1. 1 Undergraduate Studies ePortfolio Jeannie M. Weltzin Argosy 2011

2. Jeannie M. Weltzin

3. Personal Statement Personal Statement In my life I have gone through some major ups and downs but I have always found a way to come out on top with hard work and endurance. My children have made a huge difference in my life and I prosper to be a good role model for them in all that I do. I am a widowed mother of two wonderful children and I have also raised my youngest sister for the last several years because her parents were not capable of doing so. I not only give 100% to my children but I also give 100% to everything that I do. Upon becoming a widowed mother of two I have decided to become the person that I want to be and not the person that others think I should be. Education has become a very important part of my life for the last five years and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I have reached some of my goals but I have a long way to go to get to where I want to be. I received my A.A. in Liberal Arts at Clinton Community College in Clinton Iowa with a concentration in Psychology. While obtaining this degree I worked full time as a waitress because I enjoy working with the public. For the last year and a half I have been working towards my B.A. in Psychology at Argosy University with a concentration on psychology and criminal justice. I enjoy learning and I also enjoy incorporating what I have learned into my daily life. I have worked with the public for many years as a waitress and host at local restaurants while also building relationships with my customers and co-workers. In 2004 I was diagnosed with Thyroid cancer and was told that I would have to have my Thyroid removed. While in a hospital that was two hours from my home I was visited by customers that I had been waiting on for several years. Upon returning to my workplace I was greeted by many customers and fellow employees that had taken a collection for me in order to help me with the bills that I had acquired while I was off work. It amazed me and it amazed my husband that I had made such an impact on other people’s lives while being a waitress. My philosophy is if you have a frown I will turn it upside down by the time you leave my presence. I have always had a great relationship with the public and I strive to be a good citizen in my community. I volunteer for the local Visually Impaired Group of Clinton Iowa and I have also done volunteer work for the Big Brothers Big Sisters group of Clinton Iowa. In the past I have also taken my children and myself to the local benevolence society and volunteered to serve Thanksgiving dinner to the less fortunate. I enjoy doing volunteer work and I have signed up to volunteer for the local Hospice group in Clinton Iowa. In the past several years I have also taken in two families and helped them get back on their feet. The first family was a mother and two children and they are doing very well at this time. The second family is a mother and her four year old daughter and they are currently still living with my children and I while the mother works on her education. I strive to prosper in every part of my life. This includes my children, my education, and my work. My plan is to continue my education and incorporate my knowledge into a career that involves Psychology and Criminal Justice. I also plan to continue my education with the Masters program at Argosy University with a major in Forensic Psychology. At the same time I plan to seek employment that will give me the experience that I will need to continue a career in Psychology and Criminal Justice. I have always had a knack for doing things that are physically challenging. If there is a project that needs to be done at my work place or my home that involves building or design I am the first to volunteer. I enjoy yard work, gardening, building, designing and constructing. I have lived in two new homes in the past five years and I designed both homes myself. I am also very versed in electrical installation and plumbing installation. I have always said that with the right knowledge anyone can do anything they put their minds to and that is how I live my life. Jeannie M. Weltzin

4. Resume Jeannie M. Weltzin 1916 12th Street, Camanche, IA 52730 (563) 259-4388 Objective Entry-level human resources position in Psychological Development Education B.A. in Psychology, Argosy University April 2011 A.A., Clinton Community College, December 2008, Major: Psychology GPA: 3.52/4.0 Minor: Criminal Justice Psychology-Related Courses: Developmental, Social, Behavioral, Organizational Psychology, Sociology, Philosophy, Human Relations, and Criminal Justice. Professional Experience September 2007- November 2008 Customer Service (Waitress)/ Cashier (Host) Patrick’s Steak House Clinton, Iowa Responsibilities: greeted customers promptly and courteously, maintained a pleasant work environment, balanced cash draw, and kept work station and entire restaurant clean. March 2001- September 2007 Customer Service (Waitress)/ Cashier (Host) Frontier Restaurant, Clinton, Iowa Responsibilities: greeted customers promptly and courteously, maintained a pleasant work environment, balanced cash draw, banquet services, kept a clean work station, decorated, organized bus staff and organized storage facilities. July 1994- December 2000 Factory Laborer, International Paper of Clinton, Iowa Responsibilities: inspected materials, packaged, machine maintenance, and general machine operations. Other positions include maintenance department and assistant operator of machinery. Activities Served Thanksgiving dinner to the less fortunate at the Clinton, Iowa Benevolent Society Volunteered for the Clinton Visually Impaired Group.

5. Reflection Reflection of your education including your strengths and weaknesses identified last week using the SSAL Although education seemed to be unattainable for me for many years I have found that knowledge can be very rewarding. Being an unconventional student I have fully enjoyed the process of getting a great education through my junior college Clinton Community College and Argosy Universities undergraduate program. I started my college education in 2006 and I am proud to say that April of 2011 I will be graduating from Argosy University with a B.A. in Psychology. It has not always been easy for me because I have many obstacle's that I have had to overcome to get to where I am today. Education has become the center of my life and that is where I intend to keep it. Mathematics has always been a sore subject for me but with the help of some great instructors and wonderful tutors I have gained a much better understanding of mathematical terms. I have also gained a great understanding of the APA guidelines for writing and ethics during my educational experiences in the Argosy Undergraduate program. I have always been a good writer even though sometimes I do not have as much faith in my work as others have had. I have enjoyed the interactions that I have gained while studying with the Argosy teaching staff and fellow students. I do not believe in complaining or excuses for my performance therefore I always prosper to do my very best at every assignment that I attain. I have also gained great knowledge on how to obtain research for the papers that have been assigned to me. All in all I enjoy learning and I have found that if I am not learning new things and re-enforcing old knowledge I become very bored and anxious to start learning again.

