Author Archives: Taylor M Stewart

About Taylor M Stewart

19. Philly. Women's Studies/African American Studies. Ameliorating.

When Taking SC200 Finally Made Me THINK

screen-shot-2016-12-05-at-2-37-45-pmWhen scheduling classes in August, I dreaded the thought of taking a general science course, as I did not know what to expect. From the first class, I got a feel for the way Andrew Read concentrated solely on what we take away from his lectures rather than how we can memorize the information and go great on tests. I did not think that a single class would effect my thinking, and cause me to have a new perspective on the world I live in. However, I was completely wrong in this assumption and in for a rude awakening.


Poor Learning Habits

Coming from the Philadelphia Public School system, the schools I attended were so focused on achieving good grade averages and standardized test scores, that we were not taught to learn material, but to memorize it for the test. I never really had a class in my life that caused me to reach a higher level of thinking, so high to the point that even the smartest scientists couldn’t answer these questions. I’ve never taken a course that required me to hold myself accountable to THINK about the possible answers and reasons for an idea. Honestly, I can say that I have not learned much from past professors and teachers, because they

Image taken from http://www.phillymag.com/citified/2015/10/02/school-choice-insider/

Image taken from http://www.phillymag.com/citified/2015/10/02/school-choice-insider/

expected me to go home and memorize the material, rather than requiring me to think about it, in order to fully understand it. When I look back on this fact, it explains why I did so poorly on my Class Tests in this course. I was so used to having the answers right in front of me by simply referring to my notes, but that is not the case in this class. I found what I thought to be the right answers, but I did not think hard enough to eliminate minor details that make it wrong. Another anecdote for why I believe my first Blog Assessment Period received a D is because I did not yet acquire this higher level of thinking, and thought what I wrote was enough, without exploring all possibilities, or other third-causal variables for the topics I chose. This is all a direct causation to the poor teaching habits I’ve endured for twelve years.


When Andrew Is Added To The Equation 

I knew for a fact after just my second class with Andrew Read that I would have to really buckle down and take the course seriously, with much more effort than my other classes. Andrew made it clear that this course can only be what you make of it. We also saw testimonies from previous SC200 students that regretted not putting more effort into blogs, tests, and thinking about the material. When I read those, I assured myself that I would not have those regrets come Week 15. Now here it is Week 14, and I’m writing this blog the same day it is due. Well, Andrew also did say that procrastination is a big factor in this course and that is something I’d have to work on myself.

Nice Picture! Image taken from http://news.psu.edu/story/355637/2015/05/04/research/andrew-read-elected-fellow-royal-society

Nice Picture! Image taken from http://news.psu.edu/story/355637/2015/05/04/research/andrew-read-elected-fellow-royal-society

All in all, I firmly believe that this course with Andrew has enlightened my critical thinking. Things that I have believed for so many years I now can question thanks to Mr. Read. I always believed “studies” and “statistics” on news websites and blogs, but now I know that everything is questionable. There is a difference between concrete facts and science. Science will always have error, so there is no definite, 100% right answer. Without Andrew elaborating on this idea so heavily throughout the course I would not have thought of things this way. I always thought “well they’re scientists so it has to be right”, when in fact that is the complete opposite. A main attribute of science is finding error, and creating new knowledge from it. So how could I possibly think that all science was correct? Concepts Andrew taught us such as the File Drawer Problem and Texas Sharp Shooter Problem helped me think critically when evaluating science on the internet, allowing me to spot what is likely to be crap science, or biased.

I truly believe that this course has deeply effected my perspective on the world. Also, I can connect the concepts to my life decision making. Andrew taught us that our intuition is lousy, and I always thought what I initially think to be the best way. But this conclusion that human intuition is lousy, changed my thinking. For instance, the Monty Hall Problem is a prime example of how humans think their intuition cannot fail them.

Image taken from http://www.grand-illusions.com/articles/monty_hall/

Image taken from http://www.grand-illusions.com/articles/monty_hall/

Instead of thinking, 50-50, there is always a strategic answer to the problem. This caused me to think deeply about the situations I make in life. When I weight out the possibilities of being in situations, I now know that it is not always so defined as going one way or the other, there is always more to the problem. What my intuition tells me to be good for me, may not always be, but critical thinking cannot fail me.

Also, knowing the risk versus the danger of things and situations helps me decide what I deem as “safe” and what I refuse to do. When learning the risk of death by car accident compared to other everyday things such as getting vaccinated it made me really think deeply. Why would I rather endure the risk of getting in a car than getting a shot to prevent me from getting sick in the future? Little everyday things, such as getting on the Blue Loop to class can put me at risk. These are little things I never would have thought about had I not taken SC200, which is why I am grateful for Andrew Read and Penn State University for offering this course.

