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Implementation of non-pharmacological therapies improves functional mobility and quality of life in Parkinson’s disease.

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Implementation of non-pharmacological therapies improves functional mobility and quality of life in Parkinson’s disease.

Introduction

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative condition that significantly impacts the quality of life for those influenced (Cristini et al., 2021). While pharmacological therapies play a crucial role in managing the disease, there is a developing interest in non-pharmacological therapies to complement conventional treatments. One such area of interest is the impact of physical exercises, such as boxing and sensory exercises, on the motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. This study, conducted by Sangarapillai and colleagues in 2021, examines the potential benefits of these interventions on motor symptoms in people with Parkinson’s disease (Cristini et al., 2021). This research aims to contribute to the understanding of non-pharmacological approaches in treating Parkinson’s disease and to evaluate their viability in improving motor functioning and overall well-being.

Background of the study

Motor symptoms, including bradykinesia, tremors, inflexibility, and postural instability, characterize Parkinson’s disease. These symptoms regularly lead to functional impairment and a diminished quality of life. While pharmacological medicines, such as levodopa, have been the pillar of Parkinson’s management, they may have limitations, including side effects and reduced efficacy over time. Non-pharmacological interventions have developed as potential aides to address these limitations. One such approach includes physical exercises, including boxing and sensory exercises (Tunur et al., 2020). Studies have shown that exercises can improve balance, gait, and overall motor function in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. However, there is a need for more thorough research to assess the adequacy of particular exercise interventions. In this setting, the PICO question investigates whether boxing and sensory exercises, as non-pharmacological mediations, can significantly affect motor symptoms in people with Parkinson’s (Tunur et al., 2020). The study points to supply insights that can educate the advancement of more holistic and effective management strategies for this neurodegenerative condition.

Significance of the study

Understanding the significance and importance of investigating the impact of non-pharmacological mediations, such as boxing and sensory exercises, on motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease is essential. Parkinson’s disease is a weakening neurodegenerative condition affecting millions worldwide, significantly affecting their quality of life. The motor symptoms, including bradykinesia, tremors, and postural instability, frequently lead to marked limitations and loss of independence. The existing pharmacological treatments, while effective to some extent, may come with side effects and may lose efficacy over time. This highlights the need for alternative and complementary approaches to upgrade the management of this condition. Non-pharmacological interventions, like workout programs, hold promise in addressing these limitations, as they offer potential benefits for motor symptoms and overall well-being. Research in this area is significant to recognize evidence-based interventions that can improve the lives of people with Parkinson’s disease and give healthcare experts more comprehensive tools for care.

Quality and Safety Education for Nurses (QSEN)

Quality and Safety education for nurses (QSEN) competencies are significant for guaranteeing that nurses give safe and high-quality care. There are six QSEN competencies, and each plays a vital role in nursing. They include patient-centered care, teamwork, quality advancement, and safety. (QSEN) competencies guarantee that nurses provide safe, high-quality care. Patient-centered care emphasizes administering medications to individual patient needs, guaranteeing responsive and personalized care that upgrades the quality of life. Teamwork and collaboration are significant for planning multidisciplinary care groups to supply complementary therapies effectively. Evidence-based practice guarantees that the choice of non-pharmacological treatments is established within the best available research, adjusting to patients’ goals. Quality improvement involves ongoing assessment to upgrade the adequacy of these treatments, eventually contributing to better patient care. Safety measures are fundamental to ensure patients are protected while administering complementary services. At the same time, informatics skills help in data management to monitor patient progress and make informed care choices. These competencies collectively advance holistic, evidence-based, secure, patient-centered care in Parkinson’s disease management.

Teamwork and collaboration stand at the center of providing effective and patient-centered healthcare. In the ever-evolving nursing scene, where patients frequently require care from diverse healthcare professionals, working collaboratively is not only a valuable skill but also an essential competency. For people living with chronic conditions like Parkinson’s disease, a multidisciplinary approach is necessary, enveloping the skills of nurses, physical therapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, and more. In this context, the “Teamwork and Collaboration” competency becomes fundamental in guaranteeing that care is comprehensive and harmonized. This competency goes past mere interaction; it fosters a culture of communication, mutual respect, and shared decision-making among healthcare providers to attain the highest standard of patient care. In this elaboration, we look into the importance of teamwork and collaboration, investigating how it supports quality and safety in healthcare, especially in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Article one