6. Table of Contents Cognitive Abilities

7. Crimes and Causes PSY493Jeannie M. WeltzinArgosy University Marsha and Liam Marsha and Liam are thinking about becoming parents and they have gone in to their doctor for a physical to ensure their healthy before they conceive. Marsha has been diagnosed with HPV and both Liam and Marsha are questioning how Marsha contracted the STI. It is most likely that Marsha contracted HPV through sexual relations with her husband because she claims to have been a virgin before having sexual relations with her husband. “HPV is transmitted through skin contact.”(Argosy 2011) HPV is also a silent virus that people can have and pass on to others without any knowledge of having the virus. “The virus is difficult to detect in men, and affects the female genital tract more seriously than the male.”(Argosy 2011) The most important thing to remember while dealing with this STI is that HPV can be spread from person to person without any signs of the infection. In any case women normally are checked by a gynecologist yearly therefore it is most likely that Marsha would be diagnosed before Liam ever has any signs of the infection. There is no cure for HPV at this time. Regular checkups with a physician are recommended for any woman that is infected with the virus to ensure that abnormal cells have not formed. “A recently developed vaccine for one of the main cancer-causing strains, HPV-16, is found to be effective. Late detection and delayed treatment of HPV can result in infertility and the need for serious surgical remedies.”(Argosy 2011) Although it is important to remember that the vaccine is not a cure and it must be administer before one has been infected with HPV. Marsha’s best treatment is to see her physician regularly. “Recently, the Food and Drug Administration also approved a new approach to cervical cancer screening for women 30 years of age and older: the use of the HPV test in conjunction with the Pap test.”(Hock p. 285). She should also be on the lookout for any genital warts that could occur so that she can get them removed before giving birth to her children in order to ensure the child is not infected with the virus. In some cases abnormal cells can form that could cause cancer therefore regular pap tests are necessary to ensure that Marsha does not form cervical cancer. If the couple continues to stay monogamous and there are no outbreaks of warts it is possible for the body’s nature immune system to ward off the virus. “Perhaps most important, HPV may be spread without any obvious signs of infection. However, often, after one to two years without a recurrence of warts or re-infection by a partner, the body’s immune system will clear the body of the virus in 90 percent of women and girls.”(Hock p. 284). The best way for the couple to prevent future outbreaks is to use condoms and not have sexual relations if genital warts are present. They should use precautions while having sexual relations orally and anally as well. It is important to use protection while touching any part of the body that may be infected with the virus in order to keep from spreading the virus from one area of the body to another. If genital warts are present it is a good idea to get them removed by a physician in order to prevent the spread of the STI. “Accurate, scientific information about safe sex and the knowledge about the effectiveness of condoms may have the best chance of success in preventing the transmission of STIs.”(Argosy 2011) If the couple decides to start their family it is important for them to watch for any signs of genital warts on both partners. This will ensure not only that Marsha does not form genital warts but if Liam should happen to have an outbreak of genital wart he could transfer them to Marsha while she is pregnant. “In pregnant women with genital warts, surgical removal is recommended to prevent transmission to the infant during delivery.”(Hock p. 284). If this couple is serious about having children then they should be serious about their sexual health as well.

8. Human Sexuality PSY304 Jeannie M. WeltzinArgosy University Case Study Anthony and Sasha have a problem that happens often in couples that have been together for many years. Their relationship has in fact been a very good relationship but the basis of their sexual relationship has always been centralized around sexual intercourse. Because of the nature of their sexual relationship Anthony and Sasha have come to a point in their life together where sexual intercourse does not fill their sexual desire and they need help in finding ways to satisfy their partner without sexual intercourse being necessary. The first technique that could be used in this case is drug therapy which could help both partners to enjoy sexual stimulation in a more traditional way. Prescription drugs such as Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis can help a man retain sexual arousal for time period from 4 hours to 36 hours. “Sildenafil (Viagra), vardenafil (Levitra) and tadalafil (Cialis) are all medications that reverse erectile dysfunction by increasing nitric oxide, a chemical naturally produced by your body. Nitric oxide opens and relaxes blood vessels in the penis, helping you get and keep an erection. These erectile dysfunction medications don't increase your sex drive, though, and cause erections only when you are sexually stimulated” (Mayo Clinic Staff 2010). Although these drugs have been known to help with erectile dysfunction there are side effects that may occur such as headaches, flushing, back pain and indigestion along with many other more serious side affect that should be watched for. For female sexual dysfunction there are also some drug therapy options such as estrogen therapy and androgen therapy. “Hormonal therapies won't resolve sexual problems that have causes unrelated to hormones. Because the issues surrounding female sexual dysfunction are usually complex and multifaceted, even the best medications are unlikely to work if other emotional or social factors remain unresolved” (Mayo Clinic Staff 2010). There are also creams and oils on the market that can help with lubrication during sexual activities that can also help women to enjoy sexual activities during and after menopause. Another method that may work in helping Anthony and Sasha’s sexual stimulation is cognitive behavioral therapy. “Cognitive-behavioral therapy- A therapeutic approach designed to gradually eliminate specific thoughts and associated behaviors that may be contributing to sexual problems” (Human Sexuality, Pearson Learning Solutions Hock 2010). Which cognitive-behavioral therapy Anthony and Sasha could learn new methods and techniques that could improve their sexually intimate relationship. This form of therapy could help both parties understand that sexual relations does not have to include intercourse and that both parties can be sexually satisfied without intercourse. “These approaches to overcoming low-desire problems have been shown to result in relatively high rates of success for both increasing sexual desire and enhancing overall relationship satisfaction”(Human Sexuality. Pearson Learning Solutions Hock 2010). A third method that could be used in Anthony and Sasha’s situation is to educate the couple about sexually stimulating products that could assist in their sexual pleasures. These products include vibrators, oils and pumps for male enhancement. Some of these products may not work as well as advertised but in situations such as these practice and experimentation make for a fun and exciting sexual experience that the couple may enjoy. The couple may also be counseled in techniques that can enhance their sexual pleasure and make intercourse less relevant in the sexual behaviors. One such technique may be tantric sexual techniques which help a couple to bond with each other. “Both partners must be committed to learning and practicing the techniques of Tantric sex. A great deal of the emphasis is on breathing exercises, meditation, yoga, massage, and even dance as part of the process leading up to making love”(Human Sexuality. Pearson Learning Solutions Hock 2010). With massage techniques along with other sexually enhancing techniques this couple could find out that sex does not only have to be about intercourse and that there are many pleasures that can be had from experimentation. With the help of drug therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, sexually stimulating products education and sexual techniques Anthony and Sasha may find something that is much more exciting and sexually enhancing than just intercourse. In this quest it is important for the couple not only to find more ways to become sexually aroused rather they should also find ways to know their partner on many levels. I believe that the loving relationship that this couple has will help them to find new and improved ways of satisfying their partner’s needs.

