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Tran, K., Nguyen, P., Dang, T., & Ton, T. (2018). The Impacts of the High-Quality Workplace Relationships on Job Performance: A Perspective on Staff Nurses in Vietnam. Behavioral Sciences, 8(12), 109. doi: 10.3390/bs8120109 Tran, Nguyen, and Dang's article study workplace interpersonal relationships and their impact on job performance. Their research revealed that good workplace interpersonal relations ease the effective dissemination of information among employees. Workers who are well informed through work relationships reported higher levels of commitment and job satisfaction. The higher the efficiency of workplace interaction, the better-informed workers are; hence, the less uncertain they are about their duties and objectives, the better the level of performance (Tran, Nguyen, Dang & Ton, 2018). Coworker relationships also ease the exchange of resources and skills between leaders and junior employees. Arimie, J., & Oronsaye, A. (2020). Assessing Employee Relations and Organizational Performance: A Literature Review. International Journal of Applied Research In Business And Management, 1(1), 1-17. doi: 10.51137/ijarbm.2020.1.1.1 Arimie & Oronsaye’s research studied the relationship between workplace relationships and their impact on the work environment and productivity. The analysis revealed that good employee relations enhance employees' support for each other in their workplace (Arimie & Oronsaye, 2020). The support helps strengthen teamwork in the firm by workers sharpening each other's skills hence improving the organization's performance. Duah, P., & Danso, B. (2017). Employee relations and their effect on organizational performance. International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, 4(10), 27-32. WORKPLACE RELATIONS AND EMPLOYEE PSYCHOLOGY 2 Duah and Danso's research article delves into the influence of employee relationships on an organization's performance. It reveals that effective interpersonal relationships between employees enhance creativity and innovation, which invariably improves productivity and increases the organization's competitive advantage (Duah & Danso, 2017). To compete favourably in the modern world, employees are an indispensable asset to acquiring a competitive advantage, and good interpersonal relations is an essential tool for its actualization. Samwel, J. (2018). Effect of Employee Relations on Employee Performance and Organizational Performance-Study of Small Organizations in Tanzania. Global Journal of Management and Business Research: A Administration And Management, 18(8), 2-3. The article by Samwel analyses the impact of employee relations on their performance and also organizational performance. The study reveals that good employee relations result in loyalty, commitment and motivation. Organizations require workers who can co-exist in peace because firms need a conducive environment to meet their objectives (Samwel, 2018). A good employer-employee relationship encourages workers to double their efforts hence increase productivity. Ali, M., Lei, S., & Wei, X. (2018). The mediating role of the employee relations climate in the relationship between strategic HRM and organizational performance in Chinese banks. Journal of Innovation & Knowledge, 3(3), 115-122. doi: 10.1016/j.jik.2016.12.003 Ali, Lei and Wei's article reveals the role of employee relations climate and the organizational performance and productivity. Positive interpersonal relations among workers create a social environment that encourages high employee involvement and employee-centred WORKPLACE RELATIONS AND EMPLOYEE PSYCHOLOGY 3 culture. As a result, employees feel comfortable and contribute more to their performance (Ali, Lei & Wei, 2018). Therefore, an excellent social atmosphere is essential for the success and productivity of every organization. Colligan, T., & Higgins, E. (2006). Workplace Stress. Journal Of Workplace Behavioral Health, 21(2), 89-97. doi: 10.1300/j490v21n02_07 Colligan and Higgins' article addresses the relationship between workplace relations and their impact on an organization's psychological health. Their research revealed that a toxic work environment and workplace conflict could lead to workplace stress or psychological disorders for the employees. Workplace stress is altering mental or physical state by an employee in response to a threat or challenge posed at the workplace to them (Colligan & Higgins, 2006). Psychological disorders among employees can lead to organizational dysfunction, increased absenteeism and work productivity decline. Trépanier, S., Fernet, C., & Austin, S. (2013). Workplace bullying and psychological health at work: The mediating role of satisfaction of needs for autonomy, competence and relatedness. Work & Stress, 27(2), 123-140. doi: 10.1080/02678373.2013.782158 This study aims to identify the effects of poor workplace relationships and workplace bullying on psychological health. Workplace bullying refers to a situation where an employee feels persistent and constant target to negative behaviour by other people at work. Conducive social environments enhance the satisfaction of an employee's basic psychological needs, well-being and psychological health in general (Trépanier, Fernet & Austin, 2013). Repeated exposure to negative workplace behaviours such as being imposed duties with unreasonable deadlines, excessive supervision of one's tasks WORKPLACE RELATIONS AND EMPLOYEE PSYCHOLOGY and having one's opinion ignored can lead to a decline in the sense of ownership and need for autonomy. Jones, M., Latreille, P., & Sloane, P. (2015). Job Anxiety, Work-Related Psychological Illness and Workplace Performance. British Journal of Industrial Relations, 54(4), 742-767. doi: 10.1111/bjir.12159 This study examines the relationship between working conditions and employee health. Good workplace relations contribute to psychological health, reducing workplace accidents and injuries (Jones, Latreille & Sloane, 2015). Fewer employee accidents and injuries save the organization compensation funds to the victims, lower absenteeism, and increases performance. Staw, B., Sutton, R., & Pelled, L. (1994). Employee Positive Emotion and Favorable Outcomes in the Workplace. Organization Science, 5(1), 51-71. doi: 10.1287/orsc.5.1.51 Staw's article explores ho positive emotion assists employees to achieve favorable outcomes at work. The expression of positive emotions at the workplace has favorable outcomes on the job. A high-quality social context and interpersonal relations encourage positive emotions and lead to job enrichment and work achievement (Staw, Sutton & Pelled, 1994). Therefore, workplace relations and the psychological health of workers are directly proportional to organizational performance. Brunetto, Y., Xerri, M., Shriberg, A., Farr-Wharton, R., Shacklock, K., Newman, S., & Dienger, J. (2013). The impact of workplace relationships on engagement, well-being, commitment and turnover for nurses in Australia 4 WORKPLACE RELATIONS AND EMPLOYEE PSYCHOLOGY 5 and the USA. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 69(12), 2786-2799. doi: 10.1111/jan.12165 This article aims to evaluate the effect of workplace relationships, engagement, well-being, and commitment. An unsupportive work environment lowers the level of engagement and affects the employees' well-being and psychological health. Insensitive fields such as medicine, nurses, and doctors' engagement are crucial because they capture intellectual and emotional involvement, hence an effective job. Psychological ill-health for such professionals may risk patients' lives (clients) they serve (Brunetto et al., 2013). Therefore, good workplace relations and employee psychological health are essential in organizational performance. References Tran, K., Nguyen, P., Dang, T., & Ton, T. (2018). The Impacts of the High-Quality Workplace Relationships on Job Performance: A Perspective on Staff Nurses in Vietnam. Behavioral Sciences, 8(12), 109. doi: 10.3390/bs8120109 WORKPLACE RELATIONS AND EMPLOYEE PSYCHOLOGY 6 Arimie, J., & Oronsaye, A. (2020). Assessing Employee Relations and Organizational Performance: A Literature Review. International Journal Of Applied Research In Business And Management, 1(1), 1-17. doi: 10.51137/ijarbm.2020.1.1.1 Duah, P., & Danso, B. (2017). Employee relations and its effect on organizational performance. International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research And Development, 4(10), 27-32. Samwel, J. (2018). Effect of Employee Relations on Employee Performance and Organizational Performance-Study of Small Organizations in Tanzania. Global Journal Of Management And Business Research: A Administration And Management, 18(8), 2-3. Ali, M., Lei, S., & Wei, X. (2018). The mediating role of the employee relations climate in the relationship between strategic HRM and organizational performance in Chinese banks. Journal Of Innovation & Knowledge, 3(3), 115-122. doi: 10.1016/j.jik.2016.12.003 Jones, M., Latreille, P., & Sloane, P. (2015). Job Anxiety, Work-Related Psychological Illness and Workplace Performance. British Journal Of Industrial Relations, 54(4), 742-767. doi: 10.1111/bjir.12159 Trépanier, S., Fernet, C., & Austin, S. (2013). Workplace bullying and psychological health at work: The mediating role of satisfaction of needs for autonomy, competence and relatedness. Work & Stress, 27(2), 123-140. doi: 10.1080/02678373.2013.782158 Colligan, T., & Higgins, E. (2006). Workplace Stress. Journal of Workplace Behavioral Health, 21(2), 89-97. doi: 10.1300/j490v21n02_07 Staw, B., Sutton, R., & Pelled, L. (1994). Employee Positive Emotion and Favorable Outcomes at the Workplace. Organization Science, 5(1), 51-71. doi: 10.1287/orsc.5.1.51 WORKPLACE RELATIONS AND EMPLOYEE PSYCHOLOGY 7 Brunetto, Y., Xerri, M., Shriberg, A., Farr-Wharton, R., Shacklock, K., Newman, S., & Dienger, J. (2013). The impact of workplace relationships on engagement, well-being, commitment and turnover for nurses in Australia and the USA. Journal of Advanced Nursing, 69(12), 2786-2799. doi: 10.1111/jan.12165 Capstone Topic Proposal The topic I would like to research about is how relations in the workplace affect employee productivity and mental health. In any company, employees are the most valuable asset, therefore, it is important to provide consistent treatment to all employees. Evidence shows that employee productivity, motivation, engagement, and morale increase when you develop positive employer employee relationships. It also produces better business outcomes when companies focus on employee engagement. A stressful or high-pressure work environment often won’t bring financial success since employees are constantly expected to work harder. Negative relations in the workplace creates higher absenteeism, higher presenteeism, increased turnover, higher risk of accidents or errors, and most importantly, increased mental and health problems. As a business major, I am interested in this topic because it is important to be conscious about the work environment if I want to work in an organization. Mental illness in the workplace is a major problem in today's society which requires intervention yet remains untreated. Workplace structure over the past decades has changed due to rapid economic change. This has contributed to mental illnesses such as mood disorders, such as depression; personality disorders, such as antisocial personality disorder; and psychotic disorders. In the 21st century, it has become the new normal to post our life or current buys on social media. Whether this is a tactic to flaunt how we are living or to show how happy we are, this should not signify that this photo or video is an accurate representation of who we are or what we value. With technology and media constantly evolving, businesses in the fashion industry are always looking for ways to stay relevant. One way they do this is by advertising on social media for millions of people around the world to see. Most people forget to mention the number of alterations made to make these advertisements perfect. The fashion industry is renowned for its inclusion of thin body types and its emphasis on how being skinny correlates with attractiveness. There is an increasing amount of body types that are making their way into the industry but like many things in the world this issue will not be fixed overnight. The fashion industry’s high standards of beauty contribute to the societal pressure that distorts women’s perception of selfworth and body image. These pressures include the industry’s history of body image, the media’s effect on consumers, and the way companies benefit from sizing effects. In the beginning, fashion