Thursday, October 31, 2019

World Leaders Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

World Leaders - Essay Example In this essay, Steve Jobs and Richard S Fuld will be compared for their leadership qualities and accomplishments. Learning from this study will be applied to understand own leadership qualities and key qualities that could help in becoming a better leader will be identified. Conclusions will be drawn based on learning obtained from this entire study. It is first important to understand the background of Steve Jobs and Richard S Fuld. Firstly, Steve Jobs was the co-founder of Apple Inc, the world’s most admired company. He co-founded Apple in 1976, and has ever since been innovating and revolutionising the PC technology. His contributions to this revolution came in the form of ground-breaking personal computers. Jobs’ association with Apple was initially very challenging as Jobs was very clear about how to run his business, which others did not seem to be convinced. In spite of immense growth and success, Jobs continued to face differences with his colleagues due to whic h he had to depart from Apple Inc. He later started another company, Next, which also did excellent business for almost 10 years; during this tenure, Jobs was able to successfully create another computer platform development company and created numerous computer-animated feature films that became very famous. During this time, Apple had realized its loss and asked Jobs to join back as its CEO. Jobs again created history with this return to Apple through his innovation in the form of ipod, iTunes, iMovies, Apple TV, ipad, and iphone (Lussier & Achua, 2009). Secondly, Richard S Fuld is the ex-CEO of Lehman Brothers that filed for bankruptcy during 2008 recession. Fuld is known for his competitive spirit and his traditional style of leadership. After the collapse of Lehman Brothers was announced, Fuld is known to have escaped from the press and did not want to answer their questions, which many found it unethical; he also did not accept that he had done anything wrong (Koch, 2008). His failure is also mainly due to his high risk-taking actions and risky business decisions; his arrogance and overconfidence can also be blamed. It will be interesting to study the leadership styles of these leaders. Both leaders exhibit certain leadership characteristics such as energy, intelligence, knowledge, decision-making, confidence, enthusiasm, independence and desire to lead (Daft, 2008). However, qualities such as honesty and integrity probably lacked in Fuld’s leadership based on the outcomes seen post Lehman Brother’s collapse. Some common leadership traits can be identified in Jobs and Fuld’s leadership such as, risk-taking behaviors, aggression and confidence, passion, and competitive spirit. However, Jobs also had other traits such as passion, creativity, empathy, and vision. On the other hand, Fuld is less courageous, more authoritative and demanding. According to theory, these traits are that of an autocratic leader (Daft, 2008). Steve Jobs also s howed some traits of democratic leadership, such as encouraging others, participation, and dependence on subordinates’ knowledge and abilities. Jobs continuously encouraged his team members to create something new and he was immediately drawn to something different that his team made in terms of technology or products. However, he always looked for perfection and high quality. It was very difficult for the team to match up with Jobs’ expectations. In spite of these findings, Jobs’ leadership can be said to be autocratic and not democratic. Daft (2008) explains that team members tend to

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Psychological Abuse Essay Example for Free

Psychological Abuse Essay Psychological abuse refers to â€Å"abuse that damages the psyche, or the mind. Psychological abuse happens when one person attempts to gain power and control over another.† It involves the deliberate infliction of pain or anguish to another person through verbal or nonverbal conduct designed to humiliate or threaten another person (National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse). Psychological abuse if quite prevalent in the United States. Most of its victims are women. Indeed, it is estimated that about 1.5 million women get psychologically abused each year. Psychological abuse often leads to physical abuse, as well as domination of the relationship and isolation from friends and family (PsychAbuse.info, 2006).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Psychological abuse is dangerous because it poses many risks on the victim, such as acute stress, post traumatic stress disorder, and depression (PsychAbuse.info, 2006). The many documented effects of psychological maltreatment include: Other possible consequences of psychological abuse are emotional instability, low social competency, anxiety, and low academic achievement (Canadian Health Network, 2004).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Given the effects and signs of psychological abuse, the common victims are those who have no emotional or social support from family and friends. On the other hand, people who often have contact with vulnerable people are sometimes the ones who perpetrate psychological abuse. This group may include caregivers and even family members of the victim (National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   One important issue on psychological abuse involves neglect, particularly on children. Neglect involves the omission of protection and care needed by a child, which could lead to adverse consequences such as juvenile delinquency, aggressive behavior, and child deaths (Canadian Health Network, 2004). In this connection, the fact that many children become victims of psychological abuse is a very alarming issue, particularly because of the tender age of the victims. Moreover, it is observed that may victims of child psychological abuse are emotionally disturbed, mentally retarded, or physically handicapped, although the onset of these conditions may differ as to time (Wall, 1975).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Another important issue with psychological abuse is the fact that it is believed to be the â€Å"most under-reported form of abuse.† Thus, the prevalence rates reported periodically may not be accurate since they only include those incidences that have been reported (Canadian Health Network, 2004).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Another critical issue on psychological abuse is its pervasiveness in dating relationships. It is estimated that abuse during the courtship ranges from 20 to 50 percent of men and women. There is also another concern about the increased risk of abuse in a dating relationship due to the tendency of couples to prolong the dating relationship before marriage (Burke, Stets    Pirog-Good, 1988).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   All of these issues are worth exploring. Women and children appear to be at special risk given their vulnerability. Another vulnerable group is the aged, who have no support systems to rely on. References Burke, P. J.,   Stets, J. E.    Pirog-Good, M. A. (1988). Gender Identity, Self-Esteem,   Ã‚   and Physical and Sexual Abuse in Dating Relationships. Social Psychology   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Quarterly 51(3), 272-285.  Canadian Health Network. (2004). What is psychological maltreatment? Retrieved   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   February 24, 2008, from http://www.canadian-health- network.ca/servlet/ContentServer?cid=1069439898222pagename=CHN- RCS%2FCHNResource%2FFAQCHNResourceTemplatec=CHNResourcelan  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   g=En  National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse. Psychological Abuse. Retrieved   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   February 24, 2008, from   Ã‚   http://www.preventelderabuse.org/elderabuse/psychological.html  PsychAbuse.info. (2006). Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved February 24, 2008,    from http://www.psychabuse.info/Psychological_Abuse_FAQ.htm Wall, C. M. (1975). Child Abuse: A Societal Problem with Educational Implications.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Peabody Journal of Education 52(3), 222-225.

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Models Of Forensic Psychology Case Study Social Work Essay

