Game theory Essay Example for Free

Game theory Essay Game theory is a broad field of study that involves examining ways in which strategic decisions are derived. The study is applied in areas where strategic interactions among rational players produce outcomes with respect to the preferences of those players (Fudenberg Tirole 1991). Game theory is a branch of applied mathematics that is mostly used in the social sciences situations like, economics, psychology, political science, and philosophy. The theory is also used in other fields like, biology, engineering, political science, international relations and computer science. Game theory can be classified as; non-cooperative (or strategic) games and co-operative (or coalitional) games (Fernandez Bierman 1998). Non-cooperative games are involved with how intelligent individuals interact with one another in an effort to achieve their own goals. Co-operative games are where players co-operate in their moves (strategies) to achieve the desired common goals. ‘Strategic-form’ or ‘normal form’ games and ‘extensive form’ games. ‘Strategic form’ games are games where actions by players are taken simultaneously and order of the play is irrelevant to the game’s outcome. ‘Extensive form’ games are games where actions are taken by the players in a sequence and order of play is relevant to a games outcome. They are usually presented in a tree diagram. Symmetric and Asymmetric games; Asymmetric games are where the payoffs for playing a particular move depend only on the other player’s strategies. Symmetric game is where identities of the players can be changed without changing the payoff to the strategies. Zero-sum games and non-zero sum games; Zero-sum games are where the total benefits to all players add up to zero (Camerer 2003). In non-zero sum games, the total benefits do not necessarily adds up to zero. Discrete and continuous games; discrete games have finite number of players, moves, events and outcomes. Continuous games have infinite numbers. The basic elements of game theory are; an agent (an entity with preferences/options), game (All situations in which at least one agent can only act to maximize his utility through anticipating responses to his actions by one or more other agents), utility (amount of benefits/welfare an agent derives from occurrence of an event), payoff (an ordinal utility number assigned to a player at event of a certain outcome), outcome (an assignment of a set of payoffs, one to each player in the game), strategy (player’s plan on which action to take to achieved his/her desired payoff) and trees and matrices (ways of representing games that is based on order of play) (Fernandez Bierman 1998). Game theory is based on the following assumptions: Players in a game are able to make their own preferences i. e. they are free agents. Players are economically rational and they can, assess outcomes, calculate paths to outcomes and choose actions that they think will yield their preferred outcomes. Agents’ purpose is to maximize their utility. Game outcome depends on the actions taken by the players (Camerer 2003). Game theory has been used to explain in different fields to explain varied phenomena. In economics, game theory has been employed to explain business behaviors and economic conditions. Economic theories have embraced game theory in explaining and exhibiting certain economic behaviors. Economists have used other related theories in trying to understand rational interaction of strategic economic decisions that are made by people. These theories are closely linked to game theory and they include, decision theory, general equilibrium theory and mechanism design theory. Decision theory is a game theory of a single player against nature that focuses on preferences and the formation of beliefs (Fernandez Bierman 1998). The theory is used to demonstrate how best to acquire information before making a decision. Equilibrium theory is a branch of game theory that deals with trade and production and mostly with where there are relatively large number of individual consumers and producers (Fudenberg Tirole 1991). It is widely used in the macroeconomic analysis of broad based economic policies like monetary and fiscal policies, stock markets analysis, interest and exchange rates studies. Mechanism design theory is built on game theory but have special focus on the consequences of different types of rules (strategies). Example of a game theory is price game used by companies in a duopolistic market to increase their market share. In a duopoly market, two firms control the market and they use factors like prices, quality products and services, promotions, branding and promotion to compete over the market share (Samuelson 2008). When market share of one company increases, the other company’s share decreases. Firms in sectors that sells homogeneous products (e. g. energy sector), uses pricing strategy to win increase their market share. Taking example of two oil companies in a duopolistic market in current oil price surge, the companies are faced with problem of adjusting their prices upwards since this will adversely affect the demand of their oil products and thus reduce their revenues. Increase in crude oil prices has been experienced in the world, and oil and petroleum companies have to increase their retail prices upwards to realize earnings from their venture. Companies also have objective of increasing the volume of their sales, by increasing the market share of their products. Since petroleum companies trades homogeneous products, the main marketing tool to increase their market share is price. For two companies in a duopoly market, if one company increases its prices, and other maintains or even reduces, the former loses market share to the latter. Both companies face the following possibilities from their moves; reduction of market share of their products and hence their future revenues and profit or reduction in their profit margin or loss and hence shrink of their financial performance and growth in the future. Therefore each of the firms is faced with dilemma of which move to take in this situation of sharp increase in their raw materials. The two firms have the following strategic problem; to ensure profitability of their companies amid high cost of their sales, and pressure to maintain their prices at competitive price over their rivals in order to increase demand of their products. These are conflicting goals that management of each company must resolve by making strategic price decisions. Pricing strategies for the two firms are either to increase the price that would results to increase in revenue and retain its market share, reduce price which results to increase in market share of its products or maintain the price (Ibid 2008). Each company want to maximize its utility in the pricing moves i. e. to select a move that will see its market share maintained or increased and also ensure profitability of the company. Each strategy that the companies may take have implications on the other i. e. move by one firm affects the other firm. Example, in case of one firm decreasing its prices, this will affects negatively market share of the other as the demand of the former company’s product increases. Therefore, each company is expected to take choice that will result to its favor. Since the two firms are competing for success in their business, there is no cooperation expected while making this very important pricing choice. However, both firm being the only supplier in the market, they can cooperate and set their price mutually in a way that will ensure that no company will lose out to the other. Such arrangements are common in oligopolistic markets, where producers when faced by price pressure mutually agree to set their prices at the same level that will maintain the market share levels. In this game, each player (company) prefers to increase its market share over the other over maintaining the current market share. Therefore, they are taking conflicting moves to win over the other. The information about the available strategic choices is available to both firms. Both firms also know the current market share of their products and prices of the rival group. Each company has information about the strengths of the other company and knows how much they can support low prices in the price wars. They also know that the cost of crude oil has increased in the world market and that price was the tool to increase their revenues and growth. The only information both companies do not have is which choice their rival make and when. Companies will not make price changes at the same time; therefore the company that will make price changes after the other will have advantage over the other as it has prior information that is very important in making the pricing decisions. This game is an extensive game and the moves are in a sequence order. Therefore, timing of their moves is very important as it will give the second company advantage to make a well informed move. Using a hypothetical case, we take example of one company making first move and then the other follows. Using the game tool we can get the possible outcomes and solutions in an economic situation like ours. The payoffs assigned to each possible result indicate situations where a company can benefit (high payoffs) or lose out to the other competing company (low payoffs). Using a hypothetical example of oil companies BP Inc and Shell Plc as companies that operates in a monopolistic market, we can examine outcomes of pricing moves made by the two companies. The game can be used to give solutions to the price problem in a tight monopolisic market. The pricing game is based on the following assumptions: both BP Inc and Shell Plc are rational entities and in their moves their objectives are to increase their market share. Both firms make a sequential move on pricing that take extensive form (Fudenberg Tirole 1991). Shell Plc makes their decision after the BP Inc makes their pricing move. There is perfect market information symmetry (all company has all market information). Other factors that affect influence market share of the companies are constant. Strategies employed are price increment, price reduction or maintaining the price level. Payoffs (utility functions) for the moves are assigned as: Company that increases its market share over the other gets 5, company that losses its market share to the other gets -5. The payoffs represent the companies gain or loss in market share. The range for payoff is from -5 to 5, with both the lowest and the highest value representing the highest gain and the highest loss. The medium values represent an outcome of moderate change in the market share of the companies. The game can be represented in a tree diagram as follows: BP Inc P^ Pv PÂ ¦ Shell P^ Pv PÂ ¦ P^ Pv PÂ ¦ P^ Pv PÂ ¦ (0, 0) (-5, 5) (-2, 4) (5, -5) (3, 3) (4, 2) (4, 0) (2, 4) (2, 2) If BP Inc increases its prices ( P^) due to increased world crude oil prices, and shell Plc increases (P^) too the outcome will be (0, 0) i. e. their market share would not change but their sales may reduce due to decreased demand. If Shell Plc reduces (Pv) the prices after BP Inc has increased its prices, the pay offs are (-5, 5) i. e. BP Inc will loss its market share at a rate that is same as one Shell Plc will increase its market share. In the scenario that BP Inc will raise its prices and Shell maintains its prices (PÂ ¦), the payoffs are (-2, 4) i. e. market share for BP will reduce (Pv) but at low rate compared to Shell increment rate will be. On the other hand, if BP Inc reduces its prices first and then Shell raises its prices, the outcome will be (5, -5) i. e. market share for BP will increase at a rate that’s same as the one Shell Plc will lose its share. If both firms reduces their prices, the payoff is going to be (3, 3) i. e. their market share will not change but their sales will be better (higher revenue than if prices are higher). However, if BP reduces its prices but Shell maintains its price, the pay off will be (4, 2) i. e. BP’s market share will increase comparatively higher than Shell’s. In the last scenario, in case BP maintains its price level but Shell Plc increases its price the outcome payoff will be (4, 0) i. e. BP’s share will increase over Shell’s at relatively higher rate. But if BP maintains its prices and Shell reduces its prices, the pay off will be (2, 4) i. e. Shell Plc will increase its market share at a higher rate than BP Inc. In the last possible scenario, if both BP and Shell maintains their prices, the payoff will be (2, 2) i. e. there is not going to be changes in the market share, though both firms will have higher sales than if they raise their prices. The game theory provides the solution that the second (shell) should take a move to reduce its price, if BP increases as it will greatly increase its market share. Also it can get increased market share and profit if it maintains its prices, after BP increases its prices. To the company that makes the first move, the best solution is to maintain the price level as it will have higher payoffs without risking the move by the Shell. These options are the only one that will increase their market share and profitable growth. The price game theory can be used to understand economic changes in duopolistic markets. The game can be used in making strategic pricing and marketing decisions. The approach is important to economic theorists in describing the economic rationale that relates to commodity prices, demand and supply dynamics (Guala 2005). Despite the usefulness of game theory, there are some challenges to this theory. The assumptions on which the theory is based sometimes do not hold (Fernandez Bierman 1998). Game theorist assumption that players always act in a way to directly maximize their utility sometimes is violated by human behaviors i. e. in practice, human behavior often deviates from this model. This is because of the following factors that need to be considered; irrationality, new models of deliberation, and different motives (). In real life some people tend to respond irrationally in a situation where they are ideally expected to respond rationally. Also different people are motivated by different things and thus tend to respond differently in the same situation. To this end some theorists take game theory as tool for suggesting how people should respond but not as a tool to predict human behaviors and that game theory is used to explain strategic reasoning rather than strategic behaviors. Other limitations of the theory are based on the assumptions that prices changes are the only factors that will affect the demand of the oil products and consequently the market share. In real life there are rational factors that affect the market share of a product or a company. Quality of products and services, brand strength, promotions and other marketing strategies influences the demand of a product and its market share. Companies may also be motivated by other factors other than increasing market share when making pricing decisions. The theory also does not assign specific values to specify to what percentage a company gain or lose the market share. Since it’s an economic analysis it should give outcomes that can be easily understood and that make economic sense. However, the theory is very important in giving the general description of how individuals are expected to respond given a certain economic conditions. In the economic field the theory has been instrumental in explaining behaviors of firms and individuals’ producers and consumers. The theory is also very important in understanding how strategic decisions relate. Reference: Camerer, C. (2003). Behavioral Game Theory: Experiments in Strategic Interaction. Princeton: Princeton University Press Fernandez, L F. ; Bierman, H S. (1998), Game Theory with Economic Applications, Addison-Wesley Fudenberg, D. , and Tirole, J. (1991). Game Theory. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press Guala, F. (2005). The Methodology of Experimental Economics. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press Samuelson, L. (2005). Economic Theory and Experimental Economics. Journal of Economic Literature 43:65-107.