9. Research skills

10. Psychology and Criminal JusticeJeannie M. WeltzinArgosy 2011 The Death Penalty The death penalty is a tough topic for many people to communicate their true feelings. During a telephone interview with a fellow classmate it has become apparent that one’s true feelings about this issue are not only difficult to communicate but they are also emotionally trying to communicate. In many cases one may think that they are certain of their feelings and views on this topic but then their views may be changed by an event that may affect their own lives. All in all the interviews seemed to go in the same direction and my fellow classmate had the same opinions and feelings about the death penalty. In today’s society the death penalty has been very controversial because of mistakes of the past. “Since 1900, 416 people were wrongfully convicted of murder and sentenced to death. In 23 of those cases, an innocent person was executed. Causes of error included police error, prosecutor errors, witness error, misleading circumstantial evidence, forensic science errors, incompetent defense lawyers, exculpatory evidence that was ruled inadmissible, insufficient attention to alibis, and pressure created by community outrage” (Argosy 2011 lecture pg. 3 of 4). Because of today’s advances in technology many of these cases have been overturned because of evidence that was unable to be processed with the technologies of the past. There have also been many issues with capital case convictions being biased in the past. These issues have been gradually dealt with in the current criminal justice system but in order for these issues to be fully dealt with there must be a color, gender, and cultural blindness in our society. Unfortunately just advising a jury not to be biased could never fully sway a jury from being biased in one way or the other. One of the major issues that American’s deal with is what crimes should be punishable by death. “Aggravated murder is the only crime punishable by death. It includes murder for hire, murder of more than one person, murder of a police officer, murder of a child, and murder during the commission of another felony. Under federal law, capital crimes include engaging in treason and espionage, murdering a government official, using a weapon of mass destruction, and sending bombs or other lethal weapons through the U.S. mail” (Argosy 2011 lecture pg. 1 of 4). There are three methods used in the United States for executions today. These methods are lethal injection, the electric chair and the gas chamber. “Seeking a more humane method of execution than hanging, New York built the first electric chair in 1888 and executed William Kemmler in 1890”(Death penalty information center pg. 1 2010). Although the electric chair did work it causes extreme pain to the convict. “In 1924, the use of cyanide gas was introduced as Nevada sought a more humane way of executing its inmates. Gee Jon was the first person executed by lethal gas” (Death penalty information center pg. 1 2010). Although this using the gas chamber did work it also caused the convict extreme pain. “In 1977, Oklahoma became the first state to adopt lethal injection as a means of execution, though it would be five more years until Charles Brooks would become the first person executed by lethal injection in Texas on December 2, 1982”(Death penalty information center pg.1 2010). Although all three methods are still used in the United States today the most used and most humane way of execution is lethal injection. If performed properly lethal injection merely allows the convict to fall asleep and then pavulon or pancuronium bromide, which paralyzes the entire muscle system and stops the inmate's breathing are administered to finish the job. Of these three methods lethal injection is the least painful and cleanest method of execution today.

11. Human SexualityJeannie M. WeltzinArgosy 2011 Commercialization of Sex Why do you think Marsha’s interest in sex has diminished even though she has recovered physically? Do you think she is tired as she claims, or is there some other reason she is not interested in sex? Although Marsha is recovered physically from child birth she could be displaying signs of postpartum depression. This would explain her symptoms of tiredness and noninterest in sexual activity. E medicine health pg. 2 states that symptoms of postpartum depression could include: sad mood, frequent crying, lack of pleasure or interest in activities that once gave pleasure, sleep disturbance, weight loss, loss of energy, agitation or anxiety, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, trouble concentrating or making decisions, thoughts of death or suicide, decreased interest in sex, and feelings of rejection. There is also the possibility that Marsha could just be tired from the added responsibility of taking care of a child. Often times when a child is brought into the mix the caretaker becomes tired because of the constant interruptions until their body is used to the changes. It is also possible that after having their child Marsha has found sexual relations to be painful and uncomfortable. Based on your learning from the previous week’s reading and lectures, what are the three possible physiological, psychological, emotional, or relationship causes of Marsha’s diminished interest in sex after childbirth. In Marsha’s case because she is an older mother she may seriously be tired because of the physical strain that taking care of a new born child can cause. She may also be experiencing physical changes in her body because she is so close to menopause. Another possibility may be that Marsha is feeling depressed because she has decided to stay home with her new born instead of returning to work. It is hard for women who have spent so much time building their careers to stay home and not have the day to day interactions with people that have the same interests. Differentiate between Marsha’s half-hearted attempts at placating Liam with oral sex after receiving flowers and gifts and the “hand job” Liam receives from a paid sex worker. Give your views on the statement that sexual favors are exchanged for many other reasons besides love and affection. When Marsha performs oral sex on Liam it is because she loves her husband and wants him to be satisfied. Her willingness to satisfy her husband should be rewarded by his willingness to satisfy her. Liam’s actions with the prostitute should have been avoided because of his love for his wife. It is understandable that Liam may have feelings of rejection because Marsha is not willing to have sex with him but the best way to work through this situation would be for Liam to talk to Marsha and not for him to outsource for sexual favors. Describe the advantages of legalized prostitution as opposed to illegal prostitution. There are many advantages to legal prostitution. One of the most important advantages would be that if prostitution were legal there would be more regulations that must be followed while performing sexual favors. This would give the government the right to monitor whether or not prostitutes are using protection while involved in sexual activities. Another advantage would be taxation of prostitution which would provide more funding towards research into sexually transmitted diseases. Today because prostitution is illegal in most of the United States it is hard to regulate the use of protection while involved in sexual activities. If Liam were a carrier of HPV, analyze the chances of HPV transmission to the prostitute if Liam doesn’t wear a condom. If Liam does not use a condom while receiving a hand job form the prostitute it is possible for the prostitute to contract HPV because it is a disease that is transferred through skin contact. Even if Liam is not suffering from an outbreak of warts at the time of his sexual activities with the prostitute it is still likely that the prostitute could contract HPV. It is best not to take any chances when it comes to sexually transmitted disease and if Liam does not wear a condom then I would advise the prostitute to wear protection on her hands.