Models Of Forensic Psychology Case Study Social Work Essay Andrew is fifteen. He has been accused of sexually assaulting his younger sister and may be charged with this in the near future. Some of his family have a history of mental disorder and he has a history of learning and behavioural difficulties, as a result of which he has been attending a residential special school. He does not acknowledge the accusations against him and is reluctant to discuss them. INFORMATION FROM INTERVIEW Andrew presents as a tall, slim-built youth who is restlessly anxious, looking away for most of the interview, and repeatedly yawning in an exaggerated manner to indicate how little he wants to be involved in the discussion. Despite this he is essentially polite in manner and answers all questions, at least in some measure. His apparent level of intelligence puts him in the mild range of impairment, and he is also very sensitive to anything that he thinks puts him at a disadvantage or makes him look thick. He has some social skills, although these are not always used and sometimes he appears socially disinhibited. He has a reasonable vocabulary and powers of speech. There are no behavioural stereotypies (repetitive apparently purposeless movements) and no perseverative behaviour (continuance of behaviours after their original purpose has been served). However, his powers of concentration are limited and he is easily distracted from discussion. His attention is focused on his perceived likelihood that he will automatically go to prison, regardless of whether he is charged or not. He hopes that a combination of his medical history and denial of the allegations will be enough to get him through any legal processes. Andrew says he hasnt been charged with anything because I aint done nowt. Nevertheless he is able to say that sexual assault means trying to make somebody do something have sex, how to make babies and that penetration means putting a finger up someone up (the) clitoris of women. He has already been officially asked on one occasion about for whats going on now basically but can describe no details and says that he aint bothered because I havent done it. CURRENT CIRCUMSTANCES Andrew has his own room at his special school and has made one or two friends. The activity that he enjoys most, and gets most from, is studying motor vehicles and he has developed an ambition to become a mechanic. He comes home for some weekends and for holiday periods. At present he feels he hasnt got a life anymore. This is both because of the possible pending charges and because he feels people are dropping dead around me. A close friend (female) of his died recently, and his life has not felt the same since his father died unexpectedly the day before his birthday four ago, and his paternal grandmother died about a year afterwards. He would like to become a motor mechanic, but thinks this will not be possible, unless he can get training in prison, because of his possible court case. PERSONAL AND FAMILY HISTORY He is the youngest member of his family, although his own list of his siblings and half-siblings is slightly different to that provided by his family. His father died from a heart attack and his mother has a lot of problems with her health. He was excluded from his first school for throwing a brick at a teacher or something like that they were doing my head in all the time. MEDICAL HISTORY He has been diagnosed as having ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), and says that this is why he is at boarding school. He says that he used to get all mad and hate people and take it out on them but that this has improved more recently. Two years ago he tried to hang himself with two belts because he just felt like it I couldnt be bothered living anymore I did it for fun I thought it was funny. He also tried to cut his wrist, and still has a faint scar from this. He continues to have periodic thoughts about a quick premature death as a way of not having to put up with living anymore. Although these thoughts reflect a depressed view of life there is no indication that he currently has a depressive illness. He has previously taken the antihyperactivity drug Ritalin, but has now discontinued this and describes it as doing my head in. SEXUAL DEVELOPMENT HISTORY He first became sexually aware at a very young age, as a result of being given information either by one of his sisters or a friend. His father told him not to have sex until he was older so as to avoid having children. His strongest sexual experience so far has been with a girlfriend who he described as the nicest person you could meet even though my sister called her a smackhead'. He denies the allegations about his sister and describes them as all lies. Questions What identifiable risks, giving your reasons, does Andrew present a) in the short term and b) in the longer term? Rank them once in their order of certainty, and again in their order of importance. Construct an interview strategy to help investigating police officers further question Andrew about the allegations regarding his sister, explaining your rationale. Case Study 2 Mr D Case Study Read the following case study carefully. Using your knowledge of risk assessment, mental disorders and offending behaviour and interview and treatment strategies answer the following questions: Describe the type(s) of mental disorder Mr D may be suffering from Consider whether those disorders are likely to contribute to the risk he poses of future violence Identify those risks that Mr D poses to himself and others Consider whether you would discharge Mr D from hospital at this time and give your reasons why (Point 5 is optional) Highlight what challenges Mr D may pose in treatment and how you might overcome them. Background Early Childhood Mr D was born to a 16 year old mother and conceived following a one night stand. Mr D recalled an unsettled childhood due to his mother handing over his care to her parents. Mr D described how he liked living with his grandparents, however he also described how his grandfather frequently used alcohol and his grandmother was strict and did not allow him to socialise with other children. Behavioural problems were noted from the age of 4. Throughout this time period Mr D began having severe tantrums which involved hitting and kicking and Mr D was referred to the Childrens Hospital at the age of 8. This followed a severe attack levied against his grandfather involving a knife. Throughout the interview process Mr D remained closed about his relationship with his grandfather. Later reports indicate he was sexually abused by his grandfather but Mr D refuses to discuss this subject. Mr D was taken into care at the age of 8, where again he reported an unsettled period of time characterised by isolation and bullying. Mr D was able to live with a foster family whom he described as supportive for the next two years and it is of note that there were no behavioural difficulties noted for Mr D within this time period. Mr D appeared to settled with this family and their two sons, which allowed him to form secure attachments with this family. Unfortunately the family needed to emigrate to South Africa, and although he was asked to go with them, Mr D chose to remain close to his grandparents. Mr D spent the next five years in Childrens homes, interspersed by foster placements which broke down. Mr D returned to live with his grandparents following this period. Previous reports indicate conflicting points of view about this time period, some indicating that Mr D had more positive relationships with his grandparents and mother at this time, but with others highlighting that his grandparents did not really speak to him. Education and employment Mr D attended approximately five different schools as he was moved due to his living situation changing. Mr D recalled an unsettled period of time at school as he was bullied. He also described himself as hyper, I would scream and shout a lot and recalled finding lessons boring. Records indicate that Mr D began refusing school at the age of 4 and has a significant history of truancy throughout his education. Mr D left school with no qualifications but school reports describe him as exceptionally bright. Mr D has never been in formal employment. After leaving school he was unemployed for 2 years as he reported he could not find a job that interested him and he was having difficulties with his mental health. Following this, Mr D has been detained due to the conviction for his index offence. Substance and alcohol misuse Mr D reports a substantial history of cannabis use and a history of binge drinking. Psychiatric History Mr D first came into contact with mental health services at the age of 8 when he was admitted to the Childrens Hospital for 6 weeks following a violent attack on his grandfather. An ECG and neurological examination at the time were found to be normal, however Mr Ds mother recalled a black patch being found. Following this Mr D was referred to an Adolescent Unit at the age of 14 due to behaviour problems such as refusing to attend school and standing naked in the window. Later that year, Mr D was admitted to the hospital and was described by the doctor as an isolated and withdrawn individual, having no self confidence who responded with aggressive outbursts when frustrated. Mr D self-harmed by cutting his arms with a piece of glass. After being convicted of two incidents of indecent exposure at the age of 17, Mr D received outpatient treatment initially, but following another charge for indecent exposure Mr D was admitted as an inpatient. At this point he was talking about injuring people before they had the chance to injure him. On the 9th April 1987 Mr D was again charged with indecent exposure and was remanded under section 35 of the Mental Health Act (1983). During his assessment there, it was noted that he was hearing voices telling him to commit acts of violence. No specific diagnosis was made at this time, although a condition of residence and psychiatric treatment was made. Following his 18th birthday he was moved to Arnold Lodge Hospital. Whilst there it is reported that Mr Ds mental health appeared to deteriorate and violence towards others increased. At the age of 20 Mr D was transferred to a Hostel in Liverpool as it was thought that he would benefit from integration with other people, however three months after this he was discharged after assaulting another resident. Mr D managed to live in the community on his own for approximately two and a half years before he committed his index offence. At this point he was remanded to HMP Hull for approximately 2 months. Mr D attempted to hang himself during his first night in custody. He was then transferred to Wathwood hospital due to him exhibiting paranoid ideation and experiencing auditory hallucinations commanding him to harm a female prison officer. Whilst at Wathwood Hospital, initially Mr Ds presentation seemed to improve to the point that he was granted conditional discharge by a Mental Health Review Tribunal, however at this point Mr Ds fixation with a female member of staff began to cause concern. Mr D began exposing himself to female members of staff and his mental health deteriorated. Mr Ds presentation continued to decline over the next two years in terms of incidents of violence, aggression and sexually inappropriate. His mental health also fluctuated with episodes of paranoid ideation, delusions, thoughts of harming himself and incidents of aggression. Forensic History Mr D has three previous convictions for offences of indecent exposure. There are seven previous convictions for driving offences (e.g. driving whilst under the influence, reckless driving, driving without a license, insurance and MOT) and 4 convictions of acquisitive offending (2 offences of shoplifting and2 burglary offences). Mr D has no other convictions for violent offences apart from the index offence, however there has been other violence evident in Mr Drivers past when he has been a patient in hospital. Index Offence Mr D was convicted of the murder of his neighbour. The offence occurred in the context of ongoing difficulties Mr D was experiencing with his neighbours in terms of loud music they were playing in the early hours of the morning. Mr D had raised this problem with his neighbours and it is reported that they responded to this in a less than positive way. Mr D then tried to involve the council to alleviate the problem, however this appeared to have had no effect. On the day of the index offence, the victim was taking his rubbish out and Mr D approached him from behind and struck him once in the back with a 5 inch bladed knife. Mr D immediately ran away from the scene and made his way to the Family and Community Services Department with whom he was in regular contact and the police were contacted and Mr D was subsequently arrested. The victim had removed the weapon himself and in the meantime had made his way to nearby premises to seek assistance. He later died of his injuries in hospital . Mr Ds account of the offence is that he had been living next to neighbours who were noisy. He said he had lived next to them for about six months and I kept knocking, asking them to turn it down, they just said it was their house. When asked how many times this had occurred Mr D said, probably approached them about 5 or 6 times. Mr D stated that he didnt phone the police at all, but that he did phone the housing association. He said that nothing happened as a result of this and the music continued. On the last occasion that Mr D asked for the music to be turned down before he committed the index offence Mr Driver stated he started threatening me and said Im not turning the music down and was arguing. I cant remember what was being said, but I just kept asking him to turn it down. He was shouting and I think I hit him first, we had a scuffle and the police were called. The Police told me to get in touch with the housing association. Following this incident Mr D said that a few weeks passed and the music continued. Mr D stated that he had been going out shopping he had been carrying the same knife that he eventually stabbed the victim with. On the day of the index offence, Mr D reported being woken at 9am by music being played. He stated, I felt really stressed and angry. I got up, got dressed, I was standing in my kitchen and could hear it (the music) and I saw him going to the bin. Id come to the end of how I was feeling and looking for a way out. Mr D stated, I got a knife and stabbed him in the lower back. When asked what might have happened to resolve the situation had the index offence not occurred Mr D said, If I hadnt seen him, I probably would have gone on carrying the knife and gone round to his house. In terms of why Mr D felt he committed the offence, he stated, I couldnt stand them playing loud music. Mr D went onto say Yes I regret it, its led to me being kept in hospital. There is nothing else I could have done. He deserved it because he wouldnt turn down his music. Assessments Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale -3rd edition (WAIS III) This assessment examines general cognitive abilities, specifically thinking and reasoning skills. It explores non-verbal reasoning skills, spatial processing skills, visual-motor integration, attention to detail and acquired knowledge such as verbal reasoning and comprehension. Mr D presented with a full scale IQ of 130. International Personality Disorder Examination Mr D was assessed for personality disorder using the International Personality Disorder Examination (IPDE: Loranger; 1999). The IPDE is a semi-structured clinical interview developed to assess personality disorders defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th Edition (DSM-IV; American Psychiatric Association, 1994) and the International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (ICD-10; World Health Organisation, 1992). Mr Ds current presentation indicates that definite diagnoses of Antisocial and Narcissistic personality disorders are warranted. The Antisocial features most relevant in Mr D include a lack of concern for the feelings of others, reckless behaviour, consistent irresponsibility, disregard for rules and punishment, low tolerance to frustration leading to acts of aggression and violence, and a proneness to rationalise and blame others for his own behaviour. The Narcissistic features which Mr D presents with include a grandiose sense of self-im portance, a belief that he should be treated differently, an overinflated sense of self-entitlement, arrogance in his behaviour and attitudes, a persistent pattern of taking advantage of others to achieve his own ends and an unwillingness to recognise or identify with the feelings of others. Psychopathy Checklist Revised (PCL-R The Hare Psychopathy Checklist Revised (PCL-R, Hare 1991, 2003) is a rigorous psychological assessment, widely regarded as the standard measure of psychopathy in research, clinical and forensic settings. It measures different aspects of a persons emotional experience, the way they relate to others, how they go about getting what they want and their behaviour. High levels of psychopathic traits as measured by the PCL-R are associated with high rates of re-offending and future violence (however a low PCL-R score alone does not imply low risk) and can impact on responsivity to therapeutic intervention. Mr D presented with moderate levels of psychopathic traits which fell just below the diagnostic cut off for psychopathic disorder. Items that he scored on include failure to accept responsibility for his actions, irresponsibility, lack of remorse, callous disregard for others, grandiose sense of self worth, manipulation and early childhood problems. Presentation in interview Mr D presented as a difficult and challenging patient to interview. He was dismissive at times, questioning my experience, qualifications and competence. He stated that psychology was not a proper science and would prefer to talk to the proper doctor i.e. the psychiatrist. Mr D appeared to have some knowledge of psychiatry and psychology and used technical terms throughout. He appeared to have little insight into his mental disorder stating that he does need to take medication and that everyone is like him. Mr D stated he does not under stand why anyone would think he poses a risk to people and that he should be discharged from hospital immediately. Case Study 3 Ms W Case Study Read the following case study carefully. Using your knowledge of risk assessment, mental disorders and offending behaviour and interview and treatment strategies answer the following questions: Describe the type(s) of mental disorder Ms W may be suffering from Consider whether those disorders are likely to contribute to the risk she poses of future violence Consider what techniques/strategies/considerations you would use when interviewing Ms W Highlight what further areas of work you may wish to undertake with Ms W (concentrating on what areas of her presentation you would like to explore/assess further and why) Background Early childhood Ms W was the eldest child of three, the other two children being boys. Ms W recalled an unhappy childhood due to the sexual abuse she experienced from her father (for which he received a conviction) and then the emotional detachment that was apparent between her mother and herself. Social services records support Ms Ws account of her early childhood. In addition to being sexually abused by her father, Ms W also reported being sexually abused by an uncle and a next door neighbour. Ms W also reported that the relationship between her mother and father was a turbulent one and although she did not witness any physical violence, she did hear arguments which resulted in her repeatedly banging his head against the wall through the stress this caused. Ms Ws behaviour became uncontrollable both within school and the community, in terms of fighting at school and committing petty crime such as shoplifting. Whilst still living with her parents, at the age of 14, Ms W became involved in a relationship with a man who was much older than her, in his 60s. This further contributed to the deterioration between Ms W and her parents, and her parents subsequently placed her in care. Ms W remained in care until the age of 17, and upon leaving she was given support from social services and moved into independent housing in which she was happy on her own. Education and employment Ms W reported that her school performance was average; teachers would not have found her a management problem, but that she did get distracted easily. Whilst at school she was subject to bullying from peers and this resulted in her engaging in fights outside of school. Ms W left school with no formal qualifications. Ms W obtained employment as soon as she left school and worked as a packer, a cleaner and in a pet shop. All of the employment she engaged in was in a short period after school, with her last job being held at the age of 20. Ms W reported that the last job she had needed to leave because her mental health was causing her difficulties and she needed to attend various appointments. Following this period of employment, Ms W was unemployed for the next 16 years due to mental health, drug and alcohol difficulties. Ms W claimed incapacity benefits and before coming into custody she reported having an income of approximately  £800 per month. Substance and alcohol misuse Ms W reported that she began drinking at the age of 14 or 15 as she would visit pubs with her partner at the time. She suggested that she became a heavy drinker at age 20 and that she needed alcohol every day as otherwise she would suffer with withdrawal symptoms. Ms W would consume approximately 12 cans of Stella a day or 2 bottles of 2 litre Cider. Ms Ws drinking caused her health problems in the form of liver failure and pancreatitis. Ms W was under the influence of alcohol when committing the index offence and this followed a period where she had tried to go through a detoxification process without medical support. It is of note that Ms W reported hearing voices whilst she completed this home detoxification process. In terms of drug use, Ms W remembered beginning to use substances at around the age of 18. She reports using acid tabs, microdots, magic mushrooms, speed, heroin (smoking) and cannabis. She also reported that she would take prescription medication if the opportunity arose. Ms W recalls that she would use whenever she had the money to do so and that she would frequently take drugs and drink at the same time. She estimated that she would spend approximately  £14 per day, but that this would depend on what funds she had available at the time. In the early 1990s Ms W was diagnosed with drug induced psychosis. Psychiatric history Ms W first recalled being in contact with psychiatric services in her 20s. She was first seen by a psychiatrist due to the hallucinations she was experiencing and she voluntarily stayed in hospital for a few months. Ms W had spent time in group mental health homes and has had support from psychiatrists, CPNs and social workers. Ms W had attempted to commit suicide on a number of occasions through taking overdoses. She was diagnosed with depression in her late 20s and has been on a number of anti depressant drugs which she combined with drink and non prescription drugs. Whilst in custody Ms W was taking antidepressants, anxiolytics and anti psychotics. The latter were prescribed due to Ms W experiencing hallucinations and also mood instability. Ms W had most recently been diagnosed with Generalised Anxiety Disorder with features of depersonalisation and derealisation. Forensic history Ms W had three previous convictions. Two were received in 1989 which were both fraud offences, and then the third in 1990 for burglary and theft of a non dwelling. Ms W cannot recall specific details regarding the situations. Ms W had no other convictions for violent offending, apart from the index offence, but there has been other violence present in Ms Ws past especially within interpersonal relationships. Index offence The offence occurred in the shared home of Ms W and her partner. Two weeks before the index offence occurred, police had been called to the home after Ms W had taken an overdose of her partners medication. When Ms Ws partner had attempted to summon help, Ms W threatened her with a knife to try and prevent this. On the 10th June 2006 when the offence occurred, it was alleged that Ms W had been drinking cider from the early hours of the morning. Ms W insists that she was so drunk that she has no recall of the stabbing which then occurred and all that she remembered was seeing the blood on her partners stomach. After stabbing her partner in the stomach she then threatened to cut her throat with the knife. The stab wounds caused a near fatal injury. The victim was able to summons help by activating the emergency pull cord for the accommodations warden. Assessments Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale -3rd edition (WAIS III) This assessment examines general cognitive abilities, specifically thinking and reasoning skills. It explores non-verbal reasoning skills, spatial processing skills, visual-motor integration, attention to detail and acquired knowledge such as verbal reasoning and comprehension. Ms W presented with a full scale IQ of 75. The assessment showed that Ms W processes information more effectively when presented visually rather than verbally and that she struggles to concentrate for long periods of time. International Personality Disorder Examination Screening Questionnaire (IPDE-SQ) This assessment is a screening questionnaire which indicates whether there are certain personality traits which need further investigation using the full International Personality Disorder Examination assessment. The IPDE-SQ indicated the possible presence of paranoid, schizotypal, emotionally unstable, avoidant and dependent personality disorders but this should not be considered as a formal diagnosis. Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory III (MCMI-III) This assessment is used to evaluate elements of personality and also pathological syndromes within psychiatric populations. On this occasion the MCMI- III was used to provide a more comprehensive picture of Ms Ws personality and presentation in combination with the outcome of the IPDE-SQ. This measure was not used to diagnose personality disorder but to contribute to the understanding of Ms Ws presentation. The Millon highlighted that Ms W presented with anxiety, drug dependence and post traumatic stress disorder and may possible present with thought disorder and major depression. Presentation in interview Ms W presented as a shy, pleasant individual with very low confidence and who suffered with anxiety. It was evident that she was lacking in confidence in terms of speaking to people and being sure of her own opinions. She had also seemed to struggle in terms of her level of concentration. Over the course of the sessions Ms Ws mood could be quite volatile, changing from happy to depressed in the period of a couple of hours. Ms W consistently spoke of thoughts of self harm throughout the sessions and when feeling depressed would project these feelings onto others as having caused them. Ms W also presented at times as quite paranoid in terms of thinking that people were talking about her. Ms W also disclosed that she was experiencing visual hallucinations particularly when she felt stressed.