Type of Research Study

The study described is a multicenter randomized controlled trial that aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of combining electro-acupuncture with conventional pharmacotherapy for motor dysfunction and constipation in patients with Parkinson’s disease (Li et al., 2023). The study included 166 patients from seven hospitals in China and used Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) scores and bowel frequency as dependent variables. This study used computer-generated random sequences. Statistical analyses were performed using SAS 9.4 software. The results showed that combining electro-acupuncture with conventional treatment significantly improved motor function and bowel frequency in Parkinson’s disease patients. Strengths of this study include its well-designed nature, large sample size, and adherence to reporting guidelines, while limitations include a specific geographic focus and lack of a sham acupuncture group. This study provides high-quality Level I evidence for the efficacy and safety of electro-acupuncture in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease (Li et al., 2023).

Purpose of Research Study

The study aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of electro-acupuncture combined with conventional pharmacotherapy in the treatment of motor dysfunction and constipation in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Li et al., (2023) conducted research using a well-designed randomized controlled trial with a sufficient sample size and provided high-quality evidence. The main research question centred on evaluating the effects of electro-acupuncture as an adjunctive therapy on motor function and bowel frequency in patients with Parkinson’s disease.

Population of the Research Study

The research population in this study consisted of 166 patients diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, who were recruited from seven hospitals in China. The mean age of the patients was 63.5 years, with a majority of them being male (62.7%). The participants had an average disease duration of 5.6 years and an average Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) score of 32.1 at the beginning of the study (Li et al., 2023).

Methods of Research Study

The research method used in this study was a multicenter randomized controlled trial conducted in China, involving 166 patients with Parkinson’s disease, and aimed to investigate the effectiveness and the safety of combining electro-acupuncture with conventional drug treatment for motor dysfunction and constipation in these patients. (Li et al., 2023). The study aimed to evaluate the effects of electro-acupuncture on motor function and bowel frequency in patients with Parkinson’s disease by comparing the change in scores on the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) and Frequency distribution between the electro-acupuncture group and control group after 12 weeks of treatment. This study provides valid Level I evidence, showing significant improvement in motor function and stool frequency with electro-acupuncture combined with pharmacological treatment.

Findings of the Research Study

According to Li et al. (2023), the efficacy and safety of combining electro-acupuncture with conventional pharmacological treatment were investigated in 166 patients with Parkinson’s disease. The study revealed that the use of electro-acupuncture in combination with conventional pharmacological treatment significantly improved both motor function and bowel movement frequency in these patients compared to conventional treatment alone. Specifically, the mean change in Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) score from baseline to week 12 was significantly greater in the electro-acupuncture group (mean difference -4.2, 95% CI -6.1 to -2.3, P<0.001), and the mean change in bowel movement frequency from baseline to week 12 was also significantly greater in the electro-acupuncture group (mean difference 0.5, 95% CI 0.2 to 0.8, P=0.001). Notably, no serious adverse events were reported in either group. The study, characterized by a large sample size and rigorous methodology, provides robust Level I evidence suggesting that combining electro-acupuncture with traditional pharmacological treatment is a valuable approach to treating motor dysfunction and constipation in patients with Parkinson’s disease. However, it is important to acknowledge the limitations of the study, such as the concentration on one country and the lack of a sham acupuncture group, which requires further research to clarify the specific effects of electro-acupuncture and to assess the generalizability to other populations.

Article two

Type of Research Study

Sangarapillai et al. (2021) used a double-blinded parallel-group randomized controlled trial to explore the impacts of boxing and sensory exercises on motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The design was characterized as an intervention study, with a sample estimate of roughly 40 members who were randomly assigned to either the boxing or sensory exercise group. This study design permitted for a thorough examination of the impact of these interventions on motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease (Sangarapillai et al., 2021).

Purpose of the Research Study

The study aims to examine the impacts of boxing and sensory exercise interventions on motor symptoms in people with Parkinson’s disease. The research question rotated around evaluating the impacts of these non-pharmacological interventions, which are relevant in improving motor function and advancing social interaction among this population. This investigation, conducted at the Movement Disorders Research and Rehabilitation Center, Wildrid Laurie College, centered on the intervention groups’ advance in motor symptoms, as measured by the Unified Parkinson’s Illness Rating Scale (UPDRS-III) and unbiased computerized gait data (Sangarapillai et al., 2021).