12. Communication skills

13. Interview QuestionsInterviewer: Jeannie M. WeltzinInterviewee: Teresa Wills Do you approve of the Death Penalty? Yes and No! There have been a lot of mistakes made in the past because of faulty technology, biases, and procedural complications. In some cases I do believe that the death penalty should be used especially when a child is involved. Is there another method or approach that you deem to be better than the death penalty? No, I cannot think of an alternative to the death penalty because if someone has committed a crime that warrants the death penalty then that is what they should get. What do you think should be done with the death penalty? It should continue to be a possibility for those who commit crimes that warrant the death penalty. I believe that there should be some changes in the procedures such as the ways in which it is carried out. I agree with the use of lethal injection but I do not agree with the use of the electric chair or the gas chamber. What crimes do you believe warrant the death penalty? Murder and Crimes against children are the two that I can think of at this time. I believe that sometimes they are too easy on criminals in these cases. What forms of execution should there be if any? Lethal Injection! Would you be willing to serve on a capital case jury? Yes, but they may not like my input! Do you believe that the death penalty is a biased process? Yes, I believe that in most cases they look towards low income and lower class individuals as suspects. What could be done to eliminate biased decisions? People need to stop looking at color, gender and other factors that may cause biased decisions. They should also concentrate more on the evidence than the person that is being accused. Do you believe that with our advances in technology that people sentenced to the death penalty are the perpetrators of the crimes that they are accused of? Yes as long as bias is not involved. If evidence points to one specific person in a capital case do you believe that the evidence should be reviewed by a third party that is not involved in the case in order to be certain of the evidence probability? Yes, The more that we know and are certain of the evidence the better. Do you believe that the death penalty sways people from committing capital crimes? It could but I don’t think that it does. I believe that appeals processes and other hold ups get in the way. I believe that there should be one decision and that is it! All judgments should be final!

14. Light House Institution We are keeping the cuffs off and the lights on for those who commit to making a change in their lives.

15. Mission Statement In today’s society many people lose their way. We are working together with the community to improve the lives of those who have lost their way. Criminal activities can be linked to societal influences that can be changed and managed to make our communities a much safer and happier place for everyone. People who are involved in criminal activities can be rehabilitated rather than incarcerated. Our organization helps those who can be rehabilitated re-enter the community and become an asset to our society. These are times when our society is learning more and more about the influences that can cause criminal behavior. This said with the proper tools a member of the society that has strayed can be re-habilitated and reintroduced into our society as a reformed member of the community. Our mission is to help those who have lost their way through criminal behavior and reform their behaviors into new behaviors that can become an asset to the community. This program is different from other incarceration programs because we serve the community from the beginning to the end of our client’s criminal acts. We work in conjunction with the court systems to help our client’s re-habilitate from the legal aspects to the medical aspects of re-habilitation.

16. Services Mental Illness Programs- Our facility help those with mental illnesses get the psychological and medical help that they need to re-enter society. Pretrial Services- We help our client’s obtain the documentations that they need to enter our facility and commit to our program. Drug and Alcohol Programs- We help our client’s overcome drug and alcohol addictions by teaching them the proper tools that they will need to become an asset to the community. Specialized Programs- Our specialized programs help the families of our client’s to deal with the transitions that may take place during the client’s stay at our facility and after the client’s release. Community Service Programs- Community service programs are set in place to help our client’s understand what it means to be an asset to the community. This part of our program helps our clients find new ways of giving to the community. Defender Based Advocacy- Our facility provides legal representation for our client’s that are committed to the program.

17. Ethics & Diversity Awareness

18. Crimes and Causes Jeannie M. WeltzinArgosy University Determining the State of Poverty In our advancing society the relevance of poverty and crime in the United States is an issue that must be addressed by our governmental agencies. Although technology has made our lives more comfortable it has also made many lives needy of government and local programs to help when poverty takes hold. “The 2009 ACS data indicate an estimated 14.3 percent of the U.S. population had income below their poverty threshold in the past 12 months”(U.S. Department of Commerce Economics and Statistics Administration U.S. CENSUS BUREAU 2010). Many people in our communities have lost employment because of the advances in technology and the lack of employment for manual labor. Crime level have risen and fallen in the past because of the lack of employment, governmental programs, education, and local programs that could help a displaced employee find new and adequate employment. “As of the end of Fiscal Year 2009, a total of 79,210 criminal matters were pending, a decrease of 1,852, or two percent, when compared to the prior year. Of these, 8,069, or 10 percent, were matters where the defendant was a fugitive, was in a Pre-trial Diversion Program, was in a mental institution, or was unknown”(UNITED STATES ATTORNEYS’ ANNUAL STATISTICAL REPORT FISCAL YEAR 2009). As of 2009 the levels of crime have decreased because of the governmental and local programs that have been put into place to help people find employment, education, and their general survival needs. “In the 2009 ACS, 18.9 percent of people in the United States had income less than 125 percent of their poverty threshold, compared to 17.6 percent in the 2008 ACS”(U.S. Department of Commerce Economics and Statistics Administration U.S. CENSUS BUREAU 2010). This correlation of a decrease in crime and an increase in poverty is most likely due to the increase in governmental and local programs that have been put into place to help people survive in our communities. In an effort to improve the status of people that have found themselves in a poverty situation it is important to continue offering educational, employment, and general needs programs to people in our communities. Programs such as food assistance, financial ad, child care, housing assistance, and medical assistance should be accompanied by job training, and educational programs. Knowledge is the best tool for people in poverty. Instead of allowing people in poverty to work the system the system should find ways to work the people. If a women complains that she cannot work because she needs to stay home and raise her children she should be enrolled in an online work and educational program. Men who complain that they cannot work because of an injury that was acquired in the work place should also be enrolled in online and educational programs that could help them find a new job that will suit their needs. The theories that have been introduced in this module have been informative. The correlation of crime and poverty can be debated because the levels of crime and poverty have not shown to have proven these theories. The social Darwinism theory could prove true to some cases of poverty but if our government and our local communities put force in place to prevent this behavior the levels of poverty will decrease. “The poor are considered the "dangerous class," the potential criminals and deviants, threatening the social order and the economically well off”(Argosy 2010). This theory concludes that people that are subjected to poverty are not able to rise from the poverty levels that they are accustomed to which may have been true in the past but in today’s society there are so many opportunities for people in poverty to rise from poverty levels. The Structural Poverty theory is the theory that is closest to the truth for the society that we live in today. “Structural theories (Sennet & Cobb, 1972) view poverty as a natural by-product of social structure and its economic institutions”(Argosy 2010). In order to help individuals rise from the poverty level there must be structure that can help them improve their situations. In order to accomplish this people must be given the opportunities to improve their status in our society through programs that can help them prosper. Situational poverty has become one theory that could become a thing of the past. While there is still a high level of poverty in our society government programs and local program of today and future programs of tomorrow will hopefully introduce new methods of decreasing poverty. Education programs that have been put into place by the government to help young poor people can spark the interests of people who desire to rise from the poverty level. Although poverty will most likely never be a thing of the past it is possible to lower the poverty level with programs that can help individuals improve their lives. In the United States the government and local programs that have been put into place for people in poverty should be improved to allow individuals not only to stay in poverty but to rise above poverty. Educational and job training programs coupled with welfare programs can help the individuals that are living in poverty improve their lives significantly. It should be made apparent to those in poverty that our society does not want them to stay in poverty rather our society encourages them to improve their status through education.