wasn’t always a respected job choice. Many in the late 15th century, ridiculed the study of clothing because to them clothing was just what they wore to stay warm and cover up. They thought that there was no benefit to studying clothes and the materials they were made of. Now, however, fashion is one of the biggest and most successful business in the world. In spite of that, fashion industry in the past wasn’t always this fortunate considering that there were areas of weakness. One that is still prominent today is the physical appearance of those around us. Being that the history of body image varies there was a time where being “bigger” implied wealth. In a study about manipulating measurements and defining women’s body image, it states “During the Middle Ages, Michael Carolan (2005: 84) reports that the preferable body, in size and shape was larger and even corpulent, its size representing distinction and wealth through privileged access to food resources” (Hackett 264). With this information, it is evident that your body size was a clear indicator of your social class because the more food you ate the more money you had. In another article it states, “Meanwhile, rich landlords were able to afford an extravagant life where their every need and hunger was waited upon by an attentive staff. This led to a widespread belief that the plump were to be admired for their wealth and fortune” (Lin 102). However, due to an increase in food supply this did not last long, which also brought “social norms fixated on over-consumption and its corresponding health issues” (Hackett 264). From there, these norms stuck and caused people to worry about the beauty standards set out by society. The issue of public body shaming and the overuse of skinny models has been around for decades, but one harsh beginning to it all was the start of pageant shows. These shows were widely broadcast as well-known television programs and problematic because its purpose was to have a group of women compete based on a list of beauty standards. In a study about muscularity in thin female bodies it mentioned that when you compare both Miss America and Miss USA, most contestants are judged based on “an interview as well as swimsuit and evening gown competitions”. However, one aspect where they slightly differ is that Miss America has a talent segment where the models have the opportunity to be judged on something other than their appearance (Bozsik 610). To further this idea, the article also states that “the absence of a talent portion in the Miss USA pageant suggests a greater emphasis on appearance in this competition because participants do not have as many opportunities to gain a higher score in non-appearance focused categories (Bozsik 611). In the end, it still failed to undermine the fact that these women were still working to be crowned the most beautiful woman in the world, which in turn, shouldn’t be battle against. Instead, it should already be known that everyone was made with the same amount of purpose and beauty. Pageants and beauty contests are still around today but the fashion industry depends on the runway to demonstrate another side of these well-known body types. For years, companies and designers have made it a business to send the newest trends off on a catwalk in well populated countries for full exposure of their new line or collection. Though this may seem like an amazing way to market, this is just one method businesses use body image in inappropriate ways. From fashion runways to Instagram and Twitter, these models are constantly being exposed to the public. What must be reconsidered is that models are regular people who too, stress about life and being insecure. They constantly worry about their measurements and whether or not they are meeting the requirements of their agency. However, it is time to notice that models are simply just models, and that we should no longer view them as role models for what we wish to become or mirror. If you wish to choose a model as an idol it should be because you adore their values or personality, and not just the shape or size of their body. Fashion has a sense of belongingness and uniqueness to it that makes it so special. To bring it back to its overall purpose though, its main job is to act as an outlet for individuality. Apparel is a way that one can differentiate themselves from those around them as well as to connect with people who share the same interests/ hobby as them. An article about the psychology of clothes mentions that, “clothing can signal many aspects of a person’s social identity including socio-economic status, gender, religion, and occupation. Doctors, nurses, soldiers, police and military men, postmen, judges, priests (...) are all identified and called upon by their attire” (Duje 91). Whether it is for our occupation or to just demonstrate our interests, fashion is our voice. The article it discusses “Women who appear sexy” are judged as less competent, less intelligent, and less moral than those who dress appropriately” (Duje 93). This relates to body image in the fashion industry because it demonstrates that clothing has the authority to make or break your reputation or even the way others view you. The significance of clothing today is that it “serves an important socializing influence and acts as a symbol of social status and identity” (Duje 90). This section mentions the media’s effect on body image. The problem with society in this day and age, is that it only centers around everything that is perfect and up to par with the standards set out by a selected number of people. Whether it is the number of people with high social status or the number of successful lives our society prefers to acknowledge as perfect or flawless. To most, being a perfectionist is equivalent to being successful, however when it comes to body and choice of those living in this society there shouldn’t be a say in how “perfect” they are. Thanks to social media this problem continues to get worse and worse. The media is what the fashion industry uses to promote their products. This is mainly because social media is the best way to reach their target market, whether it be domestically or internationally, the media does all the work. Though this may seem like a huge plus, it isn't. More and more people who see these beautiful/ handsome influencers are left