Population of the Research Study

The study’s test comprised 40 participants with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease, chosen from the Movement Disorders Research and Rehabilitation Center at Wildrid Laurie College. The independent variable was the type of workout interventions (boxing or sensory). In contrast, the dependent variable was motor symptoms, surveyed using the United Parkinson’s Illness Rating Scale (UPDRS-III) and unbiased computerized gait data. Outstandingly, the study can be classified as Level I evidence, emphasizing its high-quality controlled trial design (Sangarapillai et al., 2021).

Methods of the Research Study

According to the study’s statistical results, a double-blinded parallel-group randomized controlled trial with roughly 40 members diagnosed with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease was carried out to examine the impacts of boxing and sensory exercises on motor symptoms. The statistical examinations included free t-tests to evaluate comparability, a 2-factor blended repeated-measures ANOVA to investigate the essential result degree (UPDRS-III), and repeated-measures ANOVA to examine auxiliary result measures. (Sangarapillai et al., 2021).

Findings of the Research Study

The study uncovered that both boxing and sensory exercise interventions brought about noteworthy improvements in motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. The UPDRS-III scores have a significant primary impact on groups, with both groups showing improvement over time. The PD SAFEx group displayed more significant changes than the RSB gathered at post-assessment and washout. The study suggested the need for larger-scale trials to upgrade the generalizability of results and proposed consideration of a heart rate screen for more precise monitoring during exercises (Sangarapillai et al., 2021).

Synthesis

Both studies looked at non-pharmacological medications to improve motor symptoms in patients with Parkinson’s disease, focusing on diverse approaches. The first study by Li e., al. (2023) looked at the combination of electro-acupuncture with conventional pharmacological treatments. On the other hand, the study by Sangarapillai et al. (2021) explored the effects of boxing and sensory exercise on motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, and both interventions led to significant improvements in motor side effects. Both studies utilized a randomized controlled design and reported an improvement in motor symptoms. In the electro-acupuncture study, motor symptoms and bowel frequency were significantly improved compared with the control group due to the well-designed trial, large sample size, and adherence to reporting guidelines as strengths. However, the limitation of the study site in China and the lack of a sham acupuncture group raised questions about the generalizability and specificity of the intervention effect.

In contrast, the sensory training and boxing study also showed critical improvement in motor symptoms, with the PD SAFEx (sensory exercise) showing greater benefits than the RSB bunch (Boxing). This study was a well-designed double-blind randomized controlled trial with fair stride information and a washout period to survey the durability of the intervention. However, the sample size was relatively small and the participants’ diversity was limited, which may influence the generalizability of the outcome. Both studies give an important understanding of non-pharmacological approaches to managing motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease, with each having its advantages and limitations. While electro-acupuncture may provide a more specific therapeutic intervention, boxing and sensory exercises may offer a more social and available option for patients (Sangarapillai et al., 2021; Li et al., 2023).

Nursing Practice

Implications for nursing practice

Nursing practice should prioritize a holistic care approach that addresses the varied needs of people with Parkinson’s disease. This approach recognizes that the impacts of the illness expand past physical side effects and include emotional, mental, and social effects. Nurses are instrumental in advancing this holistic point of view by evaluating patients’ general well-being, understanding their one-of-a-kind challenges, and planning care that manages symptoms and improves the overall quality of life. By implementing a holistic approach, nurses can assist patients and their families in coping with the emotional and psychological aspects of living with Parkinson’s disease. This may include encouraging support groups, offering counselling services, and providing resources for managing depression and anxiety, which are common in Parkinson’s patients. Moreover, physical treatment, workout programs, and assistive devices can improve a patient’s functional independence by tending to mobility issues, a significant disease characteristic. A holistic approach, which considers the patient’s physical, emotional, and social needs, is essential in improving the overall care experience for individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Best practice

Best practices within the context of Parkinson’s disease and the integration of non-pharmacological complementary therapies with pharmacological treatments are based on evidence and a patient-centered approach. Multidisciplinary Care is one of the best practices to embrace. This includes collaboration between healthcare professionals such as neurologists, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and psychologists. These specialists work together to make an individualized care plan that addresses different perspectives of the disease. Multidisciplinary care guarantees that the patient’s physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs are met successfully. Patient-Centered Care Plans is another best care practice. Each person with Parkinson’s disease experiences the condition differently, hence the need to involve patients in the decision-making process. This collaborative approach empowers patients and increases their participation in their own care, ultimately leading to better outcomes and improved quality of life.