Advertisements Define Females Beauty Standard Media Essay

Advertisements Define Females Beauty Standard Media Essay Advertisements in women magazines has became active when marketer realised the purchase power of women, Marchland, 1985 suggested that in 1920s female purchasing power took over 80 percent of the whole consumer purchases. That was because the gender role of female at that time was home orientated, they were responsible for familial expenditure. As time changes, when the market of home orientated product got saturated, marketing then stereotypes women interconnected with sexuality. Courtney and Lockeretz suggested four general stereotypes of women were presented in print advertisement: A womans place is in the home; women do not make important decisions or do important things; women are dependent and need mens protection; and men regard women primarily as sexual objects (Courtney Whipple, 1983 pp.7). The beginning of media influence on beauty standard The advertising agencies referred women as General Purchasing Agent, as purchasing agents, women could command respect for exhibiting qualities previously honoured primarily in men-capacities for planning, efficiency, and expert decision making (Marchand 1958 pp.168). The G.P.A has became a corner stone of advertising in the field of female market, during this period advertising often adopt the theme of successful woman gain social acceptance and social approval through employing or consuming a particular product. McEwen suggested in 1976 that, from the field of social psychology, advertising agencies have employed the belief of the social self as a principle technique in advertisements by defining what was socially approved and what was not. During the phrase of social acceptance, the media portrayed the role of women as being responsible for broadening their social and intellectual interests as well as maintain youthful in order to be a modern companion for their husbands. They needed to preserve their youth so that they could beautify their husbands lives and keep pace with them during evenings of dancing and the theatre (Marchand 1985 pp.175).The importance of being self conscious of body image and appearance has been introduced through media, especially with the reinforcement of advertising in the late 1920s. In the middle of her mechanically engineered kitchen, the modern housewife was expected to be overcome with issue of whether her self, her body, her personality were viable in the so cio sexual market that define her job. Advertisements used pictures of veiled nudes and women in auto-erotic stances to encourage self comparison and to remind women of the primacy of their sexuality (McEwen 1976 pp.179). The idealised female images in which portrayed in media has always been changing, so is the standard of beauty perceived within the society. The media provides idealised body images of women by providing role models or examples of attractive women, for example, catwalk models and actresses. In which, audiences could compare themselves with the idealised body shape or appearance. The idealised body shaped has changed from being voluptuous and curvaceous in the 1940s and 1950s to being busty and narrow-hipped from the late 1960s through the 1980s (Straight 2005 pp.2) The reason of which the idealised beauty standard has always been changing was because companies need to create an unsustainable beauty standard to ensure targeted consumer will keep purchasing different goods to maintain satisfied with their appearance. Freedman, 1986 mentioned the beauty ideal was impossible to achieve and this could lead to feelings of inadequacy. The feelings of inadequacy were often fed by cosmetic and diet product manufactures, in which the primary objective of their advertisement campaigns were to persuade women they could improve their imperfections only by consuming their products. However the effects of media have on audience can vary due to individual differences. Audience with different personalities, pass experiences and social context interpret the messages of the media differently, in addition, different medium also provides different influence for audience, and for example, the influence of advertisement shall be strongest among the mediums, because the principle of advertising is to influence audiences behaviour and value. Ethical issues with advertising influence The internalization of an attractiveness ideal and a perception of body dissatisfaction may serve to mediate the relationship between media exposure and disordered eating (Stice et al, 1994). Media Awareness Network journal reported over three quarters of the covers of womens magazines include at least one message on how to alter and improve womans bodily appearance by cosmetic surgery or diet. The ratio of diet ads in mens and women magazine is 1: 10, in which the ratio of eating disorders in men and women is identical. This indicates a relationship between exposure to diet ads and eating disorders, however gender differences may also affect behaviour. Theories of media influence on beauty standard Social comparison theory A theoretical model using social comparison processes can be offered to explain how exposure to the socio-cultural thin and attractive ideal leads to increased body dissatisfaction (Heinberg and Thompson, 1992; Smolak et al, 1993; Thompson et al, 1991). This theory suggests that individuals make upward comparison with others who offers specific, valued attributes. It also takes individual differences into account, for example, the differences in regard of self-esteem. Mintz and Betz, 1988, conducted a research that shown female college students who felt dissatisfied with their bodies image were more likely to conform to the stereotyped body presented in the media as attractive. This theory suggested that social comparison does not only occurs through comparison with images in the media but also with social group, e.g. friends and families member. The studies of social comparison often reported positive correlation between social comparison and body dissatisfaction. Schema theory Self-schema theory envisages body images as a mental construction rather than an objective evaluation (Markus, 1977). A self schema is an individuals mental perception of the way they are. This mental presentation has established over time mainly through pass experience of what others labelled or referred them in a particular way. For example, I am attractive or I am skinny. These kinds of attributes are taken into account in self concept and self esteem. Schema have been defined as cognitive generalizations about the self, derived from pass experiences, that organize and guide the processing of self-related information contained in the individuals social experience (Markus, 1977 pp.64). According to Markus, 1997, schematics constantly evaluate stimuli that are relevant for their body weight. Media images are one of the stimuli that trigger new schemas. The buyer decision processes According to Nicosia, F. 1966, a consumer decision making process involves five stages traditionally, which are problem recognition, information search, evaluate of alternatives, product choice and outcome. Problem recognition occurs when consumer realises a significant difference between the consumers current state and the ideal state he/she desired. The consumer sees this as a problem and requires a solution to solve, when the problem has been recognised, consumer will need adequate information to resolve the problem, in which the consumer will enter the information stage. There are briefly two kind of information search, the internal search and the external search. Internal search begins when consumer search alternative product from prior experience and his/her existing knowledge on a particular product and its alternatives, external search is when consumer gathers informative from external cues, for example, friends and advertisements. Finally, the consumer will enter the stage o f evaluation of alternatives. The buyer decision model are often used in advertisements, taking the Rimmel Mascara commercial 2007 as an example, the commercial started with Kate Moss ( the famous model) putting on mascara while a male narrator saying the more you put on, the sexier you are. The commercial intend to show differences between the audience current and ideal state of desire by showing the image of Kate Moss with the Rimmel Mascara on. By using a model that majority regard her as attractive, this create an upward comparison with others who offers specific, valued attributes. This could refer to the social comparison theory. The Rimmel Mascara also offered a solution for the problem, the commercial emphasis the more Rimmel mascara the audience put on the sexier they will be. The positive reinforcement shows the cause and effect of the Rimmel mascara and this increase the likelihood of conformity. Industry background Advertising industry The United Kingdom advertising industry was worth over  £16.5 billion in 2001. There are estimated 600 agencies in London and 20 agencies among the 600 agencies are full service agencies. Agencies can be categorized as 5 distinct types of agencies Creative agencies Media agencies Direct marketing agencies Digital/online agencies Full service agencies Role of the agencies Creative agencies work on behalf of clients, develop creative ideas for an advertising campaign. Media agencies consults clients on where, when and how to spending advertising budgets. Direct marketing agencies provide clients direct and strategic communication with the target audience, for example, direct mail. Digital/online agencies profession at digital communication. For example, search engine marketing. Full service agencies combine all the services of creative, media, direct marketing, digital/online agencies. Research questions and objectives Aim To explore the methods and strategies that advertising agencies use to influence womens perception of beauty standard. Research question Which methods and strategies used my advertising agencies are more efficient to stimulate womens conformity to the presented beauty ideal? Objectives To discuss the methods and strategies used by advertising agencies to influence female beauty standard. To compare the difference, between female in the age groups of 12-18 and 21 27, their perception of beauty standard influenced by printed advertisement. To investigate the ethical issue of advertising the idealised beauty. Research methodology Research approaches Deductive approach Deductive approach is employ when a researcher develops a hypothesis that can be tested by a research strategy. Inductive approach Inductive approach is employ when researchers collects information and develops theory as a result of information analysis. Research strategies There are mainly seven research strategies that are being used in business researches. Experiment. Questionnaire. Interview. Case study. Action research. Grounded theory. Ethnography. Archival research. Sampling Statisticians have proved the larger the sample size, the nearer its distribution will be to the normal distribution, statisticians also suggested that a sample size of 30 or more will be more likely to result in a sampling distribution for the mean that is close to normal distribution. Stutely, 2003 suggested a minimum number of 30 for statistical analysis provide valuable rule of thumb for the smallest number in each group of the overall sample. Therefore the sampling size of my primary research will be 30. Strategies for my primary research Experiment Experiment is a classical form of research that owes much to the natural science, although it features strongly in much social science research, particularly psychology. The purpose of an experiment is to study casual links; whether a change in one independent variable produces a change in another dependent variable (Hakim, 2000). The experiment strategy concerns the relationship between two variables, it is often used in explanatory or exploratory research to find out why and how questions. The experiment usually takes place in a strictly controlled situation, for example, laboratory to eliminate threats to internal validity. However, whilst the strictly controlled situation enhances the internal validity, the external validity is often hard to establish, as the controlled situation is often not a real life situation. Strategies for my secondary research Multiple source secondary data Multiple source secondary data will be an amalgam of both documentary and survey secondary data. It will take account of books, journals, articles, newspaper and previous research. The secondary research will be used to cover objectives below. It will be a mixture of qualitative (theoretical) and quantitative (numerical) data. To discuss the methods and strategies used by advertising agencies to influence female beauty standard. To investigate the ethical issue of advertising the idealised beauty. The reason of using a mixture of qualitative and quantitative date is to produce that can be statistically analyse to identify relationship between variables and to have theoretical data to support my research. How the experiment will be conducted The experiment will be carrying out in order to fulfil objective two. (Compare the difference, between female in the age groups of 12-18 and 21 27, their perception of beauty standard influenced by advertisement.) The reasons of choosing the age groups of 12-18 and 21-27 are because of the significant differences in cognitive maturity. Adolescents are also more likely to conform due to the high need of social acceptance. Hypothesis Adolescents are more likely to conform to the ideal beauty presented in the media. The sampling 30 participants in each age group. Participants selected by random sampling in central London. The experiment will be conducted under a controlled situation, for example, a conference room in London. Method The method below will be repeated in both 12-18 and 21-27 age group. Divide each age group participants into experimental group and control group. Both groups will be given a survey questioning how satisfy the participant feel about their appearance. Experimental group will be given 10 printed advertisements with attractive female before they answer the survey. The control group will not be given printed advertisements before they answer the survey. Compare the results of both experimental group and control group. Statistically analysis the result of both age groups. Resources Internet access for secondary data. Library access for secondary data. Experiment will be host in the conference room of my uncles office, in which permission has been gained and cost free. Excel software to analysis primary research. Printer. Financial resources Transport fees for participants involves in primary research. Additional cost for employing participants in primary research if volunteer participants could not be found. Budget 5 pounds transportation fee for each participant. Cost of employing participant will be estimated at 10 pounds each. Total cost = 90pounds.