Image taken from http://news.psu.edu/photo/146051/2013/02/08/blue-loop-cata-bus

Image taken from http://news.psu.edu/photo/146051/2013/02/08/blue-loop-cata-bus

 

 

Why Do We Need Water?

Water’s Purpose

imgres

Image taken from http://www.npr.org/sections/krulwich/2013/11/25/247212488/born-wet-human-babies-are-75-percent-water-then-comes-drying

Every human needs water to survive. That is the bottom line, but why? The human body weight is approximately 60% water. At birth the body is about 75% water, and it decreases over time. The human body makes use of water in all cells, organs, and tissues. This water helps regulate body temperature and also helps maintain bodily functions.

Water is important for keeping body tissues moist. Water keeps parts of the body like our eyes or mouth hydrated and moisturized. This article concludes as well that it helps protect the human spinal cord.  Water also works to cleanse the body. There are many positive effects of water, and it is almost vital to optimum health.


 

Advantages of Water Intake

imgres

Image taken from http://shrinkingcajun.com/thirsty-thursday-fun-ways-to-drink-more-water/

Drinking adequate amounts of water can bring many healthy benefits to the human body. To start, the human body loses water while breathing, sweating, and digesting, so it is very imperative to compensate for that lost water. Adequate water consumption allows the body to get rid of waste through perspiration, urination, and defecation. Water is also used by the kidneys, liver, and intestines to flush out waste. Water also prevents constipation by softening the stools which allows consumed food to easily flow through the intestinal tract.  Water is not a direct causation of curing constipation, however. Water is also essential for the digestion process. Digestion requires saliva, which is enhanced by water because saliva is water based. Water also helps dissolve substances, for example fibers. Overall, water keeps the human body and brain in good standing.


But If We Don’t Drink It?

There are so many positive benefits to drinking adequate amounts of water, that there has to be a consequence for those who do not. Avoiding water consumption can effect the human bodily negatively after just one day.

Image taken from http://www.firstaidforfree.com/first-aid-for-dehydration/

Image taken from http://www.firstaidforfree.com/first-aid-for-dehydration/

The most common consequence for not consuming enough amounts of water is dehydration. Dehydrated people show symptoms of headache, thirst, cotton mouth, and dry skin. More severely dehydrated people can experience fatigue, dark-colored urination (or not being able to pee at all), confusion, dizziness, and chest pain.

Dehydration can also interfere with vital bodily functions, such as providing oxygen (you need that), disposing waste, and lubricating bones and joints. Being water deprived can also cause a change in electrolytes that the body needs to function. These electrolytes also effect the brain. This lack can cause a chemical imbalance, which can further cause irregularity in the heart’s rhythm. Dehydration has many negative effects, such as causing stomach ulcers, which is very painful.

However, just like a person can be dehydrated, it is also possible to become over-hydrated or water intoxicated. This article explores this phenomenon.

Image taken from http://keywordsuggest.org/557109-spit-water.html

Image taken from http://keywordsuggest.org/557109-spit-water.html


 

Pick Up a Bottle My Friend (Water that is)

Overall, it is just smarter, and in a human’s best interest to consume adequate amounts of water to achieve optimum health. There is a reason why we are carried in water for nine months, and why we are born made up of 75% of water. There would most likely be no functioning human body without water. But according to the CDC, 7% of Americans do not drink water, which is very alarming.

Drink water to be healthy, but remember not to drink too much of it, as it can harm you. But be aware that our water fountains here at Penn State also have lead in them (cough cough).

Image taken from http://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/fitness/looking-to-stay-slim-drink-more-plain-water/

Image taken from http://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/fitness/looking-to-stay-slim-drink-more-plain-water/


Sources

 

 

Are We All Doomed?

Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired

imgres-1

Image taken from http://kckidsdoc.com/tag/sick-kids-2

I knew that by coming to the Main campus, there would be many changes. However I never thought about the fact that my second week here I would be so sick. I always heard about how sick people get here, but I thought the chances of me getting that stuff and being super sick was low. Well, I was WRONG. Completely wrong. I was diagnosed with Acute Bronchitis, and as soon as I thought I got over it, I got it again. My roommate currently has Mono, and I’m just wondering how I can go under quarantine without seeming like an asshole. This makes me wonder, is there really a way to avoid these sicknesses at large universities, like is it scientifically possible?


