Change and Conflict Management in Nursing

Change and Conflict Management in Nursing Jon Teegardin Change and Conflict Change and conflict occur in all aspects of our society. In nursing, it is important to identify and embrace change, address and resolve conflict, and do so in an effective and efficient manner. This paper will present descriptions of change theories, conflict theories, and how a nurse’s ability to handle both can enhance or hinder effective leadership. Additionally, the leader as a change agent will be discussed. Change Theories While there are numerous theories of change that exist, in the profession of nursing there are three main theories that are consistently seen throughout the healthcare industry. These theories are Lewins theory of change, Rogers change theory, and Spradley’s change theory. Lewins change theory Probably the most recognizable theory of change is that presented by Kurt Lewin. His theory involves three stages to change: unfreezing, moving, and refreezing (Stolley, 2005). Two forces are present in this theory, the driving force, or those pushing for a particular change, and the resistant force, those who are resistant to the change. For change to occur the driving force or agents for change, must be stronger than the resistant force. In the unfreezing stage, the driving force develops a method that allows people to let go of the current, unproductive way of doing something. By finding this method, individual resistance to the change is overcome. In the moving phase, individuals are encouraged to change their way of thinking, feeling, or behavior to the new method. Finally, in the refreezing stage, this change becomes the new habit and ultimately the standard operating procedure. Lewins theory is also referred to as the force field theory that states an organization attempts to maintain a state of equilibrium between change forces and restraining forces (Swanson, Creed, 2014). Change agents are the forces for change and must overcome the restraining forces to make the change successful. Rogers change theory Everette Rogers’s theory is a modification of Lewins change theory and involves five stages. The stages are awareness, interest, evaluation, implementation and adoption (Boston University School of Health, 2013). Roger’s theory is typically applied to long term projects. In the awareness stage, individuals are exposed to the new idea or process but lack all of the information about it. In the interest stage, the individual is interested in the new idea and seeks out additional information. The next stage is the evaluation stage where the individual determines how to apply the idea or process to their situation and decides whether or not they want to try it. The implementation stage occurs when the individual decides to make full use of the idea or process. Finally, in the adoption stage, the individual decides to continue to use the new idea or process. Roger’s theory is an example of social cognitive theory. Change does not occur immediately among all those presented with the change. There are actually five groups of people that implement the change over time. These groups are innovators who are leaders that embrace the change immediately, early adopters who are also leaders but will follow innovators, the early majority who are the bulk of the followers, the late majority who include skeptics of the change, and finally laggards who are resistant to change (Kaminski, 2011). Spradley’s change theory Spradley’s change theory is also a derivative of Lewins theory of change that involves an eight step process. The difference in Spradley’s theory is that it provides for constant evaluation of the change during implementation to ensure it is successful. The eight steps are recognition of a need for change, diagnosis of the problem, analysis of alternative solutions, selection of the change to be implemented, plan the change, implement the change, evaluate the implementation, and stabilize the change (Stolley, 2005). Spradley’s theory also allows for the investigation of multiple alternatives to the problem. The change agent initiates the process by recognizing a problem, defining the problem, and developing different solutions to the problem. Throughout the process, there is the constant evaluation that improves the chances for implementing a relevant, and effective solution. Spradley’s theory can be an instrument of social change (change from the bottom u p) or corporate change (from the top down). Conflict theories The constant change that nurses encounter in the healthcare industry causes conflict. There are four main conflict theories: organizational conflict theory, social conflict theory, social cognitive theory, and social exchange theory. Organizational conflict theory Organizational conflict theory identifies conflict on several levels. Interpersonal conflict is between workers in an organization. Conflict can also occur between departments within an organization. Finally, conflict can occur between organizations. Some conflict is considered healthy for the organization as it promotes creativity and ultimately, productivity (Deutsch, 2000). The