chris called Jamie and they decided to go see The Notebook.  When Jamie shows up at Chris’ house Dusty is with her.  Jamie perceived going to the movies as a friend event where Chris hoped for it to be a date.  Chris’ expectations were greatly violated and put him in a grouchy mood for the rest of the evening.  The more negative violations Chris experiences the more his aggression builds to win the game of “who gets Jamie”.  This causes him to act out and not be himself which as a result pushes Jamie further and further away (Just Friends).

            At one point Chris and Jamie decide to have a sleep over like the old days, and what started out as a positive and exciting thing turned into a negative violation for Jamie.  After a fun night of eating ice cream and reminiscing, the two climb in bed (Jamie in one of Chris’ work shirts).  Chris and Jamie both want to “do the deed” but when Jamie puts herself out there Chris does not make a move.  Chris finally realizes that it is not about the sex it is about Jamie.  He loves her and wants to make her his.  However, Jamie feeling stupid feels violated as Chris never reciprocated the action.  As a result, Jamie and Chris become frustrated and seek out their friends for insight and comfort on the situation (Just Friends). 

            Consequently, Chris decides to run from the problem and head back to Las Angeles forgetting Jamie as he feels defeated.  He flies home and once there realizes he cannot live without her.  He gets back on a plane and heads for New Jersey.  Just as the ball is about to drop on New Year’s Eve, Jamie hears a knock on her door and opens it to find Chris.  First, Jamie experiences an expectancy violation as she though Chris was gone for good once and for all.  To her liking she was glad to see him but played it off as she was afraid to get hurt.  Therefore, Jamie placed a positive valence on Chris’ unexpected actions.  While standing in the doorway, Chris spills his heart to Jamie and explains his out-of-line actions.  He shares how he wants to love her, marry her, and make babies with her.  He put his heart on the line with no notion of how she would react.  To his surprise she laid a huge kiss on him confirming her feelings and acceptance of his “plan”.  Chris did not know what to expect but her actions were identified as positive (Just Friends).  All the negative violations were worth that one positive.        

Implications

            I love this movie.  I think it is hilarious and pulls out many emotions allowing almost anyone to relate.  In terms of implications, I thought of the movie first and realized the expectancy violation theory would work great with the film.  I have always recognized the disappointments and surprises the characters experienced due to other actions, but I was never able to put reasoning to it or a theory.  Knowing how to apply the theory has helped me see why Chris and Jamie act the way the way they do in the film.  So many times their action of avoidance to tell each other how they feel really frustrates me.  I look at how long it took for Chris to just be honest with Jamie and it amazes me.  However, I now understand that when someone places a negative valence on an action or occurrence it makes their next encounter with that person harder because of their previous experience and hurt.  Although the negative violations hindered their relationship, in the end the positive violation finally brought them together. 

Although there are many great examples of this theory in the film, it is still Hollywood.  Hollywood’s outtake on life tends to be dramatic and wishful.  Life does not always end with a “happily ever after”.  Unfortunately, Just Friends is another film that does.  Now, I do believe the storyline is plausible but it is dramatized to entice an audience and be funny.  I feel that in reality people, like Jamie and Chris, avoid with how they feel, but if someone experiences so many negative expectancy violations I would think they would ignore the other person or say something sooner out of frustration.  However, this film leads people to believe that persistence wins when in reality that is not always the case.

Conclusion

Overall, the idea of proxemics motivated the development of Judy Burgoon’s expectancy violation theory.  Within this theory the three main components are expectancy, violation valence, and communicator reward valence.  As Just Friends illustrates, the expectancy violation theory is a practical and proven theory.  Expectancy violations are an aspect of life that is impossible to avoid.  People have expectations of others and situations.  If people’s expectations are not met there is a negative valence placed on the experience.  However, people may experience positive violations when the unexpected behavior benefits them.  Depending on someone’s future encounter with the other individual, their reaction to the situation will differ despite the valence given to the violation.  In the end, we can label this theory as objective because there is one “T”ruth in that expectancy violations do in fact occur to everyone.  Additionally, the violations can be generalized as positive or negative confirming it to be objective. 


Works Cited


 Gudykunst, William B. Theorizing about Intercultural Communication. Thousand Oaks, CA.