Friday, October 25, 2019

Explain how Golding describes the setting of the novel in chapters 1 :: English Literature

Explain how Golding describes the setting of the novel in chapters 1 and 2 of The Lord of The Flies Golding has a style of contrasting the good things and the bad things about the island in ‘The Lord of The Flies’. The author also describes the setting by using imagery extensively. The author develops a positive ambience of an uninhabited island by giving the island features that the reader knows are more positive than negative. An example of this is when the author describes a cirque on page 25. The author describes the boys position using: â€Å"They were on the lip of a cirque†. The use of personification makes the reader identify that the island is more like a person and not an evil thing. If Golding had used a sentence such as â€Å" They were on the knife edge of a cirque†, then the reader would have identified the island with images of danger and negativity. The author later similarises the cirque with a waterfall. He uses the words: â€Å"Filled†, â€Å"Overflow† and â€Å"Spilled† to make connections with a waterfall. A waterfall is usually a thing of beauty, which can be found in national parks, and people do not identify a waterfall as being a bad thing. The words also come in chronological order. For example something cannot be spilled before it is filled. This gives the reader a sense of natural series of events, the feeling as if everything is occurring the correct order and therefore the island is normal and passive. However, if the author had mixed the words in the incorrect order then the reader might have felt a bit confused and wondered about the safety of the island. In contrast, the author describes the island as the children’s worst enemy. On page 4 the author uses negative words to describe the setting. Golding uses the words; â€Å"Coarse†, â€Å"Torn†, â€Å"Upheavals†, â€Å"Fallen†, â€Å"Scattered† and â€Å"Decaying† to describe the shore and its contents. Under analysis the words, â€Å"Torn†, â€Å"Upheavals† and â€Å"Fallen†, mean that something is not in the correct position, that the island does not seem to be right, that the island has an air of animosity. The words are not pleasant words and hint to the reader that neither is the story. The author describes how the coconuts are slowly dying by using the word â€Å"decaying†. This poses the question: If things that live on the island cannot survive how can a group of young school boys from a different region? It suggests that the children are going to die, just like everything else on the island. Eventually everything on the island dies, the island dies from the uncontrollable fire, the

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Fiction and Story

Character Analysis The Story: the Monkey’s Paw * Character: Pamela * Point of View: Third Person Omniscient * Writing Genre: Descriptive * The Monkey’s Paw was a descriptive story because throughout the whole story they were describing the paw and throughout the Afterlife you will see Pamela describing her feelings on what happen to her brother Herbert. * Fiction Genre: Mystery * I picked mystery for the Monkey’s Paw because in the end of the story I wasn’t clear on what happen and in the afterlife things happened that no one knows but me. * Literary Device: Conflict I picked conflict as my literary device because there’s a lot of conflict in this story with Pamela, Herbert, Mrs. White, Mr. White, and the star of the book â€Å"The Paw†. And also in the afterlife there’s a lot of conflict between Mr. White and Pamela * Literary Convention: Dialogue * I chose dialogue as my literary convention device because throughout the entire story there were * I picked comprehension for my blooms taxonomy device because you have to comprehend what happen in the regular Monkey’s Paw before you can understand what’s going on in the afterlife. Rhetorical: Onomatopoeia * I chose Onomatopoeia for the Rhetorical device because in The Money’s Paw afterlife the story has a lot of sound effects. * Sigmund Freud: ID * I chose ID as my Sigmund Freud device because in the afterlife the characters have childish types of behavior. * Writing Mode: Reflection * I picked reflection to be my writing genre device subgenre because throughout the sequel it will be flashbacks on why something happened. * Nonfiction Genre: * Philosophy The Story: Swimming To Antarctica Character: Ms. Cox * Point of View: Third Person Omniscient * Writing Mode: Narrative * Swimming to Antarctica was a Narrative story because Ms. Cox was telling the story and she was the person who was actually swimming to Antarctica. * Fiction Genre: Mystery * I picked mystery as my fiction genre because after the original story Swimming to Antarctica was over they didn’t explain to the reader what happen to Ms. Cox. But, you will find out what happened to her in the afterlife of Swimming to Antarctica. Literary Device: Conflict * I chose conflict as my literary device for â€Å"SA† because in the afterlife there is a lot of conflict between Ms. Cox and her health. * Literary Convention: Dialogue * Dialogue plays a very big role in the afterlife of Swimming to Antarctica. You will see that Ms. Cox and her doctor having multiple conversations. * Blooms Taxonomy: Comprehension * For the afterlife of Swimming to Antarctica you will have to remember what happen in the original story. * Rhetorical: Onomatopoeia Throughout the afterlife of â€Å"SA† there will be sound effects and actions going on. * Sigmund Freud: ID * I chose ID because once again there will be childish decisions that Ms. Cox make in the afterlife of Swimm ing to Antarctica that will classify her as ID. * Writing Mode: Reflection * In Swimming to Antarctica Afterlife you will realize that I will be having flashbacks on what happened in the original story. * Nonfiction Genre: * Philosophy: The Story: Occupation Conductorette * Character: Maya Angelou * Point of View: Third Person Omniscient Writing Genre: Persuasive * Occupation Conductorette was a persuasive story because Ms. Angelou was trying to persuade the people to give her a job at their company. * Fiction Genre: Mystery * I picked mystery for the afterlife of Occupation Conductorette because no one knows what happened in 2019 with Maya Angelou and the job she wanted so bad. * Literary Device: Conflict * Throughout the afterlife of Occupation Conductorette you will figure out that there is a lot of conflict between Maya Angelou and the young lady Paradise. Literary Convention: Dialogue * In the Afterlife of Occupation Conductorette there will be more than enough dialogue between Maya Angelou, Paradise, and the white man. * Blooms Taxonomy: Comprehension * In the afterlife of â€Å"OC† you will see a big change in rolls and you wouldn’t understand what’s going on if you didn’t comprehend the original â€Å"OC†. * Rhetorical: Onomatopoeia * Throughout the afterlife of â€Å"OC† there will be sound effects but not as much as the others stories because â€Å"OC† is a more serious taking story. Sigmund Freud: ID * I chose ID because in the Afterlife Maya Angelou had a few ID behaviors when it came down to her making a decision. * Writing Mode: Reflection * Throughout the afterlife of Occupation Conductorette you will see Maya Angelou have flashbacks on her experience of begging for a job. * Nonfiction Genre: * Philosophy: The Story: The Leap * Character: The Mom * Point of View: Third Person Omniscient * Writing Mode: Expository * The Leap to me is classified as a expository story because

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

The Top 5 Things I Learned in my Internship

The Top 5 Things I Learned in my Internship Being an intern is a trial run for the field you think you want to work in. In 90 days or so your trial is up. But then what? Did you actually learn something that pertains to your intended major?   Is it something you see yourself doing for years to come? In college, take advantage of internship opportunities. Trust me. You can never start too early in your career to gain experience, and there is no such thing as too much internship experience. From sophomore year in college, I started interning at different companies. As a college student, I wanted to know what my strengths and weaknesses were and what I actually wanted to do with my life after I earned my degree. As a marketing major, my field was broad, so interning was such a great hands-on experience. Interning with different companies in different marketing roles helped me narrow down what I actually enjoyed doing.Here are some tips I have learned throughout my experiences.Source: [GIPHY]Step out of your comfort zone.An inte rnship is your opportunity to try new things and  surprise yourself. Trying out new opportunities helped me challenge myself. Even if I had no clue on how to do a certain project, I would still take it on. It was the perfect time for me to learn and grow. Even if by the end of it I disliked a certain task, I would still feel accomplished.Always ask questions.Don’t be afraid to ask questions or for advice. People love to give advice. Whether it is advice about your field, feedback on performance, or even career moves, they are usually more than happy to assist. Asking questions is a great icebreaker for your coworkers to know more about you, and you never know what you may learn over a cup of coffee and a conversation.Get involved within the company.Understand the company you are interning for; go beyond what the website says and really dive into it. Company culture is something important to pay attention to. How does the company you are interning for treat its employees? Al so, interning is a great networking opportunity- while you’re there, get to know all about the different departments and what they do. And always offer to lend a helping hand on some of their projects if ever needed.Shine through your work.Go above and beyond in your work. Don’t be a slacker. Make yourself memorable for the company- you never know when opportunities may rise for the future. Your work ethic is very important. It’s the little things you do that make you stand apart from the rest. Take initiative and responsibility and complete tasks accurately and in a timely manner. If there is no set deadline, make your own, hold yourself accountable, and don’t procrastinate. This is not college where you can leave things for the very last minute.Send a â€Å"thank you† card at the end of the internship.Handwritten notes/cards are one thing that will never go out of style- they’ll always put a smile on someone’s face. When writing you r card mention what you learned from the internship. Thank your main contact  for giving you an opportunity to gain experience and learn. Go that extra mile and give back some appreciation.Source: [GIPHY]

Monday, October 21, 2019

Ptolemys Contributions to Geography

Ptolemys Contributions to Geography Not much is known about the life of the Roman scholar Claudius Ptolemaeus who is more commonly known as Ptolemy. However, he was estimated to have lived from approximately 90 to 170 CE and worked in the library at Alexandria from 127 to 150.   Ptolemys Theories and Scholarly Works on Geography Ptolemy is known for his three scholarly works: the  Almagest- which focused on astronomy and geometry, the  Tetrabiblos- which focused on astrology, and, most importantly, Geography- which advanced geographic knowledge. Geography consisted of eight volumes. The first discussed the problems of representing a spherical earth on a flat sheet of paper (remember, ancient Greek and Roman scholars knew the earth was round) and provided information about map projections. The second through seventh volumes of the work was a gazetteer of sorts, as a collection of eight thousand places around the world. This gazetteer was remarkable for Ptolemy invented latitude and longitude- he was the first to place a grid system on a map and use the same grid system for the entire planet. His collection of place names and their coordinates reveals the geographic knowledge of the Roman empire in the second century. The final volume of Geography was Ptolemys atlas,  featuring maps that utilized his grid system and maps that placed north at the top of the map, a cartographic convention that Ptolemy created. Unfortunately, his gazetteer and maps contained a great number of errors due to the simple fact that Ptolemy was forced to rely upon the best estimates of merchant travelers (who were incapable of accurately measuring longitude at the time). Like much knowledge of the ancient era, the awesome work of Ptolemy was lost for over a thousand years after it was first published. Finally, in the early fifteenth century, his work was rediscovered and translated into Latin, the language of the educated populace. Geography gained rapid popularity, and there were more than forty editions printed from the fifteenth through sixteenth centuries. For hundreds of years, unscrupulous cartographers of the middle ages printed a variety of atlases with the name Ptolemy on them, to provide credentials for their books. Ptolemy erroneously assumed a short circumference of the earth, which ended up convincing Christopher Columbus that he could reach Asia by sailing west from Europe. Additionally, Ptolemy showed the Indian Ocean as a large inland sea, bordered on the south by Terra Incognita (unknown land). The idea of a large southern continent sparked countless expeditions. Geography had a profound effect on the geographical understanding of the world in the Renaissance and it was fortunate that its knowledge was rediscovered to help establish geographical concepts that we almost take for granted today. Note that the scholar Ptolemy is not the same as the Ptolemy who governed Egypt and lived from 372-283 BCE. Ptolemy was a common name.

Sunday, October 20, 2019

Happy Birthday in Latin and Roman Birthday Observances

Happy Birthday in Latin and Roman Birthday Observances Although we know Romans celebrated birthdays, we dont know if they wished one another the exact phrase Happy Birthday! But that doesnt mean we cant  use the Latin language  to wish someone a  happy birthday. The following seems to be the best way to express happy birthday in Latin. Felix sit natalis dies! Using the accusative case, specifically the accusative of exclamation,  felix  sit natalis  dies  is one way to say happy birthday. Similarly, you could also say  felicem diem natalem. Habeas felicitatem  in die natus es! Habeas felicitatem in die natus es  is another possibility. The phrase roughly translates to on happiness to love you.   Natalis laetus! A third way to wish happy birthday is  Natalis laetus mihi!  if you want to say happy birthday to me. Or,  Natalis laetus tibi!  if  you want to say happy birthday to you. Celebrating in Ancient Rome The ancient Romans observed different types of birthday celebrations or dies natales in Latin. Privately, Roman men and women marked their own birthdays and the births of family members and friends with gift-giving and banquets. Fathers gave presents to their children, brothers gave presents to sisters,  and slaves gave presents to their masters children. One custom was to celebrate not on the specific date an individual was born but rather on the first of the month (calends) in which the individual was born, or the first of the next month. Gifts given on birthdays include jewelry; the poet Juvenal mentions parasols and amber as gifts, and Martial suggests togas and military clothing would be appropriate. Birthday feasts might have entertainment  furnished by dancers and singers. Wine, flowers, incense, and cakes were part of such celebrations. The most important feature of Roman personal birthday celebrations was a sacrifice to the genius of the housefather and the juno of the housemother. The genius and juno were clan symbols, representing a persons patron saint or guardian angel, who guided the individual throughout life. Genii was a sort of middle power or intermediary between men and gods, and it was important that votive offerings be given to the genius each year in hopes that the protection would continue. Public Celebrations People also held similar celebrations for the birthdays of close friends and patrons. There is a wide variety of elegies, poems, and inscriptions commemorating such events. For example, in 238 CE, the grammarian Censorinus wrote De Die Natali as a birthday gift for his patron, Quintus Caerellius. In it he stated,   But while other men honor only their own birthdays, yet I am bound every year by a double duty as regards this religious observance; for since it is from you and your friendship that I receive esteem, position, honor, and assistance, and in fact all the rewards of life, I consider it a sin if I celebrate your day, which brought you forth into this world for me, any less carefully than my own. For my own birthday gave me life, but yours has brought me the enjoyment and the rewards of life. Emperors, Cults, Temples, and Cities The word natali also refers to anniversary celebrations of the founding of temples, cities, and cults. Beginning with the Principate, Romans also celebrated the birthdays of past and present emperors, and members of the imperial family, as well as their ascension days, marked as natales imperii. People would also combine celebrations: a banquet could mark the dedication of an associations banqueting hall, commemorating an important occasion in the life of the association.  The Corpus Inscriptionum Latinarum includes an inscription from a woman who donated 200 sesterces so that a local association would hold a banquet on her sons birthday. Sources Argetsinger, Kathryn. Birthday Rituals: Friends and Patrons in Roman Poetry and Cult. Classical Antiquity 11.2 (1992): 175–93. Print. Ascough, Richard S. Forms of Commensality in Greco-Roman Associations. The Classical World 102.1 (2008): 33–45. Print. Bowerman, Helen C. The Birthday as a Commonplace of Roman Elegy. The Classical Journal 12.5 (1917): 310–18. Print. Lucas, Hans. Martials Kalendae Nataliciae. The Classical Quarterly 32.1 (1938): 5–6. Print.