 

Vaccinations

imgres-2

Image taken from http://revolutionofthemind.org/a-truthful-and-objective-view-on-vaccines/

As we talked about in class, it is very important for people to get vaccinated, but especially students at large universities. It is required for first-year students to get certain vaccines while living on campus, further increasing the number of less effected people. Less effected people, or in other words, the more people vaccinated, the lower the risk of non-vaccinated people getting sick. However, beyond the vaccinations, is there a way to compensate for sicknesses that do not have vaccinations? Even if a majority of people are vaccinated at State College, why is everyone so sick?


Be Healthy, Sleep, Blah Blah

The most common answer to preventing sickness, like this site explains is investing time in forming good eating, sleeping, and behavioral habits. It’s like yeah, I’m sure you have a million assignments at once, but please get eight or more hours of sleep every night to avoid getting sick. Also, we know there’s only fast food open late during the time you are writing that paper, but eat healthier please! And God forbid if you drink or party, you will be so weak (don’t do that)! Basically the answer the being healthy in college is to actually not be in college.

images-2

Image taken from http://giphy.com/search/sick

Digging deeper than this though, the question posed; is it possible for humans to avoid sicknesses? Even at such a large college campus, can immunology be achieved ever? It seems as though no matter how “safe” you think you are behaving, you still end up with a common cold. Is it in fact unavoidable? YES, it is. This article attempts to explore the science behind the reason why we can’t seem to shake the common cold. It concludes that our immune response to cold viruses actually makes things worse. So what are we to do? Or can we even do anything? We’re at a scientific standstill trying to answer this question.


What Would Happen?

imgres-3

Image taken from https://www.tes.com/lessons/Tc8ZEurmWEj3OA/utopia

Say we somehow did reach immunity from sicknesses and diseases. How would this change the world? Or would it even be safe? This Live Science article takes a scientific approach at what would come from a sick free world. This would change the science world immensely, as it is the job of many to explore sicknesses and cures. Also, the vaccination market would collapse. However, as humans, we would not directly see the effects of every one being healthy. Also, just because we got rid of sickness does not to cure the already sick. So would these people continue to contaminate others and further progress the cycle of sickness? It’s very interesting to think about the fact that we may never be able to live in a sick free world, that it’s scientifically impossible.


What DO We Do?

The disappointing, common answer is to keep getting vaccinated, and practice good healthy behaviors. Build up your immune system, and try to get the most sleep you can get (after finals week of course). For obvious reasons, though we share everything else, do not share anything that you put to your mouth or inside your body with anyone else. To reduce your risk of getting sick at a large university, avoid your sick friends. If your roommate is sick, LYSOimgresL your room! Entirely! Wash your hands frequently, and make sure your vaccinations are up to par. Or you could put your roommate under quarantine (don’t do that).

 

 

 

 


 

Sources

 

 

To Squat Or To Not?

imgres

Image taken from http://www.metafilter.com/153675/Poopsi-Blue

Only Squats I’ll Do Again Will Be At The GYM!

As a transitioning freshman, the whole idea of making a “public” bathroom my “personal” one really has been an experience. Since a child I was told to squat while using any toilet other than the one in my home. The funniest part about it all is that I never had a concrete answer to why this was a thing, but I always believed it was the best thing to do. As I become more comfortable with accepting this horrible living situation, I’ve stopped squatting while using the bathroom. I mean lets be real, do you really feel like holding your balance while using the bathroom? (NO! me either).


 

images

Image taken from http://top-24h-can-store.com/redirect.php?z=viagra

Why Do Ladies Squat?

Most Americans (like myself, probably even you too) swear by the fact that squatting while using public restrooms will save you from germs and “cooties”, but none of us know what these “germs” we are trying to avoid are. I think every female has laid down tissue paper around a public bathroom or two at least once in her life. For those times that you couldn’t barely hold it enough to get your pants down, you still managed to hover over the toilet rather than sitting down. After releasing all the anxiety of urinating, you probably also left a gift on the seat for those who do not squat didn’t you? (and you did not even think twice about wiping it up). People like you (us, I do it too shh..) are the reason why you even squat in public in the first place. No one wants to take the time out to wipe a random persons PISS off of a public toilet, just to sit down on it. It’s annoying. But when there is no trickles of lemonade on the seat, what more are ladies avoiding?


Are There Health Risks Associated With Squatting?