QSEN and Best practice

The best practice aligns with Qsen competency by emphasizing multidisciplinary cooperation, shared decision-making, and tailored holistic patient care. Incorporating these best practices ensures that all individuals with Parkinson’s disease receive comprehensive, personalized care that considers both pharmacological and non-pharmacological therapies, leading to better management of symptoms and quality of life.

QSEN competency in nursing practice

Patient centered care impacts the care given to patients by cultivating a profound understanding of each patient’s one of a kind needs, values, and preferences. This, in turn, advances the delivery of individualized and compassionate care that addresses their emotional and mental wellbeing. In addition, this approach encourages communication and collaboration among the healthcare team. By effectively including patients and their families in decision-making, medical caretakers can guarantee that care plans are comprehensive and custom fitted to meet the patient’s goals and expectations, ultimately enhancing the quality of care. By recognizing the importance of Patient-Centered Care, nursing practice advances the accessibility of resources, because it underscores the significance of resource allocation based on the individualized needs. This approach empowers nurses to build strong, trusting connections with their patients, resulting in a holistic and compassionate approach to healthcare.

Nursing Education

QSEN and Educational provision

Nursing education about Parkinson’s disease plays a vital role in its management. It integrates teamwork and collaboration QSEN competency through team-based learning and simulation scenarios. Practicing nurses are among the people who need to receive education. Advancing education is imperative for practicing nurses. Workshops, classes, and online courses can assist nurses to remain up to date with the most recent research and best practices in managing Parkinson’s disease. This instruction should emphasize the significance of a patient-centered, multidisciplinary approach and give benefits for executing non-pharmacological treatments. Practicing nurses, including those in different healthcare settings, should be well-informed about the most recent treatment choices and be able to teach patients and their families. Nurses must also educate other individuals on the healthcare team, including physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech specialists, about the benefits of integrating non-pharmacological therapies in Parkinson’s care. Interdisciplinary collaboration is essential, and educating these professionals about the role of nursing and the potential advantages of complementary therapies is crucial in providing the best care possible.

Population to Receive Education

Patients and their families should also know about the disease and its management. Nurses should give clear, justifiable information on the disease, accessible treatment choices, and the benefits of non-pharmacological treatments, enabling patients and families with information to make a difference and effectively take an interest in decision-making and self-management, driving to better treatment and quality of life. By teaching this population, nurses can contribute to a comprehensive and patient-centered approach to Parkinson’s disease care that integrates non-pharmacological therapies successfully.

Challenges in disseminating information

One critical issue in disseminating healthcare information, including information on Parkinson’s disease and complementary therapies, is the presence of health challenges. Socioeconomic factors, geographic location, and systemic inequities drive these challenges. Access to quality healthcare data can be constrained for underserved and marginalized populations, resulting in unequal health outcomes. Those in low-income communities or remote areas may not have the same access to healthcare resources or educative materials, making it challenging to get convenient and essential information about managing Parkinson’s disease.

Another challenge is information overload and quality assurance. In the digital age, plenty of information is available online; while this is advantageous, it also presents a challenge in information overload. Patients and caregivers may encounter overwhelming conflict or wrong data, making it troublesome to obtain reliable sources. Ensuring up-to-date information is challenging as new information is continuously emerging daily.

Recommendations for Education

One of the recommendations for providing education includes using Interactive education such as group discussions, case studies, and hands-on activities. Interactive learning can improve engagement and retention of information. Within the context of Parkinson’s disease and complementary therapies, interactive sessions can allow patients and their families to ask questions, share encounters, and effectively take an interest in their care planning. These recommendations aim to make healthcare education more engaging and patient-centered.

Nursing research

Recommendations for further Research

Recommendations for further clinical and professional practice include Caregiver Education, support, and a personalized treatment plan. These recommendations point to improve the individualized and holistic care provided to Parkinson’s patients and supporting the caregivers who play a critical part in their care journey.

Authors recommendations

The authors have made several proposals for the articles concerning Parkinson’s disease and its management. Some of the suggestions include randomized assessment and Larger-Scale trials to address the selection bias identified in the study and give a more random and unbiased assessment program. Another proposal is an extended follow-up period and cross-cultural studies that aim to understand better Parkinson’s disease and program effectiveness in different countries and cultures (Landers et al., 2019).