key to management of this type of conflict is communication to manage the conflict and develop cooperative solutions. Social Conflict Theory This theory contends that conflict exists between people because individuals are motivated to act based on their own desires rather than the desires of others. This can be applied to classes of people. For example, social conflict theory says that the wealthy act to maintain their wealth, while the poor act to increase their wealth. Karl Marx is often cited as developing social conflict theory through his writings where he discussed the constant struggle between factory owners and factory workers during the industrial revolution in Europe (Segal, Smith, 2015). Social Cognitive Theory Social cognitive theory states that learning occurs in a social context and most learning is based on observations (Denler, Wolters, Benzon, 2014). It is also applied to classroom motivation and achievement. It states that people have an ability to influence their behavior and their environment in a manner that is in alignment with their goals. Social Exchange Theory Social exchange theory states that relationships have give and take, but the balance of these exchanges aren’t always equal (Changing Minds, 2014). This theory explains how we feel about a relationship based on our perception of what we put into the relationship versus what we get out of it, what kind of relationship we think we deserve, and whether we can have a better relationship with someone else. Handling Conflict It is important as a healthcare leader to quickly identify conflict and respond to it in a positive manner. The first step to resolving conflict is to recognize that conflict arises out of differences between individuals, departments, or organizations (Segal, Smith, 2015). Whether these differences are real or perceived, they are equally important to both parties. How a leader responds to conflict can either lead to a resolution, or create more conflict. Examples of unhealthy responses to conflict include: failure to recognize the importance of the details of the conflict, explosive, angry, or resentful reactions, inability to compromise, and fear or avoidance of conflict. These responses will erode the respect your subordinates have for you and hinder your ability to be a leader (Deutsch, 2000). Examples of healthy responses to conflict include calm and respectful reactions, a readiness to forgive and forget animosity related to the conflict and move forward without harboring feelings of resentment or anger, courage to face conflict head on, and seeking compromise while avoiding punishing. Leader as a change agent The nurse leader uses their power sources to act as a change agent. They must use their image of power to promote involvement of staff in the project to gain support and commitment (Daly, Speedy, Jackson, 2015). The nurse leader must demonstrate their knowledge and competency through their expert power. They must also use their connection power to communicate with others to relay the elements of change as well as receive feedback of opinions and doubts of others (Daly, Speedy, Jackson). Their use of referent power to gain the respect of others helps the nurse leader to persuade and motivate others to accept change as well. By approaching change in a positive manner, the nurse leader has the ability to gain support for the change among subordinates throughout the department and organization. Conclusion Conflict and change are ever present in the healthcare environment, due to the dynamic nature of the industry. The ability of the nurse leader to effectively promote change, while recognizing and resolving conflict among staff are critical skills that the successful leader must have. Recognizing that conflict and change are necessary to improve care and spark creativity is the important first step towards effectively managing both. References Boston University School of Health. (2013). Diffusion of Innovation Theory. Retrieved March 31, 2015, from http://sphweb.bumc.bu.edu/otlt/MPH-Modules/SB/SB721-Models/SB721-Models4.html Changing Minds. (2014). Social Exchange Theory. Retrieved March 31, 2015, from http://changingminds.org/explanations/theories/social_exchange.htm Daly, J., Speedy, S., Jackson, D. (2015). Leadership nursing: Contemporary perspectives (2nd ed.). Elsevier Health Sciences. Denler, H., Wolters, C., Benzon, M. (2014). Social Cognitive Theory. Retrieved March 31, 2015, from http://www.education.com/reference/article/social-cognitive-theory/ Deutsch, M. (2000). The handbook of conflict resolution theory and practice. San Francisco, Calif.: Jossey-Bass. Kaminski, RN MSN PhD(c), J. (2011). Diffusion of Innovation Theory. Retrieved March 31, 2015, from http://cjni.net/journal/?p=1444 Segal, Ph.D., J., Smith, M.A., M. (2015). Conflict Resolution Skills. Retrieved March 31, 2015, from http://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships/conflict-resolution-skills.htm Stolley, K. (2005). The basics of sociology. Westport, Conn.: Greenwood Press. Swanson, D., Creed, A. (2014). Sharpening the Focus of Force Field Analysis. Journal of Change Management, 14(1), 28-47.