The Mergers And Acquisitions Management Essay

The Mergers And Acquisitions Management Essay In May of 1998, two of the largest car manufacturers in the business Daimler-Benz and Chrysler Corporation agreed to combine their organizations in what they agreed to be an egalitarian merger. Egalitarianism is a cultural value which represents the opposite of a hierarchy (Brett and Okumura, 1998) and which communicates the nature of the companys social structure (Brett, 2000). Whereas an organizational social structure defined by hierarchy demands respect, advantage, and authority to those in the top tier of the corporation, an egalitarian social structure places less demands on lower-level staff members, based on the premise that superior status is subject to change (Brett, 2000). However, an egalitarian merger would prove to be a challenge as German and American styles of management appeared to be polar opposites. German organizational structure was authoritarian, bureaucratic, and centralized; while American organizational structure was mostly participative, empowered, and ega litarian. To further complicate company relations, a statement emitted by Jurgen Schrempp in an interview with the Financial Times (1999), indicated the true intentions of the transaction, stating that the merger was never intended to be among equals. Such a statement revealed inherent flaws in communication which would disrupt perceived trustworthiness of Daimler-Benz, as well as control issues based on mutual misunderstanding as a result mutual insensitivity to cultural differences. Because an autocratic management style predominated in Daimler Benz, the acquisition instilled a sense of entitlement to authoritarian values within the German company, imposing upon Chrysler a top-down management approach which disregarded existing Chrysler company values and interpersonal dynamics. However, Chrysler also failed to recognize and adapt to dominating German styles of operation, choosing to adopt a more passive approach which reduced effective leadership within the American workforce. Because cross-cultural integration was so poorly prioritized within the Daimler-Chrysler merger, steps to generating a more adaptive response to the merger are recommended. First and foremost, both companies should create contingencies to account for the integration of potentially dissonant company values. Culture is a highly influential variable which must be thoroughly researched and communicated to both parties in order to create a higher understanding of mutual approaches. Once culturally sensitized, organizations must create and implement new organizational values which transcend both parties particular cultures, in order to create a third culture in which communication and productivity is based on awareness, respect, and commitment to fulfilling mutual company goals. Thus, by appointing an integration manager, the acquired company should report arising doubts stemming from the cultural aspects of the merger. In addition, company restructuring and related downsizing should be do ne as quickly and as respectfully as possible, in order to increase organizational efficiency. Finally, inclusive team-building amongst both entities should be promoted in order to generate innovative problem-solving ideas which strengthen and unite company relations. What is a merger? In general, a merger can be defined as the integration of an acquired company into the existing, acquiring company. In terms of finance, an acquiring company purchases the majority of shares from the acquired company, thus merging both assets into one expanding share. A merger tends to be a permanent arrangement and usually the company who acquires the shares retains its namesake. The International Competition Network identifies three major types of merger transactions: Share Acquisitions, Asset Acquisitions, and Joint Ventures. A share acquisition is defined by obtaining a controlling equity interest in the target such that it can exercise decisive influence over the targets business operations (ICN, 2010). On the other hand, an asset acquisition is defined as a buyout strategy in which valuable elements rather than shares of a financially unstable company are purchased. Furthermore, the acquiring company can choose which specific assets or liabilities it wants to purchase. Finall y, a joint venture is defined as a partnership between two companies which participate in a transaction of shared risks and assets for mutual benefit. Joint ventures are commonly proposed to domestic companies of a designated region by foreign companies who wish to expand their markets. In this transaction, the foreign company usually provides an advantage in technology and materials while the domestic company provides established contacts, brand recognition, and fulfillment of required government procedures. Synergy: Reasons for Mergers Synergy is the belief that current productivity levels and overall value of two separate companies will be greater following the integration of both. Schweiger Very (2003) identify four elements which comprise synergy: cost, revenue, market power, and intangibles. A cost synergy implies reducing overall organizational costs of administration and sales, as well as promoting functional consolidation and optimizing sales force and distribution, among others. Revenue synergies are associated with increasing volume of sales by selling products throughout a variety of markets with the intention of reducing fixed production costs. Market power is related to the acquisition of a competing market in order to maintain or increase product prices. Finally, intangibles refer to the ability to successfully transfer expertise and brand-name power to the acquired company (Haspeslagh Jemison, 1991). Synergies provide a company with the motivation necessary to pursue a merger. Supported by the various synergies are various strategic reasons for pursuing a merger. Schweiger Very (2003) identify 5 particular objectives to be fulfilled by mergers: geographic market consolidation, extension of technology, services or products, and geographic market expansion, among entering a new business and vertical integration which is the process of becoming a supplier or distributor in order to increase company value. Once a company has been acquired and the merger fulfilled, it is important to fulfill certain variables in order to achieve a smooth transition of company management. The level and speed of integration are crucial to organizational adaptation and will vary in success depending on applied integration strategy, organizational culture, and employed acculturation strategies. Acculturation refers to the process in which the acquired company adopts the acquiring companys organizational culture as its own. It is argued that a successful integration of company values is a greater predictor of overall company progress than financial or strategic factors (Larsson Lubatkin, 2001). An acquired company which retains a high degree of autonomy and cultural identity is indicative of a successful integration. However, a company which abandons its cultural identity and structure in favor of the acquiring companys identity suggests previous failure and distrust of proper capacities to succeed. Quality of communication is also a fundamental factor in achieving post-merger success. Poor communication between organizations can lead to a perceived lack of trust and caring by the acquired company, as well as a decrease in commitment and satisfaction. In addition, the degree of retained autonomy displayed by the acquired company directly relates to the level of integration achieved by the company: A higher level of autonomy is suggestive of a low level of integration, and vice versa. Although a certain level of autonomy can be beneficial for the acquired company, it can prove to be counterproductive if it does not correspond to the defining terms of the merger acquisition. Mergers and the Importance of Organizational Change Change provides a company with the opportunity to develop, expand, and progress. Future-oriented theories define organizational change as the process of setting, executing, and renewing company goals in order to achieve an ideal state of relevance and innovation. Similarly, life-cycle theories explain change as an externally-dependent process which evolves through various stages: birth (or emergence), growth (or development), maturation, and decline. Finally, dialectical theory compares organizations to multicultural societies with clashing values which generate change. In any case, an organization which embraces change demonstrates its capability to adapt and thrive on an ever-evolving marketplace. Similarly, employees who adapt to implemented organizational changes experience enhanced satisfaction in their performance, additional to as a greater sense of involvement in their work environment. If embraced properly, positively-promoted change can create a stimulating environment ripe for innovation, as well as a renewed sense of commitment to the company. Thus, effective leadership during transitional states of implemented change is crucial to decreasing employee stress while increasing overall productivity (Halkos, 2012). Reasons for Failure of Organizational Change Many factors contribute to failure to adapt to change within an organization. Specifically, there are 6 fundamental factors which influence unsuccessful implementation of change: premature or insufficient willingness to change, lack of contingencies to support the change, expecting immediate results, focus on change as opposed to results, leadership and management deficiencies, and divergence between planned strategy and circumstances of change (Yhang, Zuo, Yu, 2009). In addition, research by Amburgey, Kelly, Barnett (1993) has found support for Hannan Freemans (1984) Structural Inertia Theory, which states that both internal and external constraints greatly influence the outcome of organizational change. Section 1: Daimler-Chrysler Merger: A Cultural Mismatch Q.1 Mergers and Acquisitions take place to realize the synergies between the two or more companies involved. Using Cultural theories, explain why do you think the Daimler-Chrysler merger failed to realize the synergies that were expected from it? The merger between Daimler-Chrysler failed to fulfill synergic expectancies because appropriate steps to ensure adequate integration between two organizational cultures were not implemented. Daimler-Benz did not effectively communicate their true intentions regarding the merger with Chrysler, initially setting expectancies for a joint-venture equalitarian status which was later revoked by Daimler-appointed, Chrysler USA CEO Juergen Schrempp. This lack of communication created expectancies of equality and autonomy among Chrysler employees which were disregarded post-merger. However, Chrysler USA showed lack of leadership in adapting to the new model of organizational structure implemented by Daimler-Benz, thus increasing levels of stress among employees while reducing perceived trust in leadership capabilities, level of commitment to the company, productivity and job satisfaction. Cultural differences were vast, and failed to adapt to typical inclusion challenges faced by foreign companies intending to establish their presence in domestic markets. Whereas the German organization displayed the level of formality, precision, bureaucracy and orientation to detail typical of autocratic and