Saturday, October 19, 2019

Intelligences Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Intelligences - Essay Example r all, addition, subtraction, multiplication and division have lots of uses in daily life, if only to figure out how much to pay for fries and burgers and how much change you’re supposed to get back. Arithmetic was easy as 1-2-3. But algebra was not as easy as A-B-C, and I didn’t get it why letters had to substitute for the numbers when numbers were just fine for me. And trigonometry really lost me; its use of Greek symbols spelled Greek to me. But I do think a lot about people. People interest me, and I find them fascinating. It seems to me that people are the same everywhere in the world, despite differences in culture, faith, and ideologies. We nevertheless all agree where it really matters. We all love our children and look after their welfare the best way we can. We all regard our parents with love and respect, even if we show it in different ways. And with the advent of the internet, we are all quickly gravitating towards a single culture. We swoon over the same movie stars and dance to the same music. We share common experiences with each other even if we had never met. That’s why I feel I easily understand people. I am people-intelligent. Also dance-intelligent, so to speak. When dance music plays, feet come to life, hips sway to the beat, arms flail in the air. They say that we gain our sense of rhythm from the beating of our mothers’ hearts as we grew in the womb. Maybe so, in which case there shouldn’t be any reason for people to say they were born with two left feet as an excuse for why they can’t dance. Unless they really had two left feet. Not me. I was born to dance. But most of all, I think that I am best at being a mom. There’s no school that could teach how one can be a good parent; you just are, or you aren’t. All the universities in the world could not teach a mother to understand the different ways her infant cries – that he has a different cry when he’s hungry, or irritated, or wet, or sick; or to

Friday, October 18, 2019

Climate change Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Climate change - Essay Example This paper focuses specifically on the Gulf region in the United States, an area in which environment and living creatures have grown inter-dependent on adequate precipitation to effectively sustain lifestyle and longevity. The problem in this region, specifically, is the current water level in the Mississippi River which is significantly reduced due to climate change. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (2002) identifies that the Mississippi River region provides shelter and breeding grounds for migrating birds in the winter. Many different species of birds move away from colder regions to reproduce before returning to these regions to assist in pollination of plants and insect management in the food chain. The adequate waters near the Mississippi River in this region, historically, have provided quality shelter and water sources, thus providing other areas of the country with beneficial species regeneration. Today, however, climate change has shifted the volume of precipitation norm ally distributed within this region, inundating the Northern regions of the U.S. with these much-needed rains. Climatescience.gov (2007) further offers that when trees are exposed to higher carbon dioxide, rather than the highly oxygenated precipitation usually found in the Gulf region, trees alter their wood producing output. Instead of thickening trunks, the trees tend to establish more ground-level roots and smaller twig-like branches. Less oxygen replenishment through precipitation alters the scope of the environment, impacting the availability of building materials and thus impacting human lifestyles and economy. Nonliving dependencies associated with this problem include the infrastructures in this area created for predictable precipitation patterns. Walton (2012) indicates that a group of scientists and the Army Corps of Engineers will be rebuilding levees that were previously destroyed by humans to accommodate for rising water levels in a particular area just a year previous ly. This represents significant costs to destroy and rebuild infrastructure as well as causing problems with the homes and businesses that cannot predict their fluctuating dependency on barrier placement depending on water levels. The lack of predictability in climate change continues to disrupt levee longevity which considerable risks to the community due to depleting precipitation volumes. The human effects in this situation are largely negative, as most scientists and engineers are running on previous assumptions about precipitation predictability and infrastructure development without considering long-term sustainability. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is ever-diligent to attempt to sustain this environment for species migration and breeding, however using age-old sustainability plans that are no longer relevant in the face of dramatic shifts in precipitation distribution. An effective sustainability plan would include dredging of the Mississippi River so as to maintain more control over depth and to tap the underlying water table in this region to feed during periods of drought. Pumping stations designed to draw water from under the soil would be a long-term strategy to combat climate change. At the same time, it would ensure water is

Primary Document Analysis Paper #2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Primary Document Analysis Paper #2 - Essay Example Best symbolizing this was the Red Summer riots of Chicago – often referring to ‘the Awakening of Black America.’ This event was to change the face of American socialization, bringing to the fore, the contentious issue of racism and racial discrimination. This paper will analyze the primary documents on the race riots that occurred in the summer & fall of 1919 and factors led to the Red Summer. It will also address issues of race, politics, ideology, socioeconomics, and foreign affairs present in the urban violence that occurred and the role that the American media played in the Red Summer Riots. The Red Summer Riots portrayed a ‘boiling point’ in the nation’s long history of racial strife, through violent demonstrating against the African Americans’ long discrimination and oppression. In the summer and fall seasons of 1919, Chicago amongst a host of other populous cities became battlegrounds that witnessed continuous rioting. Not only was this mayhem experienced in the urban-city setting, but more so, in the rural areas of the South specifically those in the former confederacy, such as Mississippi, Arkansas, Texas and Georgia amongst others. As a result, millions of American lives were disrupted with hundreds (if not thousands) of people dying most of whom were African Americans. In the aftermath of the riots, thousands of individuals were injured, with many more being forced to flee from their neighborhoods and homes. In the overall context, not only was the social fabric affected in terms of civil unrest, but also in the form of economic depreci ation. Various businesses did loss millions of American dollars to looting and general destruction of their premises (Gardiner, 1919). Different aspects present in the society during the Red Summer Riots such as the media (print and television) played a vital role in fueling the prevailing social contexts for

Self-awareness and Career Management (Assignment) Essay

Self-awareness and Career Management (Assignment) - Essay Example Meanwhile, I will undertake the MBTIÂ ® Step I Qualifying Programme and also take the suitable course from ICA in order to get closer to my goal of being a highly smart and competent accounting person. Measurable Immediately after my graduation I would seek to find employment in the accounts function of a small organization under their graduate scheme. I lack work experience in accounts, hence, the chances of large multinational organizations declining my application would be very high. Therefore, I would still apply to small or medium sized organizations even in the capacity as a trainee or junior executive in accounts department. After working for a period of 12 to 18 months in a small or medium sized organization whilst sharpening my skills in accounts, I would venture out in search of employment in a multinational organization in the capacity of Accounts Manager. I would also strive to attend at least 6 public workshops during the next year in order to gain exposure and understa nding of the accounting process and maintaining of accounts ledgers. Attainable The immediate goal would be to find work experience in the field of Accounts Management. Within the first three months after graduation my attempt would be to equip myself with the suitable experience (minimum of 12-18 months) within the Accounts function. Furthermore, my skills with English language and information need to be improved. One such skill that needs improving is the proficiency with excel spreadsheets as it would be important in maintaining a large database of accounts and presenting charts and diagrams on project schedules. I will join the Brookes Entrepreneurs club and also the Oxford Entrepreneurs club in order to expand my network with both compatible and diverse individuals, thereby increasing my prospect of navigating myself into accounting function. Realistic During the Christmas break, I will purchase a CD that teaches how to use Microsoft Office tools more proficiently in order to b e armed at managing databases of accounts. I will do more research on the current accounting job market and make an appointment with the Careers and Advice centre and speak with a careers advisor on making my CV more attractive to prospective employers. Furthermore, interview skills will also be needed to be reviewed with my Careers advisor. Upon graduation, I would venture out in search of employment in Accounts Management graduate trainee level or even at a junior or trainee level. Timely I would aim at achieving my skills with information (Microsoft office tools) within the next one month (during the Christmas break). I would also join the Brookes Entrepreneurs society and the Oxford Entrepreneurs society within the next two weeks. Furthermore, I would aim at finding employment in the capacity of an Accounts graduate trainee or a trainee executive within the first three months after graduation. Thereafter, I would set out to take the MBTIÂ ® Step I Qualifying Programme after 18 months of employment. 12 months preceding the MBTIÂ ® Step I Qualifying Programme, I would follow the ICA Training Course. Within three to four years from now, I would aim to be a Senior Accounting Officer (or within an equal or higher position) in a reputed company ultimately with the objective of joining Qatar Petroleum as a Senior Accounts

Thursday, October 17, 2019

Nursing Theory and Practice Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Nursing Theory and Practice - Term Paper Example With actual nursing practice, Callista Roy recognized that in order to provide effective care, there must be several specific factors taken into consideration. These include psychological constructs of human behavior, socialization, physiological care, and inherent evaluations related to nurse self-concept, role function and interdependence on systems and teams. Roy began to see not only better patient outcomes by adopting this rather holistic model and its principles, but more dedicated and devoted nurses with strong self-awareness and emotional intelligence to perform adequate nursing care practice. The Roy Adaptation Model (RAM) consists of a series of inputs referred to as stimuli, control processes that include coping mechanisms, effectors which relates to nursing and patient self-concept, and the establishment of a feedback system to achieve maximum positive outputs in nursing care and practice and to reduce ineffective responses learned through observation and direct experienc e with patients. Why RAM is so effective is that it is practical and realistic, taking into consideration the multi-dimensional characteristics of human needs and values that are critical components to how patients will respond to nurses and how nursing caregivers will respond to patients. What makes the Roy Adaptation Model so relevant is that it understands that nurses and patients are both adaptive and holistic in cognition and emotion, where health is more than physiological care, but also biopsychosocial taking into consideration more than just the patient (Shin, Park, & Kim, 2006). This is a transformational model of nursing care, in which nursing culture within the organization is considered both an input and an effector. Fairholm (2009) identifies that in order to build an effective culture within the health care organization, a nurse must be visionary, a teacher, and impart mission to others to reduce change resistance and also build inter-team loyalties. The Roy Adaptation Model recognizes the impact of de-motivated or highly motivated nursing agents within the organization as variables that can impact nurse self-concept and task importance impacting psychological and sociological condition of the caregiver. RAM provides an acknowledgement that nurses and patients are complicated and dynamic individuals that must be addressed according to their self-concept and ability to cope effectively with their health care provision while also developing positive inter-dependencies with other health care staff. This model does not negate the notion of servant leadership in which a nurse is able to provide effective service and care to others while also developing better emotional intelligence and self-betterment through cognition and self-evaluation (Farazmand, Green, & Miller, 2010). The feedback system is an evaluatory tool that assesses whether strategies in nursing practice have met with expected outcomes and also to assist in developing new strategies that were ineffective. This model therefore provides qualitative and quantitative analyses opportunities that explore tangible care actions and relationship-minded concerns that are best measured through interviews or direct observation rather than through statistical evaluation. This model, because of its ability to recognize subjective and deductive scenarios in nursing care, is

Introduction to the business of Investment Banking Assignment

Introduction to the business of Investment Banking - Assignment Example An ardent need was felt for having a regulator which would ensure that the trading takes place keeping the interest of the investor in the mind. Hence in 1984, a ministerial committee was formed with the sole motive of regulating the capital market of Saudi Arabia (Tadawul, 2014, p. 1). The Saudi Arabian Stock Exchange is mainly run by the Board of Saudi Arabia which includes 9 members. The Capital Market Authority of the country takes care of the recommendation through which the members of the Board are nominated. The board comprises of the Chairman as well as the Vice Chairman apart from 7 other members. The operations of Tadawul are conducted in the electronic mode. Most of the orders of buy and sell as well as the ordering system or the trading procedure take place with the help of the electronic modes. This was started since 1990 and ensures that there is very little scope for fraudulent activities or illegal trading practices in Saudi Arabian Stock Exchange. The trading session of the exchange takes place between 11 am in the morning and 3.30 pm in the afternoon. The Tadawul All Share Index or the TASI is the index which indicates the performance of the stocks which are listed in the Tadawul Stock Exchange. The stocks of more than 168 companies are traded in the stock exchange. There are a number of sectors under which he stocks are traded. These sectors include the financial, consumer goods, Healthcare, telecoms, oil and gas as well as the industrial goods and materials. The products that are mainly traded in the Tadawul Stock Exchange include the Equities, Sukuk and Bonds, Mutual Funds as well as Exchange Traded Funds. The investment banks have a very active role in the entire process of the listing of the shares as well as in the raising of the funds from individual investors as well as the corporate clients when a company goes public. The investment bank ensures that the interests of