“Rhetorical Analysis of “I Have a Dream”

IntroductionThe day of August 28, 1963 At the Lincoln Memorial 200,000 people gathered after the March on Washington. This is where Dr. Martin Luther King delivered his speech â€Å"I Have a Dream† to America. He spoke about the injustices of segregation and discrimination of African Americans that was taking place in our nation. In his first statement he said, â€Å"I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.† In this statement he has said what he was there to do.He is speaking out for freedom. This speech is one among few to demonstrate the freedom our nation was built upon. We are a nation of democracy and our nation was built on the fact that we have the right to â€Å"alter and institute new government†(Congress). Dr. Martin Luther King’s speeches and demonstrations would provoke a change in the minds and hearts of the American people. He stood up and inspire d a nation into action with his words. With his speech he masterfully uses Ethos, Pathos, and Logos in his rhetoric to provide proof to all Americans that racism and segregation is not the intended foundation of America.EthosAs he delivered his speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial he analogizes Lincoln in his speech, â€Å"Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the emancipation proclamation.† (King) His use of Lincoln brought authority into his speech. Lincoln was a powerful and great president who empowered the American people throughout the civil war. He gained the trust of America and established a new sense of freedom. Martin Luther King is invoking the authority of Lincoln and his view on civil rights. This is providing a strong ethos appeal and establishing credibility with his audience.He also uses the Declaration of Independence to invoke authority in his cause. He quotes, ‘â€Å"unalienable Rights† of â€Å"Life, Liberty and the pursuit of  happiness†Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ (Congress) (bible) his use of this quote is to use a supreme authority as being on his side. He is stating that the American government has neglected on the obligation to ALL of the American people. He is setting up his own credibility by tapping into authority of a great American and our constitution.PathosHis use of pathos is incredible as he strikes emotional values of both black and white people. His use of the bible causes an emotional response, ‘â€Å"And the glory of the Lord shall be revealed and all flesh shall see it together.† (Isaiah) He is using the bible to provide a belief and faith in what he is saying is truth, and that all people will stand together.His use of metaphors throughout his speech is keeps his audience engaged in his fight for freedom, he states â€Å"And so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in t he American dream.† (King) He uses the American dream to appeal to all Americans. He is saying that his dream is part of the American dream that we all deserve to have the freedom to dream.He also uses the appeal that he is a father and that he wants more for his children. â€Å"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but the content of their character.† (King) This is allowing the listener to relate to him as a father and the aspirations we hold for our children. It provides a human appeal and uses pathos.LogosHe also uses logos in his analogies. When he states, â€Å"America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked ‘insufficient funds.’† (King) His analogy is using logic as a form of reasoning. He reasons is that everyone understands money and that the listener is able to relate to being handed a bad check.ConclusionMartin Lu ther King’s skillful and articulate use of rhetoric in his â€Å"I have a Dream† speech was a major turning point in American history and represented a firm stand for equal rights. He spoke out to confront the issues of racism in our nation. This speech was not the beginning or the ending, but a remarkable moment in the fight for equal rights of everyone. â€Å"When all of God’s children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing,† â€Å"Free at last! Free at last!† (King)

Little Gemini

Describe your favorite food. You should say: What it tastes like When people eat it How it is made and explain why you like it. Describe a child you know well. You should say: Where you met him/her What he/she looks like What personality he/she has and explain how you feel about him/her. Describe a close friend of yours. You should say: Who he/she is How you got to know each other what activities you do together and explain why you feel close to him or her. Describe a toy you used to play with. You should say: What it was made of How you got it What you did with it and explain whether you liked it or not and why.Describe an exciting period of your life. You should say: When it was Who was with you What you did and explain why it was exciting for you. Describe a garden/park you enjoyed visiting. You should say: Where it is What it looks like When you first visited it and explain how you enjoyed the visit. Describe a change in the past few years in your city. You should say: What the c hange was What caused the change Whether it was easy to change and explain what you think of the change. Describe a popular TV program in your country. You should say: What time it is on What is it about Who watches it and explain why it is very popular in your