      

Just Friends. Dir. Roger Kumble. Prod. Chris Bender, J. C. Spink, William Vince, Bill Johnson, and Michael Ohoven. By Adam Davis. Perf. Ryan Reynolds, Amy Smart, and Anna Faris. New Line Cinema, 2005. DVD.Sage, 2005.


Signorielli, Nancy. Women in Communication: a Biographical Sourcebook. Westport, CT: Greenwood, 1996.


Gerrero, Laura K., and Kory Floyd. Nonverbal Communication in Close Relationships. Mahwah, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, 2006.


 Griffin, Emory A. A First Look at Communication Theory.  7th ed.  Boston: McGraw-Hill Higher  Education, 2009.


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Sample #3

Paper Title: Magazines' Influence on Women

Class: Mass Media and Society

Purpose: This paper focuses on an issue in society that is caused or contributed to by mass media.

Introduction

            Mass media is a powerful source that continues to influence societal norms.  In particular, magazines have become a media outlet that has created an image for American women.  These images and expectations have negatively persuaded girls and women to feel as though there is a status quo to be met through appearance. 

Magazines have reinvented the wheel for beauty.  As a result, health is compensated for beauty.   Therefore, women’s perceptions of beauty have been shaped through the media of magazines, having a negative effect through unnecessary dieting, low self-esteem, and unattainable role models.  In return, these effects are a daily struggle for women as they feel there are so many expectations to be upheld.  Unfortunately, inner beauty and personal satisfaction is no longer rewarded in a society saturated with skinny celebrities setting the status quo. 

Research

            To begin, magazines influence of beauty on girls and women has lead to a decrease in self-esteem (Morrison, 2004).  The way women see themselves is based on the images of others.  Morrison writes, “…while the average American woman under 30 has become progressively heavier, media images of women have become progressively thinner. For example, a longitudinal examination of models appearing in the magazines Ladies Home Journal and Vogue revealed that their bust-to-waist ratios had decreased steadily since 1949 (Morrison, 2004).”  When women experience exposure to such images and standards, they are likely to view themselves more negatively.  What they see in the mirror and what they see in magazines, does not match up.  Therefore their first inclination is to doubt their beauty and have low self-esteem.  Vogue ran an article where a writer used her own personal experience of weight loss.  This 5’ 6 ½’’ women who weighed 136.5 pounds, dropped 14.5 pounds in order to look presentable for the season’s style (“Women Need Self-Esteem, Not Diet Advice”, 1996).  For women who are already self-conscious of their weight and appearance due to societal pressure, this article does nothing but add to their lack of self-esteem.  As a result of these types of articles, women struggle daily with feeling confident.  They feel that their bodies must match those of high status to be sexy and attract men.  Not only are these images disturbing, but the majority of them are not even original. 

Ralph E. Hanson writes, “…when it comes to magazine cover shoots, editors should do whatever it takes to make the cover model look her best - even if that means changing her body digitally (Hanson, 172).”  This quote is in reference to a controversy involving Kelly Clarkson.  Many fans are aware of her fluctuating weight issues.  While competing in American Idol, she was arguably overweight.  After winning American Idol she began to transform her image to the mold of Hollywood.  She lost weight.  After some time, however, she gained it back.  By her photo being digitally edited because she is “overweight” that just proves magazines’ standards for how women should look – skinny.

In September 2009, she was featured on the cover of a Self magazine.  The previous quote was in response to her featured picture.  Despite Clarkson’s happiness with weight, her opinion does not go a long way because of the crafted photos used (Hanson, 2011, p.172).  It is no wonder women’s self-esteem is affected, when images are molded to the quintessential creation of an editor. 

Hanson’s textbook brings up the issue of the importance on magazine covers.  Is the sale of a magazine more important than its effect on someone?  Editorial Director, Janet Chan, for Time, Inc. stated, “You’ll follow a lot of rules and you could say that’s the science, but I think a lot of it is gut.  For me, thinking of designing a cover is looking for the image that says, 'You want to take this puppy home (Hanson, 2011, p.175).”  After reading this quote, one must contemplate the ethics of such a mindset because negative effects could be ignored in order to make sales.  The audience that is negatively being affected is the same audience that magazine companies rely on to make money.