bureaucratic styles of management, leadership within Chrysler USA inclined towards a participative approach which valued empowerment and egalitarian relations. In order to minimize cultural clash, Schrempp allowed each company to retain their own structural and cultural approaches, suggesting the adoption of a separatist mode of acculturation. However, the lack of communication which accompanied this decision failed to address the uncertainties in organizational procedure brought by the merger, in addition to the true intentions of Daimler-Benz to acquire the company as a subsidiary and not as an equal partner. Thus, the true nature of the merger was revealed in the way Daimler- Benz promoted cultural assimilation without regard to existing structure in Chrysler USA. Q.2 Many a Cross Cultural mergers have failed because proper attention was not given to the difference in cultures between the two companies. What issues should be addressed to make cross culture merger a success? Include an Action plan in your recommendation section. In order for a cross-culture merger to be a success, cultural issues must be assessed and addressed as thoroughly as possible in order to dispel uncertainty which may give rise to increasing tension and diminished productivity in the workplace. To further any plans without assessing overall adaptation to newly-implemented changes would hinder any opportunities for organizational development. A merger that is both culturally aware and financially sound is fundamental to achieving success as a newly-formed corporation entity. Even though Daimler-Benz eventually attempted to increase cultural awareness within its organization by promoting seminars on cultural awareness, learning the language and experimenting with a casual dress code, cultural integration remained ineffective as both parties were still heavily entrenched in the bases of their pre-existing organizational structure. American employees were encouraged to learn the German language and increase specificity in their planning, but remained fundamentally adrift in their leadership while their German counterparts continued to eliminate Chrysler authority by replacing top-tier management with German executives. Essentially, both organizations resisted the changes implemented by the merger and did not manage a successful integration of company cultures. Because of the complexity involved in adapting and conforming to external cultural values, a new approach focusing on promoting a Third Culture has been suggested by a growing body of research as a way to demonstrate respect for pre-existing cultural identities within the organization. Yan and Luo (2001) suggest a series of actions to motivate intercultural learning. A partners level of commitment and negotiating skills should be thoroughly assessed; flow of knowledge should be constantly improved through effective communication; and inter-organizational trust should be reinforced (Graen, 2003). In addition, Graen Wakabayashi (1994) suggest an alignment of diverging cultures by implementing the LMX Third Culture Way, an overall procedural strategy which encourages mutual respect among cultures, as well as the acceptance and commitment of both parties to a mutual way of fulfilling the merger transactions objectives. Subsequently, acquired knowledge should be integrated successfully i n organizational practices (Graen, 2003), and knowledge leaks should be prevented in order to maintain organizational unity and edge. Similarly, overdependence in either one of the parties should be avoided, instead incentivizing employees from both parties to provide efficient and innovative suggestions. Finally, all acquired knowledge should be implemented in company culture and promoted through frequent and effective communication, and consultancy and support for both parties should be provided throughout every stage of the merging process. Such support would assist organizational transition by promoting a general understanding of distinct cultural values and potential attitudes and behaviors related to each of the involved parties. In turn, promoting a companys own awareness helps develop consciousness of typical behaviors inherent in the company and their influence on others, thus developing a greater level of cultural sensitivity which fosters more effective inter-management a nd management-employee relationships. Finally, constant promotion and reinforcement of third-culture values increase trust and perceived competence among both entities, increasing the overall effectiveness of communication. Section 2: Renault Enters India with a Joint Venture Q1. Examine the factors that influenced Renaults Decision to choose a joint venture entry mode as opposed to Green Field entry mode to enter the Indian market. Include in your answer an explanation of how the characteristics of India have affected this decision. As previously discussed, a joint venture is a strategic merger approach typically employed by a company that wishes to corner a foreign market. By approaching Mahindra and Mahindra (subsidiary of Nissan) as a joint venture, it seizes the opportunity to create a lasting, egalitarian relationship between both parties, in a dynamic which delegates autonomy and expertise to the Indian company while benefitting from the familiarity of its brand name and knowledge of domestic markets. However, profitable benefits are mutual as Mahindra and Mahindra disregard their allegedly small stake in the Indian subsidiary of Ford in order to gain a 20 per cent share of the total auto market in India. Q2. Discuss the main advantages and disadvantages for Renault using a Joint Venture mode compared to a Green Field entry mode. Explain the main differences between the two modes in terms of control, risk, and flexibility. Include an action plan which includes some steps to portray Renault as a good corporate citizen to reduce its political risk. In general, a joint venture with Mahindra and Mahindra allowed Renault to benefit from valuable, strategic assets, as well as a quicker and more formidable entry into a competitive, locally-cornered market. Had Renault approached the Indian market through Green Field Entry, it would have spent additional costs in starting a foreign subsidiary and forgone the invaluable expertise and established market shares it earned through the partnership with Mahindra. Furthermore, an analytical gaze at the Indian automobile market reveals that India is developing exponentially, with its southern cluster alone holding a 35 percent revenue share. Had Renault opted for the Green Field approach, it would have had to face a deeply competitive market with no realistic, cost-effective strategy of entry. Alternatively, both companies have demonstrated a successful adaptation to the merger by focusing on the strategies necessary to achieve mutual benefit. As previously suggested by Yan and Luo (2004), both Renault and Mahindra promote business interactions characterized by Third Culture elements, by incentivizing effective performance by communicating their company objectives and expectations in a direct manner, also reinforcing trust and productivity among both organizations. However, one frequent problem resulting from joint ventures relates to attitude changes by one of the owners (Miller Glen, 1997), suggesting difficulties in aspects of control. Diverging interests in products, disregard for more cost-effective sourcing, and mutual misunderstanding based on insensitivity to cultural differences are only a few of the issues arising from control problems. Thus, it is important for both Renault and Mahindra to continue fostering a Third Culture approach to their relations by contin ually generating cultural awareness and securing valuable knowledge produced by their interactions and joint experiences, as well as by increasing overall organizational flexibility when approaching overlapping company structures. Conclusions Mergers occur for various reasons, which include: increased mutual profit, market power, and intangible assets such as shared expertise. However, the process of merging to distinct companies with particular organizational cultures and structures can prove to be challenging to both parties, especially in regards to integrating new objectives and culturally-influenced expectations of productivity. As seen in the case study of Daimler-Chrysler, an inappropriate communication dynamic, as well as intercultural resistance, diminished the potential to achieve greater levels of productivity and satisfaction among both parties and failed to extinguish increasing levels of stress and distrust among the acquiring and acquired entities. In order to increase opportunities for a successful multicultural merger, both organizations should raise cultural awareness amongst each other through direct and respectful feedback and a constant and secure influx of knowledge which reinforces a general and uni ting third culture.

Charlemagne :: essays research papers

Charlemagne Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great, became the undisputed ruler of Western Europe, â€Å"By the sword and the cross.† (Compton’s 346) As Western Europe was deteriorating Charlemagne was crowned the privilege of being joint king of the Franks in 768 A.D. People of Western Europe, excluding the church followers, had all but forgotten the great gifts of education and arts that they had possessed at one time. Charlemagne solidly defeated barbarians and kings in identical fashion during his reign. Using the re-establishment of education and order, Charlemagne was able to save many political rights and restore culture in Western Europe. Early Life Charlemagne was born in 742 A.D., to a very famous and well-known family. Charlemagne’s grandfather was Charles Martel, the man who was responsible for the defeat of the Saracens. Charlemagne was also the eldest son of Bertrade (also known as Bertha Greatfoot) and Pepin the Short, the first to become king of the Franks. With the almost full extinction of schools in the 8th century, many historians say that Charlemagne received very little education, but did learn the art of reading from Bertrade. The one thing that kept Charlemagne motivated throughout his entire life was his deep devotion to the church. Charlemagne was a tall young man with light blond hair, and was described by his secretary as, â€Å"face laughing and merry. . . his appearance was always stately and dignified.† (World book 452) Charlemagne had great wit, but was stern at times. He had simple and moderate tastes; he enjoyed hunting, riding and swimming. Charlemagne had a large wardrobe with many Frankish dresses, linen shirts and breeches, silk-fringed tunics, hoses wrapped with bands, and for the winter he had coats made of otter or marten skins. Charlemagne asked his people to improve their lifestyles, but he divorced two of his four fives without any given cause. Charlemagne’s Reign In 768 A.D., Charlemagne at the age of 26, along with his brother Carloman inherited the kingdom of Franks. However, in 771 A.D. Carloman died, making Charlemagne the sole ruler of the kingdom. At this time the northern part of Europe was out of order and unruly. In the south, the Roman Catholic Church was asserting itself alongside the Lombard kingdom in Italy. While in Charlemagne’s own kingdom, the people were becoming and acting as barbarians and neglecting education and faith. But Charlemagne was determined to make his kingdom as strong as possible.