REFERENCES

Cristini, J., Weiss, M., De Las Heras, B., Medina-Rincón, A., Dagher, A., Postuma, R. B., Huber, R., Doyon, J., Rosa-Neto, P., Carrier, J., Amara, A. W., & Roig, M. (2021). The effects of exercise on sleep quality in persons with Parkinson’s disease: A systematic review with meta-analysis.  Sleep Medicine Reviews,  55, 101384. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.smrv.2020.101384

Landers, M. R., Navalta, J. W., Murtishaw, A. S., Kinney, J. W., & Richardson, S. P. (2019). A high-intensity exercise boot camp for persons with Parkinson’s disease: a phase II, pragmatic, randomized clinical trial of feasibility, safety, signal of efficacy, and disease mechanisms. Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy, 43(1), 12-25. https://doi.org/10.1097/npt.0000000000000249

Li, K., Xu, S., Wang, R., Zou, X., Liu, H., Fan, C., & Wu, H. (2023). Electro acupuncture for motor dysfunction and constipation in patients with Parkinson’s disease: a randomized controlled multicentre trial. Clinical medicine, 56. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eclinm.2022.101814

Sangarapillai, K., Norman, B. M., & Almeida, Q. J. (2021). Boxing vs sensory exercise for Parkinson’s disease: A double-blinded randomized controlled trial. Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair, 35(9), 769-777. https://doi.org/10.1177/15459683211023197

Tunur, T., DeBlois, A., Yates-Horton, E., Rickford, K., & Columna, L. A. (2020). Augmented reality-based dance intervention for individuals with Parkinson’s disease: A pilot study.  Disability and Health Journal,  13(2), 100848. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dhjo.2019.100848

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Reflection # 7

Often, after a class is done for the week, we drop it and move on. The goal of reflection assignments is to encourage you to reflect on what we did in class that week, after the class to consolidate your learning. There will be specific prompts for you to answer; sometimes this is a reflective assignment, and other times it is more of an application assignment (e.g., given a case example and having to apply something from class). The hope is that this will help you to use what you have learned to ensure concepts “stick” or to think critically about your response to what was learned.

Task

Respond to the following prompt and upload your Word document. It should be 1-2 pages and will be due 11:59 p.m. Friday.

Module 6 Reflection

Please watch the brief (3 minute) news clip Facing Down the Fears of the I-35W Bridge CollapseLinks to an external site. mentioned during Dr. Hertig’s TF-CBT presentation (if interested [ not required], there is also this brief articleLinks to an external site. on the same story). After watching the clip and reflecting on course materials for this week, please answer the following questions:

1. What are some factors that may have maintained Saiku’s PTSD symptoms?

2. How do you think this trauma (and subsequent symptoms) impacted this child’s beliefs about himself, other people, or the world in general?

3. Based on the clip, what are some of the TF-CBT strategies Saiku’s therapist, Dr. Hong, used to support his recovery? See slide 55 of Dr.Hertig’s lecture materials if you need a reminder of TF-CBT treatment components.

4. How did Dr. Hong make the client comfortable in the process of facing his fears?

Grading Criteria

I’m really not looking to take off points for the reflection assignments. I don’t have specific rubrics for them, but if you do not seem to be engaging with the prompt or answering the questions, I may take off points. Each reflection assignment is worth 5 points.

Public service values can be a powerful force in motivating public servants. When working in a stressful and high-pressure job with few resources, limited funding, and often ambiguous and even conflicting goals, it can be easy to lose sight of the importance of what public servants do. 

Charts and graphs are often used to present statistics in newspapers, magazines, books, and various online articles. There are pros and cons to using these types of visual representations.

Describe one pro and one con of using a graph or chart. Then, share an example of a time when a data visualization (like a graph or chart) changed your mind about something or gave you a deeper understanding of a topic or current event.

Clinical Case Report

Part 2: Case Description and Conceptualization

Part 2 of the clinical case report assignment should be in APA style (title page,

references, etc. but does not require an abstract). This part of the case report will likely

be 6-7 pages, without references. It should include:

(1) The case, with provisional diagnoses (already completed for the paper proposal but

likely modified based on my feedback and any other client information you find helpful in

conceptualization below). See above for guidelines about an effective case. (around 2

pages)

(2) A case conceptualization, to include risk and maintenance factors in the client’s

diagnosis(es): (around 4-5 pages)

(2a) Should include a range of etiological factors, based on class readings and

discussions (i.e., cognitive model, memory, emotion, neurobiology,

social/contextual factors),

(2b) These etiological factors should be tied specifically to the case description

(that is, don’t speak only generally of risk factors, but how this manifests for the

particular client). In some places (e.g., neurobiology), you may need to use some

conjecture, based on the literature. That is OK. However, your case should

include sufficient detail to be able to relate several risk factors to the

conceptualization.