Wednesday, October 16, 2019

Self-awareness and Career Management (Assignment) Essay

Self-awareness and Career Management (Assignment) - Essay Example Meanwhile, I will undertake the MBTIÂ ® Step I Qualifying Programme and also take the suitable course from ICA in order to get closer to my goal of being a highly smart and competent accounting person. Measurable Immediately after my graduation I would seek to find employment in the accounts function of a small organization under their graduate scheme. I lack work experience in accounts, hence, the chances of large multinational organizations declining my application would be very high. Therefore, I would still apply to small or medium sized organizations even in the capacity as a trainee or junior executive in accounts department. After working for a period of 12 to 18 months in a small or medium sized organization whilst sharpening my skills in accounts, I would venture out in search of employment in a multinational organization in the capacity of Accounts Manager. I would also strive to attend at least 6 public workshops during the next year in order to gain exposure and understa nding of the accounting process and maintaining of accounts ledgers. Attainable The immediate goal would be to find work experience in the field of Accounts Management. Within the first three months after graduation my attempt would be to equip myself with the suitable experience (minimum of 12-18 months) within the Accounts function. Furthermore, my skills with English language and information need to be improved. One such skill that needs improving is the proficiency with excel spreadsheets as it would be important in maintaining a large database of accounts and presenting charts and diagrams on project schedules. I will join the Brookes Entrepreneurs club and also the Oxford Entrepreneurs club in order to expand my network with both compatible and diverse individuals, thereby increasing my prospect of navigating myself into accounting function. Realistic During the Christmas break, I will purchase a CD that teaches how to use Microsoft Office tools more proficiently in order to b e armed at managing databases of accounts. I will do more research on the current accounting job market and make an appointment with the Careers and Advice centre and speak with a careers advisor on making my CV more attractive to prospective employers. Furthermore, interview skills will also be needed to be reviewed with my Careers advisor. Upon graduation, I would venture out in search of employment in Accounts Management graduate trainee level or even at a junior or trainee level. Timely I would aim at achieving my skills with information (Microsoft office tools) within the next one month (during the Christmas break). I would also join the Brookes Entrepreneurs society and the Oxford Entrepreneurs society within the next two weeks. Furthermore, I would aim at finding employment in the capacity of an Accounts graduate trainee or a trainee executive within the first three months after graduation. Thereafter, I would set out to take the MBTIÂ ® Step I Qualifying Programme after 18 months of employment. 12 months preceding the MBTIÂ ® Step I Qualifying Programme, I would follow the ICA Training Course. Within three to four years from now, I would aim to be a Senior Accounting Officer (or within an equal or higher position) in a reputed company ultimately with the objective of joining Qatar Petroleum as a Senior Accounts

Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Introduction to the business of Investment Banking Assignment

Introduction to the business of Investment Banking - Assignment Example An ardent need was felt for having a regulator which would ensure that the trading takes place keeping the interest of the investor in the mind. Hence in 1984, a ministerial committee was formed with the sole motive of regulating the capital market of Saudi Arabia (Tadawul, 2014, p. 1). The Saudi Arabian Stock Exchange is mainly run by the Board of Saudi Arabia which includes 9 members. The Capital Market Authority of the country takes care of the recommendation through which the members of the Board are nominated. The board comprises of the Chairman as well as the Vice Chairman apart from 7 other members. The operations of Tadawul are conducted in the electronic mode. Most of the orders of buy and sell as well as the ordering system or the trading procedure take place with the help of the electronic modes. This was started since 1990 and ensures that there is very little scope for fraudulent activities or illegal trading practices in Saudi Arabian Stock Exchange. The trading session of the exchange takes place between 11 am in the morning and 3.30 pm in the afternoon. The Tadawul All Share Index or the TASI is the index which indicates the performance of the stocks which are listed in the Tadawul Stock Exchange. The stocks of more than 168 companies are traded in the stock exchange. There are a number of sectors under which he stocks are traded. These sectors include the financial, consumer goods, Healthcare, telecoms, oil and gas as well as the industrial goods and materials. The products that are mainly traded in the Tadawul Stock Exchange include the Equities, Sukuk and Bonds, Mutual Funds as well as Exchange Traded Funds. The investment banks have a very active role in the entire process of the listing of the shares as well as in the raising of the funds from individual investors as well as the corporate clients when a company goes public. The investment bank ensures that the interests of

Charles Chocolate case Essay Example for Free

Charles Chocolate case Essay Traelene beals â€Å"9am Friday† First, a formal case analysis This should be written in a business style format using short paragraphs and sentences, self-explanatory headings, and any figures/tables that would facilitate reading. Reports are to be no longer than 2000 words (excluding appendices Issues to be addressed – No measures of productivity or efficiaency in the plant- no way of telling if the plant was doing a good job. Difficult demand forcasting due to seasonality of sales. 2 new stores had ok type sales. Best clients of Wholesale sales changed focus on cheaper items and also own products. Sales agents could be fired with 90 days notice. Other parts of US haven’t heard of us. Of the 221 wholesale customers purchase just $1000 worth of products. Other 125 purchase between 1000 and 2000 per year. Sales agents, don’t know how to represent the all products. Speculating future orders from wholesale clients to customize boxes and logos-waste of capital. 60% of the total online/phone orders were from existing customers. Online sales haven’t grown – orders processed within 3-4 days. Why ship internationaly(only 5%)—Antartica Really Summer problem at Sandwich heaven – why did staff leave? How to get new staff in this tight labour market. Marketing service – old fashioned — Undefined Target market? Packaging ? (tourists publicatins, seasonal print media and radio spots) How to increase awareness without diluting the brand. Leverage on solid search engine raankings to promote online sales Basic website, reminder service to customers-good/bad? Sales agents dint provide links to top accounts. Companies revenues had grown because of Sandwich heaven(franchising) High reliability on tourism. Corporate gift marketing – 25% discount – market was good – Explore boston ? ice cream sales Increase retail penetration? Acquire a niche chocolate company? What about the tradiotnal brand name? Internal capacity? Relocate factory? Background Charles produced high-quality, hand wrapped chocolates, Portland creams. Best quality, many loyal customers across the world. Huge factory(24000 sq foot)-owned-. Only 75 retail and 35 production employees, 20 in management. Working hours 7am-4pm(each day). Leverage long shelf life Wholesale production required early planning and online sales required late production†¦ Production planning was completed by data distortions arising from out-of stock and over stock issues. – out of stock-over production – killed the pricing – by discount pricing. Special orders put the whole order on a stand still Retail stores provided 50% of sales. – Wholesale had 30% of sales – Charles is just used as an add on product. Online and phone – online 4% of total sales. –phone is 6% of total sales60% of all these orders were from regular orders.. Avg sales $138 by phone and $91 from website†¦High growth industry†¦ Sandwich heaven – 10% of sales Industry High demand for organic/dark chocolate- anti oxidant properties.