A Separate Peace, The Natural, The Scarlet Letter, and The Old Man and the Sea :: Separate Peace Essays

A Separate Peace, The Natural, The Scarlet Letter, and The Old Man and the Sea In the society-centered world that has existed for thousands of years, Emerson's and Thoreau's recommendation of living as a self-reliant individual can be a difficult task to accomplish. Society puts pressure on its members to conform to its standards. Nonconformists are shunned by society and as a result have difficulty retaining their nonconformist position. According to Emerson's Self-Reliance, though, this nonconformist, independent stance is the only thing that can bring a person peace. Emerson believes a truly great man lives in the world, but at the same time trusts himself, believes in himself, and is, in a word, independent. Many people have applied the ideas of Emerson and Thoreau not only to their lives, but also to the characters in books they have read, regardless of whether the author intended such interpretation. The ideas of Emerson and Thoreau can be applied to many of the novels we read in class this year, including The Natural, A Separate Peace, The Old Man and the Sea, and The Scarlet Letter. In each of these novels the main character experienced many difficulties in which he either succeeded or failed. The successes and failures of any particular character were a result of his self-reliance or of his society-reliance. In The Natural, by Bernard Malamud, the main character, Roy, failed to focus on what was best for him because of his reliance on society rather than on himself. This problem became evident early in the story when the woman Roy met on the train shot him. Had Roy focused on his game, perhaps gone out and practiced baseball rather than visited the woman, he never would have gotten shot. Having such skill as he had, he could have easily signed with the Cubs, and he could have had an extraordinary baseball career. Unfortunately for him, Roy put too high a priority on his relationship with the woman from the train. As a result, Roy's baseball career not only didn't start for another 10-15 years, but also was nothing compared to the career he would have had with the Cubs. Generally, people learn from their mistakes. As Malamud writes on page 217, "He [Roy] thought, I never did learn anything out of my past life, now I have to suffer again." Rather than straightening out his priorities in the years between the time he was shot and the time he actually played baseball, Roy made no change.

1. How, Specifically Is the Process of Attribution Illustrated in This Case?

Case Module 5 1. How, specifically is the process of attribution illustrated in this case? Ans. The process of attribution regarding the case referred, flags relatively regarding the behavior of the customer’s eye contact wrong implication. The case study stated that a in certain supermarket dozen females claimed the issue of drawing the unwanted attention for maintaining eye contact. There was no clear information as how many female employees were employed there. This may raise several questions of the internal causes and external causes of behavior.The nature of the twelve women was unknown regarding other issues outside their work place. The case study does not apparently satisfy the â€Å"consistency† of the attribution. This implies the behavior of the female employees and the customers they face behave in the same manner in other situations for knowing the distinctiveness of their claims. If the case study had satisfied the arguments then this would have helped in better understanding of the concept of attribution. 2. What do you suppose is being done to help train people to be friendlier toward customers?In other words, what would you imagine goes on in Safeway’s †smile school†? Ans. There is an underlying concept of positive reinforcement that satisfies the organizations in treating people for the desired returns in the form of sales or goodwill. In the Safeway supermarket they send their employees for the friendliness school called â€Å"Smile school†. They make their employees to follow certain trivial manners that greatly affect the positivity in people like smiling face towards customers, maintaining eye contact for three seconds, calling the people by their name when they pay by check or credit card.Respective to the case study the smile school seems enforcing its policies irrespective of the employees’ consignment. 3. Describe what you believe might be the progressive discipline steps outlined in the warning letter sent to unfriendly Safeway clerks? Ans. The concept of the progressive discipline elevates the steps form letting know the curtness of the respective unfriendly employee individually, and then increasingly enforce the degree of the punishment like officially state the undesirable behavior of the employee, then warning the employee in form of a letter with all negative evaluations.Considering the case study the letter must state all the previous warnings to the unfriendly employee, and then warn the employee that continual curtness leads to suspension without pay and may lead to dismissal for unchanged unfriendliness. 4. What perceptual errors did the customers make? Ans. In accordance to the case study the questions gives ideas regarding the issue of the false judgment. As stated in the case the male customers anticipated the positive reinforcements from the supermarket employees as acts of flirtation.This relates the concept of the Halo effect where the appearance of the employees and their positive behavior triggered the false judgment. The basic idea formation of the first impression is totally based on the internal causes of individual behavior. In another instance stated in that case, one shopper followed a female employee to the car in a false disposition. This may lead to the negative reinforcements form the employees and can effect the other customers. 5. What forms of operant conditioning did Safeway use? Ans.The case study relating to the operant conditions inclines to the policies of the supermarket, one such is â€Å"superior service† policy. The concept states that the reaction provided initially, gets back. It is also called Law of effect. The principle of any customer service is providing best customer service. In the case study the Safeway supermarket also provides it employees a positive reinforcements strategies like maintaining the eye contact for three seconds, smile at customers, anticipating the customers needs. It a lso maintains undercover shoppers to ensure the employees are working properly.There is a â€Å"Smiling school† that helps the employees in understanding the operant conditioning and outcome from it. This can be drawn from its spokesperson that their concentration is not on discipline but on treating customers the best way. 6. What characteristics would a Safeway clerk need in order to be successful in complying with Safeway's policy? Ans. Abiding to the policies of the Safeway supermarket, that employees should maintain smiling face and should have at least three seconds of eye contact. There should be certain point in the causalities of the individual behavior where one can personally realize awkwardness beyond that.Maintaining three seconds of eye contact may be offensive for some of the customers and smiling for that long may trigger false impulses in some of them. These external issues of the behaviors of the shoppers are not in the hands of the employee. As stated first in the case study, smiling and eye contact are basic manners in any customer care services. It is individual realization that smiling and maintaining eye should be at a level that does not cause any false perceptions on the shoppers. In that way an employee may successfully sustain in customer services field with out encountering a surly experiences.

Relationship Between Self Esteem Stress Health And Social Care Essay

Emerging surveies further reveal that persons who initiate substance usage before 15 old ages of age take an norm of 29 old ages to accomplish one twelvemonth free of substances ( vs. 18 old ages for those who start utilizing after 20 old ages of age ) . In consonant rhyme with the above, the existent quandary of substance maltreatment stems from the fact that mistreating young persons frequently display co-occurring mental wellness issues ( Kim & A ; Jackson, 2009 ) . The early intercessions with those who initiate substance usage during adolescent old ages remain a lost chance for many persons ( Liddle, Rowe, Dakof, Henderson, & A ; Greenbaum, 2009 ) . Eitle ( 2006 ) noted that populating in single-parent families peculiarly the male parent predicted increased marihuanas use among Hispanic/Latinos, but non among African Americans or Whites. Harmonizing to Wagner, Olson, Chou, Pokhrel and Duan, et Al ( 2010 ) , the features of the household such as its operation and construction may play both protective and worsening functions in adolescent substance usage. The hazard factors for early stripling substance maltreatment have been identified ( Hawkins, Catalano, & A ; Miller, 1992 ) , and utilized by research workers to develop intercessions aiming vulnerable striplings ( Dishion, Kavanagh, Schneiger, Nelson, & A ; Kaufman, 2002 ) . However spheres which may chair or intercede the consequence of substance maltreatment on adolescent substance maltreaters remains grossly under researched hence the demand for the present survey on the relationship between self-pride, emphasis, equal relationship, depression, household background and substance maltreatment among striplings. The term substance maltreatment was defined as a unidirectional concept. In kernel the term captures substance maltreatment as one concept, though multi-directional positions exist.Background of the StudyExperts in developmental epidemiology of substance maltreatment suggest that substance usage during adolescence disrupts necessary adolescent developmental procedures ( Liddle, Rowe, Dakof, Henderson, & A ; Greenbaum, 2009 ) thereby easing the divergence from protective influences, such as the household and the school. Scholars every bit contend that it leads to the acceptance of a configuration of aberrant attitudes, activities, associations, an d behaviours ( Okoza, Aluede, Fajoju, & A ; Okhiku, 2009 ; Flory, Lynam, Milich, Leukefeld, & A ; Clayton, 2004 ; Lynskey et al. , 2003 ) . Surveies conducted by the Indiana Preventive Resource Center ( 2003 ) indicated that striplings are normally introduced to substance maltreatment through ‘gateway ‘ drugs such as intoxicant and coffin nails. Furthermore, late emerging surveies suggest that male striplings use and abuse drugs more than their female opposite numbers ( Igwe, Ojinnaka, Ejiofor, Emechebe, & A ; Ibe, 2009 ) . Though, female striplings favor stimulations ( Chassin, Ritter, Trim, & A ; King, 2003 ) .In line with the above, substance maltreatment among striplings continues to be a important public wellness concern. Irrespective of the recent national informations collected in the US which shows lessenings among eighth-graders, 13 % of the group were still reported as holding abused substances in the past 12months ( Johnston, O'Malley, Bachman & A ; Schulenberg, 2008 ) . The writers stated that 5.5 % had reported holding been intoxicated. The theoretical underpinning of adolescent substance maltreatment lies within the context of societal cognitive theory ( Bandura, 1986 ) and changing grades of influence as espoused by Bronfenbrenner ( 1979 ) . These theories jointly maintain that parents, sibling, school, and equals account for an striplings overall motor to mistreat drugs. Harmonizing to Baron and Kalsher ( 2008 ) striplings involved in substance maltreatment do so because of the demand to conform to others around which underscores the demand for belongingness. The bookmans stated that striplings learn to utilize consciousness changing drugs because they are by and large in trend. In the position of Dennis and Scott ( 2007 ) an person who developed substance maltreatment jobs initiated the usage during adolescence. To buttress their statement, the bookmans contended that 85 % of about 600 young persons come ining outpatient intervention for marihuana maltreatment or dependance in the hemp young person intervention survey started substance maltreatment before the age of 15 ( Dennis et al. , 2004 ) . The impression of integral household and engagement