It is concluded that sitting on a toilet seat is low risk for transmitting germs from the seat to your skin, however many still swear by this method. For one, every woman develops a posture when urinating, whether it be squatting or sitting directly on the toilet. However, it is concluded from studied that the best posture for a woman to practice is sitting on the edge of the toilet seat, legs separated, while also leaning forward slightly. This is said to help open up and relax the pelvis.

images-1

Image taken from http://femfusionfitness.com/hovering-over-toilet-seat/

In an observational study, forty-five college students were observed for their actual urination postures while their residual urine and urine flow was also measured. It was observed that the women who squatted showed a longer delay time to initiate urination compared to those whom sat directly on the seat. The mechanism for this finding was concluded to be that the posture of sitting directly on the seat, leaning forward, legs apart actually relaxed the pelvic floor, making urinating a smoother task. Although this showed in fact that squatting was less beneficial for relaxing the pelvis, creating a smoother void pattern, the study failed to find a difference between residual urine volume and maximum flow rate amongst postures.

Squatting requires a woman to contract their gluteus maximus and adductor femoris muscles. When the latter is contracted, it causes failure of the pelvic floor to relax, which makes urination more difficult. Although squatting may seem like it would open the pelvis more, balance and stability matters greatly on how effective the posture is at this. If a woman is not relaxed and not balanced, this can create a more difficult process that could be smoother by simply sitting directly on the toilet seat.

90% of the women that participated in this study stated that their reason for squatting was that they believed public toilet seats to not be clean. Other factors were the height of the toilet, in which about 66% of the women participating in this study gave as a reason, and limited space issues, in which about 82% of women in the study claimed. Amongst the women in the study whom did not sit directly on the toilet seat, about 39% of those women claimed that they began these postures as early as junior high school.

Therefore, while trying to avoid petty “germs” that are believed to be on a toilet seat that can harm you skin, women are squatting, which is actually making a harder job for their pelvis. The risk of squatting is higher than the risk of being contaminated by a public toilet seat. So which risk do you prefer even after knowing that information? Some will still continue their posture habit of squatting even after knowing this information.

However, although squatting or hovering for women is risky, it is actually more beneficial for men. Most American men would not even think about sitting down on a toilet to urinate, which is why many use urinals instead of the toilets in the stalls, but studies show that it is very beneficial. It is concluded that it is actually more risky for a male to stand up while peeing rather than to sit down. So far, these risks include prostate problems, and a shorter less healthy sex life.  It was concluded in 2014 by researches at the Leiden University Medical Centre in the Netherlands that sitting down while peeing gave men a stronger force when urinating, which also helped men suffering from Lower Urinary Tract disease symptoms. It was also stated in this article that standing to pee contracts muscles in the pelvis and spine that prevent proper urination processes. This has concluded to be causal of prostate problems, which also was causal to less sex over time. (However this information is not supported anywhere, and is not likely to be factual).

I think it is interesting to think about how the normal urinating postures both men and women have adapted over evolution are actually harmful, and how no matter what people will not stop. I wonder what risk and danger rate would have people thinking twice about their urinating postures? I also find it interesting how people differentiate the toilet of their own home or even of a friends home between that of a public toilet, and why they believe that the risk of sitting directly on a public toilet seat is any greater than their own.


Sources

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why Does Breast Cancer Attack Men When They Have No Breast?

What Is Breast Cancer?

imgres-1

Image taken from http://www.screenoncancer.com/en/breast_cancer.html

type-of-breast-cancer

Image taken from http://www.askdrmakkar.com/breast–tumour-cancer-homeopathic-treatment.aspx

Breast cancer is explicitly defined as the rapid, out of control, growth of cells in the breasts. These cells usually form a tumor that doctors identify with an x-ray, or as a lump that can be physically felt on the surface of the skin. However, not every type of breast cancer causes these lumps on the skin. Also, not all lumps on the breast are a direct causation of breast cancer, but rather benign, which can increase one’s risk of breast cancer, and should still be examined by a doctor. A tumor becomes cancerous when the cells grow in other areas of the body. With this being said, cells in any part of the body cab become cancerous, not only cells originating in breasts. Breast cancer can also start in different parts of the breasts, some originating in the ducts that carry milk to the nipple and others in the glands that actually make the breast milk.

The type of breast cancer can be identified based on the way the cancerous cells appear under a microscope. Most common breast cancers are called carcinomas, meaning the cells originate in the lining of the breast tissue. There are also less common types of breast cancers. Cancers that originate in other tissues of the breasts are referred to as sarcomas and lymphomas. Some less common types of breast cancers are Ductal breast cancer, Mixed tumor breast cancer, Inflammatory breast cancer, Mucinous breast cancer, and Lobular breast cancer. In some rare cases, a person can have a combination of different types of breast cancers.


What Is Breast Cancer In MEN??

