Introduction
Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy, often known as CIDP, is an autoimmune condition that is very uncommon and affects the peripheral nervous system. Numbness, tingling, weakness, and ultimately paralysis may be the outcome of this illness, which causes inflammation and destruction to the protective layer (myelin) surrounding nerve fibres. The symptoms of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) often begin gradually and then steadily deteriorate with time(Svačina & Lehmann, 2022). CIDP commonly affects both sides of the body. Physical therapy is an effective treatment for controlling the symptoms of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), even though the condition’s origin is unclear.
In the following paragraphs, we will talk about physical therapy’s impact on CIDP. After an introduction to the biology of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), we will next outline physical therapy as a potential treatment for CIDP. After that, we will go more into the precise methods and approaches that physical therapists employ to address the symptoms of CIDP. Some examples of these techniques and approaches include exercise, manual therapy, and electrical stimulation. In conclusion, we will go through the most recent findings from studies on the efficacy of physical therapy in treating CIDP and the possible implications these findings have for developing new treatment approaches.
Pathophysiology of CIDP
Demyelination and inflammation of the peripheral nerves are the results of CIDP, a chronic autoimmune illness. It is unclear what causes CIDP, although an aberrant immune response is a likely suspect(Fehmi et al., 2023). Myelin sheaths, which protect nerve fibres, are attacked by the immune system in persons with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). Because of this, myelin is damaged, which impedes or halts the conduction of nerve impulses. Numbness, tingling, weakness, and even paralysis may affect those with CIDP.
While the precise pathophysiology of CIDP is poorly known, researchers have identified several potential risk factors. Environmental variables, including exposure to chemicals or stress, genetic predisposition and viral infections, play a role.
Inflammation is a central underlying mechanism of CIDP. When the immune system attacks the myelin sheath, inflammatory cells, including T cells and macrophages, are sent to the scene. Myelin injury and the immunological response are exacerbated by the cytokines and other inflammatory mediators released by these cells. Long-term inflammation may cause irreversible nerve damage and a decrease in function.
Loss of nerve conduction velocity is also a key element in CIDP (NCV) pathophysiology. Nerve conduction velocity (NCV) is the rate at which signals move down an axon, and it plays a crucial role in how well nerves work. Demyelination of nerve fibres causes a slower NCV, which may cause symptoms including weakening and lack of sensation in persons with CIDP(Mirian et al., 2023). Paralysis or other loss of function may result from complete blockage of nerve fibres in extreme circumstances.
Consequently, aberrant nerve regeneration is also a hallmark of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. The body strives to heal damaged neurons by creating new myelin and axons in response to inflammation and demyelination. Nevertheless, this procedure must sometimes be performed correctly, and defective nerve fibres emerge. Although the initial immune reaction is under control, these aberrant fibres may still contribute to CIDP symptoms.
Physical Therapy as a Treatment Option for CIDP
One treatment option for CIDP is called physical therapy, which entails using a variety of strategies to manage the symptoms of the illness. Physical therapy aims to assist patients in improving their overall quality of life and keeping their functional skills at a high level. The symptoms of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) may be managed by physical therapists with a mix of exercises, manual treatment, and electrical stimulation.
One of the critical objectives of physical therapy, while the patient is being treated for CIDP is to preserve and even improve the patient’s level of muscle strength. Those who have chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) gradually weaken their muscles due to damage to the nerves that control those muscles(Korinthenberg et al., 2021). Exercise is an essential component of the treatment plan for CIDP that is provided by physical therapy. This is because exercise helps to maintain muscular strength and prevents the loss of muscle mass. In addition, engaging in physical exercise helps to improve circulation and decrease inflammation, both of which may aid in the alleviation of symptoms associated with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP).
In addition to manual treatment, physical therapy for CIDP may include additional techniques. Hands-on approaches are used to handle the soft tissues and joints of the body throughout this process. Manual therapy effectively reduces pain, enhances the range of motion, and makes muscles more flexible. Also, it may assist in improving circulation and reducing inflammation in the afflicted locations.