in spiritual activities has been reported by so many bookmans as a protective factor in the etiology of substance maltreatment ( Wagner et al. , 2010 ; Demuth & A ; Brown, 2004 ; Grunbaum, Kann, Kinchen, Williams, & A ; Ross, 2002 ; National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, 2003 ; Chu, 2007 ; Mack, Leiber, Featherstone & A ; Monserud, 2007. In the position of Brook, Whiteman, Finch and Cohen ( 1998 ) many factors are basically interrelated, and have cumulative effects on the flights of drug maltreatment and delinquency. Rohde, Lewinsohn, and Seeley ( 1996 ) stated that substance maltreatment heralded future depression in female striplings. With available grounds bespeaking that substance usage and behavior jobs before the age of 15 was among the strongest forecasters of chronic offending, depression, school failure, unemployment, relational jobs with equals and household members through adolescence into maturity ( McGue & A ; Iacono, 2005 ) .1.2 Statement of jobThe effects of substance maltreatment among striplings in Nigeria scope from a diminution in academic public presentation, hooky, stealing, contending, chancing and dependence ( Okoza et al. , 2009 ) . Epidemiologic ratings in the state indicate that substance maltreatment is widespread and is one of the most alarming health-related jobs among striplings ( Igwe, Ojinnaka, Ejiofor, Emechebe, & A ; Ibe, 2009 ) . Evidence suggests that the beginning of substance maltreatment is multi-faceted crossing assorted spectrums which includes biological, personal and societal surroundings ( Igwe et al. , 2009 ) . Studies therefore suggest that substance usage among striplings in Nigeria usually occurs in schools, with current estimations confirming the incidence of the phenomenon as high among striplings ( Eneh & A ; Stanley, 2004 ) . Available informations from school studies in Nigeria farther reveal lifting prevalence and diminishing age of oncoming in reported instances of substance maltreatment ( Igwe et al. , 2009 ; Okoza, et al. , 2009 ) . The prevalence degree of the phenomenon was put at 33.7 % , with Alcohol noted as the most normally abused substance ( 31.6 % ) , while hemp was reported as the least ( 4.1 % ) abused substance among Nigerian striplings ( Igwe et al. , 2009 ) . Surveies have besides revealed a rise in ingestion, early induction, increasing female engagement and a tendency in the way of multiple substance usage among striplings in Nigeria ( Igwe et al. , 2009 ) . Oshodi, Aina and Onajole ( 2010 ) contend that the prevalence rates for life-time usage of substances varied from 3.8 % for Heroin and Cocaine to 85.7 % for psycho-stimulants. In the state, current use of substances the bookmans revealed varied from 2 % to 56.5 % . For â€Å" gateway drugs, life-time prevalence was estimated to run from 9.2 % to 5.2 % for intoxicant and baccy severally. However, the life clip use of hemp was put at 4.4 % . With respect to gender, prevalence estimations for males were by and large higher than for their female opposite numbers, except for antibiotics, anodynes heroin and cocaine. However, diverse grounds have been adduced by bookmans as to why adolescent maltreatment drugs, some of which include alleviation from emphasis, to handle unwellness, and to remain awake at dark to analyze ( Oshodi, Aina & A ; Onajole, 2010 ) , still there is a few documented surveies on the inclination of striplings substance maltreatment. This survey therefore intends to make full an bing spread found in the literatures by researching outstanding issues or variables comparatively under studied by bookmans in adolescent substance maltreatment. Some of these issues include the function of self-esteem, emphasis, equal relationship and depression in the anticipation of substance maltreatment among striplings. Despite the being of limited literature peculiarly on the function of self-pride, nevertheless findings remain contradictory. This survey hence seeks to clear up some of the built-in constructs and misconceptions on adolescent substance maltreatment by placing the alone forecaster of the concept substance maltreatment from the host of variables posited for the current survey. Although bookmans agree that the beginnings of substance maltreatment are multi-faceted in nature, nevertheless, few bookmans have examined this multi-faceted nature of substance maltreatment in their surveies peculiarly within the Nigerian context. This survey therefore fills a spread in the literatures by acknowledging the influence of assorted concepts from different spheres in the prognosis of substance maltreatment. This survey is therefore multi-dimensional in capturing aspects from self-esteem, stress, peer-relationship, depression and household background. In surveies with young person in intervention for substance maltreatment, striplings tended to get worse more frequently in state of affairss of direct or indirect societal force per unit area ( 66 % ) compared with grownups ( Ramo & A ; Brown, 2008 ) . In general, the few work on female striplings leaves open the inquiry of temporal sequencing with certain substance maltreatment comorbid factors. Earlier surveies have provided reasonably consistent findings in footings of the protective function of parental monitoring ( Macauly et al. , 2005 ; Parker & A ; Benson, 2004 ) and support ( Olvera, Poston, & A ; Rodriguez, 2006 ; Simantov et al. , 2006 ) . However, most old surveies have non focused on Africans and peculiarly Nigerians. It is clear that among both grownups and striplings, multiple personal and environmental factors influence adolescent substance usage ( Brown & A ; Ramo, 2006 ; Witkiewitz & A ; Marlatt, 2004 ) . The underlining subject of the current survey therefore is to detect how striplings can be protected from substance maltreatment, therefore the usage of concepts like integral household and spiritual activity as go-betweens in the survey on the relationship between self-pride, emphasis, equal relationship, depression, household background and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria.1.2.1 Research inquiryIn line with the statement of job, the undermentioned research inquiries were raised to make full the bing spreads in the research literatures reviewed on the relationship between self-pride, emphasis, equal relationship, depression, household background and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria In position of the identified spreads, the survey will react to the undermentioned research question: What is the background information of striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria? What is the age and gender difference in substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria? Is there any relationship between self-pride, emphasis, equal relationship, depression, integral household, spiritual activity and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria? What is/are the forecaster ( s ) of substance maltreatment ( self-esteem, emphasis, equal relationship, depression ) ? Is there any interceding consequence of integral household and spiritual activity on the relationship between self-pride, emphasis, equal relationship, depression and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria?1.2.2 Research aimThe research aim of the current survey will be captured chiefly from two aspects or dimensions. These dimensions include the chief and the specific aim of the survey as captured below.1.2.2.1 General aimThe ultimate end of this research is to find the relationship between self-pride, emphasis, equal relationship, depression, household background and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria.1.2.2.2 Specific aimThe chief aim is supported by the undermentioned exact aims: To depict the background information of striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. To find the age and gender difference in substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. To find the relationship between self-pride, emphasis, equal relationship, depression, integral household, spiritual activity and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. To find the alone forecaster ( s ) of substance maltreatment from self-esteem, emphasis, equal relationship and depression among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. To find the interceding consequence of integral household and spiritual activity on the relationship between self-pride, emphasis, equal relationship, depression and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria?1.2.3 Research HypothesesIn response to the specific aims of the current survey, the undermentioned nothing hypotheses were formulated: Ho1: There is no important age difference in substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho2: There is no important gender difference in substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho3: There is no important relationship between self-pride and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho4: There is no important relationship between emphasis and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho5: There is no important relationship between equal relationship and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho6: There is no important relationship between depression and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho7: There is no important relationship between integral household and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho8: There is no important relationship between spiritual activity and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho9: There is no important alone forecaster of substance maltreatment from self-esteem, emphasis, equal relationship and depression among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho10: There is no important interceding consequence of integral household on the relationship between self-pride and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho11: There is no important interceding consequence of integral household on the relationship between emphasis and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho12: There is no important interceding consequence of integral household on the relationship between equal relationship and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho13: There is no important interceding consequence of integral household on the relationship between depression and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho14: There is no important interceding consequence of spiritual activity on the relationship between self-pride and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho15: There is no important interceding consequence of spiritual activity on the relationship between emphasis and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho16: There is no important interceding consequence of spiritual activity on the relationship between equal relationship and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Ho17: There is no important interceding consequence of spiritual activity on the relationship between depression and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria.Theoretical/conceptual modelAlthough different theoretical predications possibly used in explicating substance maltreatment among striplings, nevertheless the present survey will use societal cognitive theory in explicating the diverse relationship that exist among the variables of the survey. On the other manus, ecological systems theory will be used to explicate stress one of the variables used for the survey. Based on the two theoretical predications, the conceptual model for the survey was built.Theoretical modelThe theoretical model of the survey will be guided by the societal cognitive theory as captured by Albert Bandura. The theory was chosen based on its rightness for the current rational exercising and based on its used by most of the research workers whose surveies were reviewed for the presen t academic job. The implicit in dogmas of societal cognitive theory are herewith discussed below.Social Cognitive TheoryThe term societal knowledge implies a broader aggregation of mental activities than societal acquisition ( Thomas, 2005 ) . The cosmopolitan civilization and constellation of societies, communities, groups, and other contexts provide larning chances that determine what is accepted and condemned by striplings. The presence and reaction of people ( for case in refering to