Additionally, magazines’ define beauty as super thin, large chested, and clear complected women (Gorrell, 2001). .  Unfortunately, this is only attainable if your name is Barbie and you are made out of plastic.  As a result of magazines pushing this perception of beauty on women, which gives them low self-esteem and in return has led to dieting which can be very harmful.  Carin Gorrell addresses the issue about the connection between magazines and girls whose eating and diet habits are influenced by the material magazines present.  Research was conducted by Stephen Thomas, Ph.D., from Brigham Young University on 500 female high school students.  Of those 500, he found that 87% of the girls were affected.  Eleven percent had used laxatives, 15% took diet pills, 9% reverted to vomiting, and 52% reduced their calorie intake under 1,200 calories each day (Gorrell, 2001).

In addition, he asked the students how often they read health and fitness and beauty and fashion magazines.  The girls who frequently read the health and fitness magazines (once a month) were more likely to perform unhealthy weight control techniques.  Here about 80% induced vomiting, 73% took diet pills, and 60% used laxatives.  Thomsen’s findings for girls who read the beauty and fashion magazines were extremely similar to those that read the health magazines.  Thomsen suggests that the magazines may not always induce the issue however he adds, “It seems that young women who already have eating disordered attitudes and thoughts are turning to the publications for support (Gorrell, 2001).” 

Sadly, women take these extremes in hopes of “beauty”, but in turn do more damage than good.  A news article from the Orange County Register interviewed several girls from a high school about body image and beauty.  A question was asked about what age they had started to become self-conscious about their body?  One interviewee, Chardonee, answered:

I started in seventh grade. I remember I was looking at YM magazine and I looked at all the girls in there, and they were perfect and they were beautiful. So I started comparing myself to them. And that's when I started getting interested in boys. I wanted them to think of me as beautiful. I started getting conscious about my weight (“Mirror Images”, 2002).

These reports give proof that the service magazines provide is more than just entertainment, but guilt that serves as a catalyst and “go to” for negative health monitoring.  Girls are seeking advice from magazines because they feel what they have to offer is “truth”.  As a result, YM magazine, which is up there with Seventeen, Cosmo and Teen, made a decision to stop running articles about dieting in hopes of preventing such conduct (“Mirror Images”, 2002).  It would be interesting to see how women’s self-esteem levels would change if they were being influenced by similar, everyday women.  YM is definitely taking a risk, but they are doing it in hopes of bettering its audience.

            Moreover, role models featured in magazines play an intricate part of how women define beauty.  What women do not realize is that the celebrities displayed in magazines such as People, Elle, and Vogue have make-up artists, personal stylist, nutritionists, and in many cases, cosmetic surgery.  Take for example, Brittany Spears.  She had a so called “hot body” but after having kids, like any normal women, her fit figure disappeared.  Because of the disapproval from magazines and the American public, she got her figure back.  What kind of story does that encourage women with?  The likelihood of her body after children is nearly impossible.  Her transformation shows women that their bodies should not change because of childbirth, and then when “real” women experience this, they struggle feeling as though their self-worth has lessened because they no longer have the body of their youth.  So Britney’s flat stomach and hipster pant style has been a huge factor in women having lipo-surgery (Jeffereys, 2008).  In the article, Western Beauty Customs Should Be Defined as Harmful Cultural Practices, author Sheila Jeffereys explains how this intensive nine hour surgery costs a woman thousands of dollars.  She interviews a patient who discloses, "I'd just like to feel proud of my figure, but right now I'm so ashamed of my belly—it just hangs there. Britney Spears has an amazing stomach, and I'd give anything to look like that. She wears all those low pants and I just wish I could have a stomach as flat as hers (Jeffereys, 2008).”  Not only do these role models catch women’s eyes, but men’s as well.  Because of this, women feel a need to look a certain way for their husband, boyfriend, or any man they want to impress.  As a result, cosmetic surgery becomes an unhealthy option for women to construct themselves in any desirable way.  Jeffereys quotes, “The cosmetic surgery carried out on women in the mainstream entertainment industry is directed towards making them conform to men's sexual fantasies in order to earn their subsistence (Jeffereys, 2008).”  No wonder your average American women see unhealthy measures as normal and necessary, because they see it in all the movie stars and celebrities.  Ironically in an issue of People Weekly, numerous celebrities give their answers to what makes them feel pretty and yet their answers avoid the physical.  Stars such as Angelina Jolie, Halle Berry, and Jennifer Aniston all gives answers about how they feel beautiful when they are surrounded by people who love and care about them.  As much as one would love to believe their comments, why would they say one thing and yet continue to set unreachable standards for women (“What Makes You Feel Pretty?”, 2010)?  Referring back to the Western Beauty article, Jeffereys stated, “The surgeon in Coritore's operation says that 'all my girls' in the compulsory 'before' photograph of their almost naked bodies look 'shy, timid and insecure', but, 'the change I see in my patients in just a few days is so amazing' (Jeffereys, 2008).”  Would this be the case if women were not bombarded with images of unattainable role models?  Maybe yes, maybe no.  The point being that media has made it harder to resist the temptations of beauty defined by the world and those in high influential positions.  If these unattainable images continue to bombard women, health is going to continually decline.