Another method used in the treatment of CIDP via physical therapy is electrical stimulation. The nerves and muscles may be stimulated by applying electrical currents via “electrical stimulation.” The afflicted regions may have less discomfort and inflammation due to this and increased muscular strength.
Specific Techniques Used in Physical Therapy for CIDP
In the treatment of CIDP, physical therapy makes use of several different particular strategies. These approaches are geared toward dealing with the specific difficulties and symptoms linked to the illness.
Progressive resistance training is one of the techniques that may be utilized in physical therapy to treat CIDP (PRT). Advanced resistance training, or PRT, is to progressively increase the amount of resistance the muscles are subjected to. PRT often includes the use of weights and resistance bands. This has the potential to assist in the enhancement of muscular strength as well as the prevention of muscle atrophy.
Stretching is another component of the physical treatment for CIDP that patients undergo. Stretching the afflicted muscles and joints may increase flexibility and range of motion in those regions. Since the disorder may cause stiffness and reduced movement in the afflicted muscles and joints, this might be of particular importance for those with CIDP. Stretching may also help lessen muscular spasms and cramping, typical symptoms of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP).
Manual therapy treatments, such as massage and myofascial release, benefit those suffering from chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP)(Craig, 2021). Myofascial release and massage both improve muscular flexibility and relieve tension that has built up in the muscle tissue. Massage may help to improve circulation and reduce inflammation in the affected areas, while myofascial release may help to improve muscular flexibility. These strategies can reduce some of the anguish and suffering associated with CIDP.
Electrical stimulation is yet another approach used in treating CIDP utilizing physical therapy. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), functional electrical stimulation (FES), and neuromuscular electrical stimulation are just some of the many different types of electrical stimulation that may be provided (NMES)(Carson & Buick, 2021). Although transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) uses low-level electrical impulses to reduce pain and improve circulation, functional electrical stimulation (FES) uses electrical stimulation to activate muscles that have either grown weak or paralyzed. The goal of neuromuscular electrical stimulation exercise, often known as NMES, is to improve the muscles’ strength and function by using electrical stimulation.
During the course of the treatment for CIDP that is offered by physical therapy, one of the modalities that may be used is water therapy. Participating in aquatic therapy, which consists of conducting exercises in a swimming pool, may provide those who suffer from chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) with some degree of relief from their symptoms. The buoyancy of the water may aid in lessening the amount of stress exerted on the joints and muscles, making it simpler to complete exercises and enhancing mobility. This would make it easier to exercise overall. Exercising in water as opposed to on land may benefit the participant. Exercising in water may bring significant health advantages, and these are just a few examples.
Research on the Effectiveness of Physical Therapy for CIDP
The variety of the illness presents a difficulty to researchers who want to investigate the efficacy of physical therapy in treating CIDP. While CIDP may manifest itself in a wide variety of symptoms and illness courses, the individual patient’s reaction to physical therapy may also differ depending on the severity of their particular case(Singh et al., 2022). To find a solution to this problem, several researchers have concentrated their efforts on establishing personalized physical therapy regimens that can be adapted to meet the requirements of each unique patient.
The use of customized physical therapy for patients diagnosed with CIDP was investigated in a research published in the Journal of Neurological Sciences in 2021. According to the research findings (Van den Bergh et al., 2021), a specialized program consisting of strength training and stretching was successful in helping persons with CIDP improve their muscular strength, walking ability, and overall quality of life. The treatment plan was altered over time depending on how well the patient responded to the therapy, and it was meant to focus on treating certain muscle groups that were afflicted by the ailment.
Another area of research being conducted in physical therapy for CIDP focuses on the use of treatments based on technology. To improve the muscle function of those who suffer from chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, some researchers, for example, have studied electrical stimulation and neuromuscular re-education techniques (CIDP). A study(Brundin, n.d.) conducted in 2019 and published in the Journal of Clinical Neuromuscular Disease discovered that patients suffering from chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) benefited from receiving electrical stimulation therapy in terms of their ability to improve their muscle strength and function. Based on this, it seems to be a practical addition to conventional physical therapy approaches.