societal countenances ) and the continuance of other stimulations attach dissimilar reinforcing or wash uping punishment to persons ‘ behaviour. Social construction can be conceptualized as an apprehension of agendas of beef uping exigency and other societal behavioural variables ( Bandura 1969 ) .BehaviorPERSONAL ENVIRONMENTALFACTORS FACTORS( Cognitive, affective, And biological events )Socio Cognitive Theory of Reciprocal Determinism. Adapted from Bandura ( 1969 )The household, equals, schools, churches, and other gathering offer instant backgrounds that encourage or deter adolescent substance usage. Social cognitive theoretician propose that most striplings larning comes from active imitation or mold of what they see and hears theoretical accounts in the society do. Bandura used the word mold along with such footings as experimental acquisition and vicarious acquisition ( Bandura 1969 ) . Adolescents learn from experience by hive awaying in their memory the consequences of their incidental observation for usage at some ulterior appropriate clip. Therefore, they combine different sunglassess of behaviours to organize new behavioural paradigms.Ecological Systems TheoryEcological systems theory as propounded by Bronfenbrenner ( 1979 ) and other aligned bookmans focus on five primary universes of the stripling ( household, equals, school, societ y and the planetary environment ) 1 ) micro-systems, or the immediate societal contexts that straight influence striplings ( household, school, and equals ; Pantin, Schwartz, Sullivan, Coatsworth, & A ; Szapocznik, 2003 ) ; 2 ) meso-systems, or the connexions between the striplings ‘ universes ( parental engagement in school ) ; 3 ) exo-systems, or the fortunes in a parent ‘s life that indirectly influences striplings ( work emphasis, societal support ) ; 4 ) macro-systems, or the cultural or social ideals that describes a society or civilization ( norms, imposts, belief ) . It influences what, how, when and where striplings carry out their relationship ( Bronfenbrenner, 2005 ) 5 ) chrono-system or the history of relationships in an striplings household ( Swick & A ; Williams, 2006 ) . Harmonizing to Pantin, Schwartz, Sullivan, Coatsworth and Szapocznik ( 2003 ) and in line with Bronfenbrenner ( 1979 ) these contexts besides can interact with one another. For illustration, a supportive household or school environment can buffer the harmful effects of vicinity disorganisation, poorness, and force on delinquent striplings ( Cicchetti & A ; Aber, 1998 ) . In the position of Pantin et Al. ( 2003 ) , the household context has the most influence on the stripling. In line with this propositions and sing the cardinal function of the household in civilizations ( Miranda, Bilot, Peluso, Berman, & A ; Van Meek, 2006 ) , household features may be an particularly of import influence on substance usage among Nigerian striplings. Basically, ecological-contextual intercession paradigms have been suggested ( Biglan, 1995 ) , chiefly for early intercession attempts, given the significance of societal contextual factors in finding developmental paths ( Cohen & A ; Siegel, 1991 ) . Basically, family-based multiple-systems-oriented intercessions are compellingly advocated and extensively investigated ( Drug Strategies, 2005 ) .Conceptual modelFrom the research inquiries, aims and posited hypothesis, the conceptual model for the survey is as shown below:Background Independent Mediating DependentIntegral household Ho 10-13 Ho7 Self esteem Substance Maltreatment Stress Age Gender Peer relationship Ho3 – Ho6 Depression Religious Activity Ho 14-17 Ho1 Ho 8 Ho2Conceptual model of the survey on â€Å" Relationship between self-pride, emphasis, equal relationship, depression, household background and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria †Definition of footingsIn this subdivision, effort will be made to operationally specify the constructs to be used in the survey, particularly the dependant, independent and interceding variables of the survey. The definition is to guarantee unvarying specific mentions across the assorted spectrums of the thesis.Substance maltreatmentOperational definition The respondents entire mark on the 20item Drug Abuse Screening Test ( DAST: Skinner, 1982 ) will be used to stand for substance maltreatment in the survey. High tonss will bespeak high substance maltreatment.Self-esteemOperational definition The respondents score on the 10item Rosenberg self-esteem graduated table ( Rosenberg, 1965 ) will be used to stand for self-pride in the survey. High mark will bespeak high self-prides, while low mark will bespeak otherwise.Peer-relationshipOperational definition The respondent ‘s entire mark on the 20item equal relationship questionnaire ( Rigley & A ; Slee, 1993 ) will be used to stand for equal dealingss in the survey. High mark indicate high equal relationship.StressOperational definition The respondents score on the 14item perceived emphasis graduated table ( Cohen, 1983 ) will be used to stand for emphasis in the survey. High tonss will bespeak high emphasis in the survey.DepressionOperational definition The respondents score on the 27item Children ‘s Depression Inventory ( Kovacs, 1985 ) will be used to stand for depressive symptomatology among striplings in the survey. High tonss will bespeak high depression in the survey.Integral householdOperational definition The term integral household is used to stand for striplings populating with both parents ( male parent and female parent ) .Religious activityOperational definition The term spiritual activity is used to mention to the degree of adolescent engagement in spiritual activity. Adolescent Operational definition The term stripling as will be used in the survey implies anybody between ages of 10 to 19years.1.5 Significance of the surveyThe survey can supply the necessary consciousness on the dangers of stripling substance usage and by so making trigger treatments on the topic among policy shapers in the state. The survey will assist edify households and communities on the hazard and protective of adolescent substance maltreatment. The survey will underline the demand for early intercession for striplings at hazard for substance maltreatment given its manifest and latent effects. The survey will besides make the consciousness of â€Å" gateway † drugs such as coffin nail normally abused by striplings.1.6 Restrictions of the surveyDespite the identified importance of the survey as captured in the significance, there are several likely restrictions that warrant consideration. These awaited restraints include the followers: The sample of the survey will merely be selected from secondary schools in Somolu local authorities country of Lagos, Nigeria. The information for the survey will merely be collected at one clip point ( cross-sectional ) . The full instrument to be used in the survey will be based on self-report. Given the sensitiveness of the capable affair, pupils may non give the needed information.Chapter IILITERATURE REVIEWThe chapter will reexamine literatures on self-pride, emphasis, equal relationship, depression, integral household, spiritual activity and substance maltreatment. The reappraisal will therefore uncover a causal relationship between the independent, interceding and dependent variables of the survey. In the position of O ‘ Malley, Johnson, Bachman and Schulenberg ( 2000 ) substance maltreatment typically emerges during adolescence. Although there are some gender differences in adolescent substance usage ( Igwe, Ojinnaka, Ejiofor, Emechebe, & A ; Ibe, 2009 ) , available grounds indicate that male striplings use and abuse drugs more than their female opposite numbers. However, female striplings favor stimulations ( Chassin, Ritter, Trim, & A ; King, 2003 ) . Epidemiologic surveies conducted in the present decennary suggest that substance maltreatment symptoms additio n steadily across adolescence peculiarly among female striplings ( Johnson, Cohen, Kotler, Kasen, & A ; Brook, 2002 ) . Earlier literatures based on the comparing of young persons populating in integral versus disrupted households have suggested that life with both parents may hold a protective consequence on stripling substance usage ( Grunbaum, Kann, Kinchen, Williams, & A ; Ross, 2002 ; National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, 2003 ) . More so, late emerging literatures contend that the issue of adolescent substance usage was more complex than originally believed. The impact legion bookmans have argued varies with gender, figure of household passages, quality of relationship with parent, alterations in socioeconomic resources, possible break of equal relationships, and other factors ( Hair, Park, Ling, & A ; Moore, 2009 ; Krohn, Hall, & A ; Lizotte, 2009 ) . Shelef, Diamond, Diamond and Myers ( 2009 ) examined whether having substance usage upset intervention had a differential impact on coffin nail smoke behaviours of mild ( 10 coffin nails per twenty-four hours ) , moderate ( 10-19 ) , and heavy ( 20 ) tobacco users ( smoked on 60 yearss in the past 90 ) utilizing 378 striplings from the Cannabis Youth Treatment survey. Findingss of the survey indicated that mild tobacco users decreased yearss of smoking during intervention and followup, whereas centrist and heavy tobacco users demonstrated a little lessening over intervention, and no alteration over follow-up. More so, the writers noted little lessening among heavy tobacco users during coffin nails per twenty-four hours intervention stage. The findings of the survey affirmed the impression that although smoke may diminish for mild tobacco users, nevertheless moderate and heavy tobacco users require more attending. In add-on, research besides affirm that depressive symptoms and substance usage portion relationships with of import hazard and protective factors, such as parental abnormal psychology, rearing jobs, kid exposure to force, school jobs, sexual activity and love relationships ( Harrison & A ; Sidebottom, 2009 ) . Studies every bit indicate that the developmental path of substance maltreatment symptoms rely chiefly on the age of oncoming, with initial oncoming of substance maltreatment before the age of 15 associated with increasing maltreatment for misss ( Chassin, Pitts, & A ; Prost, 2002 ; Nagin & A ; Tremblay, 2001 ) . Besides, well-known organic structure of research, both longitudinal and cross-sectional has demonstrated that adolescent substance maltreatment and hardship were associated with hapless mental wellness results among grownups ( Grella, Stein, & A ; Greenwell, 2005 ) . Harmonizing to Ramo and Brown ( 2008 ) a major focal point in research analyzing the procedure of dependence impairment has been the word picture of diminution â€Å" determiners, † or contextual characteristics of state of affairss in grownups and striplings after been in intervention for substance maltreatment related jobs. Ramo and Brown ( 2008 ) examined adolescent and big substance maltreatment backsliding utilizing person-centered research attack by Karl Rogers ( 1957 ) in bring outing of import developmental differences in the state of affairss that make striplings and grownups most susceptible to get worse after substance maltreatment intervention. Findingss of the bookmans revealed that both striplings and grownups demonstrated two category agreements of backsliding precursors. Adults were labeled based on societal and urge state of affairss, negative and urges state of affairss. However, adolescent categories were labeled as societal and positive state of affairss an d complex state of affairss. Abundant grounds suggests that engagement in spiritual activities and integral households serve to protect or cut down the hazard of substance usage. Adolescents who attend church or mosque at least one time monthly reportedly may prosecute in smoke or imbibing but are significantly less likely to utilize marihuana and cocaine, compared with those who infrequently or ne'er attend church ( Chu, 2007 ) . Mack, Leiber, Featherstone and Monserud ( 2007 ) noted that individual parents may be less able to supply consistent supervising and monitoring for their kids, so striplings from individual parent families have more chances to experiment with substance usage and other delinquent behaviours in comparing with striplings from two-parent families. Other surveies such as Barrett and Turner ( 2006 ) confirmed the mediating function