country.Describe a book you enjoyed reading very much. You should say: What the name of the book was When you read it What the book was about and explain why you liked it. Describe a recent news story that you heard or read about. You should say: How you heard about the news story What people, places or events were involved How you felt about the news story and explain why you found this news story particularly interesting. Describe a subject you enjoyed studying at school. You should say: When and where you started studying it What the lessons were like What made the subject different from other subjects And explain why you enjoyed the subjectDescribe an artist or entertainer you admire. You should say: Who they are and what they do How they became successful How you found out about them And explain why you admire them. Describe an important choice you had to make in your life. You should say: When you had this choice What you had to choose between Whether you made a good choice And explain how you felt when you were making this choice Describe a job you have done. You should say: How you got the job What the job involved How long the job lasted Describe how well you did the jobDescribe an area of countryside you know and like. You should say: Where it is What its special features are What you and other people do in this area And explain why you like it Describe an object you particularly like. You should say: What it is and what it looks like What it is made of What it is for And explain why it is special for you Describe a newspaper or magazine you enjoy reading. You should say: What kind of newspaper/magazine it is Which parts of it you read regularly When and where you read it Explain why you enjoy reading it Describe something healthy you enjoy doing.You should say: What you do Where you do it Who you do it with And explain why you think doing this is healthy Describe a game or sport you enjoy playing. You should say: What kind of sport it is Who you play it with Where you play it And explain why you enjoy playing it Describe someone in your family who you like. You should say: How this person is related to you What this person looks like What kind of person he/she is And explain why you like this person Describe a museum or art gallery that you have visited. You should say: Where it is Why you went there What you particularly remember about the place.Describe an enjoyable event that you experienced when you were at school. You should say: When it happened What was good about it Who was there And explain why this event has special meaning for you. Describe a song or piece of music you like. You should say: What the song or music is What kind of song or music it is Where you first heard it And explain why you like it Describe a festival that is important in your country. You should say: When the festival occurs What you did during it What you like or dislike about it And explain why this festival is important

Analysis Of Joseph Conrad s Heart Of Darkness - 1555 Words

Although the author Joseph Conrad never met the German philosopher Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, who died more than a century before Conrad’s birth, their distinct philosophies still have numerous points of intersection, suggesting some fundamental truths within the structure of the human reality. Through the novella, Heart of Darkness, Conrad details his perspectives on the faults of man and reality as a whole, with views often coinciding with many of Leibniz’s own, as found in his numerous philosophical works. Consequently, the two perspectives combine together, like a cyclopean image, to enhance and deepen each of the two men’s philosophies on humanity. Among Leibniz’s many conceptual principles is that of perfection vs imperfection, as†¦show more content†¦Consequently, Conrad’s narrative and Leibniz s philosophy support one another’s contentions in that every man has the capacity for evil, despite deriving the conclusion from two different means. Due to man’s ability for evil, both Conrad and Leibniz argue that a deterioration of these morals exist when in penetrating and corrupt circumstances despite the commonality or â€Å"justice† in a structured civilization. The greatest motive for working in the Congo is the grand opportunity to obtain ivory. Meeting Kurtz in the Inner Station, Marlow experiences a â€Å"heavy, mute spell of wilderness† that draws him â€Å"to the pitiless breast† all by the â€Å"awakening of forgotten and brutal instincts, by the memory of gratified [...] passions† (Conrad 82). Conrad alludes that such force has caused Kurtz to dwell and reside to savage manners. Although it may seem like only the powers of darkness assaulted Kurtz, no â€Å"devil is too much of a devil† and it is indeed with the significant combination of the personal, overwhelming desire for Ivory that lead to his deterioration. In â€Å"Opinion on the Principles of Pufendorf†, Leib niz believes it is self-evident that desire always drive the man drivesShow MoreRelatedAnalysis Of Joseph Conrad s Heart Of Darkness1504 Words   |  7 Pagescontrol over others and can be found in both people and objects. In Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness the main character and narrator Marlow identifies a force within ivory that conveys a sense power within the enigmatic Mr. Kurtz. The African ivory trade was flourishing in the early 1900’s. Obtaining the precious object