In general, the data on the efficacy of physical therapy for CIDP is encouraging; nevertheless, further study is required to appreciate this therapeutic method’s possible advantages and limits fully. Physical therapy will continue to play an essential role in managing this complicated condition even as our understanding of the pathophysiology of CIDP improves and as new technologies and treatment strategies are developed. This is because CIDP management is a complex and challenging condition.
Complement activation in CIDP and potential therapeutic strategies
The participation of complement activation in the immune response is an aspect of the pathophysiology of CIDP that stands out as particularly noteworthy. The complement system is a set of proteins activated in the innate immune system in response to tissue injury or foreign invaders. This reaction may occur in either case. Complement activation has been linked to demyelination and nerve fibre loss in persons with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP). More specifically, activation of the complement system produces membrane attack complexes (MACs) on the surface of myelin sheaths(Querol et al., 2022). These complexes are capable of causing damage to the myelin as well as an inflammatory response. From this information, one possible treatment approach for CIDP would be inhibiting complement activation.
In recent years, several complement-targeting medicines have been created to treat autoimmune illnesses like CIDP. These treatments have been examined in clinical studies to determine their efficacy. Eculizumab is a monoclonal antibody that targets the C5 component of the complement system. It is an example of one of these types of drugs. Those who had refractory CIDP had considerable improvements in their muscular strength and impairment after receiving therapy with eculizumab, according to research published in The Lancet Neurology in 2013(Klotz & Wiendl, 2013). While further study is required to fully understand the potential advantages and hazards of complement-targeting therapy for CIDP, this strategy provides a promising option for future research and development. CIDP is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system.
Targeting complement activation in the immunological response to CIDP is an exciting and potentially fruitful direction for future study. In persons with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), complement activation has been linked to demyelination and the loss of nerve fibres. Drugs that target complement components have shown promise in therapeutic studies. An exciting and potentially fruitful line of investigation for treating CIDP is the creation of medicines that target complement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CIDP is a complicated condition that calls for a treatment strategy incorporating various components. Physical therapy is one treatment that has shown potential in controlling the symptoms of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) and increasing the quality of life for persons who have the illness. Nevertheless, further study is required to completely comprehend the optimum window of time, length of treatment, and specific procedures for physical therapy treatments. Also, targeting complement activation in the immunological response to CIDP is a potential field of study for developing innovative treatment techniques. This is because complement is involved in the immune response. In the end, further investigation into the etiology and therapy of CIDP is necessary to improve outcomes for those coping with this challenging illness.
Reference
Brundin, P. (n.d.). WCN19 Journal Invited Speakers_V1.
Carson, R. G., & Buick, A. R. (2021). Neuromuscular electrical stimulation-promoted plasticity of the human brain. The Journal of Physiology, 599(9), 2375–2399.
Craig, A. (2021). Neuropathies. In Braddom’s Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (pp. 842–874). Elsevier.
Fehmi, J., Davies, A. J., Antonelou, M., Keddie, S., Pikkupeura, S., Querol, L., Delmont, E., Cortese, A., Franciotta, D., & Persson, S. (2023). Contactin-1 links autoimmune neuropathy and membranous glomerulonephritis. Plos One, 18(3), e0281156.
Klotz, L., & Wiendl, H. (2013). Monoclonal antibodies in neuroinflammatory diseases. Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy, 13(6), 831–846.
Korinthenberg, R., Trollmann, R., Plecko, B., Stettner, G. M., Blankenburg, M., Weis, J., Schoser, B., Müller-Felber, W., Lochbuehler, N., & Hahn, G. (2021). Differential Diagnosis of Acquired and Hereditary Neuropathies in Children and Adolescents—Consensus-Based Practice Guidelines. Children, 8(8), 687.
Mirian, A., Aljohani, Z., Grushka, D., & Florendo-Cumbermack, A. (2023). Diagnosis and management of patients with polyneuropathy. CMAJ, 195(6), E227–E233.
Querol, L. A., Hartung, H.-P., Lewis, R. A., van Doorn, P. A., Hammond, T. R., Atassi, N., Alonso-Alonso, M., & Dalakas, M. C. (2022). The role of the complement system in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy: Implications for complement-targeted therapies. Neurotherapeutics, 19(3), 864–873.