19. Crimes and Causes PSY493 Jeannie M. WeltzinArgosy University Fragmentation in the Society "Some argue that the fragmentation of life in the United States leads to social pathology. We all can be replaced in our work by any other person who can do the job. Specialization is so atomized that people working next to each other don't understand what each is doing. Time is lived by the clock, not lived qua living." What would Emile Durkheim say about this issue if he lived in our society today? Would Durkheim be surprised at the ways that things had turned out in the world? Although Durkheim argued that the division of labor was not necessarily a bad move for society he did not expect labor to become as atomized as it has. Durkheim’s Division of Labor theory did however predict that the specialization of labor forces would positively enrich the world that we live in because in order to obtain a fully functioning world there must be specialized forces that benefit other forces. This is true for individuals in the garbage removal industry all the way to the people who run our government. Durkheim also concluded that without specialized forces the world would fall into an in moral state of existence. Has this happened? In some cases “yes” but in most cases specialization of the workforce has made life easier and more valuable for the world as we know it. This is best said in one of Durkheim’s quotes: "But not only does the division of labor present the character by which we have defined morality; it more and more tends to become the essential condition of social solidarity. As we advance in the evolutionary scale, the ties which bind the individual to his family, to his native soil, to traditions which the past has given to him, to collective group usages, become loose. More mobile, he changes his environment more easily, leaves his people to go elsewhere to live a more autonomous existence, to a greater extent forms his own ideas and sentiments. Of course, the whole common conscience does not, on this account, pass out of existence. At least there will always remain this cult of personality, of individual dignity of which we have just been speaking, and which, today, is the rallying-point of so many people. But how little a thing it is when one contemplates the ever increasing extent of social life, and, consequently, of individual consciences! For, as they become more voluminous, as intelligence becomes richer, activity more varied, in order for morality to remain constant, that is to say, in order for the individual to remain attached to the group with a force equal to that of yesterday, the ties which bind him to it must become stronger and more numerous. If, then, he formed no others than those which come from resemblances, the effacement of the segmental type would be accompanied by a systematic debasement of morality. Man would no longer be sufficiently obligated; he would no longer feel about and above him this salutary pressure of society which moderates his egoism and makes him a normal being. This is what gives moral value to the division of labor. Through it, the individual becomes cognizant of his dependence upon society; from it come the forces which keep him in check and restrain him. In short, since the division of labor becomes the chief source of social solidarity, it becomes, at the same time, the foundation of the moral order"(The Division of Labor 1933, p. 400-401). Education has become a very important part of the world as we know it. People are more encourage every day to continue their education and find a specialty of their own. It seems that even to get an entry level position as a factory laborer a person must have at least their high school diploma. Advances in technology have brought our great nation to a point where education is the pathway to tomorrow. In Durkheim’s time education was not as needed to establish ones livelihood. One could quit school at an early age and still find the means to support their own families in the work world. Separation has also become an issue in our great nation. Whereas in Durkheim’s time children did not leave the family home as readily as children leave their family homes in today’s society. The separation of family causes more jobs to be deemed necessary for our nation to function accordingly. Our fragmented, busy, high-paced society would not surprise Emile Durkheim in the least because in his time he could see where our world was going. One quote that may have shown that Durkheim could foresee fragmentation of our society is: “Not only is individualism distinct from anarchy; but it is henceforth the only system of beliefs which can ensure the moral unity of the country” (In His Own Words: [1898 1975, p. 66). One may believe that many in our world today have higher and more advanced expectations then they may have in the past. This is true and with technical advances our world will most likely continue to be a fragmented, busy, high-paces society but at the same time every individual needs to remember to stop and smell the roses because life only happens once. Taking on the world does not mean forgetting to live. Do what you must but remember to take time to enjoy the benefits of what you have earned in life.