becoming harder on themselves and going through drastic measures to mirror them. What they fail to see is the effect it has on their body and health. The negative consequences of the media are numerous, but one effect that is very common is the lack of self-esteem that’s left when one compares themself to these well-known models. Lack of self-esteem is typical for people on social media because “…there is a significant discrepancy between their own body size and the “ideal” body size that is commonly unattainable” (Bozsik 609). When one constantly compares themselves to those around them or the people they see on social media, they start to feel more self-conscious, which in turn affects the way they dress. For instance, in an article about the psychology of clothing it states “…body image may affect clothing behavior and clothing may affect body image and self-feelings” (Kodzoman 92). If someone is unhappy or unsatisfied with the way, they look they will show it in the way they dress by virtue of not feeling good in anything they wear. Body image especially plays a part in self-esteem because when someone doesn’t feel confident or comfortable, their wardrobe is relatively small with a limited amount of clothes to wear. All in all, self-esteem is all about how much value you give yourself. If there is a negative correlation between self-esteem and body image you are left feeling pressured and frustrated, which is very unhealthy for your body and mental health. In relation to lack of self-esteem comes body dissatisfaction which is also commonly known as dysmorphia. When one lacks self-acceptance, this causes them to degrade themselves, which in turn creates one to believe that they are deformed or not normal. In an article it stated that “… advertising has been described as an internalizing or normalizing means to spread unrealistic beauty ideals. Therefore, a higher incidence of these diseases is presented in advanced and modern societies and people with the best living conditions, mostly caused by the popularization of thin and muscular ideals” (Aparicio-Martinez 2). When an influencer posts a photo including collaborations with clothing and sponsors, some feel that they must compare themselves to them because they are doing it right and that’s what our society praises. This in turn makes them feel like they must conform to having these attributes, which also adds to why this is an ongoing issue. People tend to neglect the importance of feeling confident and accepted because there is just one body type that is seen as more attractive and healthier. This is how there becomes a separation between image and reality. Once these two connections detach it’s hard to connect them back, especially for younger girls on social media. Being a teenager or young adult is already stressful and to add lack of self-esteem and body dissatisfaction to the mix just leaves one feeling conflicted and confused. Dysmorphia is heavily associated with eating disorders because stress sometimes causes people to change their eating habits. In fact, “Out of the population with disordered eating attitudes, 16% of them present overeating, 20% purged by vomiting, and 61% food restraining [9]” (Aparicio-Martinez 2). With these young girls already having a tremendous number of stressors it doesn’t help that they also have people that judge them with opinions that are extremely biased. They are already going through puberty and accepting the new changes that come with it. So, when it comes down to acceptance, they have a hard time coping with it. What a teenager sees in relation to what an adult sees on social media is a lot different because to a teenager they practically depend on looking up to someone. This is because they are eager to fit in and be a part of something. However, they need to acknowledge that these unrealistic body types are not always genuine. This section is about how social media is a place for companies to communicate with consumers. With technology evolving at a rapid pace companies and influencers are finding ways to digitally alter their bodies using specific software and applications. The most popularly used apps are Facetune and Photoshop and they are becoming widely accepted by Generation Z and Millennials. This supports the idea that people refuse to accept their bodies. An article about putting disclaimers on magazine articles states, “not only are the models naturally thin, but digital modification techniques are now routinely used to further elongate legs and slice off kilograms and centimeters from waists, hips, and thighs, as well as to eliminate any other blemishes” (Tiggerman 45). These unnatural features are continuously being compared because the public vehemently believes that this is how a real body is supposed to look. In a study about putting disclaimers on magazine advertisements they hypothesized that if they put visible disclaimers underneath photos that were digitally altered there would be a decrease in the amount of people who are dissatisfied with their bodies. While conducting the experiment, they found that these warning signals made the women more inclined to being dissatisfied with their bodies because they found that “… most women are already well aware that fashion magazine images have been digitally altered (EngelnMaddox,2005; Tiggemann et al., 2000). Alternately, perhaps independently of any judgement of realism, warning labels may actually direct greater attention to the model’s body than the advertisement would normally (without any label)” (Tiggermann 52). Even though the results didn’t coordinate with the hypothesis it was fascinating that women already knew that these models weren’t as pictured. Yet these images still caused them to be even more dissatisfied with their body. When it comes to advertising on social media there shouldn’t have to be disclaimers on the photos, instead people should just accept themselves as they come and not belittle themselves over an altered image. When it comes to the fashion industry people are always looking for new ways to stay on trend. This too relates to body image because once there is a new trend regarding a new attractive body feature people go above and beyond to have this new sense of beauty. Nowadays people tend to lose weight in very unhealthy ways or elect to have expensive surgeries done to fit the specific