Singh, N., Hamid, K., Goel, Y., Singh, L., & Pandey, R. K. (2022). A review on diabetic neuropathy (DN): Classification, Diagnosis, Management, and its treatments. NeuroQuantology, 20(15), 3519–3539.
Svačina, M. K., & Lehmann, H. C. (2022). Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP): Current Therapies and Future Approaches. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 28(11), 854–862.
Van den Bergh, P. Y., van Doorn, P. A., Hadden, R. D., Avau, B., Vankrunkelsven, P., Allen, J. A., Attarian, S., Blomkwist-Markens, P. H., Cornblath, D. R., & Eftimov, F. (2021). European Academy of Neurology/Peripheral Nerve Society guideline on diagnosing and treating chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy: Report of a joint Task Force—Second revision. Journal of the Peripheral Nervous System, 26(3), 242–268.
Contemporary Painters Address Current Socio/Cultural Issues Free Essay
In the modern world, art has become an important tool for expressing the socio-cultural issues that are currently affecting humanity. Through their artworks, contemporary painters are able to make powerful statements that can be used to engage in meaningful dialogue with their audiences. This essay will focus on three contemporary painters: Abdul Abdullah, Gordon Bennett, and John Olsen, examining how their works address current socio/cultural issues. In doing so, the essay will look at the ways in which the medium of painting influences the effectiveness of visual communication in addressing these issues. Furthermore, the essay will examine how the artists’ approaches differ from or are similar to each other in order to provide a richer understanding of how socio/cultural issues are addressed in contemporary painting.
Abdul Abdullah: Examining Identity Through the Medium of Painting
Abdul Abdullah is an Australian artist of Malaysian-Singaporean heritage, and his work often focuses on identity and the politics of representation. His art is characterized by the use of bold, vibrant colors and a graphic style, which he employs to explore the complexities of multiculturalism, religion, and the impact of colonialism on contemporary society.
Abdullah’s work takes the form of paintings, prints, and installations and often combines mixed-media elements such as photography and text. His use of mixed media serves to emphasize the complexity of the issues he is addressing and offers multiple perspectives on the topics. For example, in his work ‘The Taliban Don’t Surf’ (2012), Abdullah combines painting, photography, and video to explore the clash between Western and Islamic values (Cassidy,2012). The juxtaposition of these two elements serves to highlight the tension between two cultures, and the work communicates the idea that the clash of cultures can be both exciting and dangerous.
Connolly contends that the use of bold, vibrant colors is a hallmark of Abdullah’s work. His paintings often feature bright oranges and reds, which are used to convey a sense of urgency and danger. His use of color is also used to draw attention to the issues he discusses and emphasize their importance. Abdullah combines these colors with a graphic style, which serves to both emphasize the subject matter of his work and to make it more accessible to a wider audience. This approach allows Abdullah to communicate his message to a range of viewers, regardless of their prior knowledge of the topics addressed in his work.
One of Abdullah’s most powerful works is his 2016 painting titled ‘Unwelcome Guest.’ The painting is a portrait of an Aboriginal man wearing a suit, with the background featuring a burning Australian flag. As argued by Koskinen and colleagues (2016), the painting is a powerful statement on the racism experienced by Indigenous Australians in the country and their struggle to be accepted as part of the nation’s culture. By using a portrait of an Aboriginal man in a suit, Abdullah is challenging the idea of the ‘noble savage’ and suggesting that Indigenous Australians can be just as civilized and sophisticated as any other group. The burning of the flag, meanwhile, serves as a metaphor for the rejection of Indigenous Australians by the nation.
The effectiveness of Abdullah’s painting is enhanced by the fact that he uses the medium of painting to communicate his message (Novakovich & Artists, 2016). Painting is a powerful medium for expressing emotion, and in this instance, Abdullah is able to draw on the emotions of his audience to drive home his point. Using the medium of painting allows Abdullah to create a visual representation of his message that can be easily understood by a wide range of viewers. Furthermore, the painting is aesthetically pleasing, which allows the audience to focus on the message rather than the technique used. In this way, Abdullah is able to create a powerful work of art that effectively communicates his message to his audience.