20. Human SexualityJeannie M. WeltzinArgosy 2011 BDSM Practices BDSM is made up of several behaviors that are used during sexual activities to derive sexual pleasures. The B in BDSM signifies bondage which is the restraining of yourself or your partner for sexual pleasure. When bondage is used one partner plays the dominant role and the other takes a submissive role in order to stimulate sexual arousal. The D in BDSM signifies discipline which involves inflicting pain on a partner or having a partner inflict pain on you for your sexual pleasure. This leads to the final two behaviors in BDSM which are sadism and masochism. Sadism is causing pain in order to arouse sexual pleasure and masochism is receiving pain from ones partner in order to arouse sexual pleasures. “Some players — those who engage in BDSM — describe their experiences as a consensual power exchange, an erotic psychodrama, or an erotically charged exercise in trust and submission” (Argosy, 2011). Research on BDSM is hard to collect because most people who are involved in the activities of BDSM are not willing to share their sexual preference with others. This fear is the resolve of the unwillingness to let others who may look done on their behavior know what is going on behind closed doors. “There is also some indication that the seemingly expanding interest in BDSM may be related to fears about HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections (STI), because most BDSM activities, although potentially arousing, cannot expose a person to STIs” (Argosy, 2011). In many cases BDSM does not include sexual intercourse which protects the participant from sexually transmitted diseases. William’s opinion of BDSM is quite common in many religious and ethical backgrounds. “By all indications, and in many books such as Wiseman’s classic SM 101, persons interested in and practicing these activities come from every social, cultural, and ethnic background and gender orientation and also tend to be well educated and in comfortable economic circumstances” (Argosy, 2011). Although these people are involved in BDSM they do not display their interest for the world to see. Because William is not educated in the practices of BDSM his opinion is biased. The difference between abuse and BDSM can be explained in one word and that word is consent. In order to properly be involved in BDSM it is important that all persons give consent before the activities begin. If consent is given and all persons know what is going to be done during the activity it cannot be defined as abuse. “BDSM players use the phrase “Safe, Sane, and Consensual” (SSC) or “Risk-Aware Consensual Kink” (RACK) to describe their approach to these activities” (Argosy, 2011). There are rules to performing these activities in a safe manner and they should be followed by all participants. Consent is an important part of BDSM activities. People who participate in these activities do not participate without some knowledge of the activities to be initiated. As long as Jason is participating in BDSM activities that are consensual there should be no problems with his participation. “BDSM activities do not rise to the level of being a diagnosable disorder per the DSM-IV-TR unless it interferes with the individual’s life functioning” (Argosy, 2011). If Jason can only function sexually if he is involved in some form of BDSM then his behavior is still not totally diagnosable. “Research beginning with Kinsey’s — refer to your required text — suggests that at any time, nearly a quarter of sexually active adults intentionally or unintentionally experimented with some form of BDSM” (Argosy, 2011). Some research has stated that it is possible that up to 50% of people perform in some sort of BDSM during sexual activities.

21. Knowledge of foundations of the field

22. Crimes and Causes PSY493Jeannie M. WeltzinArgosy University Durkheim's Notions of Anomie and Suicide What is the definition of social psychology: “Social psychology: The study of the mind and mental processes, particularly as regards social interactions, focusing on the ways our actions influence others, and vice versa” (http://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=14002). Durkheim’s notions of anomie and suicide can be mind boggling at best. In this paper the goal is to attain a socio-psychological perspective that can help one understand the meanings of Durkheim’s quote in a social perspective. The first quote by Durkheim that one could analyze is: "From top to bottom of the ladder, greed is aroused without knowing where to find ultimate foothold. Nothing can calm it, since its goal is far beyond all it can attain. Reality seems valueless by comparison with the dreams of fevered imaginations; reality is therefore abandoned" (http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/e/emiledurkh154843.html). Is the top of the ladder a place where every individual wishes to be? In many cases the top of the ladder is the last place where individuals wish to be and this is why our society works in the ways that it does. Social value does not come from the ability to reach the top of the ladder rather it comes from the ability to be happy where one is on the ladder. If one cannot be happy with their social status in life they aspire to climb the ladder and if they cannot reach their goals they either become happy with their place in society or they do not. In Durkheim’s quote he speaks of one’s fall from the top of the ladder to the bottom. In every person’s life this fall can present fear, anxiety, and anger. In the social context this fall could mean alienation from the rest of the world as one knows it. If one falls from the top of the ladder or the top of society as they know it they may loss all hold on the greed that they may have at one time possessed and may not be capable of finding a new foothold on life. Nothing can tame the feelings of worthlessness, social castration, and hopelessness because ones goals of climbing back up the ladder seem so unattainable. Reality becomes unbearable for the individual, and the world of dreams and non-reality can become ones only reality causing an individual to abandon the real world and become engrossed in a world of lies. This is why people who are born and raised in a specific setting can find themselves grasping at reality if their setting and social status are changed in a dramatic way. This not only applies to an individual falling down the ladder but in many cases it also can apply to individuals climbing up the ladder. In a time when the world is turning from an agricultural society to an industrial society the affect on the individual can be great because of the pressures that society can put on an individual to conform to its standards. The second quote by Durkheim that one could analyze is: "It is too great comfort which turns a man against himself. Life is most readily renounced at the time and among the classes where it is least harsh."(http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/e/emiledurkh154844.html). What can turn a man against himself? Some things may come to mind such as loss of social standing such as job, family, community, and financial security or the loss of one’s health. These are all things that can alter the life of an individual and render them victims of their own minds. “According to Durkheim, because a functional social system — like a biological organism — has needs that involve the health, welfare, safety, security, and maintenance of its structure, such a system must ensure that these needs are met (Coser, 1977)”(Argosy 2010). If these needs are not met the individuals of a society can turn on themselves and become engrossed in non-realities rather than the realities of life. When one feels socially alienated it becomes easier for an individual to turn on themselves and commit acts such as suicide. Durkheim has four types of suicide which are: Anomic suicide, Altruistic suicide, Egoistic suicide and Fatalistic suicide. “Anomie means a condition or malaise which in individuals is characterized by an absence or diminution of standards or values” (sociologyindex.com 2010). If an individual has lost all thoughts of their values and standards then the individual can commit such acts as suicide because life has become a burden rather than a right. Altruistic suicide: “The term 'altruism' was used by Emile Durkheim (1858-1917) to describe a suicide committed for the benefit of others or for the community: this would include self-sacrifice for military objectives in wartime. Altruistic suicides reflect a courageous indifference to the loss of one's life” (sociologyindex.com 2010). Giving of one’s life to benefit the lives of others is the most altruistic thing that one can do for another human being. This type of suicide is socially accepted in our society and it is looked upon as heroic. “Egoistic suicide occurs in a society where there is excessive individualism, that is, low integration into society. Egoistic suicide is committed by people who are not strongly supported by membership in a cohesive social group” (sociologyindex.com 2010). This type of suicide may be committed by people of all social statuses from the rich to the poor. The lack of the ability to feel as if one is part of a social group can lead to this form of suicide. “Fatalistic Suicide is a type of suicide, identified by Emile Durkheim (1858-1917), occurring in social conditions where the individual experiences pervasive oppression. Durkheim’s defined fatalistic suicide as resulting "from excessive regulation," whose "passions [were] violently choked by oppressive discipline" (sociologyindex.com 2010). This type of suicide may be most common with people who are imprisoned, oppressed, or in a situation where they cannot find their ways out