(2c) Should include discussion of risk factors for, AND maintenance of, PTSD

and/or related symptoms

(2d) Should be integrative, as all risk and maintenance factors intersect (e.g.,

environment affects biology, social context influences both; don’t just list

etiological factors)

(2e) Should consider culture and intersectionality of client.

(2f) Should include references to literature (in APA style). NOTE: Please avoid

excessive use of quoted text, instead summarizing/paraphrasing when possible.

Quoted text should be limited to points in which you think the initial wording is

absolutely necessary to convey the author’s point, and, in many papers, does not

need to be used at all.

Grading Rubric for Clinical Case Report Part 2: Case Description and

Conceptualization (75 points)

____/22 Case description. Student provides detail on client’s background, traumatic

experience(s), symptoms and presenting problems, impairment/distress, and within this

description, sufficient detail to support the case conceptualization.

____/35 Case conceptualization. Student describes risk AND maintenance factors

in the client’s diagnosis(es), including a range of etiological factors (i.e., cognitive

model, memory, emotion, neurobiology, social/contextual factors and culture and

identity). These factors are tied specifically to the case description, when possible

and are integrative (i.e., intersections among etiological factors are discussed).

____/9 Incorporation of empirical research. Empirical research and course materials

are incorporated effectively to advance arguments and are cited appropriately in-text.

____/9 Grammar, style, mechanics. Paper is in APA style, includes references, is

proofread, and contains proper grammar, flow, transitions, and headings as appropriate.

In the case of Neighborhood C, you mentioned it had a bimodal dispersion. How might other measures, such as the standard deviation, have provided additional insights into the distribution of house prices within the neighborhood?  

Statistics Questions

Question 1: Although the mean is used most often as a measure of central tendency, when might someone prefer mode over mean or median? When is the median preferred over the mean to describe a variable?

The kind of data, the conveyance of the data, and the specific targets of the study will decide whether the mean, median, or mode should be utilized as a measure of central tendency. The mean is usually utilized when analyzing persistent, numerical information such as interval or proportion statistics (Mishra et al., 2019). It may be communicated as the total value divided by the number of data points. Extraordinary values, or exceptions, within the information, might influence the mean. It might not be the ideal alternative if the information contains eminent exceptions or is not frequently dispersed (Kaliyadan & Kulkarni, 2019). For instance, given a dataset of salary levels, the mean may not be as demonstrative of the commonplace person’s wage as it might be if it is altogether affected by a small number of exceptionally high workers.

The median is a dependable indicator of central tendency that is less affected by exceptions. When working with skewed or non-normally disseminated information, or when it is ordinal, it is regularly chosen over the mean (Mishra et al., 2019). When sorting all the information focused in a dataset that contains exceptions, the median demonstrates the middle value. Because a couple of exceptionally high or low values can skew the mean, this makes it a much better choice for factors like family salary (Gravetter et al., 2021). The median is frequently utilized when information is displayed as positions or organized categories.

When working with category or nominal information, the mode is most helpful when values are not on a numerical scale but may fall into discrete categories. In these circumstances, there is no need to utilize the terms mean or median; instead, the mode indicates the category that happens most habitually. For instance, the color most respondents chose in a survey inquiring them to choose their favorite color would appear by the mode (Kaliyadan & Kulkarni, 2019). In discrete numerical data, just like the number of children in a family, the mode may also be utilized to express the foremost ordinary number of children.

Question 2: What are some ways in which measures of central tendency can inadvertently lead to bad decisions?

When utilized in isolation without considering the data distribution, measures of central tendency like the mean and median might result in destitute conclusions. The mean property cost in each community appeared to be the fitting choice for decision-making in the canvassing for donations (Gravetter et al., 2021). But when there are extraordinary exceptions or an unpredictable information distribution, this procedure may not work as intended. Since Neighborhood C had the highest mean house cost in this instance, it was chosen at first. A more profound look at the information showed that Neighborhood C had a bimodal dispersion with both high- and low-value properties. This data was unclear when the mean was considered (Kaliyadan & Kulkarni, 2019). This emphasizes how significant it is to incorporate components other than the mean when assessing the central tendency since the mean might cloud the nuanced viewpoints of the information.