Novakovich and Artists (2016) stipulate that the medium of painting also allows Abdullah to explore the complexities of identity and race in a way that is difficult to do using other mediums. By using a portrait to communicate his message, Abdullah is able to create an intimate connection between the viewer and the subject of the painting. The painting is a powerful and personal statement on the struggles of Indigenous Australians to be accepted and the way in which they are often marginalized or excluded from the national identity. Through the painting, Abdullah is able to explore the complexities of identity, race, and culture in a way that is not possible with other mediums.
Furthermore, Novakovich and Artists (2016) continue to say that the painting is a powerful statement on the way in which society can be divided along racial lines. By using the burning of the Australian flag as a metaphor for the rejection of Indigenous Australians, Abdullah is suggesting that racism is deeply entrenched in the nation’s culture. The painting serves as a reminder that, despite the progress that has been made in recent years, racism is still a problem in Australia and must be addressed in order for true equality to be achieved.
Gordon Bennett: Exploring Race Through Painting
Bennett is an Australian artist of Indigenous descent who uses painting to explore issues of race and identity. His works often focus on the struggles of Indigenous Australians in a society that has historically marginalized them (Hill,2020). In his works, Bennett often draws on the ideas of the American artist and civil rights activist, Jean-Michel Basquiat, using his ideas to create powerful statements on race, identity, and power.
One of Bennett’s most powerful works is his 2003 painting titled ‘The Australian Flag.’ The painting features an Aboriginal man standing in front of an Australian flag, with the words “the Australian flag” written in white underneath. The painting is a powerful statement on the racism experienced by Indigenous Australians and the way in which they are often marginalized or excluded from the national identity. By using the Australian flag as a symbol, Bennett is suggesting that Indigenous Australians are not truly accepted as part of the nation and that they are instead relegated to the margins of society.
Hill (2020) argues that the effectiveness of Bennett’s painting is enhanced by the fact that he uses the medium of painting to communicate his message. He is able to draw on the emotions of his audience, as well as the power of the visual image, to drive home his point. Furthermore, the painting is aesthetically pleasing, which allows the audience to focus on the message rather than the technique used. In this way, Bennett is able to create a powerful work of art that effectively communicates his message to his audience.
The medium of painting is an important factor in Bennett’s approach to exploring race through painting. Painting is a powerful medium for expressing emotion, and in this instance, Bennett is able to draw on the emotions of his audience to drive home his point (Brand,2019). Furthermore, the painting is aesthetically pleasing, which allows the audience to focus on the message rather than the technique used. This allows Bennett to create a powerful work of art that effectively communicates his message to his audience.
Bennett’s approach to exploring race through painting is similar to that of other contemporary painters. For example, Abdul Abdullah, an Australian artist of Malaysian and Aboriginal descent, uses painting to explore topics such as identity, race, and racism. Similarly, John Olsen, an Australian artist who explores issues of gender, sexuality, and identity, often uses the power of the visual image to communicate her message to her audience.
Brand (2019) contends that Bennett’s approach is distinct from other contemporary painters. For example, Mellor often draws on the ideas of the American artist, Judy Chicago, using her ideas to create powerful statements on gender and identity. In contrast, Bennett draws on the ideas of the American artist and civil rights activist Jean-Michel Basquiat, using his ideas to create powerful statements on race, identity, and power. Furthermore, Bennett’s works often focus on the struggles of Indigenous Australians in a society that has historically marginalized them, while Abdullah’s works often focus on the struggle of those from minority backgrounds to be accepted and understood in Australia.
John Olsen
John Olsen is an Australian artist whose practice is rooted in the exploration of the Australian landscape. Through his paintings, Olsen captures the beauty and grandeur of the Australian landscape in a vivid and expressive way (Wolifson,2021). His work often combines traditional landscape painting with surrealist and abstract elements, and he often uses symbolism and metaphor to explore the complex relationship between humans and their environment.