of the usage and blessing of substances by equals and exposure to emphasize. In the position of Amato and Fowler ( 2002 ) , the place of household kineticss has been examined as both a correlative and a forecaster of adolescent substance usage. Family processes harmonizing to the bookmans act as a signifier of informal societal control that can diminish the chance of delinquent stripling behaviours by plumping chances to take part in aberrant behaviours, while supplying utility pro-social activities and promoting positive development. Available grounds from literatures indicates that female substance maltreatment enlargement is interwoven with antisocial, depressive, and eating upsets symptomatology ( Angold et al. , 1999 ) . Studies therefore denote that substance maltreatment symptoms typically result in the oncoming of other perturbations, particularly antisocial symptoms ( Brook, Cohen, & A ; Brook, 1998 ) . Rohde, Lewinsohn, and Seeley ( 1996 ) discovered that intoxicant maltreatment heralded future depression in female striplings. Research grounds from both earlier and later surveies suggest that striplings who live in an agreement other than with their two biological parents study more substance usage than those who live with both parents ( Wagner et al. , 2010 ; Demuth & A ; Brown, 2004 ) . Harmonizing to Chassin et Al. ( 2005 ) , populating with other people was associated with coffin nail smoke in a sample of largely white, 10 to 17-year-olds, even after commanding for features of rearing manner. Barrett and Turner ( 2006 ) stated that others agreements like life with other non biological parents was associated with elevated DSM-IV substance maltreatment and dependance symptoms, intensified coffin nail smoke ( Miller & A ; Volk, 2002 ) and smoking beginning ( Edelen, Tucker, & A ; Ellickson, 2007 ) . However, the bookmans revealed that the presence of an grownup or older sibling who smoked counteracted the protective consequence of the atomic household. Surveies have repeatedly besides found an opposite relationship between parental monitoring and adolescent substance usage ( Macauly, Griffin, Gronewold, Williams, & A ; Botvin, 2005 ; Parker & A ; Benson, 2004 ) . For case, in an earlier longitudinal survey of urban, Afro-american striplings Chilcoat and Anthony ( 1996 ) found lower quartile of parental monitoring in in-between childhood ( 8 to 10 old ages old ) was about three times more likely to originate the usage of cocaine, marihuana, and inhalants four old ages subsequently. In a survey conducted by Parker and Benson ( 2004 ) lower degrees of parental support ( perceived parental trust, apprehension, equity, and pride ) were associated with increased stripling usage of intoxicant, cocaine and marihuana in a big, ethnically diverse national study. In discrepancy to the above survey, a nationally representative study conducted by Simantov, Schoen and Klein ( 2006 ) revealed that striplings who reported high parental support and frequent communicating were about half as likely to smoke and imbibe as their opposite numbers who reported infrequent communicating and did non place their parents as foundations of encouragement.Chapter IIIMethodologyThe survey will consist junior secondary category three and senior secondary categories one to three pupils from selected schools in Somolu local authorities country of Lagos, Nigeria. Given that substance maltreatment among striplings peculiarly in Nigeria starts from schools. Therefore the school population will be the best topographic point for early sensing and bar of substance maltreatment among striplings ( Okoza et al. , 2009 ; Igwe, Ojinnaka, Ejiofor, Emechebe, & A ; Ibe, 2009 ) . The sample pupils will be drawn from three public schools in Somolu city. The city is a assorted urban-suburban community that is socioeconomically representative of the province population. The sample of pupils was chosen because they provide the most accessible theoretical account of striplings who may hold come in contact with assorted substances while in school. Approval for the survey will be obtained from the Lagos State Ministry of Education and from the principals of take parting schools.3.1.1 LocationThe survey will be conducted in Somolu Local Government country of Lagos. Somolu is bounded by 3rd Mainland Bridge in the East, Bariga in the South, Atunrase Estate in the North and Ikorodu in the West. The country covers about 11.6km2 of land, with an estimated population of 402, 673 people ( Census, 2006 ) . Somolu is a strategic location peculiarly in the widely distributed metropolis of Lagos. It easy links topographic points like Lagos Island, Obalende, Surulere and of clas s Akoka where the University of Lagos is located. The country harbors some of the major markets in Lagos and the oldest secondary school in Nigeria. As a consequence, people from different cultural groups reside in the country.3.1.2 Research DesignThe survey will chiefly be a correlativity survey, aimed at finding the strength and way of relationship between the variables of the survey. It is besides aimed at turn toing concerns such as the extent of substance maltreatment among school traveling striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria.3.1.3 Research Inclusion CriteriaTo be eligible for engagement in the survey, striplings have to be between the ages of 10 and 19 old ages, in line with WHO specified categorization of adolescent age scope. The age scope will farther be divided into early ( 10-13 old ages ) , mid ( 14-16years ) and late ( 17-19 old ages ) in consonant rhyme with earlier surveies conducted by Igwe et Al. ( 2009 ) on the socio-demographic correlatives of psychotropic substa nce maltreatment among secondary school pupils in Enugu State, Nigeria.3.1.4 Research Exclusion CriteriaAdolescent from selected schools in Somolu local authorities below the age of 10years and above the age of 19years as at last birthday will be excluded from the survey.SamplingCluster trying technique will be used to choose a sum of 370 striplings. The trying method was chosen for the survey due to the homogeneousness of the sample. More so, the technique was preferred due to the trouble associated with obtaining a sampling frame. The sample of the survey will consist English-speaking adolescent pupils from Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Owing to the indispensable nature of sample size in the statistical design of any research, it hence became of import to hold equal sample size. This is of import because equal sample size ensured dependable consequences. The reappraisal of literatures suggested that some statistical techniques were effectual in the finding of sample size. These consist of consequence size index, important standard and statistical illation power. Since these parametric quantities are interrelated, if the research worker knows one, it was possible to find the others. There are besides some well-known regulations for finding each parametric quantity, for case when finding the power for a survey, it can be set at.80 ( Cohen, 1988 ) . Another common regulation related to important degrees, harmonizing to Cohen ( 1997 ) was that in most instances a.05 value was acceptable. On the other manus, for two tailed trials, where the alternate hypothesis shows that Ma # Mb, we can conventionally utilize medium Es, assumed as equal to.5. For the intent of the current survey on relationship between self-pride, emphasis, equal relationship, depression, household background and substance maltreatment among striplings in Somolu, Lagos, Nigeria. Krejcie and Morgan ( 1972 ) methodological attack for the finding of sample size was adopted. The expression stated by the bookman is herewith captured below: n = X2 *N*P* ( 1-P ) ( ME2* ( N-1 ) + ( X2*P* ( 1-P ) Where: n = sample size X2 = Chi – square for the specified assurance degree at 1 grade of freedom N = Population size P = Population proportion ( .50 in the tabular array ) ME = Desired border of mistake ( expressed as a proportion ) ( See attached sample size tabular array ) . Therefore, in line with above mentioned parametric quantities, the sample size for the current survey was determined. Basically, a one or two tailed survey depends on old findings, as there was no similar survey at the local degree, the hypothesis will be two-tailed.Data CollectionThe information for the survey will be obtained through self-report instruments administered to pupils in their schoolrooms by a trained research helper utilizing standardised protocols. After reading the instructions to the pupils, the research helper will go around the steps in the schoolroom and will reply any single inquiries about peculiar points. The study will be administered under confidential conditions, and a certification of confidentiality protecting the information will be obtained from the Lagos State Ministry of Education. Students will be instructed non to compose their name on the study and will be assured that their replies will be purely confidential and would non be shown to their parents or instructors. Methodological research has shown that when participants are assured of their confidentiality, self-reports of substance maltreatment normally have good cogency ( Patrick et al. , 1994 ) . An approximative clip of disposal of instruments on participants of the survey will be determined during the pilot survey of the current research.3.4 InstrumentsThe instrument brochure for the current survey will incorporate a combination of gages and single points designed to mensurate background features such as age, ethnicity, household composing ( integral, divorced or detached households ) , and other variables such as self-esteem, emphasis, equal relationship, depression and substance maltreatment.Substance maltreatmentSubstance maltreatment will be measured with the 20item Drug Abuse Screening Test ( DAST : Skinner, 1982 ) . The mark of DAST scopes from 0-20 with high mark stand foring substance maltreatment.StressStress will be measured by the Perceived Stress Scale ( PSS ) ( Cohen, 1983 ) , a 14 point self study questionnaire designed to mensurate the grade to which state of affairss in life are appraised as stressful. The tonss of the PSS are obtained by change by reversaling the tonss on positive points and so summing all the tonss of the 14 points. The PSS graduated table tonss range from 0 to 56 with high mark stand foring high societal emphasis.Self EsteemThe 10-item Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale ( Rosenberg, 1965 ) will be used to measure planetary self-pride, with higher tonss bespeaking positive dignity. Each point will be scored on a 4-point Likert graduated table runing from 1 = strongly agree to 4= strongly disagree.DepressionChildren Depression Inventory ( CDI: Kovacs, 1985 ) will be used to measure depressive symptomatology with higher tonss bespeaking high depressive sy mptomatology. The CDI consists of feelings and thoughts grouped into 27 points. The graduated table tonss range from 0 to 54.Peer relationshipPeer relationship questionnaire ( PRQ: Rigby & A ; Slee, 1993 ) will be used to mensurate equal dealingss. The PRQ has three subscales: intimidation, equal victimization, and pro-social graduated table. The instrument is used for kids between the ages of 12 to 18year and consist of 20 points scored on a 4-point graduated table, runing from Never 1, Once in a piece 2, Pretty frequently 3, and Very frequently 4.3.5 Data AnalysissIn analysing the information, the internal consistence of the graduated tables ( correlativity ) points will be measured utilizing Cronbach ‘s Alpha. The trial is undisputedly the most normally recognized step of dependability. Each subdivision of the questionnaire will be calculated individually. Before continuing into the reported tonss of the overall responses to each step, attending will foremost be given to th e normalcy of the informations distribution. The information will be inspected utilizing graphical shows such as histogram, root and foliage secret plan, box-plot and normal chance secret plan. The overall mean tonss for all the respondents along with standard divergence value will besides be calculated. In line with the aims of the survey, Independent sample t trial will be used to analyze difference, Pearson correlativity will be used to find the relationship between variables and hierarchal arrested development analyses used examine mediation.