stereotypes set up by what our society thinks is “healthy”. Losing weight isn’t something that can be done right away, it takes time. In our society though, there is a common belief that this is possible. In an article it mentions that “many girls today mistreat their bodies, developing an unhealthy relationship with the basic activities that our bodies need to survive: eating, exercising, and waste removal” (Lin 103). Even specific outlets for women to feel healthy and learn about a healthy lifestyle are corrupt. An article about fitspiration posts on Instagram mentions that, “Whilst fitspiration-style posts are known to often include images of healthy foods (e.g., Tiggemann & Zaccardo, 2018), investigations into the impact of fitspiration on body satisfaction have mainly used experimental stimuli containing images of female bodies only. Furthermore, a content analysis by Carrotte, Prichard, and Lim, (2017) revealed fitspiration images are not only more likely to adhere to thin and athletic ideals, but also contain sexualized images that objectify female body parts” (Davies 101). This shows that even places that promote a Fitness-inspired life are still driven by body dissatisfaction because it is filled with jealousy and resentment. As mentioned, people expect overnight success, so to adhere to this mentality people are starting to get plastic surgery. Even though this is expensive and can lead to complications, women would do anything to feel beautiful even if that means risking their lives. For example, in a study about the relationship between eating disorders and female college students it found that “a high frequency of women determined to undergo plastic surgery to improve their image, being focused on breast surgery” (Aparicio-Martinez 10). It also stated that, “Moreover, the results from the data showed that almost 93% of the women desired to change at least three zones of their body using at least two different methods (1.98 ± 0.82). The methods most used were physical activity (92%), diet (48%), surgery (24%) and beauty or alimentary products (23%). Among the zones to be modified by a surgical procedure 68% of the women indicated breast implants” (Aparicio-Martinez 7). Overall, this shows that cosmetic surgeries are commonly used in the hope that one’s body will adhere to the societal pressures of being skinny. Feeling uncomfortable in your own body just goes to show that there is a problem with body image in our current society. The fashion industry for years has been known to target females, which in turn relates to gender inequality. Men's interest in the fashion industry has been overlooked and neglected, which made it very hard for them to have a say on body image. Even though men have the general stereotype to be nonchalant and oblivious to fashion they too are affected. An article states that, “Contrary to commonly held beliefs, men have been shown to be often more selfconscious than females with regards to their personal dress sense and the way in which they are viewed in public” (Kodzoman 94). It is important to recognize that everyone has insecurities and things that they wish to fix. So instead of only addressing one gender we must first comprehend the fact that even though “majority rules” there is still a minority party that is deeply affected. Later in the article it says, “Whether you are male or female, your fashion choices can affect both your self-image, the impression that you convey to others and in turn, the way in which people behave towards you” (Kodzoman 94). Overall, a diverse range of body image is important for our society because it helps teach people that there isn’t a “perfect” body type and that all bodies are beautiful. Regardless of gender or health we must promote being comfortable with ourselves. The media’s effect on consumers is one aspect to business but the way in which the business markets itself is an entirely different topic. Creating and maintaining businesses is how our economy functions and to get the word out, companies market in a variety of ways. When it comes to marketing it is significant to enforce and mention diversity so that everyone feels good about the brand. An all-inclusive approach to marketing is ideal because it allows for the customer to experience the brand and feel better about themselves. In a study about body inclusivity, they observed that when comparing Aerie and Victoria Secret there was a difference in self-esteem after viewing brief advertisements. The study signified that “Qualitative research has found similar results, noting that the print version of the Aerie Real campaign elicited positive reactions regarding body image, mood, and self-concept (Rodgers, Kruger et al., 2019). Viewers of the Dove video also reported increased positive affect, while the women who viewed the HBO, Victoria’s Secret, and control videos reported a decline in positive affect” (Selensky 102). A diverse advertisement expresses to the consumer that the company believes that there is a range to beauty and image, which in turn allows customers to feel recognized in their own beauty. Another technique used by businesses to market themselves is done through body positivity promotions. In a study it stated that “Viewers in the current study found the Aerie and Dove campaigns to have a positive, uplifting, and empowering message. We found Aerie and Dove campaigns not only improved self-esteem and put viewers in a better mood, but they also made viewers more accepting of diverse body shapes and sizes” (Selensky 103). Body positivity promotions allow for diversity to enter the industry, which makes people feel empowered and confident by simply wearing clothes they identify with. The assertion of body positivity indicates that all bodies are beautiful just the way they are and that we shouldn’t try to change ourselves just to feel noticed or desired. Advertising and marketing a collection in the fashion industry is not only competitive but at times it can be problematic. When it comes to the cultural and ethnic side of this industry there are more factors to consider. In fact, a study about digital manipulation talked about how “A Caucasian model's skin is rendered more exotic through darkening while a model of color may be lightened to match the readership profile of a major magazine” (Reaves 142). This affects not only the