Essay about Gender Role In Social Construction - 1180 Words

Gender Role In Social Construction Works Cited Missing Everyone’s life is affected by social construction. This is the belief that knowledge is determined by society, and in turn (knowledge) is formed by the individuals that belong to the society. When an individual thinks of a doctor, lawyer, priest, engineer, or manager they usually picture males. While nurses, teachers, and housewives (emphasis on wives) are purely female professions in our society. This is social constructionist thought on what role a male/female should play in today’s society. These may not be the professions of choice for the individuals, but what the individual believes is socially acceptable. â€Å"Most of the behavior associated with gender is learned rather†¦show more content†¦The media is one of the most influential tools that social constructionists use to broadcast their theories. â€Å"By the time high school kids graduate they will have seen 360,000 TV ads that affect the way they dress, style their hair, and even the way the y diet†(England, McBride and Peirce 16). There is no doubt that the media is responsible for altering the way our society runs. This is evident in how men, women and children are presented in the various media branches. It almost seems as if the media holds strong to the values of the past, and fears change. An ad from Life Magazine(1969) contained: Because girls dream about being a ballerina, Mattel makes Dancerina...a pink confection in a silken blouse and ruffled tutu ... Barbie, a young fashion model, and her friends do the â€Å"in† things girls should do — talk about new places to visit, new clothes to wear and new friends to meet.... Because boys were born to build and learn, Mattel makes Tog’l[a set of blocks for creative play].... Because boys are curious about things big and small, Mattel makes SuperEyes, a telescope that boys can have in one ingenious set of optically engineered lenses and scopes.(Gornick 305) While such an ad would not appear today, it indicates the environment in which today’s young theorists were raised. Society not only controls what the media can show, but it also determines how the material can be represented. DanielShow MoreRelatedSocial Construction Of Gender And Gender Roles903 Words   |  4 Pages While observing interactions between people of both different and the same genders in the park at Orange Circle, it becomes evident how the social construction of gender and standard gender roles may or may not follow archetypal manner and can be applied differently depending on the individuals. Some of the observations recorded during this period have provided evidence that gender roles and gender stereotypes may be followed or applied in an archetypal way. However, what is most interesting isRead MoreGender Roles And Social Construction1252 Words   |  6 PagesGender roles have influenced our society our whole lives, without us realizing it. They determine the way in which we, as members of society, behave among others and what is deemed socially acceptable and what is n ot, all based on our gender. From the moment children take their first breaths, they are exposed to the gender roles society has set. This is all part of a social construction to categorize the two genders into believing that they should act in a particular matter, using toys as an advertisingRead MoreEssay on The Social Construction of Gender Roles848 Words   |  4 PagesThe Social Construction of Gender Roles Gender or sex roles are the expected patterns of behavior assumed to follow from a persons sex. Gender roles are not natural. They are formed by and vary within society, culture, geographic location, politics and time. There is a strong relationship between the social construction of gender and compulsory heterosexuality. People are programmed into certain gender roles and social categories throughRead MoreSocial Construction Theory And Gender Roles1179 Words   |  5 Pagesâ€Å"Social construction theory, in contrast, argues that gender roles, behaviours, and differences are not the natural consequence of minor biological differences, but are instead the result of historical, economic, and cultural forces which have pushed women into social and economic roles and men into others. It sees biology as providing the raw materials, and sees social institutions, culture, history and individual agency as what shape those raw materials into human beings who also happen to be genderedRe ad MoreSocial Construction Theory : The Product Of Society And History851 Words   |  4 PagesFall Term Essay 1 Social construction theory explains human behaviour and identities as the product of society and history (Vance 29). This theory is the opposite of biological determinism and essentialism which suggest that genetic, physiological, and biological traits determine human behaviour (Vance 29). As mentioned in lecture (Klement), identities are unique to every person; they are the values, norms, values, and images in society that are combined, constructed, or created. Societal pressuresRead MoreHow Is Gender Constructed And How Useful Is The Term Performance For Understanding This Process? Essay1443 Words   |  6 PagesHow is gender constructed and how useful is the term ‘performance’ for understanding this process? Illustrate your answer drawing on ethnographic examples from at least two societies. When discussing gender, we are faced with two opposing ideas: biology versus social construct, or ‘nature versus nurture.’ From a social constructivist viewpoint, gender is not an inherent truth but constructed through society’s expectations and norms. Those who believe in the biological repudiate these claims, firmlyRead MoreSocial Construction Of Race And Gender1529 Words   |  7 PagesSocial Construction of Race and Gender, Patriarchy and Prejudice and Discrimination in the Society Social construct may be defined as the social mechanism or a category which has been created by the society. It may either be a perception which is created by an individual or an idea which is constructed as a result of the culture. The present society has created a large number of constructs which are not good. In this paper, the discussion will be done on the social construction of raceRead MoreDistinction Between Sex And Gender1740 Words   |  7 Pages distinction between sex and gender be defined? In discussing whether the distinction between sex and gender can be defined I am going to use the early distinction between the two and how this has been socially constructed to identify if there is a distinction. Additionally, I am going to use a variety of feminist influences since the 1960’s, to draw upon the main issues when defining sex and gender. I will investigate the implications of defining sex and gender by looking at sexism. I hope thisRead MoreIs The Nuclear Family Means?1617 Words   |  7 Pagesof uncles, aunts, grandparents, and even pets, just to be brief. This is where the term can become problematic. Since there can be many interpretations of what the real nuclear family means, and what it consists of, the state ultimately plays a big role into determining whether or not citizens, can be a family. Simply put, the state decides if a family can in turn, become nuclear. Using a variety of evidence, this essay will first define what a nuclear family is, and ho w it is socially constructedRead MoreGender Identity As An Axis Of Social Order1611 Words   |  7 PagesGender is considered an axis of social order. Its categorisation into masculinity and femininity is social constructed and maintained in everyday life (Clark and Page, 2005; Mackie, 1994). Gender identity is our innermost understanding of our self as ‘male’ or ‘female’. Most people develop a gender identity that matched their biological sex (their body). Gender identity can be affected by, and is different from one society to another, depending on the way the members of society evaluate the role

NSAs invasion of privacy - 1408 Words

NSA’s Invasion of Privacy Whether it is calling someone on your phone or online shopping on the computer, people are more connected than ever to the internet. However, a person might be oblivious to the fact that they are being watched using these technologies. The NSA (National Security Agency) is an intelligence organization for the U.S. to protect information systems and foreign intelligence information. Recently the NSA has been accused of invading personal privacy through web encryption, tracking, and using personal information for their own uses and without permission. The surveillance of the NSA produces unlawful invasion of privacy causing an unsecure nation. The NSA surveillance executed an unlawful invasion of privacy†¦show more content†¦Many companies have gathered personal information online to target ads with the user’s preferences, but tracking can allow companies to find out your credit card number, where you live and your interests. Hence, the NSA should be incriminated for utilizing personal information that can endanger a person’s security by using information from social networks, experimenting and distributing information. The NSA performed an unlawful invasion of privacy by using web encryption. Technologist, Christopher Soghoian, states that the NSA used supercomputers to gain access to encryption that provides online privacy and security. â€Å"The encryption technologies that the NSA has exploited to enable its secret dragnet surveillance are the same technologies that protect our most sensitive information, including medical records, financial transactions and commercial secrets† (qtd. in Winter). Christopher’s explanation of the encryption technologies describes how anyone could be affected by this surveillance. This is considered unlawful because the NSA hacked technologies that protect our private information. This affects the security of the nation knowing that it is possible for someone to gain access to information that people have once though were private to them. This is not the first time