Furthermore, when considering the median, Neighborhood B—which had the second-highest cruel house price—also turned out to be a terrible choice. The mean was pushed upward by several exceedingly costly properties, making it less representative of the larger part of homes within the region. The typical property value within the community was better represented by the median, which was much lower than the mean (Mishra et al., 2019). The dispersion of the information and the specific necessities or targets of the study ought to be considered when selecting a degree of central tendency; Neighborhood A, on the other hand, had the least mean but the most elevated number of properties esteemed at more than $100,000. This illustration shows how a single central tendency degree may be misleading and how, to make intelligent judgments, a more careful investigation of the data’s distribution is required (Gravetter et al., 2021).

References

Gravetter, F. J., Wallnau, L. B., Forzano, L. A. B., & Witnauer, J. E. (2021). Essentials of statistics for the behavioral sciences.

Kaliyadan, F., & Kulkarni, V. (2019). Types of variables, descriptive statistics, and sample size. Indian Dermatology Online Journal, 10(1), 82.

Mishra, P., Pandey, C. M., Singh, U., Gupta, A., Sahu, C., & Keshri, A. (2019). Descriptive statistics and normality tests for statistical data. Annals of cardiac anesthesia, 22(1), 67.

Risks are best handled by developing a risk matrix, which is a plan for identifying and managing potential risks.

• Develop and post a risk matrix for any project you have worked on in the past or in your imagination.
• In your risk matrix, state the risk, describe it and what might cause it, and note the risk of occurrence (probability) as high, medium, or low.
• Describe the impact of the risk(s) occurring and discuss how it could be prevented, mitigated, or recovered from if it happens.

Article Critique Assignment Instructions

Overview

Description: This assignment requires you to critique a piece of published empirical literature in developmental psychology.

Purpose: Since peer-reviewed empirical research is the backbone of developmental psychology, you as a graduate student must become familiar with how to evaluate such research, so that they can consume and disseminate the research appropriately. This assignment will allow you to practice critiquing empirical research.

Instructions

Details:

1. Select an empirical article published in the field of developmental psychology within the last 3 years.
2. Read the article thoroughly, paying close attention to research questions and/or hypotheses, the method, results, and interpretations of the author.
3. Write the critique (see format below).
4. The instructor will not proofread papers, but it is acceptable for a friend to proofread for clarity, grammar, and spelling. In addition, the Liberty University Online Writing Center can help with overall writing and flow. You can find the link to the Online Writing Center on the Article Critique Assignment page under Article Critique Resource.

Format:

1. Include a title page, abstract, references page, and 4 pages of critique.
2. Begin with a short introductory paragraph that summarizes the purpose of the research, including the research questions/hypotheses. In 2 – 3 sentences, explain the overall method, results, and conclusions. 
3. Next, provide your critique of the article, noting strengths and weaknesses in the following areas:
4. Research questions/hypotheses
5. Research methodology including design, measures (think about different types of validity, reliability), participants (think about generalizability), procedures, ethics, etc.
6. Results including analyses, clarity of findings, tables/graphs/figures.
7. Discussion including whether the results validate the author’s conclusions/interpretations/recommendations, the major limitations, and what other alternative explanations for the findings might exist.
8. End with a conclusion that includes your judgment on the adequacy of the research, given the preceding critique.
9. Avoid first and second person pronouns, and be sure to use past tense when describing completed research.
10. Current APA standards must be followed.

Note: Your assignment will be checked for originality via the Turnitin plagiarism tool.

Overview

For each Journal Article Summary, you will choose an article to review and use the Journal Article Summary Template to complete the assignment. The article you select must be a peer-reviewed journal article in the field of cognitive psychology. The article must also be a primary source, meaning that the authors are discussing their own research, not others’ research (e.g. review articles). Do not use an article that conducted a meta-analysis. It is ideal to select an article that you will be using in your paper; however, this is not a requirement. If you use an article that does not meet these criteria, you will not receive credit for this assignment. See the example below for detailed explanation of the required material for each question. Submit the completed form and a PDF of the article being reviewed. All material must be in current APA format. 

Instructions

1. APA reference of article being reviewed

Write the reference for the article as if it were in the reference section of your paper.

1. What is the research problem that is being investigated? What is the purpose of the research being conducted?

Provide the “why” behind the paper. Why have they conducted this experiment? For example: “These experiments were designed to explore the role of second order conditioning in anxiety disorders.”