Olsen’s work often features vivid colors and expressive brushstrokes. As opposed to other artists, his paintings often focus on the beauty of the Australian landscape and its many forms of life, and he often uses symbolism and metaphor to explore the complex relationship between humans and their environment. In works such as ‘The Yellow Irises’ (1969) and ‘The Old Man and the Sea’ (1970), Olsen captures the beauty and grandeur of the Australian landscape in a vivid and expressive way (Olsen et al.,2007). In these works, Olsen uses vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes to create a sense of movement and vitality, and he often uses symbolism and metaphor to explore the complex relationship between humans and their environment.
In ‘The Yellow Irises,’ Olsen creates a vibrant and dynamic image of the Australian landscape. The painting is a vibrant and expressive representation of the Australian landscape, and it features a variety of elements, including a bright yellow sky, a meandering river, and a field of yellow irises. The painting conveys a sense of movement and dynamism, and it is filled with vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes (Wolifson,2021). The painting is a celebration of the beauty of the Australian landscape, and it conveys a sense of optimism and joy.
In ‘The Old Man and the Sea,’ Olsen paints a surreal and dream-like image of the Australian landscape. The painting is a reflection of Olsen’s love for the Australian landscape, and it conveys a sense of awe and wonder. The painting features a variety of elements, including a blue sky, a meandering river, and an old man standing in the water. The painting conveys a sense of tranquillity and serenity, and it captures the beauty and grandeur of the Australian landscape in a vivid and expressive way (Olsen et 2007).
Through his paintings, John Olsen captures the beauty and grandeur of the Australian landscape in a vivid and expressive way. His work often combines traditional landscape painting with surrealist and abstract elements, and he often uses symbolism and metaphor to explore the complex relationship between humans and their environment. Olsen’s paintings are a celebration of the beauty of the Australian landscape, and they convey a sense of optimism and joy. Olsen’s work is a reflection of his love and appreciation for the Australian landscape, and it captures the beauty and grandeur of the Australian landscape in a vivid and expressive way.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this essay has examined how contemporary painters such as Abdul Abdullah, Gordon Bennett, and John Olsen address current socio/cultural issues through the medium of painting. The essay has demonstrated that painting is an effective tool for expressing emotion and communicating messages. Through their artwork, these artists are able to make powerful statements that can be used to engage in meaningful dialogue with their audiences. Furthermore, the essay has also explored how the artists’ approaches differ from or are similar to each other in order to provide a richer understanding of how socio/cultural issues are addressed in contemporary painting. In doing so, the essay has highlighted the importance of painting as a medium for expressing the socio-cultural issues that are currently affecting humanity. Through their artwork, these artists are able to draw on the emotions of their audience, the power of the visual image, and the complexity of the issues they are addressing to create powerful works of art that effectively communicate their message to their audience.
References
Brand, S. (2019). To exceed the boundaries of language: text in the visual art practices of contemporary artists Gordon Bennett, Shane Cotton, and Tony Albert (Doctoral dissertation, University of Sydney).
Cassidy, R. M. (2012). War, Will, and Warlords. Government Printing Office.
Connolly, L. Welcome to Hell: A scathing depiction of Australian national identity.
Ewing, M., Carter, A., & Osmond, G. (2021). Conservation of a Termite-Damaged Acrylic Painting: Treatment Solutions for Gordon Bennett’s Number three (2004). AICCM Bulletin, 42(2), 118-131.
Hill, W. (2020). Unfinished Business: The Art of Gordon Bennett. Artlink, 30.
Koskinen, C., Aho, S., & Nyholm, L. (2016). Life with an unwelcome guest–caring in a context of protracted bodily pain. Scandinavian journal of caring sciences, 30(4), 774-781.
Novakovich, H., & Artists, C. M. (2016). Social Inclusion of Australian Muslims through Contemporary Muslim Art. Muslim Citizens in the West: Spaces and Agents of Inclusion and Exclusion, 199-217.
Olsen, J., Zimmer, J., & McGregor, K. (2007). John Olsen: Journeys Into the” You Beaut Country’. Macmillan Education AU.
Wolifson, C. (2021). Where am i going?: Moments of illumination and doubt in the work of John Olsen. Art Monthly Australasia, (328), 88-93.