that the NSA has tried to gain access to private information. In fact, â€Å"For the p ast decade, NSA has led an aggressive multipronged effort to break widely used internet encryption technologies†Show MoreRelatedWhistleblowers Compared to Edward Snowden691 Words   |  3 Pagesviolation of their individual privacy rights. Two questions arise from this contemporary issue. First, is the violation of privacy rights a form of state violence? Second, is living in the United States a form of consent? There are easy answers to these questions: yes the violation of privacy rights is a form of state violence, but the simple act of being a United States citizen is gives the government consent to collect one’s information. How is the invasion of privacy an act of violence? ViolenceRead MoreWhat s Your Privacy Worth You?812 Words   |  4 Pages What’s Your Privacy Worth to You? Maeson Hayes Mrs. Marlow English 2A 12/17/16 Recent scandals involving the NSA and reports about the government’s use of surveillance technology have called the current ethics of maintaining public security into question. These events have caused us to ask what our privacy is worth in an age of global terrorism. Orwell’s warning that totalitarian regimes’ reliance on surveillance and the invasion of privacy to restrict individual freedom and endanger citizensRead MoreThe Nsa s Prism Program Information Without Public Knowledge1079 Words   |  5 PagesSnowden, a former National Security Agency (NSA) surveillance analyst, told the world that the NSA had a program that was using the servers of U.S internet companies to gather information. Snowden leaked a document, detailing his findings about the NSA’s PRISM program retrieving information from prominent tech companies. (â€Å"What is the NSA Controversy and what did Edward Snowden leak?†) PRISM or Planning Tool for Resource Integration, Synchr onization, and Management, is a government program whichRead MoreThe Threat Of The Patriot Act961 Words   |  4 PagesAgency Is not violating the constitution and what they are doing is good for the betterment of the country and those who believe that their privacy and undeniable American freedoms were violated in part of the NSA spying with both parties bringing their own views and ideals to the field. The September eleventh attacks were the beginning of the end of privacy for American citizens the PATRIOT act which was signed a month later granted full access to the phones and computers of the people. It tookRead MoreOur Privacy Today : Rights Against Progress1689 Words   |  7 PagesOur Privacy Today: Rights Against Progress In the modern age it is almost unheard of to hear of someone without a telephone or computer in their home. One no longer even needs to be in their home to use said commodities with the increasing accessibility to cell phones. The result of such available technology is that we have now unloaded large amounts of our personal information over digital mediums. Our telephone conversations, our home addresses, and even our banking credentials are all common thingsRead MoreEdward Snowden: There is no Online Privacy in this Technological Era941 Words   |  4 Pageson privacy is extremely controversial in today’s world. As the United States’ use of the internet, a global web of interconnected computer networks, expands, so does its problem with privacy invasion. With the U.S. pushing for new laws governing internet use, citizens are finding their privacy being pulled right from underneath them. Web users are buying and selling personal information online as well as hacking u sers for more information. One may argue that there is no such thing as privacy on theRead MoreOutrage over the NSAs Data Collection is Hypocritical in the Publics Acceptance of Data Mining by Other Companies1701 Words   |  7 PagesOutrage Over the NSAs Data Collection Is Hypocritical in The Publics Acceptance of Data Mining by Other Companies. Everyone assumes that Edward Snowden first brought to the public’s attention the actions by the National Security Agency (NSA) in the mining of public data. (The Guardian and The Washington Post on June 5, 2013). â€Å"The release of classified material was called the most significant leak in US history by Pentagon Papers leaker Daniel Ellsberg†. (Gellman, B., Poitras, L. 2013). This wasRead MoreUnited States Of America Safe From Foreign Threats Is Far From An Easy Task1461 Words   |  6 PagesNational Security Agency [NSA] are known to have invaded our privacy through our connection to technology. The NSA has publicly admitted to the surveillance. Due to media coverage, the NSA is often viewed as the main agency that bulk collects data. Emails, phone calls, and even our text messages have been surveilled under an NSA program known as â€Å"PRISM† (â€Å"Domestic Surveillance Techniques†). Everyday government organizations invade our privacy for the sak e of national security in an attempt to defendRead MoreNSA: Nothings Secrete Anymore Essay750 Words   |  3 PagesClass Teachers name Three Part Proposal N.S.A.: Nothing’s Secrete Anymore Look at it this way: this administration is taking unprecedented steps to make sure that the government’s secrets remain private while simultaneously invading the privacy of its citizens†¦. Many innocents must be violated so that a few guilty people can be stopped. It’s a digital stop-and-frisk†¦. – Charles M. Blow, New York Times, June 7, 2013 It is without question that the heavens are watching us, in the obscuredRead MoreThe Rights Of American Citizens2057 Words   |  9 Pagescitizens, which has catalyzed legal controversy and skepticism towards the United States government due to the violation of privacy (Liu 2014). The Internet is a vast host for a plethora of information and communication between people; private activities and messages between people are not protected under United States laws, which can be exploited. The problem is seen in the NSA’s unwarranted collection of personal information and spying on American citizen, and rationalized that they are protecting

Compare Rawls and Nozick free essay sample

The two most significant philosophers on the principles of society structure are John Rawls and Robert Nozick. John Rawls’ ideas of a fair and just society are based on two main principles. These two principles make up his system of justice and incorporate welfare liberalism. In the first place there is Rawls Liberty principle. This principle can be explained as each individual having the right to equality within their society. Allowing basic equality in society such as the right to vote, freedom of speech and freedom to choose a religion is how western society is today. Secondly there is his Difference principle. This principle describes how the disadvantaged can take advantage of opportunities that might otherwise be unavailable to them. It also demonstrates how economic differences can be minimised within society. For example all people within a society have a conscience and can help those less fortunate as they may one day find themselves in a similar position (Kukathas, Pettit, 1990). On the other hand Robert Nozick has a different view of the structure of this type of society. Nozick believes in extreme individualism. This can be interpreted to mean that the poor make a choice to be poor and the rich should not have to fund them for their choices. Nozick believes the government is only in existence to assist with keeping society safe (Schmidtz, 2002). I will argue in this essay that John Rawls’ system of justice is a more equal and humane way to live within any society. I would agree with Rawls’ theories that every person is equal and the prosperous should support the less advantaged. According to Baldwin, Rawls says â€Å"Justice is the first virtue of social institutions†. He explains that a society that he imagines is â€Å"a self sufficient association of persons† and constitutes â€Å"a cooperative association for mutual advantage† (Belshaw, Kemp, 2009, p. 35). The key word in this quote for me is â€Å"cooperative†; the society of which Rawls dreams is one of a voluntary nature, where the individual can make a choice regarding their inclusion. This is a world I would like to live in, where every person is involved of their own free will and is willing to aid and support the community for the advantage of all participants. Rawls’ Liberty Principle ensures each individual has equal entitlements to basic liberties. This principle is fundamental in designing the political constitution. It ensures the basic rights of each individual. The central position of the Liberty Principle evolves from individuals holding a moral point of view. This can be seen in discussions on land rights, gay marriage, universal healthcare, feminism and unionism. An example of this can be seen in Maio’s (2002) article where he argues on the ethical responsibilities of society in regards to cognitively impaired persons. He argues that society has a duty to support and provide adequate healthcare to this disadvantaged group. According to the liberty principle we as a community has a responsibility to ensure ongoing support towards their efforts towards recovery. Rawls’ Difference Principle describes how we all need to look at society from a â€Å"veil of ignorance â€Å"and to have no previous knowledge or judgements. From this position Rawls believes if we know nothing about our social class, current wealth or talents we arrive at a basic structure of society. For example a person’s race, gender, religion or class of origin should not be considered; this will allow for equality and fairer choices for all. From this point Rawls believes all individuals should be prepared to support the disadvantaged to feed and house themselves; this will then ensure their own protection within their society should they ever require it. Rawls believes that reasonable people will understand this and to maximise their own potential will promote a state of welfare. A welfare state ensures the growth of each society through the protection and equality of those less fortunate (Wenar, 2012). However other philosophers such as Clarke and Nozick disagree with Rawls’ theories. They believe in a minimal state. This is a state where there is no redistribution of wealth and the government is only responsible for keeping people safe. Unlike Rawls, Nozick believes that people should be able to accumulate success and fortune through hard work. He doesn’t believe that these people should have to help others less fortunate than themselves. As cited in Schmitz, (2002, p. 34) Nozick is quoted as saying â€Å"Individuals have rights†. This is a controversial statement by Nozick adhering followers to his theories yet repelling others who perceive it as shallow. I don’t believe he is talking about moralistic rights; his beliefs relating to ownership rights show that if a person works the land, they can then own it. This is extremely controversial subject especially if we relate it to colonisation of Australia. John Locke argues in his Second Treatise on Government, that when a person works, then his labour automatically entitles him to ownership of the land. Thus, the object becomes the property of that person. This is evident during the settlement of Australia when the new Australians colonised Aboriginal land and continues to be evident with the discussion around Aboriginal land rights (Kolers, 2000). Rawls’ system of justice is a philosophical basis for a just and fair society. Everyone is equal and entitled to the same opportunities. The background of individuals is not influential in their status or the opportunities available to them. It incorporates the need for everyone within the society to look out for each other formulating a safe and supportive environment aiding all participants irrelevant of age, gender or religion. This idea is unlike Nozick’s theory where each individual can earn as they wish without any responsibility to other individuals or society in general. To further support Rawls’ argument, in which he believes in a fair and just society, is the discussion around the current healthcare system which supports members equally within the society. A Health system based on Rawls’theories would also benefit individuals, families and the community as a whole, allowing choices and based on proven positive outcomes. This healthcare system takes into consideration cultural diversities and is easy to navigate supporting people to achieve maximum health potentials. Although Rawls does not directly talk on this subject other philosophers such as Ronald Green argue that affordable healthcare is a basic right within the original position (J Med Philos. 1983). I feel this is evident in the health systems in Australia today where all people can access a high level of public health care even if they are financially disadvantaged. On the other hand, Nozick’s extreme individualisation does not advocate supporting the disadvantaged within the current healthcare system. Nozick encourages people to work hard to pay for their own health care. With this theory the more economically stable people are; the better the healthcare they can afford. However, this leaves me with questions; who aids the aged, the frail and the disabled? Will this way of thinking enhance the gap between the rich and the poor? (Brown,2003). I agree with Rawls that the kind of society Nozick suggests is open to, as cited by Brown (2003) as â€Å"breeding a selfish society where individuals are  encouraged to consume rather than care for their fellow humans†. If each individual is preoccupied only with themselves and how much wealth they can accumulate then this could become competitive leaving little or no time to be concerned for others (Brown, 2003). In conclusion, I believe this is a very complex topic that will be debated of ten throughout political history. I feel Rawls’ Theory of Justice is sound and moral. I agree that we should, as a society, be responsible for those less fortunate than ourselves. Although I can see the merits in Nozick’s theories and fully comprehend the issues of a person being able to work hard to better themselves, I don’t believe it answers the question of how the community supports the disadvantaged within our society. I am also left questioning whether communism is a direct supporter of Rawls’ theories, even after comprehensive readings on the two philosophers and their opposing theories. Since the theories of Justice in context are sound and moral and Rawls looks only to minimise the gap between the rich and the poor then the question remains as to why we still have social class differences. I feel that the weakness with Rawls’ theory is that the advantaged within our society may hold resentment towards the disadvantaged. Nozick believes that the disadvantaged in society have made conscious choices that result in their shortcomings. This age old debate will continue swinging from Rawls’ ideals of welfare liberalism to Nozicks’ individualisation’. I feel the answer lies in a compromise. However this appears to be extremely shallow on Nozick’s behalf.