Breast cancer is most prevalent in women, however men get it too. Judging from the title, breast cancer should seem like the least of a male’s worries, but when looking past the gender fixation of the word “breast” we can understand why it is possible. The key ti understand why men who naturally have no breasts as defined by the ones women have, is understanding the general definition of breasts, and what they actually are.

screen-shot-2016-12-02-at-1-35-28-am

Image taken from http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancerinmen/detailedguide/breast-cancer-in-men-what-is-breast-cancer-in-men

Breasts are present in men due to the fact that they develop breast tissue as well as women, but to an extent much less than women. Breasts are made up of lobules, ducts, and stroma. Unlike women, men’s breast tissue only have lobules, and a couple ducts, if any.

Men get breast cancer because just like all the other cells in their body, their duct tissues can become cancerous. In other words just like women, men can in fact have breast cancer due to the tissue. However, breast cancer is less common in men because male duct cells are much less developed than female ones. Also, men have less female hormones than of course women do, which lessens the affect of growth in breast cells.


Should Men Go Lump Searching?

Breast cancer rates are growing, and awareness is as well, but should men be feeling for lumps on their chest?? NO! This blog is not a warning for males to be concerned about getting breast cancer at all. The fact of the matter is that men, that we typically do not describe as having breasts, CAN get breast cancer as well as women (which is ironic). Breast cancer for men is very low risk, but high in danger in which the risk for males getting breast cancer is 1 in 1,000. More statistics are shown in this source. In fact, less than ONE percent of breast cancer cases develop in men, in which this article elaborates more on. So males, please do not worry about THIS type of cancer, do be cautious of cancers more high risk to males, such as colon cancer.


 

Sources

  • “Types of Breast Cancers.” Types of Breast Cancers. N.p., 13 Sept. 2016. Web. 02 Dec. 2016. <http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide/breast-cancer-breast-cancer-types>.
  • “What Is Breast Cancer in Men?” What Is Breast Cancer in Men? N.p., 15 Sept. 2016. Web. 02 Dec. 2016. <http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancerinmen/detailedguide/breast-cancer-in-men-what-is-breast-cancer-in-men>.
  • Nbcf. “Male Breast Cancer :: The National Breast Cancer Foundation.” Www.nationalbreastcancer.org. N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2016. <http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/male-breast-cancer>.
  • “What Is Breast Cancer?” What Is Breast Cancer? N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2016. <http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancer/detailedguide/breast-cancer-what-is-breast-cancer>.
  • “What Are the Key Statistics about Breast Cancer in Men?” What Are the Key Statistics about Breast Cancer in Men? N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Dec. 2016. <http://www.cancer.org/cancer/breastcancerinmen/detailedguide/breast-cancer-in-men-key-statistics>.

What Are the Damaging Effects of Sexual Assault?

 

images

Sexual assault is defined as any type of sexual contact or behavior that occurs without the explicit consent of the recipient. If a person does not explicitly agree to a sexual act, any further physical contact is considered sexual assault or for instance rape. Sexual assault is NEVER okay & should NEVER be tolerated.


 

screen-shot-2016-10-19-at-11-53-11-pm

Image taken from https://www.theodysseyonline.com/changing-the-narrative-surrounding-sexual-assault

Why Is It A Relevant Issue?

Sexual assault is a very common crime in the world, and more specifically speaking, in America. Even more specifically, here at Penn State, students receive a substantial amount of alerts reporting alleged sexual assault instances on campus. However, when reading these reports we do not often take into account the effects of these instances. According to “RAINN”, a leading movement against sexual assault, rape, and incest, an American citizen is sexually assaulted every 120 seconds, or two minutes. That rate amounts to an average of 207,754 sexual assault victims a year. This is why sexual assault is such an important issue to promote awareness about. In other words, as I am typing this blog and as you are reading, someone somewhere is being sexually assaulted, which is extremely alarming.

Image taken from http://www.paolabailey.com/sexual_assault_on_college_campuses

Image taken from http://www.paolabailey.com/sexual_assault_on_college_campuses


Where Does Science Come Into Play?

imgres

Image taken from https://lehacker.com/brain-facts-revealing/

Believe it or not, sexual assault actually has many effects on the brain of the victim. Psychological effects on the victim are in phases, which start as immediate effects and turn into chronic effects. However, keep in mind that not every victim reacts to sexual assault the same way. Some examples of immediate psychological effects following a sexual assault include anxiety, shame or guilt, shock, distrust of others, flashbacks, emotional detachment, and fear. Examples of chronic psychological effects are depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, decrease of interest or avoidance in sex, attempted or completed suicide, and low self esteem, even causing a victim to blame him or herself for the attack.