Criticism

            Although there is much research to support the negative effects of magazines on girls and women, there are some critics that belief this is not necessarily the case.  The main point is that critics feel women have a choice. For example, some feel that the use of thin models and stars is motivating and positive in a country that struggles with obesity.  Garance Franke-Ruta, a senior editor at the American Prospect, feels that models and celebrities keep their slim figures through diet, exercise, and discipline and that any woman can choose to do the same.  She claims that woman can choose whether beauty is worth the work.  Although a good argument, it does not eliminate the hard data previously stated of the affects this mindset has on women (Franke-Ruta, 2010).  Here, Franke-Ruta is stating an idea, however, what people such as herself want others to realize and what is being portrayed seem to be very different.  A quote that seems to disprove this thought is by Christie Greenleaf an assistant professor of kinesiology, health promotion, and recreation at the University of North Texas.  She states:    

Girls and women, in our society, are socialized to value physical appearance and an ultra-thin beauty that rarely occurs naturally and to pursue that ultra-thin physique at any cost. Research demonstrates that poor body image and disordered eating attitudes are associated with internalizing the mediated (i.e., commodified, airbrushed) bodies that dominate the fashion industry (Schwarz, 2010).

Although, it is understandable that ultimately women’s actions are based on their choices, it is unfair to discount the fact that media saturated world will have affects on those decisions.  Since women are emotional beings, like Christie said, women internalize these messages which in turn effect their daily decision of how to obtain beauty.

Evaluation of Sources

            The sources used to back up the thesis that magazines evidently have a negative effect through unnecessary dieting, low self-esteem, and unattainable role models is overwhelming.   There is a lot of research to support this idea.  The articles were countless, which is a statement in itself.  If so much research has been done on it, then it must be a pushing issue.  Many of the sources used were from an online database, which automatically is an indicator that the information is highly reliable.  The articles found were very well written and easy to understand.  The statistics are helpful in that there are hard facts to help support the thesis, especially since this idea could be so interpretive.  Additionally, the majority of the sources used were published within the last ten years.  As a result the ideas and support are reasonable fresh and accurate.  Many of the sources were also authoritative in that the ideas presented and those who had published them were well known in fashion and or education.  The resources were not biased.  They were well balanced and yet successfully supported their side of the argument well. 

Conclusion

In conclusion there are many resources to support the viewpoint that we live in a media saturated world.  The effects media and the messages it sends through magazines on girls and women are negative in that there is unnecessary dieting, low self-esteem, and unattainable role models.  Although some believe these actions are a choice, there is no excuse for the negative influence of magazines directed at women.  Women are constantly bombarded with the ideal image and idea of beauty.  Many feel that the only way to be happy and catch men’s eyes are to be like those of celebrity status.  Unfortunately, women are deceived by the lies presented.  Yes, these celebrities are skinny but it is their job and their photos get a lot of help from the magazine’s editing department.  With technology, magazine covers are adjusted to appear perfect, as seen in the controversy with Kelly Clarkson. 