Lars and the real girl

Introduction Though the genre of the movie Lars and the real girl released by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer in 2007 can be defined as comedy-drama, the plot of the picture is based on real life psychological concepts. But for the enormously sympathetic attitude of the inhabitants of the town towards Lars and his delusions, the plot of the film seems plausible.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Lars and the real girl specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Even though it produces comic effect upon the audience, the non-pharmacological intervention strategy implemented for treating delusional disorder in Lars, the main character of the film, is effective and corresponds to the results of the real life empirical research. Film concepts The development of the events in Lars and the real girl is based upon the delusional disorder of the main character Lars Lindstrom. Living in a garage and having difficulties with communicating with his relatives, co-workers and especially representatives of the opposite sex, Lars orders a lifelike doll Bianca from the online store and persists that she is a real girl (Lars and the real girl). It is significant that Lars actually has difficulties even in communicating with his doll as he refuses any kind of intimacy with her, making Bianca sleep in a separate room. Lars’ delusions were so strong that even at the end of the film he announces that Bianca dies instead of obtaining a more sensible view of the surrounding reality. On the one hand, Dagmar as the family doctor chooses the most appropriate intervention strategy for treating the main character by establishing confidential relationships with him. On the other hand, the community creates favorable conditions for Lars’ recovery by treating Bianca as a real person and even involving the doll into volunteer programs and employing her as a model in a clothing store. The sympathy of the inhabitants of the t own is touching as they even attend Bianca’s funeral (Lars and the real girl). The community’s attitude and feelings of Margo, Lars’ co-worker who is interested in Lars disregarding his obvious disorder, are the only details of the plot of the film which lack feasibility. As a rule, the individuals with delusional disorders are not met with open arms by the community. The sympathetic attitude of the inhabitants of the town not only creates plenty of comic situations, but also contributes to the atmosphere which was favorable for enhancing the effectiveness of Lars’ treatment.Advertising Looking for research paper on art and design? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Lars’ case of delusional disorder with analysis of its main causes, symptoms and intervention strategies are central to the movie Lars and the real girl. Combining plausible data on psychological disorder and the enormously sympathet ic attitude of the community to Lars’ delusions, the author achieves the comic and dramatic affects at the same time. History of the concept of delusional disorder The concepts of paranoia and delusional disorders have been evolved over time and underwent a number of changes through continuing research and practical application of the findings. The term ‘paranoia’ was coined by ancient Greek and was combined of two stems which can be translated as ‘besides’ and ‘self’ or ‘mind’ (Grover et al, 2006, p. 62). This term was used for defining the conditions in which primarily cognition but not perception was disturbed. Kraepelin is known for making a significant contribution to the definition of the concept and distinguishing paranoia from other disorders. According to Kraepelin theories, the only behavioral changes in patients with delusional disorder were associated with their delusional beliefs, while the personality could be preserved even if the illnesses lasted for several decades (Grover et al, 2006, p. 62). Kruger (1917) as one of Kraepelin’s followers claimed that the system of delusions does not go beyond the realms of possibility and can be logically assumed. Bleuler (1920) broadened the definition of the concept, discussing the occurrence of hallucinations and emphasizing the appearance of paranoid symptoms in other conditions (Grover et al, 2006, p. 62). In 1987, however, this condition was renamed as delusional disorder due, while the term ‘paranoia’ was recognized as vague and inappropriately applied (Manschreck and Kahn 2006). In general, as it can be seen from the above mentioned historical overview, the cases of delusional disorders have been known since ancient times. Disregarding the chosen terminology and theoretical framework, the definition of this illness is based upon the disturbance of the patient’s cognition while perception and the rest of personal char acteristics are preserved undisturbed. This definition is applicable to Lars’ case depicted in the movie under consideration, taking into account that the main character seems to be relatively normal but for the perception of the doll as a real girl.