business, but it affects the models and consumers. What is commonly forgotten is that these models constantly sit through extensive hours of hair and makeup to all be digitally altered in the end. This also affects the model and consumer because there won’t be a genuine way of broadening race and culture if the photos don’t depict the actual beauty of the model’s skin. Reaves also states that “Women of color are often stereotyped as "exotic" (Brislin, 1996), and so computer technology has become yet another tool for racial stereotyping” (Reaves 142). This shows that the race of models is endlessly being considered a factor, which makes it harder for them to create room for diversity. This relates to body image because depending on your race it is believed that it could affect your body makeup. In an article it says, “Studies show that Blacks are less concerned about weight than are Whites (White, Hudson, & Campbell, 1985), exhibit fewer weight-reduction behaviors such as dieting and exercising (Kann & Ross, 1996), and have lower incidences of eating disorders than Whites (Gray, Ford, & Kelly, 1987)” (David 274). Even though race can be very prominent in sizing, all that should matter is that everyone is recognized and appreciated for the beauty and culture they bring to this world. Diversity in the fashion industry has gotten better over the years. A diverse business helps portray the message that everyone should respect and embrace themselves. This also makes people feel more welcomed when they enter certain stores because it just shows that they too have a place in that store. An article states, “to combat these health concerns, retailers are taking a stand to fight the traditionally thin ideal by incorporating average or plus size models in their media campaigns. For instance, Lane Bryant’s #ImNoAngel and PlusIsEqual and Aerie’s #AerieReal campaigns have gained increased attention by advocating for body-positivity” (Clayton 406-407). By incorporating plus sized models and those who are considered “outliers” in their advertisements the companies not only get positive feedback but also allow for people to feel like this is the new normal. An article says “U.S. plus-size female consumers account for 28% of the nation’s apparel purchasing power (Binkley 2013). This group of women, who wear size 14 or larger clothing, believe that fashion retailers do not understand their clothing needs” (Bickle 45). Bickle explains different areas in which women who are plus sized are dissatisfied with their in-store retail experience. The article talks about how women are displeased with the clothing sold in plus sizes because it's either limited or not as fashionable and it mentions fitting rooms impacts the customer’s overall experience. In the article it states that “Other retailers, such as Yours Clothing, HeyGorgeous, ModCloth IRL, and Simply Be are trying to make the fitting room experience better for plus-size women by incorporating on-demand prerecorded compliments, in-store stylists to assist shoppers while changing, larger fitting rooms with a boudoir feel, and “magic mirrors” that will take four photos of the customer, allowing them to email their friends for a second opinion and alleviate the need to leave the fitting room” (Bickle 47-48). This just goes to show that retailers are working hard and are being more open minded when it comes to broadening the range of body sizes in stores. Last, the article discusses about how mannequins and how plus-sized customers can’t relate due to the lack of plus-sized mannequins. As of today, the only store that actually adheres to this is Target because they are the only store that includes plus sized mannequins as well as including their plus-sizes in the same area as the other sizes. Being a part of the minority party can be really demeaning because you are forced to shop in your own section just because you don't adhere to “regular” body types. This makes people who are “plus-sized” feel humiliated since they are purposefully separated from sizes in the store. Another sizing technique commonly used is vanity sizing, which is when retailing companies label their clothes in smaller sizes to influence people to feel good, making them more likely to buy. In an article it states that “Vanity sizing can assist with perceptions of modification in that a discrepant size label can create the illusion of shifting toward socially acceptable sizes” (Ketron 439). Though vanity sizing is deceitful, it does help companies sell clothing because it makes consumers feel more positive about their body. For example, if a consumer is a size smaller at American Eagle than at Forever 21, they’re more likely to shop at American Eagle because they feel happier to be sized smaller. Vanity sizing can be very difficult to follow but sizing in the fashion industry in general is confusing. An article about clothing measurements, it talks about “… the American convention of using ad hoc sizes, e.g., 8, 10, 12, etc. – and the ad hoc size system means that the designated number has no relationship with actual measurements” (Hackett 267). This demonstrates that retailers use a made-up system to avoid people paying attention to their actual accurate measurements. Though vanity sizing isn’t accurate it does affect the consumer in a positive way. For example, “… fitting into a pair of jeans labeled smaller than its true size can increase positive self-related mental imagery for consumers, irrespective of their self-esteem level” (Nilu?fer 571). Later it states that “the studies also demonstrate the influence of individual appearance self-esteem on the mediating effect of mental imagery” (Nilu?fer 571). This study indicates that vanity sizing helps people feel more worthy and confident when it comes to sizing small because they feel more accepted and a part of something. Being that size is a sensitive subject it is interesting to see companies go out of their way to alter their sizing systems to allure consumers. The perception of body image will continuously be recognized as a trend but hopefully as time progresses, we will recognize that trends are only temporary, and our bodies are forever. It is time to challenge this issue because we have the power to change the future. Instead of having the mindset that being skinny is healthier and attractive we should reinforce that a person