Kernel smoothing for finite populations

We identify a role for smooth curve provision in the finite population context. The performance of kernel density estimates in this scenario is explored, and they are tailored to the finite population situation especially by developing a method of data-based selection of the smoothing parameter appropriate to this problem. Simulated examples are given, including some from the particular context of permutation distributions which first motivated this investigation.     

Making Difference Matter: An Exploration of Culture and Identity in the Therapeutic Domain

This paper examines a number of dimensions which the author believes are pivotal to a feminist perspective in working with clients from linguistically and culturally diverse communities. Definitions of culture and identity are examined in the context of power, followed by a discussion of the therapist's relationship with her/his frameworks of knowledge. Finally, the place of ethics is considered, drawing on a recent analysis of democracy. Through this discussion and analysis, therapists may reflect more fully on their own culture and identity, without which it is not possible to do therapy which can bridge cultural difference.     

Selection effects of source of contraceptive supply in an analysis of discontinuation of contraception: multilevel modelling when random effects are correlated with an explanatory variable

Summary. Conventional multilevel models assume that the explanatory variables are uncorrelated with the random effects. In some situations, this assumption may be invalid. One such example is the evaluation of a health or social programme that is non-randomly placed and/or in which participation is voluntary. In this case, there may be unobserved factors influencing the placement of the programme and the decision to participate that are correlated with the unobserved factors that influence the outcome of interest. The paper presents an application of a multiprocess multilevel model to assess the difference in rates of discontinuation of contraception between private and Government family planning providers, while accounting for the possibility that there may be unobserved individual and community level factors that influence both a couple's choice of provider and their probability of discontinuation.     

Resilience and risk factors associated with experiencing childhood sexual abuse

The effects of child sexual abuse are wide‐ranging and impact on children, families and health/social care systems. The authors review this literature, examining the shortcomings of the ‘victim–offender’ model, and consider the complex, multifactorial nature of this question. Factors associated with a progression from victim to perpetrator are explored and the prevalence of abuse in the general population is also discussed. Protective as well as risk factors are considered and the pivotal role of ‘personal reliance’ is considered as it relates to empowering damaged young people to become healthy adults. The authors also discuss implications for the treatment of young people who become abusers. Two case examples are brie?y reported upon and the article concludes with a consideration of ways to helpfully address the needs of children who become sexual perpetrators. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Telling it like it is: news websites and online newspapers

This article examines the content and possible uses of four online news providers: , aimed at the potential clients of a major transnational information corporation; , aimed at ‘alternative globalization’ activists; , intended for transnational businesspeople and , directed at both local newspaper readers and members of the Irish diaspora. It suggests that the form, content and multimedia use of each is determined by its target audience and by the use this audience makes of the potential of the Internet for developing cross‐border networks. Furthermore, it suggests that it is not necessarily the size, extensity and power of this audience that determines the degree of sophistication and global engagement of the website, nor is it the power and wealth of the individual website’s developers.     

Dilemmas of Appraisal

This paper examines the assumptions that underlie the design of appraisal schemes and identifies the difficulties and dilemmas inherent in the process. The research reported here uncovered the subjective view of the difficulties and dilemmas faced by appraisees and personnel professionals. Dilemmas not previously uncovered in research on appraisal are revealed and discussed. The paper argues that a unitarist view of appraisal is naive. Appraisees and personnel professionals see appraisal as a political process, one that is reinforcing discrimination. Despite its many limitations, both parties can see the value of appraisal if good human relations are fostered through the process, providing feedback and helping set objectives.     

The Collapse of Civility in Russia: The Young and Aged in a Failed Society

Employing Edward Shils' paradigm of center–periphery, the successful functioning of which produces high levels of civility in a society, an analysis of the aged and the young subsystems in the former Soviet Union and present–day Russia is provided. Specifically, the center–periphery relationship and its deterioration is traced up to and through the collapse of the former Soviet Union. The negative consequences of this deterioration for the young and old, and the resulting loss of civility are also documented.