Sadly, women see these images and feel as though that fake appearance is beauty.  If women could only realize that being healthy is a great goal, and that beauty begins with being happy on the inside.  Media preaches outer beauty, but in a world of flaws, beauty defined by the world is nearly unattainable.  In addition, health is being compensated to reach the ideal look by detrimental eating habits and procedures such as lipo-suction.  Not only is surgery unhealthy, but it is expensive, causing women to put out more money than they can afford to “look good”.

 In order to counteract the negative influences and repercussions, magazines should focus on inner beauty as well as represent the American public better with having “average” women represented such as YM magazine has attempted by featuring women that the public can relate to.  Therefore, when all is said and done, magazines tend to care more about revenue than negative influences on their audience.  It is up to women to define their own beauty and find satisfaction in that. 

A Christian author, Tertullian, writes:Against Him those women sin who torment their skin with potions, stain their cheeks with rouge and extend the line of their eyes with black coloring.  Doubtless they are dissatisfied with God's plastic skill.  In their own persons they convict and censure the Artificer of all things (“The Garden Quote”, 2010).”  What a well said statement.  Magazines have made beauty an idolized standard, preventing women from seeing the good and instead, focusing on the bad.

                                             

Works Cited


"WHAT MAKES YOU FEEL PRETTY?" People Weekly 10 May 2010: 91. Student Resource Center - Gold. Web. 6 Oct. 2010.

 

Franke-Ruta, Garance. "Women Can Choose to Follow the Body Image Promoted by the Fashion Industry." Opposing Viewpoints: The Culture of Beauty. Ed. Roman Espejo. Detroit: Greenhaven Press, 2010. Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center. Web. 11 Oct.    2010.

 

Gorrell, Carin. "Finding fault: magazines may be abetting--though not aiding--an epidemic of eating disorders. (Influence)." Psychology Today 34.5 (2001): 24. Student Resource Center - Gold. Web. 8 Oct. 2010.

 

Hanson, Ralph E.  “Mass Communication: Living in a Media World.” 3rd ed.  Washington, DC: CQ Press, 2011.

 

Jeffreys, Sheila. "Western Beauty Customs Should Be Defined as Harmful Cultural Practices." Opposing Viewpoints: Self-Mutilation. Ed. Mary E. Williams. Detroit: Greenhaven Press, 2008. Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center. Web. 6 Oct. 2010.

 

"Mirror images: Girls reflect on what it will take to change the way they feel about themselves."   Orange County Register [Santa Ana, CA] 19 Mar. 2002. CNSN. Web. 8 Oct. 2010.

 

Morrison, Todd G., Rudolf Kalin, and Melanie A. Morrison. "Body-image evaluation and body-  image investment among adolescents: a test of sociocultural and social comparison theories." Adolescence 39.155 (2004): 571+. Student Resource Center - Gold. Web. 8 Oct. 2010.

 

Schwarz, Fred. "Images of Thin Fashion Models Do Not Play a Role in Eating Disorders." Opposing Viewpoints: The Fashion Industry. Ed. Roman Espejo. Detroit: Greenhaven Press, 2010. Opposing Viewpoints Resource Center. Web. 12 Oct. 2010.

 

“The Quote Garden”. 9 Sept. 2010. www.quotegarden.com/beauty.html. Web. 12 Oct. 2010.

 

"Women Need Self-Esteem, Not Diet Advice." New York Times 11 May 1996. Student Resource Center - Gold. Web. 8 Oct. 2010.


Magazine Influence Research Paper.pdf Magazine Influence Research Paper.pdf
Size : 178.504 Kb
Type : pdf

Sample Summary

Throughout my college experience, I wrote many research papers on varies topics within the realm of communication.  Some were in regards to media, others public relations, and some communication theories.  Although all different, there were underlying themes that proved adequate research skills and effective communication important.  Regardless of the topic, each paper required careful attention to detail as research played a key role in the foundations of the paper.  Secondly, effective written communication was necessary to convey the ideas I found within my research.  Overall, writing research papers benefited my written communication skills and enhanced my research abilities. 

Internship Samples 


Sample #1

Organization: Push The Rock

Location: Emmaus, PA

Project:  In this project I developed Push The Rock's Home-school chapel Curriculum for them to use in the future. The PDF contains the whole project.