Monday, October 14, 2019

Analysis of Awareness of Real Estate Investment Trusts

Analysis of Awareness of Real Estate Investment Trusts Investment in general, and property investment in particular, have been traditionally regarded more as an art than a science, where investors, decision-makers and analyst rely more on their experience, subjective judgement and quantified evidence. Real Estate Investment Trust or REITs is a new medium of investment specifically in property investment in Malaysia. Malaysia is the first country in Asia to introduce property trust and only in 1989 was listed in Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange. The property trust was then facing some issues such as potential conflict of interest, a lack of focus on asset management and thin trading volume and then led the Real Property Investment Trust to be announced. REITs in Malaysia growth perfectly with stimulate the growth of property sector in this country. Malaysia then introduces the first of its new REITs, with the Axis REIT. YTL Corporation, Malaysias biggest builder, established the second REITs later, with properties in the REIT including the JW Marriott Hotel and Starhill Shopping Center in Kuala Lumpur. Besides that, other REITs that now established in Malaysia are Hektar REITs, Tower REITs, and also UOA REITs. Other companies in Malaysia that are expecting to join for REITs include Sunway City and the Landmarks Group. Most of the REITs companies in Malaysia own the real property asset such as shopping malls, hotels and also apartment buildings and they generate income from owning the building and also rental income from the buildings. The investors physically own a part of the building depending on the size of the share that they invest. Through REITs, investors can invest any amount that they want to own REITs. They can sell it anytime with the easiest way through stocks market. Compared to normal properties, the transaction cost of buy and sell REITs are much lower. But REITs does not like other unit trust, which is sold through agents or other peoples, but it is traded in stock exchange. So it gives return to investors in form of dividend and also capital appreciation from price change. This way, shows that REITs is a secured investment that protect investors interest and it works under the guidelines or frameworks that have been set up by government. Background: The investment characteristics of property are significantly different from the characteristics of assets in other investments. REITs in Malaysia is so attractive as Malaysia now is developing country. There is still a gap between Malaysia and others develop country in Asia. In order to put Malaysia in same level with Asia develop country, most of REITs managers are with option and plan to growth their property portfolio to trade or manage rental in order to achieve it. It also will give a better yield for investor if our country is same level with others. In order to improve market performance of REITs, the REITs Company should consider developing new opportunities, acquiring more properties into their portfolio and also to some countries, or joint developing property project. The relation of both legal frameworks and the market performance will give a picture to investor and other people who interested in this investment. The REITs sector need to provide more chance to other people to invest and it will help Malaysian generate more income others than monthly salary and to boost up economy in this country. Research Question: Finance in real estate is just a popular way of investment nowadays. The market performance of REITs shows the good results this few years. With the regulation that set up by government, surely REITs is the secured investment. But is there many people in Klang Valley that come from middle-income group realise about this investment in this develop country? Objectives: The main objective of this study is to determine the level of awareness towards REITs among middle-income group in Klang Valley. In line with above, this study also seeks to study types of REITs available in Malaysia Besides, these study also to discuss about the way to introduce REITs in Malaysia in order to make REITs the favourable investment medium. Scope of Study: In overall, this research is confined to REITs in Malaysia which in an attractive investment nowadays. This study covers the types of REITs available in Malaysia and also people awareness about it. Other than that, this study is carried out to know what is the way of promoting REITs that people prefer. Methodology: This research would be done in an analytic study manner. The information that is needed to examine the issue will be obtained from primary and secondary data. The primary data refers to the first-hand data, which required data collection that is the distribution of questionnaire. The questionnaire will be distributed to certain amount of Malaysian with a different background. Secondary data or desk research refers to the data that already exist, mostly in quantitative form. In this study, most of the secondary data were obtained from; Academic research on REITs and journals. Website of REITs Company. Other dissertations. Data analysis will be done through frequency analysis. Frequency analysis is used to determine the frequency of certain choice for the questions. Most frequent answer will be given the priority. The results will be shows in diagram or graph to show the popularity answers. Significance: It is hoped that the anticipated outcome of this study can benefit the: The REITs Company where they will more alert toward the middle-income people awareness of REITs and the way people wanted REITs to be promoted. The interested investor and also the student, as a reference on the information that relates to REITs. Organisation of Research: This study consists of five chapters where the first chapter provides a brief concept and view on the topic that will be studied in this research. It consists of introduction, objective of study, scope of study, significance on research and also organisation of research. Chapter two discuss on literature review about REITs in Malaysia. The discussion will be on definition of REITs, the types of REITs in Malaysia and also the list of REITs companies. Other than that, the discussion also will describe on how REITs work and also the benefit of REITs. The definition on middle-income people and background of Klang Valley also will briefly explain. The next chapter, chapter three is on methodology. In this chapter, methods used to construct the questionnaires will be outlined. This chapter will highlight how the administration of the questionnaire which will conduct to respondents. Chapter four is the finding and analysis of data obtained through questionnaires survey. The analysis of data obtained will determine the level of awareness towards REITs among middle-income people in Klang Valley. Through the survey, the preference way of promoting REITs also can be discover. The last chapter, which is chapter five, is the conclusion and limitation of this study. The best suggestion of promoting REITs also will be stated in this chapter. The weaknesses and strengths of the study may be included. Some suggestions for further study will also be included in this study. In the next chapter, a review of related information about REITs will be explained. The explanation will cover definition, types, how REITs work, REITs companies in Malaysia, the legislation of REITs Islamic REITs and also the future prospect of REITs. Chapter 2: Literature Review: LITERATURE REVIEW: REITs which stand for Real Estate Investment Trust is an investment that relates to properties. Trust fund has been introducing in this country since 1986, but REITS; a part of trust fund is a new medium investment only famous around few years back. REITs is an investment vehicle for investors to invest in large-scale income producing real estate. With the concept like unit trust, this investment gathers pool of money from all sizes of investors. REIT based companies will invest, manage and distribute rental as dividend back to the investors by yearly basis or depends on the agreement that have been signed before.REITs is a liquidity investment which It is being trade in Bursa Kuala Lumpur with ease of buy and sells back like a normal equity. As the years flow, REITs is not new to the world especially in many other developed countries. REITs usually targets for a long term investor with moderate risk such as insurance companies, unit trust funds and even individual investors. REITs invest in a variety of real estate properties such as office buildings, shopping malls, warehouses, apartments and hotels. The investor also has the added advantages of holding a liquid asset in the form of shares that can be sold on the market unlike the real estate itself which is illiquid. Investing in REITs provides the investor with dividend income and also allows them to own a real estate portfolio rather than just a single building. This chapter then will briefly explain about Klang Valley, middle-income group, history of REITs in Malaysia, types of REITs, how REITs work, and REITs companies and also about the legislation of REITs. Klang Valley: My research focus on awareness towards REITs among middle-income people in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Malaysia is located in Southeastern Asia, peninsula bordering Thailand and northern one-third of the island of Borneo, bordering Indonesia, Brunei, and South China Sea, south of Vietnam. It is comprised of two separate geographical regions which are Malay Peninsular and the states of Sabah and Sarawak. Klang valley is an area in Malaysia comprising Kulala Lumpur and its suburbs, and adjoining cities and towns in the state of Selangor. Tis valley is named after Klang River, the principal river that flows through it which is closely linked to the early development of the area as a cluster of tin mining towns in the late 19th century. Development of Klang Valley took place largely in the area between Gombak and Port Klang but the urban areas surrounding Kuala Lumpur have since growth towards the border of Negeri Sembilan and the north towards Rawang. Klang Valley has a total population around 7.6 million people in 2009 and estimated to growth due to the people migrate from other states towards Klang Valley and also a population growth. Klang Valley is the heartland of Malaysias industry and commerce. Regions of Klang Valley and their corresponding local authority: Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur City Hall. Federal Territory of Putrajaya. Putrajaya Corporation. Selangor district of Petaling. Shah Alam City Council. Petaling Jaya City Council. Subang Jaya Municipal Council. Selangor District of Klang. Klang Municipal Council. Selangor district of Gombak. Selayang Municipal Council. Selangor district of Hulu Langat. Ampang Jaya Municipal Council. Kajang Municipal Council. Selangor district of Sepang. Sepang Municipal Council. For further information about the location of Klang Valley. Middle-Income Group: There are three classes of income in Malaysia. These classes indicate Malaysian monthly income and also their household. The three (3) classes including low-income people, middle-income people, and high-income people. Below is the income groups in Malaysia. Middle-class income is define as the socioeconomic class between the working class and the upper class, usually including professionals, highly skilled labourers, and lower and middle management.( Source: http://www.answers.com/topic/middle-class). Background of REITs in Malaysia: Malaysia is the first country in Asia to introduce property trusts. In 1989, the first trust was listed in Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange. The regulatory framework of property trust, approved by the Bank Negara in 1986, was restrictive and provided no tax transparency. But there still an issues that arise such as lack of focus on property management and also conflict of interest which led the property trust to be private. In 1995, a revision of the property trust guidelines were done but it fail to give a good impact to investors and also to market. Then, in February 2005, there is another revision with led the property trust be renamed as Real Property Investment Trust (REITs). The major income of REITs is from rental and the profit is required to distribute to holders or investors in dividend. The guidelines also been revised to provide a good regulation for a REITs in this country. Malaysia was the first Islamic country to certify REITs and also the first country in Asia where REITs conquer agriculture land. A plantation REITs also much like conventional REITs. It will be the crops planted on the land and the success will depend on the sizes of assets injected to the trust. The potential plantation to be expected is oil palm because of the high demand on the production. Other than that, palm oil also undergoing the research to become a biodiesel product and in become more attractive after the increasing in oil prices. The plantation land or agriculture land also can be developed to residential area or commercial area due to the development of town. Types of REITs: REITs has several types with drives to a different prospect of REITs but it still relates to property as a main core to invest on. In others country they apply a lot of types of REITs. But in Malaysia we only apply three types of REITs. There are Equity REITs, Mortgage REITs and also Hybrid REITs. Equity REITs: Equity REITs is a publicly traded company that, as its principal business, buys, manages, renovates, maintains and occasionally sells real properties. (block,2006).Properties are usually purchased to invest is an income-producing real estate such as hotels, shopping malls and also apartment buildings. This type of REITs is different from others because REITs usually companies will purchase or develop the property and operate it as a part of their portfolio rather than sell it. Besides, Equity REITs is a long term investment because they earn dividend from rental. In additional, this type will let investors not only just to choose the type of property they want to invest in, but also the location of the properties. (Block, 2006). It means that the investors can make a choice on their own with the advice of the agent or REITs managers in order to make a good investment and to gain a good dividend. Mortgage REITs: A mortgage REITs is a REITs that focus on makes on holds loans to the property developers. (All about Investing: The Easy Way to Get Started by Esme Faerber: page 89). Rather than investing in properties,this type of REITs sometime loans money for purchase existing mortgages. The revenue earns is from the interest charge on the mortgage loans and pass on shareholders. Mortgage REITs is more sensitive compare than other REITs because of the prices of mortgage REITs react opposite from interest rates. It is good REITs to invest if there is a rumour of dropping in interest rates. Hybrid REITs: Hybrids combine the investing principles of mortgage and equity REITs, diversifying between making mortgage loans and direct property ownership. They earn both rental and interest income. (http://www.allaboutskyscrapers.com/REIT_types.htm). They buy, develop, and manage the properties and provide financing through mortgage loans. Most hybrid REITs have a stronger position in their financing account. The most famous industry that using hybrid REITs is private healthcare industries, where the financial company will provide mortgage to healthcare company, hospital management and also to buy properties such as land and building and also medical appliances. Equity REITs seem to be the most popular REITs recently. Between three types of REITs, mortgage REITs is the most risky which in involve in lend money to developers. Every type of REITs has different level of risk so investors should study and evaluate which REITs they want to invest in. The wise result will make the investors smile widely because of the big fish. Chan, Erickson and Wang (2003) find that equity REITs pay out more dividends than mortgage REITs. The reason is that equity REITs offer the potential for capital gains in addition to current income. Structure of REITs: Source: Practice and Prospect of Islamic Real Estate Investment (I-REITs)in Malaysian Islamic Capital Market by Dr. Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki. Manager: A man or woman who controls an organization or a part of organization. Property manager: A man or woman who controls the management and maintenance of the building. He or she will ensure the building in the good condition which safe to fit tenants in. Tenant: A person who pays money (rent) to the owner of a room, flat, building or piece of land so that he or she can live in it or use it. Trustee: A person who looks after money or property for somebody else. Unit holder: An owner of one or more units in a mutual fund. How REITs Works: Its true that investment most favourable today will be the one most prized tomorrow, and then real estate is definitely due for love-in. Investing in income-generating real estate can be a great way to increase your net worth. But for many people, investing in real estate, particularly commercial real estate is simply out of their budgets. REITs is a saviour to people when with REITs people can invest in small amount but with a large-scale of real estate group. REITs which means real estate investment trust essentially the organization that own and manage a portfolio of real estate and mortgages such as shopping malls, hotels, apartment buildings and also agriculture lands. REITs does not mean for a restrict group, but this share can be own buy anyone. REITs offer people the ownership of the property without any risks because all of the problems will be covered by agents or REITs managers. There are advantages when investing in REITs because of the liquidity and diversity. It is unlike actual real estate, where REITs can be easily and quickly sold. People will face less financial risk because of investing in a portfolio rather than single building because of the problems such as irresponsible tenants, economy impact to the property rental market and market value, and so on. REITs has a board of directors that elected by the shareholders. The shareholders have a power to eliminate any board of directors that does not fulfil their requirement. The board of directors usually came from a people with an investment background especially in REITs field. They will assist a REITs managers; person who will manages the operation of the property. The power to choose what types of real estate to invest in is on board of directors. REITs investment for investors starts when they invest certain amount of money in a REITs fund. The amount of money depends on the REITs managers who will arrange the investment on the properties that have been agreed by board of director. The investors can have an eyes and ideas on what types of the properties and the location. They have a choice whether want to agree or not with the properties. If they agree with the properties, they can sign a document to clarify the investment. Then the properties will be rent out or mortgage in order to earn money. REITs has a several method to measuring the profit but the suitable one called Funds From Operation (FFO). The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (NAREIT) defines FFO as: Net income (computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles), excluding gains (or losses) from sales of property, plus depreciation and amortization, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures. Adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures will be calculated to reflect funds from operations on the same basis. Source: http://home.howstuffworks.com/real-estate/reit2.htm. The REITs industry use FFO to measure performance and to establish dividend payouts. Kallberg et al (2003) reported that REITs consistently pay out about 85% of FFO as dividends. The payouts from REITs are consistently higher than other types of equities. In other words, FFO is defined as the net income, excluding gains and losses from debt restructuring and property sales, adding back property depreciation and amortisation, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnership and joint ventures. The net income is referring to rent and sales computed according to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). However