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Lars and the real girl specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Definition and classifications of delusional disorder Currently, the concept of delusional disorder is defined as the condition â€Å"characterized by the presence of one or more nonbizarre delusions and the relative absence of associated psychopathology† (O’Conor et al, 2007, p. 183). Depending upon the content of the delusions and the corresponding patients’ behavior, the delusions are subdivided into several main types. The first type which is defined as persecutory comprises individuals who believe that they are malevolently treated. The s econd type is called somatic and includes patients who believe that they have a certain physical disorder. The third type of delusional disorder is defined as erotomanic and is associated with belief in love at a distance. The patients with the third type may persist that they are in relationship with celebrities. The fourth type is jealous and is associated with belief in an unfaithful partner. The fifth type is called a grandiose one and is associated with belief in enormous power or knowledge (O’Conor et al, 2007, p. 184). Implementing the above-mentioned classification for Lars’ case, it can be stated that the main character of the movie under consideration can be diagnosed as a peculiar modification of erotomanic type. As opposed to the primary definition, there is no distance between Lars and Bianca as the object of his dreams, but he intentionally creates it by refusing any kind of intimacy and making the doll live in a separate room. It might seem that the doll is intended to solve Lars’ problems with communication and isolation, but experiencing difficulties even with Bianca, the main character demonstrates the level of his communicative problems and the strength of his belief that Bianca is a real girl. Main causes and symptoms of delusional disorder The main theories meant to explain the causes of delusional disorder can be subdivided into three main groups, including those of cognitive, psychophysiological and psychodynamic theories on occurrence, development, maintenance and content of delusional beliefs. Cognitive theories as the first subgroup explain the occurrence of delusions with cognitive deficit, inability to draw logical conclusions from the available information and the distorted thinking. The second subgroup focuses on abnormal perceptual experiences following the normal cognitive processes, explaining the occurrence of delusions with anomalous psychophysiological mechanisms involved into the perceptual process and responsible for interpreting the information retrieved from the surrounding world.Advertising Looking for research paper on art and design? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The third subgroup of psychodynamic theories places special emphasis upon motivational factors. It should be noted that all these theories are rather complementary than mutually exclusive. Malancharuvil (2004) noted that â€Å"a combination of factors could influence the formation and maintenance of delusions† (p. 163). Apart from theoretical research concerning the origin and explanation of delusional disorder in general, when treating a certain patient, practitioners have to answer two main questions concerning the roots of disorder in every particular case and the reasons for the formation of the peculiar type of delusions in every single patient. Proper diagnosis and a comprehensive understanding of the underlying causes of the symptoms would allow selecting the most appropriate and effective intervention strategies. In the course of time, the formation of delusions in patients has been explained with genetic predisposition, cultural and personal experience. Regarding the genetic predispositions, reviewing the results of the latest studies of the issue, it is possible to find the evidence supporting the contradicting hypotheses on the role of genetics in the occurrence of delusions in individuals. For example, according to the results of the study by Morimoto et al (2002), â€Å"polymorphism of the DRD2, DRD3 and/or TH gene was part of the genetic basis underlying the hyperdopaminergic state that produced paranoid symptoms† (Grover et al, 2006, p. 69). On the other hand, the findings of Cardno and McGuffin (2006) prove that there is no sufficient evidence for proving the links between the genetic predispositions and formation of delusional disorders and further research along with wider samples are required for establishing these relationships. Regarding Lars’ case, it is hard to define whether the disorder of the main character has got the genetic roots. However, taking into account the subnormal behavior of his father who blames Lars in his mother’s death and turns the lives of his sons to hell, it can be hypothesized that Lars’ father also had certain disorder which just was not diagnosed and investigated. Concerning the cultural background, empirical studies have proven that this factor does not have any significant impact upon the formation and maintenance of delusions. Grover et al (2007) noted that â€Å"the sociodemographic profile of delusional disorder is consistent across various cultures† (p. 462). Regarding the remaining factor of personal background, Maher (2005) noted that â€Å"The patient presents his particular delusion with content that is drawn from his past history or present circumstances because that is the kind of explanatory material available to him† (p. 141). Taking into account the results of the above-mentioned studies, it can be stated that the personal experience can be regarded as the most influential factor in development of delusional disorder in parti cular individuals. Taking into account the existing theories on the causes and content of delusions, it can be concluded that the unhealthy family atmosphere is the main cause of Lars’ delusions. His mother died during his birth and it preconditioned his fear of not only having children, but also having relationships with the opposite sex at all. Thus, though Lars’ genetic predisposition cannot be taken into consideration, his personal background has become the major cause of his delusional disorder. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment The existing treatment strategies are divided into pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions which are both applied by modern psychotherapists. The pharmacological approach which has been regarded is ineffective previously, has become popular among contemporary doctors and theoreticians. For instance, as it was cited in Grover et al (2006), Srinivasan et al (1994) found â€Å"good response to antipsychotic trea tment using trifluperazine, haloperidol, chlorpromazine, and electroconvulsive therapy† (p. 70). As opposed to the past belief that delusional disorder cannot be treated through pharmacological interventions, the results of the recent studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of this method. Manschreck and Khan (2006) concluded that â€Å"delusional disorder should not be considered a treatment-resistant condition; medication can be effective if the patient adheres to the treatment regimen† (p. 118). Disregarding the available evidence on the effectiveness of pharmacological interventions, Dagmar as the family doctor decides on non-pharmacological treatment which appears to be sufficient for treating Lars. Recognizing the peculiarities of the patient’s condition, the doctor in a movie not only does not reassure the patient in his delusions, but also supports his ideas and even offers the treatment for the doll, playing according to the rules of the patient†™s game. Though this approach may seem extraordinary and even comic to certain extent, this treatment corresponds to the results of the recent research. Taking into account the fact, that most patients with delusional disorder do not recognize their illness and refuse any treatment, it can be stated that supporting Lars in his delusions was the best way out for avoiding his confrontation. O’Connor et al (2007) noted that â€Å"It seems crucial to initially adopt an accommodating and non-confrontational approach† (p. 187). This goal is successfully achieved by Dagmar who is supported by altruistic inhabitants of the town. Emphasizing the effectiveness of non-pharmacological approach, Malancharuvil (2004) noted that â€Å"Instead of considering the delusional thought as a thought problem, it should be examined as an affective problem that is intellectually defended† (p. 167). The small detail that Lars always carries a baby blanket with him proves that the chara cter looks for protection and tries to hide from the surrounding. Detailing the treatment strategies, Malancharuvil (2004) defined the main stages of working through delusional thinking, namely establishing therapeutic alliance with the patient, modifying defensiveness, connecting to core experience, restructuring and consolidation. All these stages were passed by Dagmar in treating Lars, though some of them were completed in a rather untraditional way by involving the community into the process of treatment. On the one hand, the fact of Lars’ recovery may seem doubtful, because he returns to reality by announcing that Bianca dies. Still, the facts that the patient gets rid of his delusions and has a love affair with his co-worker, a real girl prove that Dagmar’s treatment is effective. The community’s attitude to Lars’ delusions and his love affair with Margo can be regarded as an important component of the intervention strategy which was significant for Lars’ recovery. Conclusion In general, it can be concluded that disregarding the peculiarities of the genre of drama-comedy, the plot of the movie Lars and the real girl has sufficient theoretical basis on treating the patients with delusional disorder and can be regarded as plausible. Dagmar’s non-pharmacological approach in establishing the non-confrontational relationship with the patient, defining the causes of the delusions and restructuring them may produce a comic effect, but were effective for modifying Lars’ defensiveness and returning him to reality. Reference List Aubrey, S., Cameron, J., Kimmel, S. (Producers) and Gillespie, C. (Director). (2007). Lars and the real girl [Motion picture]. United States: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. Cardno, A. and McGuffin, M. (2006). Genetics and delusional disorder. Behavioral Sciences and the Law, 24: 257-276. Grover S, Gupta N, Kumar S. (2006). Delusional disorders: An overview. Journal of German Psychology, 9: 62-73. Gro ver, S., Biswas, P., and Avasthi, A. (2007). Delusional disorder: Study from North India. Psychiatry and Neurosciences, 61: 462-470. Maher, B. (2005). Delusional thinking and cognitive disorder. Integrative Psychological and Behavioral Science, 40 (3): 136-146. Malancharuvil, J. (2004). Delusional thinking: A thought or affective disorder? A paradigm for working through delusional thinking in Psychotherapy. American Journal of Psychotherapy, 58 (2): 162-173. Manschreck, T. and Khan, N. (2006). Recent advances in the treatment of delusional disorder. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 51(2): 114-119. O’Connor, K., Stip, E., Pelissier, M., Aardema, F. (2007). Treating delusional disorder: A comparison of cognitive-behavioral therapy and attention placebo control. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 52(3): 182-196. 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