Based on a study published in The American Journal of Psychiatry, sexually molested and non-sexually molested children showed various to no psychological effects. Of the twenty-eight children reviewed in the study, the females showed the most extreme levels of emotional distress. Also, almost half of the sexually assaulted children were referred for psychiatric evaluation.  In another study, it was concluded that rape victims with post-traumatic stress disorder show great signs of alexithymia. This basically explains how sexual assault victims can become emotionally deprived.

images

Image taken from http://slideplayer.com/slide/5202031/

Multiple studies, including randomized control trials, have also concluded that childhood sexual abuse actually effect the brain’s genital sensation regions, among other things. This can cause sexually abused women to have less desires and sensations sexually. During a randomized control trial, the sexually abused women (out of the twenty-eight total abused women) showed signs of changes in their somatosensory cortexes (“paints a picture” of the body for the brain, and controls sensations) further concluding to have thinning in areas that had genitalia. More details on these studies can be reviewed HERE.

 


Are There Undiscovered Effects?

YES! There are so many victims of sexual assault in the world, so how can we accurately measure the true scientific effects victims face? The before-mentioned effects are the ones noted toimgres be most commonly seen in sexual assault victims, but are there more that have been undiscovered? I think it is interesting to think about, noting that there would have to be huge experiments and surveys done (which still can be inaccurate). This just goes to say that regardless of the mentioned studies, there still is no concrete definition of the effects sexual assault plays on victims. So there has to be many other developing effects on the human brain that we have not yet discovered.


 

Sources

  • Szalavitz, Maia. “Sexual and Emotional Abuse Scar the Brain in Specific Ways | TIME.com.” Time. Time, 5 June 2013. Web. 20 Oct. 2016. <http://healthland.time.com/2013/06/05/sexual-and-emotional-abuse-scar-the-brain-in-specific-ways/>.
  • Heersink, Olivia. “Changing The Narrative Surrounding Sexual Assault.” Odyssey. N.p., 13 June 2016. Web. 20 Oct. 2016. <https://www.theodysseyonline.com/changing-the-narrative-surrounding-sexual-assault>.
  • Thompson, Dennis, Jr. “The Aftermath of Childhood Sexual Abuse.” EverydayHealth.com. N.p., 16 July 2009. Web. 20 Oct. 2016. <http://www.everydayhealth.com/sexual-health/childhood-sexual-abuse.aspx>.
  • “Sexual Violence: Consequences.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 22 June 2016. Web. 01 Dec. 2016. <http://www.cdc.gov/violenceprevention/sexualviolence/consequences.html>.
  • “Proximate Effects of Sexual Abuse in Childhood: A Report on 28 Children.” Proximate Effects of Sexual Abuse in Childhood: A Report on 28 Children | American Journal of Psychiatry. The American Journal of Psychiatry, 1 Apr. 2006. Web. 01 Dec. 2016. <http://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/abs/10.1176/ajp.139.10.1252>.
  • “Alexithymia in Victims of Sexual Assault: An Effect of Repeated Traumatization?” Alexithymia in Victims of Sexual Assault: An Effect of Repeated Traumatization? | American Journal of Psychiatry. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2016. <http://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/doi/abs/10.1176/ajp.150.4.661>.
  • “The Definition of Alexithymia.” Dictionary.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 01 Dec. 2016. <http://www.dictionary.com/browse/alexithymia>.

We Love Our Pets But Is It Vice Versa?

Do our pets love us as much as we love them?

Do our pets love us as much as we love them?

A very huge population of the world are pet lovers. Many people view their pet(s) as apart of their families. We love them, but do they love us? It is evident they recognize their “family” but are they actually emotionally capable of feeling love? Are we just caregivers, or do our pets recognize the bond is there?

This interesting article explores the answers to the posed question. In fact, our pets do not understand love as we do, but certainly show us signs that the feeling is mutual. Pets, specifically cats and dogs show their owners their fondness of them in various ways. They may be hard to read, but once it is recognized, an owner can be reassured that their pet in fact does “love” them, even if it’s in their own way. Although it’s very interesting to wonder what goes on in the minds of our pets, scientifically there is no real, accurate way of finding out.

It becomes even more interesting when the idea is compared to humans. We as humans can simply tell a person “I love you”, but that doesn’t always make it genuine. Actions speak louder than words, but that still does not scientifically prove that a person is feeling this said emotion. Which we can compare to the love of pets. Things they may do, like rubbing their heads against you or following you can show signs of affection, but do they understand it as we do? Is this all genuine love or something else? The whole idea of love is a very controversial topic. For some who may not believe in the idea of love, you’ll find this article fairly interesting. This brings another question; does love even exist? If it doesn’t exist to humans how could it possible exist to animals? Are we so obsessed with the idea of love that we seem to get a little carried away?