23. Crimes and Causes PSY493 Jeannie M. WeltzinArgosy University Freudian Theories and Skinnerian Theories: Differences Treatment Issues Freud Skinner Subjective Symptoms Phobia of leaving the house. Phobia of leaving the house. Fears leaving home because of prior attack. Maladaptive Behaviors Inability to leave home and go about her normal daily activity as they were before her attack because of an unconscious fear of being attacked again. Conditioned not to leave home because of a fear of being attacked again. Personality Predispositions Afraid of the outside world because of an unconscious fear of being attack again. The client suffers from realist anxiety. Conditioned to fear the outside world because of unwanted stimuli that was acquire during her attack. Family Issues If the family fosters her inability to overcome her fears she may never be able to live her life in the way that she had in the past and she will become even more isolated. If she has had childhood trauma that has helped re-enforce her fears the childhood trauma should also be dealt with in therapy. The family most introduce positive stimuli in order to re-condition the client in or the re-enter the life she has had in the past. If she has been introduced to negative stimuli in the past from family members her issues can be worked out with positive stimuli from her family to re-enforce operant conditioning. Type of Therapy Free Association Therapy Behavior Therapy Treatment and Therapy Approach The client may talk about anything at all. The theory is that, with relaxation, the unconscious conflicts will inevitably drift to the fore. It isn't far off to see a similarity between Freudian therapy and dreaming! However, in therapy, there is the therapist, who is trained to recognize certain clues to problems and their solutions that the client would overlook.” (http://webspace.ship.edu/cgboer/freud.html) This approach will help the client to become more comfortable with the outside world through unconscious learning. ‘B. F. Skinner’s entire system is based on operant conditioning. The organism is in the process of “operating” on the environment, which in ordinary terms means it is bouncing around its world, doing what it does. During this “operating,” the organism encounters a special kind of stimulus, called a reinforcing stimulus, or simply a reinforce. This special stimulus has the effect of increasing the operant -- that is, the behavior occurring just before the reinforce. This is operant conditioning: “the behavior is followed by a consequence, and the nature of the consequence modifies the organisms tendency to repeat the behavior in the future.” (http://webspace.ship.edu/cgboer/skinner.html) Goals of Therapy The goal of therapy is to encourage the client to enter the outside world without the phobia that has held her back from living her life by evaluating her unconscious fears and helping her to concur those fears. The goal of therapy is to introduce positive stimuli into the client’s daily life that will allow her to re-enter the outside world as she had in the past. She will relearn behaviors that will enhance her desire to go outside of the house.

24. Forensic Psychology Jeannie M. WeltzinArgosy University Police Stress Law enforcement is a very stressful career in any nation. “Police officers are frequently exposed to potential stressors such as situations of abuse, those involving victims of serious accidents and hostages, riot control, violent confrontations, failed resuscitation attempts, and assistance in disasters”(Stress reactions in police officers after a disaster rescue operation, 2002). The thought that today may be the day that a police officer may run into a situation that may threaten their lives is very valid in the law enforcement industry. “Events most likely to cause high levels of traumatic stress include exposure to the gruesome death of others, the need to discharge a firearm, especially if it results in the death or injury of others, and threats to themselves”(Previous Trauma Exposure and PTSD Symptoms as Predictors of Subjective and Biological Response to Stress, 2007). Although many people in law enforcement personnel work to guard themselves from the stresses that a career in law enforcement may carry there are signs that can signal stress overload in law enforcement officials. “Symptoms reported include sleep loss, high levels of intrusion and avoidance symptoms such as fears and flashbacks, and depression. The degree of symptoms experienced by officers has been found to be related to the severity and proximity of trauma exposure and the number of successive traumatic events to which they are exposed”(Previous Trauma Exposure and PTSD Symptoms as Predictors of Subjective and Biological Response to Stress, 2007). Even with the proper safe guards in place it is impossible for someone in law enforcement to not suffer any stress in situations that could cause themselves harm or others harm. “Stephens & Miller found in a study of police officers in New Zealand that the number of different traumatic events was positively correlated with the intensity of PTSD symptoms and that repeated experience of the same type of event predicted higher PTSD scores”(Stress reactions in police officers after a disaster rescue operation, 2002). Although there has been research into the effects of stress on law enforcement officials it hasn’t been determined what effects stress ultimately has on law enforcement officers. “Thus, while it is clear that exposure to workplace trauma has an impact on police officers and it is clear that acute exposure to stressful events results in a biological response, the interaction among these factors remains uncertain”(Previous Trauma Exposure and PTSD Symptoms as Predictors of Subjective and Biological Response to Stress, 2007). Although law enforcement personnel have a very stressful career in our communities there are services that are offered to people in high stress careers that can help them deal with daily stressors in the work place. Many law enforcement agencies offer their employees regular psychological evaluations that can help them to determine if they are experiencing difficulties in their work environments. In order to maintain a career in law enforcement it is crucial to maintain a healthy level of stress not only for one’s self but also for the families, co-workers, community and criminals that one may come into contact with on a daily basis.