FFO is not a necessary way to determine performance and dividend payouts. Not all REITs calculate FFO according to the NAREIT definition because some of the important items are missing from the formula such as maintenance, repairs and also expenses. Thus, investors must always read a companys report and any others supplemental information in order to get an exact FFO. REITs Companies: In Malaysia, there are several amount of business runs base on REITs. These companies have been success to put property market in this country in a good condition. These companies also expend the real estate industry with so much new types of building. Below is briefly an explanation about ten (10) well known REITs companies. Al-Aqar KPJ: Al-Aqar KPJ REITs established on 28 June 2006 is a Malaysian-based unit trust. The objective of this investment is to own and invest in Syariah-compliant real estate and it has been acceptable to invest in properties which compromise Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital Building, Damansara Specialist Hospital Building, Johor Specialist Hospital Building, Ipoh Specialist Hospital Building, Puteri Specialist Hospital Building and Selangor Medical Centre Building. There are nine (9) others hospital under KPJ that potential to be injected under Al-Aqar KPJ such as Tawakal Hospital, Seremban Specialist Hospital and also Penawar Hospital. Amanah Raya: Amanah Raya REITs is subsidiary of Amanah Raya Berhad and wholly-owned by Minester of Fianace Incorporated. Amanah Raya REITs listed on Bursa Securities Malaysia Berhad on 26 February 2007 with a total asset siza of RM337 million. Today, Amanah Raya REITs has a diversification portfolio comprising hospitality, education and also commercial properties such as SEGI College, Holiday Villa Langkawi, Holiday Villa Alor Star, Wisma Amanah Raya Berhad, Wisma UEP, Permanis Factory and also Blocks AB South City Plaza. AmFirst: Established on 28 September 2006 under the Trust Deed, AmFIRST then entered into between Am ARA REIT Managers and Mayban Trustee Berhad. AmFIRST managed by Am ARA REIT Managers Sdn Bhd. Three months then, Am FIRST was listing on the Main Board of the Bursa Saham Malaysia Berhad on 21 December 2006. It shows an innovative makeover of AmFIRST, the first listed property trust fund in Malaysia. This REITS company is the largest Malaysia-based commercial REITs with exposure to the office, retail and hotel sector in Klang Valley area. Currently manages six office building, where three are located within the Kuala Lumpur Golden Triangle; AmBank Group Leadership Centre, AmBank Group Building, and also AmBank Tower, and one each in Petaling Jaya, Kelana Jaya, and Subang Jaya. AmFIRST also manages four-star hotel and a retail mall located in Subang Jaya, The Summit Subang, USJ. Atrium: Atrium REITs is a first logistic property approved in Malaysia. The objective of Atrium REITs is to invest in portfolio in order to reward investors or unit holders a maximise income and to acquire a high quality assets to achieve a long-term growth in a net income for distribution of dividend. This REITs then was first approved by the Securities Commission in October 2006 and then listed on Main Board of Bursa Saham Malaysia Berhad in April 2007. Atrium REITs has an 809, 668 sq ft (75, 220 sq mt) approved portfolio of investment properties which comprises of four freehold industrial properties currently leased to reputable and strong financially tenants. All of their properties located in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, the fastest growing area in this country. Axis: Axis REITs is the first REITs list on Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad on 3 August 2005. On 11 December 2008, Axis launched Islamic REITs which is the first in Malaysia. Axis own diversified portfolio of properties especially in Klang Valley, Kedah and Johor comprising of commercial offices, light industial building and also warehouse. Buildings that portray an image of Axis are Axis Tower and also Crystal Plaza. Both if this building are next door to each other and located along the busiest road, Federal Highway. These buildings are well maintain and easier accessibility. Other Axis properties are Delfi Cocoa in and BMW Asia Technology Centre PTP in Johor and also Giant Hypermarket in Sungai Petani, Kedah. Hektar: Hektar REITs is a Malaysias first retail-focused REITs. Listed on the Main Board of Bursa Saham Malaysia Securities on 4 December 2006, Hektar portfolio currently consists of shopping centres in Subang Jaya, Melaka and Muar. As of 31 December 2009, all of these properties was value of RM720 million. Hektar REITs is managed by Hektar Asset Management Sdn Bhd which a part of Hektar Group. QCT: QCT (Quill Capita Trust) REITs was listed in Main Board of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad on 8 January 2007. QCT is managed by Quill Capita Management Sdn Bhd. QCT main investment in REITs is a commercial properties. Until 31 December 2009, QCT has ten (10) properties with 1,288,149 sq ft net lettable area valued RM 788.4 million. The properties including part of Plaza Mont Kiara, Quill buildings, Wisma Technip and also tesco building in Jelutong, Penang. Starhill: This REITs was established on 18 November 2005 by a trust deed entered between Pintar Projek Sdn Bhd and Mayban Trustee and listed on Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad on 16 December 2005. Starhill REITs is focusing on retail and hotel properties investment. As for February 2010, Starhill REITs is the largest Malaysias real estate investment. This REITs has four (4) portfolio located in the heart of Kualu Lumpur; Starhill Gallery, JW Marriot Hotel, Lot 10 Shopping Centre and also The Residence at The Ritz-Carlton. Tower: Tower REITs is established on 21 February 2006. The objective of this company is to invest primarily in a portfolio of quality office building and commercial properties to provide regular and stable distributions of dividend to unit holders or investors and also to achieve a medium-term growth in the net income. In order to achieve their objective, Tower REITs implement several key strategies such as optimisation of capital structure, active asset management and also acquisition growth. The portfolio of this REITs company consists of three buildings located in Kuala Lumpur. First is Menara HLA, the 32-storeys office tower located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur Golden Triangle. With a net lettable area of 396, 820 sq ft, it has a blue chip tennats such as Hong Leong Assurance Berhad. Next, HP Towers comprises of two blocks of 9-storeys and 21-storeys and 3 levels of connecting podium. Situated in Bukit Damansara, this towers has a net lettable area of 350, 056 sq ft with a Hewlett-Packard (M) Sdn Bhd as a tenants. Lastly, Menara ING situated in Jalan Raja Chulan, the main central business district of Kuala Lumpur. Tower REITs only own 78.3% of the total share unit of the building and 100% leased out to ING Insurance Bhd. UOA: nbsp  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  UOA REITs was established on 28 November 2005 and listed on the Main Board of Bursa Saham Malaysia Securities Berhad two days later. UOA REITs is focusing on commercial properties. With a diversification portfolio of properties, UOA manages to maintain four building in Kuala Lumpur area. First is UOA Centre, a stylish 33-storeys office building situated between Jalan Pinang and Jalan Perak. Tenants of the building include financial services companies and also trading companies. Next is UOA II which located near to UOA Centre. With a contemporary designed, this 39-storeys building has a mixture of tenants from government agencies, multinationals insurance companies and law firms. Other than that, a 13-storeys office building located in Jalan Dungun, Damansara Heights name UOA Damansara is one of the UOA properties. Law firms, international associations and trading companies are a part of tenants for this building. Last is UOA Pantai located strategically in front of Menara TM. This 7-storeys of building consists of tenants include multinational corporations and so on. Regulation of REITs: In Malaysia, REITs govern by a statutory body name Security Commission Malaysia (SC). SC was established on 1 March 1993 under the Securities Commission Act 1993 and it is a financial regulatory agency. It is the central authority to regulate and develop the capital market. SC has big responsibilities in order to ensure the safety of the investors under the Act includes: Registering authority for prospectuses of corporations other than unlisted recreational clubs. Approving authority for corporate bond issues. Regulating all matters relating to securities and future contracts. Regulating the take-over and mergers of companies. Regulating all matters relating to unit trust schemes. Licensing and supervising all licensed persons. Supervising exchanges, clearing houses and central depositories. Encouraging self-regulation. Ensuring proper conduct of market institutions and licensed persons. Source:http://www.sc.com.my/main.asp?pageid=350menuid=376newsid=linkid=type= New Islamic REITs: The introduction of Islamic REITs is viewed as one of the most significant initiatives to broaden and deepen the product base of Islamic capital market in Malaysia. It can also help to enhance competitiveness of Malaysian Islamic capital market by attracting global Islamic investors who wish to diversify their investment portfolio which are Shariah compliant. Islamic REITs regulation was outlined in the Guidelines for Islamic REITs issued on 21st November 2005 by Securities Commission. (Securities Commission,2005). The Guidelines were introduced to facilitate the development of new Islamic capital market products, making Malaysia the first jurisdiction in the global Islamic financial sector to issue such guidelines and setting a global benchmark for the development of Islamic REITs. The Guidelines essentially stipulate Shariah compliance criteria to guide management companies in their activities relating to an Islamic REITs, including the types of Shariah permissible and non-permissible rental and investment activities for such fund. Islam prohibited Muslim from investing in properties whose tenants sell alcohol, pork or allo Analysis of Awareness of Real Estate Investment Trusts Analysis of Awareness of Real Estate Investment Trusts Investment in general, and property investment in particular, have been traditionally regarded more as an art than a science, where investors, decision-makers and analyst rely more on their experience, subjective judgement and quantified evidence. Real Estate Investment Trust or REITs is a new medium of investment specifically in property investment in Malaysia. Malaysia is the first country in Asia to introduce property trust and only in 1989 was listed in Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange. The property trust was then facing some issues such as potential conflict of interest, a lack of focus on asset management and thin trading volume and then led the Real Property Investment Trust to be announced. REITs in Malaysia growth perfectly with stimulate the growth of property sector in this country. Malaysia then introduces the first of its new REITs, with the Axis REIT. YTL Corporation, Malaysias biggest builder, established the second REITs later, with properties in the REIT including the JW Marriott Hotel and Starhill Shopping Center in Kuala Lumpur. Besides that, other REITs that now established in Malaysia are Hektar REITs, Tower REITs, and also UOA REITs. Other companies in Malaysia that are expecting to join for REITs include Sunway City and the Landmarks Group. Most of the REITs companies in Malaysia own the real property asset such as shopping malls, hotels and also apartment buildings and they generate income from owning the building and also rental income from the buildings. The investors physically own a part of the building depending on the size of the share that they invest. Through REITs, investors can invest any amount that they want to own REITs. They can sell it anytime with the easiest way through stocks market. Compared to normal properties, the transaction cost of buy and sell REITs are much lower. But REITs does not like other unit trust, which is sold through agents or other peoples, but it is traded in stock exchange. So it gives return to investors in form of dividend and also capital appreciation from price change. This way, shows that REITs is a secured investment that protect investors interest and it works under the guidelines or frameworks that have been set up by government. Background: The investment characteristics of property are significantly different from the characteristics of assets in other investments. REITs in Malaysia is so attractive as Malaysia now is developing country. There is still a gap between Malaysia and others develop country in Asia. In order to put Malaysia in same level with Asia develop country, most of REITs managers are with option and plan to growth their property portfolio to trade or manage rental in order to achieve it. It also will give a better yield for investor if our country is same level with others. In order to improve market performance of REITs, the REITs Company should consider developing new opportunities, acquiring more properties into their portfolio and also to some countries, or joint developing property project. The relation of both legal frameworks and the market performance will give a picture to investor and other people who interested in this investment. The REITs sector need to provide more chance to other people to invest and it will help Malaysian generate more income others than monthly salary and to boost up economy in this country. Research Question: Finance in real estate is just a popular way of investment nowadays. The market performance of REITs shows the good results this few years. With the regulation that set up by government, surely REITs is the secured investment. But is there many people in Klang Valley that come from middle-income group realise about this investment in this develop country? Objectives: The main objective of this study is to determine the level of awareness towards REITs among middle-income group in Klang Valley. In line with above, this study also seeks to study types of REITs available in Malaysia Besides, these study also to discuss about the way to introduce REITs in Malaysia in order to make REITs the favourable investment medium. Scope of Study: In overall, this research is confined to REITs in Malaysia which in an attractive investment nowadays. This study covers the types of REITs available in Malaysia and also people awareness about it. Other than that, this study is carried out to know what is the way of promoting REITs that people prefer. Methodology: This research would be done in an analytic study manner. The information that is needed to examine the issue will be obtained from primary and secondary data. The primary data refers to the first-hand data, which required data collection that is the distribution of questionnaire. The questionnaire will be distributed to certain amount of Malaysian with a different background. Secondary data or desk research refers to the data that already exist, mostly in quantitative form. In this study, most of the secondary data were obtained from; Academic research on REITs and journals. Website of REITs Company. Other dissertations. Data analysis will be done through frequency analysis. Frequency analysis is used to determine the frequency of certain choice for the questions. Most frequent answer will be given the priority. The results will be shows in diagram or graph to show the popularity answers. Significance: It is hoped that the anticipated outcome of this study can benefit the: The REITs Company where they will more alert toward the middle-income people awareness of REITs and the way people wanted REITs to be promoted. The interested investor and also the student, as a reference on the information that relates to REITs. Organisation of Research: This study consists of five chapters where the first chapter provides a brief concept and view on the topic that will be studied in this research. It consists of introduction, objective of study, scope of study, significance on research and also organisation of research. Chapter two discuss on literature review about REITs in Malaysia. The discussion will be on definition of REITs, the types of REITs in Malaysia and also the list of REITs companies. Other than that, the discussion also will describe on how REITs work and also the benefit of REITs. The definition on middle-income people and background of Klang Valley also will briefly explain. The next chapter, chapter three is on methodology. In this chapter, methods used to construct the questionnaires will be outlined. This chapter will highlight how the administration of the questionnaire which will conduct to respondents. Chapter four is the finding and analysis of data obtained through questionnaires survey. The analysis of data obtained will determine the level of awareness towards REITs among middle-income people in Klang Valley. Through the survey, the preference way of promoting REITs also can be discover. The last chapter, which is chapter five, is the conclusion and limitation of this study. The best suggestion of promoting REITs also will be stated in this chapter. The weaknesses and strengths of the study may be included. Some suggestions for further study will also be included in this study. In the next chapter, a review of related information about REITs will be explained. The explanation will cover definition, types, how REITs work, REITs companies in Malaysia, the legislation of REITs Islamic REITs and also the future prospect of REITs. Chapter 2: Literature Review: LITERATURE REVIEW: REITs which stand for Real Estate Investment Trust is an investment that relates to properties. Trust fund has been introducing in this country since 1986, but REITS; a part of trust fund is a new medium investment only famous around few years back. REITs is an investment vehicle for investors to invest in large-scale income producing real estate. With the concept like unit trust, this investment gathers pool of money from all sizes of investors. REIT based companies will invest, manage and distribute rental as dividend back to the investors by yearly basis or depends on the agreement that have been signed before.REITs is a liquidity investment which It is being trade in Bursa Kuala Lumpur with ease of buy and sells back like a normal equity. As the years flow, REITs is not new to the world especially in many other developed countries. REITs usually targets for a long term investor with moderate risk such as insurance companies, unit trust funds and even individual investors. REITs invest in a variety of real estate properties such as office buildings, shopping malls, warehouses, apartments and hotels. The investor also has the added advantages of holding a liquid asset in the form of shares that can be sold on the market unlike the real estate itself which is illiquid. Investing in REITs provides the investor with dividend income and also allows them to own a real estate portfolio rather than just a single building. This chapter then will briefly explain about Klang Valley, middle-income group, history of REITs in Malaysia, types of REITs, how REITs work, and REITs companies and also about the legislation of REITs. Klang Valley: My research focus on awareness towards REITs among middle-income people in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Malaysia is located in Southeastern Asia, peninsula bordering Thailand and northern one-third of the island of Borneo, bordering Indonesia, Brunei, and South China Sea, south of Vietnam. It is comprised of two separate geographical regions which are Malay Peninsular and the states of Sabah and Sarawak. Klang valley is an area in Malaysia comprising Kulala Lumpur and its suburbs, and adjoining cities and towns in the state of Selangor. Tis valley is named after Klang River, the principal river that flows through it which is closely linked to the early development of the area as a cluster of tin mining towns in the late 19th century. Development of Klang Valley took place largely in the area between Gombak and Port Klang but the urban areas surrounding Kuala Lumpur have since growth towards the border of Negeri Sembilan and the north towards Rawang. Klang Valley has a total population around 7.6 million people in 2009 and estimated to growth due to the people migrate from other states towards Klang Valley and also a population growth. Klang Valley is the heartland of Malaysias industry and commerce. Regions of Klang Valley and their corresponding local authority: Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur. Kuala Lumpur City Hall. Federal Territory of Putrajaya. Putrajaya Corporation. Selangor district of Petaling. Shah Alam City Council. Petaling Jaya City Council. Subang Jaya Municipal Council. Selangor District of Klang. Klang Municipal Council. Selangor district of Gombak. Selayang Municipal Council. Selangor district of Hulu Langat. Ampang Jaya Municipal Council. Kajang Municipal Council. Selangor district of Sepang. Sepang Municipal Council. For further information about the location of Klang Valley. Middle-Income Group: There are three classes of income in Malaysia. These classes indicate Malaysian monthly income and also their household. The three (3) classes including low-income people, middle-income people, and high-income people. Below is the income groups in Malaysia. Middle-class income is define as the socioeconomic class between the working class and the upper class, usually including professionals, highly skilled labourers, and lower and middle management.