Many people debate this, especially with the saying “Dog’s a man’s best friend”. This is a famous saying that could also prove a “love” relationship between human and animal. It seems that people often rely on their pets for support and love that others rely on people for.

Is this not love?

Is this not love?

Above is an excellent example of why people believe that there is a genuine love received from our pets. The man is homeless, which means he can barely feed the dog, and the dog is still by his side; starving with him. Instead of leaving his owner and finding food or a new home, the dog has decided to stick by his side. This could certainly scream some type pf emotion the dog has felt to make this decision. Sticking by his owner could even foreshadow that he indeed loves him and values their relationship. So in this case do our pets love us? Or do they know no better?

I feel as though our pets definitely do not look at us as servants, they definitely can sense a companionship. However, it is very hard to prove that our pets actually feel the emotion of “love”, keeping in mind that we do not know what they can understand and comprehend as non-humans. We love our pets so much that we believe that they love us back. But how will we really know? Or will we just sweep it under the rug and pretend they actually do?

Why Do We Dream?

Why do we have dreams?

Why do we have dreams?

I know for a fact everyone on this blog has had a dream once in life. Even if you cannot exactly remember the context of each dream you’ve had, you at least remember it happening. Some of you may even remember one specific dream that has stuck out to you for some time now. Have you ever wonder the purpose of dreams in life? Are they in any way related to our real lives, and if not why do we have them? It’s become so normal to have dreams that our society has embraced the idea. The word itself can mean so much more than something that happens in your sleep. But is this also in any way a sign that our dreams relate to our lives?

There are many different types of dreams, some seem very strange once remembered. Others may involve people from our lives. This is why the question posed begins to get so interesting. Do we dream about people in our lives that are important? Do the things that happen in these dreams really foreshadow some future events? Another question to think about is, are we just thinking about things too deeply, and dreams mean absolutely nothing? This is explore here in this article. The article even begins to hypothesize that remembering our dreams attaches us to the idea of them. Meaning that by remembering our dreams, we are more likely to continue dreaming. It is sometimes relevant to life what some people dream about. For example, if someone has a loved one who’s passed away, they will be heavy on that person’s mind, further causing them to dream about that person. That is something we can stomach the idea of, but something out of the blue and extreme during a dream may leave us wondering the purpose.

images-1 Sometimes dreams can be frightening, even emotional for some people. What would our minds be so focused on while we are resting that could cause one to wake up frightened or sad? The following article explores the rather interesting realm of nightmares, and their significance. It is such a problem in our society that people even question if there is a higher spirit causing these dreams. This all brings the question posed to a new light. A light that maybe there is a deeper explanation for dreaming other than our brains regrouping after a long day.

When asking the question posed, it ultimately depends on whom you ask. Some people will directly relate dreams with spirituality, and others will go the scientific route, explaining that dreams have no real relevance and that our brains are simply “sorting things out”. But who’s to say what’s right and whats wrong? The question posed has yet to be answered and it is very difficult for some people to grasp. We may never 100% know why we have dreams, and it also may be one of those things that just cannot be explained.

*Shrugs*

*Shrugs*

Link

So, the temperatures are about to drop and the leaves will begin to fall. Layers and pumpkin spice lattes are a “thing”. The holidays well begin to roll through, bringing family, food, and fun. In the midst of all these fall festivities, so may still feel something missing in life. For many people it’s simple; a significant other. Someone to spend the holidays with, keep warm with, it’s almost natural. And that’s what brought this term to life; CUFFING SEASON.

10598171_1509544745953829_183002815_n

Some people may ask what this even means, well for those who do not know, it has made its way into Urban Dictionary with a solid definition. It is also very prevalent in the Twitter community, where #CuffingSeason is an extremely popular hashtag. Everyone seems to long for someone to endure the next few months with, but why does this feeling decline in warmer months?

imgres

Summertime is naturally a feeling of freedom and fun. Who really wants to endure the stress of an obligation to another person? I feel as though in the summer most people go for more of a “no strings attached” kind of situation, as opposed to a “bae” in the fall and winter. But is there something literally “in the air” that causes these feelings? Or is it just in our heads? What exactly makes us believe that it is normal, even traditional to be in a relationship during the colder months? This link explores this idea further, showing if there is any real scientific connection. The article basically explores that there is no real scientific connection between the two, but more other factors. The holiday seasons, like I previously mentioned, weigh heavy on the influence for relationships. Most Americans like to bring significant others along for family events, and in many cases these are just for show. There are many instances where people have fell so much in love with the idea of having someone to show off to their families, that they often bring a person whom they’re not even in a relationship with. So is it a social status thing or a void that people feel the need to fill? Are we just using people so we do not feel alone in the cold weather? These are all essential questions in exploring “Cuffing Season”.