1. What is the research question?

The research question is more specific. What is the specific question or questions the article will answer as a result of the study or experiment? For example: “Are adolescents more sensitive to the memory imparting effects of alcohol?”

1. What are 2 or more theories that are discussed in the Introduction? How are they used to motivate (or set up) the research question? Do the authors agree or disagree with these theories?

Simply restate the theories discussed in the introduction in your own words. State how these theories are driving the research questions. If the authors’ hypothesis is correct, will it support the theory or be inconsistent with the theory? You should have good idea of where the authors stand based on the evidence presented and the arguments they are making.

1. How is the research question operationalized? First, identify the abstract constructs being studied. Next identify the concrete way these are being observed or measured. This should include your IV and DV.

A construct is an abstract explanatory variable that this not directly observable (e.g. memory). The concrete way the construct is measured will point you to the dependent variable (DV). For example, if the paper is concerned with memory, the DV may be the number of items recalled. The independent variable (IV) could be the amount of sleep each participant was allowed the night before the test. Remember that we cannot directly measure many of the constructs that are studied in psychology, so it is important that we identify how they are being operationalize in each research study. 

1. What is the research design (i.e. between or within subjects, what type of statistical tests were used, what were the levels of each variable)?

This information will be in the methods section of your paper. Be sure to provide enough detail to describe how the study was designed.

1. Describe the results (but not their broader implications). Were the results significant? Which ones? Do these support or not support the hypothesis? 

Describe the result in your own words. For example: Group X were able to recall significantly more words than Group Y. This finding supports the hypothesis that manipulation Y would reduce recall. 

1. What limitations are mentioned? Why are these limitations theoretically interesting?

Limitations can be found in the discussion section of the paper. If a limitation is that they didn’t have X control group, then explain in your own words why that is important. Does it change the interpretation of the findings? 

Note: Your assignment will be checked for originality via the Turnitin plagiarism tool.

For this task, you will create a report on the competitive position of the company from your completed Marketplace Simulations business simulation referenced in Task 1.

Note: This task should not be attempted until you have passed Task 1.

SCENARIO

As a leader in your business, you are responsible for reporting to other stakeholders about the competitive position of your business during its first six quarters. Your report will provide an analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats facing the business. It will also address the competitive position of the business in the marketplace and organizational goal setting.

REQUIREMENTS

Your submission must be your original work. No more than a combined total of 30% of the submission and no more than a 10% match to any one individual source can be directly quoted or closely paraphrased from sources, even if cited correctly. The similarity report that is provided when you submit your task can be used as a guide.
 

You must use the rubric to direct the creation of your submission because it provides detailed criteria that will be used to evaluate your work. Each requirement below may be evaluated by more than one rubric aspect. The rubric aspect titles may contain hyperlinks to relevant portions of the course.
 

Tasks may not be submitted as cloud links, such as links to Google Docs, Google Slides, OneDrive, etc., unless specified in the task requirements. All other submissions must be file types that are uploaded and submitted as attachments (e.g., .docx, .pdf, .ppt).
 

Provide a written report containing the following:
 

Note: It is recommended that you use the attached “Competitive Analysis Template” to structure this report.

A.  Conduct a SWOT analysis of your business in the simulation by doing the following:

1.  Identify one strength, one weakness, one opportunity that has not been met, and one threat that has not been resolved. The SWOT analysis should plausibly reflect the simulated business at the end of Quarter 6 of the simulation.

2.  Justify each strength, weakness, opportunity, and threat from part A1 based on information from your business.
 

B.  Analyze the competitive position of your business in the business simulation by doing the following:

1.  Incorporate three strategic line graphs from the “Market” section of the strategic graphs in the final quarter (i.e., Quarter 7) of the simulation into your report.
 

 Note: Refer to the supporting document “Accessing Strategic Line Graphs” for information about accessing these graphs. You must be in Quarter 7 of the simulation to access the final strategic line graphs, which cover Quarters 1–6. 
 

2.  Analyze how specific events and decisions in your business simulation led to the outcomes shown in each of the three strategic line graphs from part B1.
 

C.  Provide recommendations for the future by doing the following:

1.  Suggest one SMART goal for your simulated business for the next one to three quarters (Quarters 7–9).

2.  Explain why the goal from part C1 was suggested, including how the goal addresses specific needs of the business.
 

D.  Acknowledge sources, using in-text citations and references, for content that is quoted, paraphrased, or summarized.
 

E.  Demonstrate professional communication in the content and presentation of your submission.