( Source: http://www.answers.com/topic/middle-class). Background of REITs in Malaysia: Malaysia is the first country in Asia to introduce property trusts. In 1989, the first trust was listed in Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange. The regulatory framework of property trust, approved by the Bank Negara in 1986, was restrictive and provided no tax transparency. But there still an issues that arise such as lack of focus on property management and also conflict of interest which led the property trust to be private. In 1995, a revision of the property trust guidelines were done but it fail to give a good impact to investors and also to market. Then, in February 2005, there is another revision with led the property trust be renamed as Real Property Investment Trust (REITs). The major income of REITs is from rental and the profit is required to distribute to holders or investors in dividend. The guidelines also been revised to provide a good regulation for a REITs in this country. Malaysia was the first Islamic country to certify REITs and also the first country in Asia where REITs conquer agriculture land. A plantation REITs also much like conventional REITs. It will be the crops planted on the land and the success will depend on the sizes of assets injected to the trust. The potential plantation to be expected is oil palm because of the high demand on the production. Other than that, palm oil also undergoing the research to become a biodiesel product and in become more attractive after the increasing in oil prices. The plantation land or agriculture land also can be developed to residential area or commercial area due to the development of town. Types of REITs: REITs has several types with drives to a different prospect of REITs but it still relates to property as a main core to invest on. In others country they apply a lot of types of REITs. But in Malaysia we only apply three types of REITs. There are Equity REITs, Mortgage REITs and also Hybrid REITs. Equity REITs: Equity REITs is a publicly traded company that, as its principal business, buys, manages, renovates, maintains and occasionally sells real properties. (block,2006).Properties are usually purchased to invest is an income-producing real estate such as hotels, shopping malls and also apartment buildings. This type of REITs is different from others because REITs usually companies will purchase or develop the property and operate it as a part of their portfolio rather than sell it. Besides, Equity REITs is a long term investment because they earn dividend from rental. In additional, this type will let investors not only just to choose the type of property they want to invest in, but also the location of the properties. (Block, 2006). It means that the investors can make a choice on their own with the advice of the agent or REITs managers in order to make a good investment and to gain a good dividend. Mortgage REITs: A mortgage REITs is a REITs that focus on makes on holds loans to the property developers. (All about Investing: The Easy Way to Get Started by Esme Faerber: page 89). Rather than investing in properties,this type of REITs sometime loans money for purchase existing mortgages. The revenue earns is from the interest charge on the mortgage loans and pass on shareholders. Mortgage REITs is more sensitive compare than other REITs because of the prices of mortgage REITs react opposite from interest rates. It is good REITs to invest if there is a rumour of dropping in interest rates. Hybrid REITs: Hybrids combine the investing principles of mortgage and equity REITs, diversifying between making mortgage loans and direct property ownership. They earn both rental and interest income. (http://www.allaboutskyscrapers.com/REIT_types.htm). They buy, develop, and manage the properties and provide financing through mortgage loans. Most hybrid REITs have a stronger position in their financing account. The most famous industry that using hybrid REITs is private healthcare industries, where the financial company will provide mortgage to healthcare company, hospital management and also to buy properties such as land and building and also medical appliances. Equity REITs seem to be the most popular REITs recently. Between three types of REITs, mortgage REITs is the most risky which in involve in lend money to developers. Every type of REITs has different level of risk so investors should study and evaluate which REITs they want to invest in. The wise result will make the investors smile widely because of the big fish. Chan, Erickson and Wang (2003) find that equity REITs pay out more dividends than mortgage REITs. The reason is that equity REITs offer the potential for capital gains in addition to current income. Structure of REITs: Source: Practice and Prospect of Islamic Real Estate Investment (I-REITs)in Malaysian Islamic Capital Market by Dr. Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki. Manager: A man or woman who controls an organization or a part of organization. Property manager: A man or woman who controls the management and maintenance of the building. He or she will ensure the building in the good condition which safe to fit tenants in. Tenant: A person who pays money (rent) to the owner of a room, flat, building or piece of land so that he or she can live in it or use it. Trustee: A person who looks after money or property for somebody else. Unit holder: An owner of one or more units in a mutual fund. How REITs Works: Its true that investment most favourable today will be the one most prized tomorrow, and then real estate is definitely due for love-in. Investing in income-generating real estate can be a great way to increase your net worth. But for many people, investing in real estate, particularly commercial real estate is simply out of their budgets. REITs is a saviour to people when with REITs people can invest in small amount but with a large-scale of real estate group. REITs which means real estate investment trust essentially the organization that own and manage a portfolio of real estate and mortgages such as shopping malls, hotels, apartment buildings and also agriculture lands. REITs does not mean for a restrict group, but this share can be own buy anyone. REITs offer people the ownership of the property without any risks because all of the problems will be covered by agents or REITs managers. There are advantages when investing in REITs because of the liquidity and diversity. It is unlike actual real estate, where REITs can be easily and quickly sold. People will face less financial risk because of investing in a portfolio rather than single building because of the problems such as irresponsible tenants, economy impact to the property rental market and market value, and so on. REITs has a board of directors that elected by the shareholders. The shareholders have a power to eliminate any board of directors that does not fulfil their requirement. The board of directors usually came from a people with an investment background especially in REITs field. They will assist a REITs managers; person who will manages the operation of the property. The power to choose what types of real estate to invest in is on board of directors. REITs investment for investors starts when they invest certain amount of money in a REITs fund. The amount of money depends on the REITs managers who will arrange the investment on the properties that have been agreed by board of director. The investors can have an eyes and ideas on what types of the properties and the location. They have a choice whether want to agree or not with the properties. If they agree with the properties, they can sign a document to clarify the investment. Then the properties will be rent out or mortgage in order to earn money. REITs has a several method to measuring the profit but the suitable one called Funds From Operation (FFO). The National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (NAREIT) defines FFO as: Net income (computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles), excluding gains (or losses) from sales of property, plus depreciation and amortization, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures. Adjustments for unconsolidated partnerships and joint ventures will be calculated to reflect funds from operations on the same basis. Source: http://home.howstuffworks.com/real-estate/reit2.htm. The REITs industry use FFO to measure performance and to establish dividend payouts. Kallberg et al (2003) reported that REITs consistently pay out about 85% of FFO as dividends. The payouts from REITs are consistently higher than other types of equities. In other words, FFO is defined as the net income, excluding gains and losses from debt restructuring and property sales, adding back property depreciation and amortisation, and after adjustments for unconsolidated partnership and joint ventures. The net income is referring to rent and sales computed according to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). However FFO is not a necessary way to determine performance and dividend payouts. Not all REITs calculate FFO according to the NAREIT definition because some of the important items are missing from the formula such as maintenance, repairs and also expenses. Thus, investors must always read a companys report and any others supplemental information in order to get an exact FFO. REITs Companies: In Malaysia, there are several amount of business runs base on REITs. These companies have been success to put property market in this country in a good condition. These companies also expend the real estate industry with so much new types of building. Below is briefly an explanation about ten (10) well known REITs companies. Al-Aqar KPJ: Al-Aqar KPJ REITs established on 28 June 2006 is a Malaysian-based unit trust. The objective of this investment is to own and invest in Syariah-compliant real estate and it has been acceptable to invest in properties which compromise Ampang Puteri Specialist Hospital Building, Damansara Specialist Hospital Building, Johor Specialist Hospital Building, Ipoh Specialist Hospital Building, Puteri Specialist Hospital Building and Selangor Medical Centre Building. There are nine (9) others hospital under KPJ that potential to be injected under Al-Aqar KPJ such as Tawakal Hospital, Seremban Specialist Hospital and also Penawar Hospital. Amanah Raya: Amanah Raya REITs is subsidiary of Amanah Raya Berhad and wholly-owned by Minester of Fianace Incorporated. Amanah Raya REITs listed on Bursa Securities Malaysia Berhad on 26 February 2007 with a total asset siza of RM337 million. Today, Amanah Raya REITs has a diversification portfolio comprising hospitality, education and also commercial properties such as SEGI College, Holiday Villa Langkawi, Holiday Villa Alor Star, Wisma Amanah Raya Berhad, Wisma UEP, Permanis Factory and also Blocks AB South City Plaza. AmFirst: Established on 28 September 2006 under the Trust Deed, AmFIRST then entered into between Am ARA REIT Managers and Mayban Trustee Berhad. AmFIRST managed by Am ARA REIT Managers Sdn Bhd. Three months then, Am FIRST was listing on the Main Board of the Bursa Saham Malaysia Berhad on 21 December 2006. It shows an innovative makeover of AmFIRST, the first listed property trust fund in Malaysia. This REITS company is the largest Malaysia-based commercial REITs with exposure to the office, retail and hotel sector in Klang Valley area. Currently manages six office building, where three are located within the Kuala Lumpur Golden Triangle; AmBank Group Leadership Centre, AmBank Group Building, and also AmBank Tower, and one each in Petaling Jaya, Kelana Jaya, and Subang Jaya. AmFIRST also manages four-star hotel and a retail mall located in Subang Jaya, The Summit Subang, USJ. Atrium: Atrium REITs is a first logistic property approved in Malaysia. The objective of Atrium REITs is to invest in portfolio in order to reward investors or unit holders a maximise income and to acquire a high quality assets to achieve a long-term growth in a net income for distribution of dividend. This REITs then was first approved by the Securities Commission in October 2006 and then listed on Main Board of Bursa Saham Malaysia Berhad in April 2007. Atrium REITs has an 809, 668 sq ft (75, 220 sq mt) approved portfolio of investment properties which comprises of four freehold industrial properties currently leased to reputable and strong financially tenants. All of their properties located in Kuala Lumpur and Selangor, the fastest growing area in this country. Axis: Axis REITs is the first REITs list on Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad on 3 August 2005. On 11 December 2008, Axis launched Islamic REITs which is the first in Malaysia. Axis own diversified portfolio of properties especially in Klang Valley, Kedah and Johor comprising of commercial offices, light industial building and also warehouse. Buildings that portray an image of Axis are Axis Tower and also Crystal Plaza. Both if this building are next door to each other and located along the busiest road, Federal Highway. These buildings are well maintain and easier accessibility. Other Axis properties are Delfi Cocoa in and BMW Asia Technology Centre PTP in Johor and also Giant Hypermarket in Sungai Petani, Kedah. Hektar: Hektar REITs is a Malaysias first retail-focused REITs. Listed on the Main Board of Bursa Saham Malaysia Securities on 4 December 2006, Hektar portfolio currently consists of shopping centres in Subang Jaya, Melaka and Muar. As of 31 December 2009, all of these properties was value of RM720 million. Hektar REITs is managed by Hektar Asset Management Sdn Bhd which a part of Hektar Group. QCT: QCT (Quill Capita Trust) REITs was listed in Main Board of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad on 8 January 2007. QCT is managed by Quill Capita Management Sdn Bhd. QCT main investment in REITs is a commercial properties. Until 31 December 2009, QCT has ten (10) properties with 1,288,149 sq ft net lettable area valued RM 788.4 million. The properties including part of Plaza Mont Kiara, Quill buildings, Wisma Technip and also tesco building in Jelutong, Penang. Starhill: This REITs was established on 18 November 2005 by a trust deed entered between Pintar Projek Sdn Bhd and Mayban Trustee and listed on Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad on 16 December 2005. Starhill REITs is focusing on retail and hotel properties investment. As for February 2010, Starhill REITs is the largest Malaysias real estate investment. This REITs has four (4) portfolio located in the heart of Kualu Lumpur; Starhill Gallery, JW Marriot Hotel, Lot 10 Shopping Centre and also The Residence at The Ritz-Carlton. Tower: Tower REITs is established on 21 February 2006. The objective of this company is to invest primarily in a portfolio of quality office building and commercial properties to provide regular and stable distributions of dividend to unit holders or investors and also to achieve a medium-term growth in the net income. In order to achieve their objective, Tower REITs implement several key strategies such as optimisation of capital structure, active asset management and also acquisition growth. The portfolio of this REITs company consists of three buildings located in Kuala Lumpur. First is Menara HLA, the 32-storeys office tower located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur Golden Triangle. With a net lettable area of 396, 820 sq ft, it has a blue chip tennats such as Hong Leong Assurance Berhad. Next, HP Towers comprises of two blocks of 9-storeys and 21-storeys and 3 levels of connecting podium. Situated in Bukit Damansara, this towers has a net lettable area of 350, 056 sq ft with a Hewlett-Packard (M) Sdn Bhd as a tenants. Lastly, Menara ING situated in Jalan Raja Chulan, the main central business district of Kuala Lumpur. Tower REITs only own 78.3% of the total share unit of the building and 100% leased out to ING Insurance Bhd. UOA: nbsp  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  UOA REITs was established on 28 November 2005 and listed on the Main Board of Bursa Saham Malaysia Securities Berhad two days later. UOA REITs is focusing on commercial properties. With a diversification portfolio of properties, UOA manages to maintain four building in Kuala Lumpur area. First is UOA Centre, a stylish 33-storeys office building situated between Jalan Pinang and Jalan Perak. Tenants of the building include financial services companies and also trading companies. Next is UOA II which located near to UOA Centre. With a contemporary designed, this 39-storeys building has a mixture of tenants from government agencies, multinationals insurance companies and law firms. Other than that, a 13-storeys office building located in Jalan Dungun, Damansara Heights name UOA Damansara is one of the UOA properties. Law firms, international associations and trading companies are a part of tenants for this building. Last is UOA Pantai located strategically in front of Menara TM. This 7-storeys of building consists of tenants include multinational corporations and so on. Regulation of REITs: In Malaysia, REITs govern by a statutory body name Security Commission Malaysia (SC). SC was established on 1 March 1993 under the Securities Commission Act 1993 and it is a financial regulatory agency. It is the central authority to regulate and develop the capital market. SC has big responsibilities in order to ensure the safety of the investors under the Act includes: Registering authority for prospectuses of corporations other than unlisted recreational clubs. Approving authority for corporate bond issues. Regulating all matters relating to securities and future contracts. Regulating the take-over and mergers of companies. Regulating all matters relating to unit trust schemes. Licensing and supervising all licensed persons. Supervising exchanges, clearing houses and central depositories. Encouraging self-regulation. Ensuring proper conduct of market institutions and licensed persons. Source:http://www.sc.com.my/main.asp?pageid=350menuid=376newsid=linkid=type= New Islamic REITs: The introduction of Islamic REITs is viewed as one of the most significant initiatives to broaden and deepen the product base of Islamic capital market in Malaysia. It can also help to enhance competitiveness of Malaysian Islamic capital market by attracting global Islamic investors who wish to diversify their investment portfolio which are Shariah compliant. Islamic REITs regulation was outlined in the Guidelines for Islamic REITs issued on 21st November 2005 by Securities Commission. (Securities Commission,2005). The Guidelines were introduced to facilitate the development of new Islamic capital market products, making Malaysia the first jurisdiction in the global Islamic financial sector to issue such guidelines and setting a global benchmark for the development of Islamic REITs. The Guidelines essentially stipulate Shariah compliance criteria to guide management companies in their activities relating to an Islamic REITs, including the types of Shariah permissible and non-permissible rental and investment activities for such fund. Islam prohibited Muslim from investing in properties whose tenants sell alcohol, pork or allo