transformed some into greedy connoisseurs with endless intentions to get their hands on all of the continents ivory. Conrad shows that the power that is emitted from the ivory falls intoRead MoreAnalysis Of Joseph Conrad s The Heart Of Darkness 1801 Words   |  8 PagesAlly Jones Professor Smith English 1302 November 18, 2014 Female Roles in Joseph Conrad s the Heart of Darkness: In regards to Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness, many literature reviews focus on the motifs of Imperialism, the symbolism of darkness and fog, or the aspect of racism in Conrad’s work. During the era which Conrad wrote, England was going through the Victorian Era, which was marked by a shift in views on morality. The term â€Å"Victorian morality† is used today to describe values whichRead MoreAnalysis Of Joseph Conrad s Heart Of Darkness 1713 Words   |  7 PagesMonth: January 2014 Name: Faris Khan Period: 3 Title: Heart of Darkness Author: Joseph Conrad Date started/date completed: 1/19 - 1/28 Pages read: 96/96 (Including the ten page introduction, 106/96) Rating of book (1-10): 9/10 Above you rated this book. Explain in detail why you gave this book that score: Author Joseph Conrad uses a very interesting method of narration in his novel, Heart of Darkness. The novel itself is written in first person, from the perspective of an unnamed sailor aboardRead MoreAnalysis Of Joseph Conrad s Heart Of Darkness 1396 Words   |  6 PagesShelly Pyakurel Ellen Stockstill English 4 DC 27 April 2015 Research Paper Heart of Darkness is a novel by Joseph Conrad that centers on Marlow, a man who goes to the Congo for a job opportunity. He meets a man named Kurtz, who is well known by many. Once he gets to the Congo, he sees colonialism first-hand. He sees that the natives of the country were practically enslaved and forced to work under very harsh conditions. The two major characters of the novel are Marlow and Kurtz. There are many minorRead MoreAnalysis Of Joseph Conrad s Heart Of Darkness1552 Words   |  7 Pagesfollowers. Historically, people have been socialized to accept and adhere to these stereotypes. Women have an important role in Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness. Women are used in this novella reflect an important aspect of culture: sexism. Heart of Darkness was originally published in 1898, a period where women were facing especially harsh discrimination. Conrad’s Heart of Darkness tells the story of Marlow, an experienced sea captain, who is setting out on a mission to rescue Kurtz, an intelligent butRead MoreAnalysis Of Joseph Conrad s Heart Of Darkness1233 Words   |  5 PagesImperialism has often been described as a light, a method to guide the uncivilized. However in Heart of Darkness, Joseph Conrad sheds true light on the subject. In the novel, Conrad exposes the situation in Congo during the era of Imperialism for the Europeans. Conrad reveals the exploitation of the natives through a tale of Marlow, an introspective sailor, and his nightmarish journey up the Congo River to meet a reputable European trader, Kurtz. As the life of the great Kurtz comes to a close, theRead MoreAnalysis Of Joseph Conrad s Heart Of Darkness1250 Words   |  5 Pages Written in 1902, Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness follows the character Marlow in his journey up the Congo River to find the mysterious Kurtz, an ivory trader. In the s tory, Conrad explores the issues of colonialism and imperialism. The Company has enslaved native Congolese to help them mine for ivory and rubber in the area. The Congolese experience brutal working conditions as the company profits off their free labor. Racism is evident throughout the story with Marlow calling the blacks â€Å"savages†Read MoreAnalysis Of Joseph Conrad s Heart Of Darkness963 Words   |  4 Pagespeople. Heart of Darkness, by Joseph Conrad, can be criticised through many different lenses. Though Natives are a large part of Conrad’s narrative of European atrocities in the Congo, his treatment of Congolese Natives throughout the book show them to be nothing more than props. Conrad skews Natives language, culture and intelligence to fit Europeans schema for Africa and Africans. Conrad’s Heart of Darkness is placed in a colonized Congo. ...despite Heart of Darkness s (Joseph Conrad) obviousRead MoreAnalysis Of Joseph Conrad s Heart Of Darkness1080 Words   |  5 Pages1 Kathrine Carrasquillo Dr. David Mulry Engl 2112 Feb 13, 2017 Who is Mr. Kurtz, and what does Conrad use him for? Mr. Kurtz is the main character in Joseph Conrad s English novella, Heart of Darkness. There is no proof that Mr. Kurtz is based on a real person, so it is assumed that he is a made up character. When Mr. Kurtz is first introduced the audience learns that he is a Belgian ivory trader and he was sent to Africa by his employer for work. At first glance, Mr. Kurtz just represents a normalRead MoreAnalysis Of Joseph Conrad s Heart Of Darkness 2026 Words   |  9 Pages Ryan Li 7/22/17 AP Lit/Comp Summer Reading Heart of Darkness Heart of Darkness is written by Joseph Conrad and published in 1899. It is a novella written in the early modernism literary period. Joseph Conrad was born as Jà ³zef Teodor Konrad Korzeniowski on December three 1857 in Berdichev, Ukraine to Polish parents. He was raised and educated in Poland. After his career is the seafarer in the French and British merchant Marines, he wrote short stories which he used his experiences