doesn’t need to be skinny to be healthy. All bodies were created differently, and we must accept the beauty that each body brings. Equally we all have a certain of ourselves, but it is key to encompass all that makes us who we really are. Being all-inclusive is a turning point because it enables the fashion industry to become more ethical, sustainable, and media savvy. This compels the industry to refrain from always being perfect and accepting that everybody has flaws. In the history of fashion, its effect on the media, and its significance to business it is evident that body image is an issue that cannot be dismissed as it deeply affects us and future generations. Change cannot be made overnight so as time progresses hopefully the fashion industry can realize the importance of ranging body types and the beauty of individualism. Purpose: The purpose of this argumentative paper is to… • critically analyze evidence… • to support your stand on a challenge (problem, issue) that is… • debatable (controversial) and amenable to argument… • from the perspective of at least two different disciplines. Skills: After completing this assignment you will be able to: 1. Select and refine a research topic. 2. Identify and synthesize appropriate research materials. 3. Establish a claim, hypothesis or thesis statement. 4. Develop and organize your argument using peer-reviewed evidence/sources from at least two different disciplines. 5. Integrate and cite research sources. Knowledge: This assignment will give you knowledge about how to find, evaluate, and utilize information sources to create a sound and reasonable argument that is well-supported by evidence from the peer-reviewed literature. You will need to know how to do this to be successful in future courses as well as in many career fields. Task: You will write an argumentative research paper of 4000–4500 words. “The argumentative research paper consists of an introduction in which the writer clearly introduces the topic and informs his audience exactly which stance he intends to take; this stance is often identified as the thesis statement. An important goal of the argumentative research paper is persuasion, which means the topic chosen should be debatable or controversial” (The Writing Lab and The OWL at Purdue, 2018). This assignment also has the goal be being multidisciplinary, which means that the evidence addressing the argument must be critically analyzed from at least two disciplinary viewpoints/perspectives. (“Interdisciplinarity” is the higher level of this approach, in which two disciplines work together at the level of method.) Your paper will be formatted according to the instructions listed in the Formatting section below. Criteria for a Successful Paper: • It addresses a challenge, problem, or issue that is specific to society (global, local, or regional), a group of individuals, or an academic discipline. • The topic is debatable or controversial and is amenable to argument. • The paper has a thesis statement: it clearly proposes an arguable point and/or makes a coherent statement; it takes a stand. • There should be at least several sub-arguments to support your thesis statement. • You should address potential counter-arguments or rebuttals to your argument. • Throughout the paper, you should critically evaluate sources and think deeply about how they relate to one another and to the overarching question/thesis that is being addressed in your capstone paper. 1 • At least two different disciplinary perspectives/viewpoints (usually, one of these is the student’s own major discipline) should be brought to bear on the topic, and these perspectives can be evaluated relative to each other. Structure of the Assignment: This paper assignment is divided into multiple parts to keep you organized and on track, to help you appreciate the inherent value of the research process, and to maximize the quality of your final product. The faculty mentors for your section will lay out the specific process and schedule by which you will achieve the key stages below: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Topic definition and initial list of references Introduction – literature review leading to thesis statement Outline Rough draft Final draft Formatting Requirements ? 4000–4500 words, which is approximately 12–15 pages of text, double-spaced, exclusive of bibliography. If your draft runs much over that, consult with your professor in the drafting process for areas to cut. ? Follow your chosen style (MLA, APA, or CSE) consistently when formatting the citations, bibliography, title page, etc. Cross-check your forms with a style guide and with published examples, since automatic bibliography generating programs are not foolproof. (However, these programs, such Zotero on the SHU Library website, can be quite useful.) ? 1” margins and 12-point font. Double spaced, except for indented block quotations. Use single spaced block quotations if the passage runs five lines or more; no quotation marks are used around these passages. ? Insert page numbers in the header or footer. ? Use headings to organize and break up the text. The exact nature of the headings will vary a bit based on your field—consult your professor. ? Put an Acknowledgements line at the end of the paper before the Bibliography to thank anyone who proofread your paper or shared specific ideas with you. This is a matter of professional courtesy. ? Before submitting the final draft, do a final review to make sure that the paper is polished. You should catch issues such as a heading that is stranded at the bottom of a page (in this case, use the Page Break function to move it to the top of the next page). 