Session 1:  September – October

·         Week 1: Introduction to theme: The 10 Commandments

·         Week 2: The Ultimate Coach

·         Week 3: No Idols

·         Week 4: Get Focused

·         Week 5: The Precious Name of Jesus

·         Week 6: Reputation

 

Session 2: October – December

·         Week 1: Forgiveness

·         Week 2: Talk Is Cheap, Bring It To The Field

·         Week 3: Remember The Sabbath And Keep It Holy

·         Week 4: Making God the #1 Priority

·         Week 5: Live With Eternity In Mind

·         Week 6: Because I Said So

 

Session 3: January – February

·         Week 1: Love

·         Week 2: Character

·         Week 3: Do Not Murder

·         Week 4: Breathing Fire

·         Week 5: Do Not Commit Adultery

·         Week 6: Accountability

 

Session 4: March – April

·         Week 1: Pure Actions

·         Week 2: Do Not Steal

·         Week 3: Do Not Bear False Witness

·         Week 4: Trust

·         Week 5: Do Not Covet

·         Week 6: Thinking Outside The Box

HomeSchoolChapel.pdf HomeSchoolChapel.pdf
Size : 572.42 Kb
Type : pdf


Sample #2 

Organization: Office Of Alumni and Parent Relations, Messiah College

Location: Grantham, PA

Project: I created a survey to evaluate Messiah's student body on their 2011 Homecoming experience. The full survey can be found at http://messiah.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_25GJ3I6Lt9kghtW.

HomecomingEvaluation.pdf HomecomingEvaluation.pdf
Size : 73.161 Kb
Type : pdf


Sample #3 

Organization: Push The Rock

Location: Emmaus, PA

Project: In this project I developed a field day schedule that included games, lunch, and chapel. The PDF has the full day's schedule.

Push The Rock Field Day

9:00 – 9:15

            Welcome/Prayer/Split groups

9:15 – 9:45

·         Tangled Arms

·         Wheel Barrel Races

·         Ball Hop Race

9:45 – 10:00

·         Water Break/Sign up for tournament play

10:00 – 11:30

·         Tournament Play

11:30 – 11:50

·         Wiffle Ball Game

11:50 – 11:55

·         Pray for lunch and explain free time

11:55 – 12:40

·         Lunch and free time

12:40 – 1:10

·         Crab Soccer Game

1:10 – 1:30

·         Blindfold Scavenger Hunt

1:30 – 2:00

·         Line Tag

2:00 – 2:15

·         3 Legged Race

2:15 – 2:45

·         Chapel

2:45 – 2:50

·         Closing and dismissal


Push The Rock Field Day.pdf Push The Rock Field Day.pdf
Size : 322.407 Kb
Type : pdf

Sample Summary

My internship experiences were foundational to my professional development.  My first internship I held was with Push The Rock, a Christian sports ministry in Emmaus, PA.  The two samples from Push The Rock display my organizational skills as I developed curriculum for their home-school ministry and a field day schedule for their after school programs.  Additionally, my experience with The Office of Alumni and Parent Relations was excellent.  I developed my communication and planning skills as I fulfilled the role as Event Intern.  After my largest event, Homecoming 2011, I created a survey to evaluate Messiah College's student body's experience.  Overall the results were overwhelmingly positive.  Both internships have grown and shaped my planning, organizing, and time management skills, providing me with numerous transferable skills.

Photograph Samples 


Sample #1

Location: Sarasota, Florida


ocean1.jpg ocean1.jpg
Size : 2144.389 Kb
Type : jpg

Sample #2 

Location: Capri, Italy

boat.jpg boat.jpg
Size : 35.65 Kb
Type : jpg

Sample #3 

Location: Costa Rica

Sunset.JPG Sunset.JPG
Size : 1572.905 Kb
Type : JPG

Sample Summary

Photography has always been an interest of mine.  Not only do these photographs display some of my best shots, but they represent three different countries.  I enjoy traveling and being creative with the scenery.  God has blessed us with an amazing world that has so much beauty to capture.  Photography is just one way I like to share my experiences and the world's beauty with others.

 

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