Another link takes a scientific stand in saying that there is an actual connection between the cold weather and this long for a significant other. Basically, coming from a non-science person, something in the cold air triggers something in the brain that makes people think of mating. If this is true it can easily explain why people tend not to long for relationships in warmer months. Could it actually be that the cold air makes us want to mate with another person? Does the cold deprive us of being happy alone? Could we only find happiness in another person during the cold months? Given that the summer has so many available pleasures, could the winter cause us to look for these pleasures in people instead? Why not just take a vacation? Very impractical as we come back to our lonely lives at home. It seems the only real solution for excitement is a person to ice skate with, take home for the holidays, cuddle up by the fireplace, all traditional things. Could this be a result of our society? Or is it truly scientific? These questions are very hard to answer.

So I’ve come to a final conclusion. “Cuffing Season” only exists if you believe it does. If you are anti-relationship 24/7, cuffing season certainly does not exist in your world. If you feel as though you need that special person during these cold winter winds, then you are a member of “Cuffing Season”, congratulations. And for those of you who will participate in this year’s “Cuffing Season” good luck. Just don’t ditch them as hard as Chris Brown did Rihanna in that meme when the winter breaks, LOL.

From “I hate science” to “Science is lowkey my BFF”

Hey SC200,

My name is Taylor Stewart and I am a freshman this year at Penn State. I am so excited to take advantage of everything this university has to offer! And the icecream….. lol (I’m greedy)

Just like so many others, science was never my joy in life. Somehow I feel as though it’s not the actual idea of science, but rather the method in which it was presented to me.

This has pretty much been my attitude in every science class I’ve ever taken:

35637812

Ever since I can remember I’ve been instructed to memorize this planet, that planet, the table of elements, blah blah. The Philadelphia Public School system I was taught in thought it was beneficial for students to operate as little robots, memorizing information and scoring well on exams. This has scarred me for life and since then I have always loathed science classes.  Also, I’ve thought to myself, “Well who the hell are you to tell me this information is written in stone?”. How do we actually know what we’ve been instructed as “scientifically accurate” as such? I’ve found a really interesting article that explores the idea that students are becoming robots. You can access it HERE.

Anyway, when it was time to schedule classes with my advisor at New Student Orientation, I made it 100% clear that science was not for me! I have zero intentions on being a science major because due to poor teaching I have completely shut it out of my list of interests. I feel like you should enjoy what you are learning about, especially if you would like to succeed in the field. With that being said, I believe this class is perfect for me. I’ve always found myself asking questions that no one around me could answer. Questions that will make you think for hours with no final conclusion. So when my advisor suggested this class to me, having read the objective I knew this was perfect. I find it interesting that one simple everyday thing can bring a mind-pondering question to mind. It’s so amazing how we don’t think about these things until it is brought to our attention.

Being that I am striving to get into the Smeal School of Business here at Penn State, this type of class is very useful. The business world requires an abundance of critical thinking, and I just know this class is all for it. I am also very very interested in fashion, design, and art. I originally was on my way to a famous fashion school in New York, called Parsons New School of Design, however, I chose Penn State. I know that this was a better choice because I can still pursue my passion while also learning things that The New School cannot teach me. I’d rather explore the world of business than to be stuck in one field of the business world. Also, I know for sure there is an abundance of science behind art and design. The whole fashion world is based around a certain science; what technology in clothing and accessories work for the human body and which do not. After being in class I began to notice that science actually correlates to my passion of fashion and the arts in many ways, ways that I’ve never thought of prior to class. I am very very excited to learn in this class what I’d probably never thought of had I not come to Penn State, but specifically enrolled in SC200. I like the fact that this class is triggering my passion, which makes it more interesting. Critical thinking in this class is vital, and that is the kind of thinking I wish to do in life. I do not want to be an average thinker. I think it takes a certain level of thinking to be successful in the business world, and this class along with my Economics class will help me greatly. I’m so grateful that I had the opportunity to come to Penn State.

I hope with this blog I haven’t bored you all, but I also hope I’ve made at least one of you laugh or feel like you’re not alone in the simple fact that science isn’t for everyone and that’s OKAY because there is always an aspect of it that will relate to what you are truly passionate about in life!