2 Notes 1. Topic Definition a. You will likely find that you need to further narrow your topic, taking longer than you first expected. b. You should take care from the outset with topics that are important but potentially hard to take a stand on because they are not debatable enough or the needed solutions are very broad. • E.g., that public schools should take actions, such as through making healthier school lunches or having more gym classes, to help reduce childhood obesity is a laudable goal and it is still an activity that society needs to make progress on. Yet it is not debatable or unknown that childhood obesity is a problem, and it is difficult to present a compelling, specific picture of what schools should do differently. More successful would be a topic that took on a controversial approach to the problem (e.g. governments instituting taxes on sugary drinks) or that thoroughly investigated the medical literature on the causes of obesity if there is a debate on the biological mechanisms, and then followed that up with discussion of policy implications. c. For help in choosing a topic: • Do the topic-building assignments in the early stages of the capstone course. • Talk to both faculty mentors in the course and to other faculty from other disciplines with relevant expertise. • See “Choosing a Topic” from the Purdue Online Writing Lab: https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/common_writing_assignments /research_papers/choosing_a_topic.html d. Examples of multidisciplinary topics • Single discipline topic: “An Analysis of the Ecological Impact of Harvesting Apex Marine Predators” – Biology, vs. multidisciplinary topic: “An Analysis of the Ecological Impact of Shark Hunting on Marine Ecosystems and the Economic Impact on Coastal Communities” – Biology and Economics (plus Psychology/Health sciences, if considering the human impact of poverty in those coastal communities) • Single discipline topic: “Investing in Smart Portfolios: Can They Reliably Generate Excess Returns?” – Finance/Economics, vs. multidisciplinary topic: “Learning about Risk Aversion through Investing Behavior: Should the Psychology of Finance Change the Way We Shop for Healthcare?” – Finance/Economics, Psychology, Health Science • Single discipline topic: “The Math of Polling: How Certain Can We Be?” – Mathematics/Statistics, vs. multidisciplinary topic: “Polling in the 21st Century: What We Know about the Role of Polls in Predicting and Determining Election Outcomes” – Mathematics/Statistics, Politics, Psychology, Communications, History 3 2. See the following website for clear description and examples of an argumentative paper: https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/common_writing_assignments/research_pap ers/genre_and_the_research_paper.html 3. For help with writing the Introduction, consider this: a. See Jesson, J. and Lacey, F. 2006. How to do (or not to do) a critical literature review. Pharmacy Education 6(2): 139–148. https://research.aston.ac.uk/portal/files/190007/Jesson_and_lacey2006.pdf (ignore Part 2, on systematic reviews). b. The Introduction is a review of the background information that leads to your overarching question/thesis. However, it is not just a description of facts; it actually compares and contrasts sources, finds weaknesses in previous work done, and identifies gaps in knowledge. IN SUM: For the key qualities of every capstone paper, see the attached rubric and strive for the descriptions in the “High” column of the six assessment standards. Assessment Rubric for Paper: The professor might make individualized choices how they assign points or other grading using this rubric. While all these elements are important, the first three content-related standards weigh more heavily in grading the paper. Table 1. Grading Rubric High Solid 4 Adequate Introduction An organized, logical and Conclusion progression of background that is unified and complete. Thesis clearly proposes an arguable point and makes a coherent statement; it takes a stand. Conclusion is effective in recapping and extending. A logical progression of background that is reasonably complete, although minor lapses may be present. Thesis is clear, proposes an arguable point and/or makes a coherent statement. Conclusion is effective. Lapses in the logical progression of, and/or the presentation of, background information. Thesis is somewhat clear yet does not fully propose an arguable point or coherent statement. The conclusion may have similar issues. Multidisciplinary and research-based discussion Factual and multidisciplinary, information is sound, but occasionally thin or questionable. A good range of research is employed. Weaknesses exist in factual information. And/or a secondary discipline is only briefly engaged. The research needs to be more robust (more and/or better sources). Effective Author is committed and Argumentation passionate. Supports claims strongly with a chain of reasoning and with facts. Is aware of other perspectives, in part by effectively responding to objections/concerns. Overall, the author persuades the reader of the soundness of the thesis. Author is committed and passionate. Most claims are well supported. Author might need to display more originality or nuance. Some objections linger. But overall, the author makes a good case for the thesis. Author makes several thoughtful claims but there is not a sense of an argument building throughout. The argument is vulnerable to key objections. The reader understands the thesis and why it is being argued, but sees gaps and unanswered questions. Organization The title is original, creative, and is pertinent to the material. The paper is very well organized with wellconstructed paragraphs and subheadings. The title is original and is pertinent to the material. The paper is organized with effective paragraphs and an overall sensible flow. The title may need clarity or “punch.” More significantly, either a number of paragraphs are weakly structured, or the flow of the whole paper is weak (because of outline choices and/or poor transitions). References All sources are accurately documented in proper format (e.g., APA, MLA, or CSE) for intext citations and for the bibliography at the end. All sources are accurately There are three or more inaccurate, documented, but a few are not in unclear, or missing citations. Or the proper format. there are systematic flaws in the bibliographic format. Writing The paper exhibits excellent use of spelling, punctuation, capitalization, grammar, vocabulary, transitions, and sentence structure. The paper exhibits good use of spelling, punctuation, capitalization, grammar, vocabulary, transitions, and sentence structure, but with a handful of mistakes. Information is sound; more than one discipline is meaningfully represented. Research is: relevant, appropriately recent, vetted, extensive, and well used. 5 The paper exhibits ongoing errors in one or more of these areas: spelling, punctuation, capitalization, grammar, vocabulary, transitions, and sentence structure.