25. Knowledge of applied psychology

26. Substance Abuse Treatment in Criminal Justice System Jeannie M. Weltzin Argosy University Circumstances Associated With Depression That Contribute to Substance Abuse Behaviors There are some triggers that are connected to depression and substance abuse. These triggers are shared brain regions, genetic factors, environmental factors, and brain developmental issues. “Shared brain regions affected by both substance abuse and depression. For example, substance abuse affects the brain areas that handle stress responses, and those same areas are known to be affected by some mental disorders. Genetic factors can make a person more likely to develop a mental disorder or addiction. Genetic factors make it more likely that one condition will occur once the other has appeared — for example, alcoholism sparked by a bout of depression. Environmental factors such as stress or trauma are known to prompt both depression and substance abuse. Brain developmental issues that can lead a child to depression or substance abuse later in life. Early drug use is known to harm brain development and make later mental illness more likely. The reverse also is true: Early mental health problems can increase the chances of later drug or alcohol abuse.”(Depression and Substance Abuse 2009) These factors may not be apparent to the client therefore integrated treatment is necessary for the client to succeed in the treatment program.

27. Circumstances Associated With Depression That Contribute to Substance Abuse Behaviors Memo TO: Johan Sparks In-House SupervisorFROM: Jeannie Weltzin Substance Abuse CounselorDATE: 12/13/2010 SUBJECT: Depression and Substance Abuse While providing care for the inmates in our facility it is our responsibility to provide adequate treatment for their substance abuse and also mental disorders. One asset to providing this care is to also provide the inmates with adequate information to help them help themselves. If information about the circumstances associated with depression that contribute to substance abuse behavior is made available to the inmates our jobs may become easier and the inmates will be able to self monitor their own behavior and the behavior of other inmates. This information can also help the inmates to better address their substance abuse and depression issue with the staff involved in their recovery. Incorporating this program into the treatment of the inmates can help the inmates become more accountable for their own recovery. Remembering that these are adults that want to return to their everyday lives and their families it is important that they are given the tools to help themselves as well as tools to help us treat their substance abuse and depression issues. Most importantly is that this program can help the staff to deal with the daily issues that may arise with the inmates. If the inmates are given this knowledge they will be more equipped to give the staff the details that will help them with their recovery. This method could help the inmates become more involved in their recovery and take some pressures of the staff when it comes to self improvement of the inmates. If the inmates have the information that can help them better understand why it is that they have a substance abuse and depression disorder they will be better prepared to deal with their issues. If you would accept this handout as part of the treatment plan I believe that the information included in the handout will help the staff tremendously with the treatment plans of the inmates. This handout will also help the inmates to better understand what is going on in their treatment and recovery plans.

28. Interpersonal Effectiveness

29. Can you spot a child abuser?Listen to the children!It could be anyone!

30. Children are more affected by poverty than any other age group in the United States. Can we justify such a massive amount of children being raised in poverty? Are these figures to high for a nation that is said to take care of their own and others? Should we be looking closer at our own national issues rather than the issues of other countries? Is there a solution? You be the judge is there a way to improve if not end child poverty in the U.S.? This chart tells a story that is almost too sad because in the U.S. Americans have fought for equal right! Where are the rights of these children?Poverty Rates by Age Group, 1980 to 2006

31. Critical Thinking Substance Abuse Treatment in Criminal Justice System Jeannie M. Weltzin Argosy University

32. Circumstances Associated With Depression That Contribute to Substance Abuse Behaviors Knowledge can open up the pathways to recovery. Just like the sun rises the mind can open to new things everyday. Understanding can help with the treatment of substance abuse and depression.

33. What does the Brain have to do with it? “Shared brain regionsaffected by both substance abuse and depression. For example, substance abuse affects the brain areas that handle stress responses, and those same areas are known to be affected by some mental disorders.”(Depression and Substance Abuse 2009) Understanding the brain and it’s functions can help one to better understand what is going on in their lives.

34. What does Genetics have to do with it? “Genetic factorscan make a person more likely to develop a mental disorder or addiction. Genetic factors make it more likely that one condition will occur once the other has appeared — for example, alcoholism sparked by a bout of depression.” (Depression and Substance Abuse 2009) This knowledge can help the inmates understand other factors that can cause their substance abuse and depression issues.

35. What does the Environment have to do with it? “Environmental factorssuch as stress or trauma are known to prompt both depression and substance abuse.”(Depression and Substance Abuse 2009) This knowledge can help the inmates understand what environments are not good for their substance abuse and depression recovery. This knowledge can also help inmates gain the tools to cope with traumatic and stressful events in their lives.

36. What does Brain development have to do with it? “Brain developmental issuesthat can lead a child to depression or substance abuse later in life. Early drug use is known to harm brain development and make later mental illness more likely. The reverse also is true: Early mental health problems can increase the chances of later drug or alcohol abuse.”(Depression and Substance Abuse 2009) If the brain is not allowed to develop in a healthy environment it is likely that there will be complications in later life.

37. Reflection on being a lifelong learner. In my life I have found that education is priceless and one can never learn to much. I strive to learn new things everyday while practicing the old knowledge that I have gained. I strive to be a good role model for my children and I believe that education should be a focal point for any well adjusted adult. In our lives we learn from the people that are around us, books, media, and many times even ourselves. We learn from those we care for and those who care for us. We learn from world events and local event that may or may not affect our livelihood. Everyday should be a learning experiences whether we are learning things that will improve or lives in the future or things that may damage our futures. From the day that I was born I have had a need to learn and experience life to the fullest. I m thankful for my education because it has opened my eyes to things that I would have never known it I did not have a desire to learn. I believe that the knowledge that I have gained to date will help me in my quest to become a great Psychologist in the future and I look forward to learning much more in the field and in the master’s program at Argosy University. I plan to obtain my Master’s in Forensic Psychology in the spring of 2012 and then continue my education into the Doctoral program in the fall of 2012. I am a lifelong learner and I will enjoy every piece of knowledge that I am lucky enough to obtain.

38. Contact Me Thank you for viewing my ePortfolio. For further information, please contact me at the e-mail address below. jweltzin@msn.com