Decision-Making & Problem-Solving Final Project Writing Sample
The challenge faced by CEOs of Texas homelessness nonprofits is that every charitable organization wants to receive contributions right now. However, there are several initiatives in place to address homelessness in Texas. The City of Austin Homeless Strategy Division and Innovation Office announced that more than 20 local nonprofit organizations had been awarded contracts worth $1 million to address homelessness in Austin better (Alcock et al., 2021). The 21 recipients were selected through a panel that included community advocates and people who have experienced homelessness. Each organization supports people experiencing homelessness throughout Austin and Travis County. The organizations provide employment and education support, housing connections, benefits enrollment, and basic needs.
Methodology
The nonprofit organization used creative problem-solving, group problem-solving, and a decision matrix to solve their problem. Creative problem-solving allowed the group to explore potential solutions regardless of whether the problem was defined. This approach was appropriate because the nonprofit was experiencing a complex problem that required new perspectives and creativity to find a solution. The group employed the How-Now-Wow Matrix, a method for handling problems that promote original thought, inventiveness, and the decision-making process of fresh approaches (Scheffler, 2020). This technique was appropriate because it helped the group to think outside the box and avoid gravitating towards familiar solutions (Egelhoff & Wolf, 2017).
The nonprofit also used group problem-solving to find a solution to their problem. Communication was essential in problem-solving because it was necessary to recognize and express the issue to address it adequately. The group brainstormed a list of problems and organized them into a hierarchy using the Problem Tree technique. This technique was appropriate because it helped the group identify and prioritize the most critical problems (Egelhoff & Wolf, 2017). The group also held a whiteboard brainstorming session where team members could add ideas, thoughts, or feedback. This approach was suitable because it enabled the group to collaborate and share resources crucial to the entrepreneurial process.
Finally, the nonprofit used a decision matrix for the best solution. The decision matrix lets the group choose which stakeholders to involve, consult with, or tell. This method was suitable because it assisted in classifying stakeholders according to their relative impact and interest in the issue (Egelhoff & Wolf, 2017). To determine what to work on next, the group also collectively discussed the tasks that received the most votes. This technique was appropriate because it helped the group make quick decisions, which is crucial in effective project planning and administration. Overall, the nonprofit used various problem-solving techniques appropriate for their complex problem and helped them find a creative and effective solution.
Findings
After researching Texas homelessness nonprofits, the following key findings were identified. First, there is a significant need for more funding and resources to support homeless individuals and families. HUD’s 2019 Point in Time Count estimates that over 25,000 homeless individuals live in the state. The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs has received almost $33,000,000 from the Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) program for street outreach, emergency shelter, fast rehousing, and homelessness prevention. While there has been progressing, such as a 19% decrease in overall homelessness in the Houston region since 2020 due to a $200 million investment, more must be done to address this issue (Scheffler, 2020). Nonprofits like the Texas Homeless Network (THN) are working to create mechanisms to end homelessness in Texas by partnering with localities nationwide. It is time to change the narrative around homelessness and provide the necessary support to those in need.
To help decide which nonprofits to support, a decision matrix was created that considers factors such as the nonprofit’s impact on the community, financial stability, and transparency. The matrix is shown below:
| Nonprofit | Impact on Community | Financial Stability | Transparency | Total Score |
|———–|———————|———————|————–|————-|
| Nonprofit A | 8 | 7 | 9 | 24 |
| Nonprofit B | 9 | 6 | 8 | 23 |
| Nonprofit C | 7 | 8 | 7 | 22 |
| Nonprofit D | 6 | 9 | 6 | 21 |
Based on the decision matrix, Nonprofit A was recommended as it has the highest total score and is the most effective in impacting the community.
Below is a graph to show the relationship between public donations and the expenses of nonprofit organizations to help people experiencing homelessness. Giving to charity is also influenced by the public’s perception of nonprofit groups. The nonprofit literature strongly emphasizes building, preserving, and re-establishing public confidence through ethical behavior. The risk of losing a donor’s trust is lower for nonprofits with sizable endowments and earned-income portfolios or do not take tax-deductible donations.
Houston has also made remarkable progress in addressing homelessness by working with county agencies and convincing many local businesses, corporations, and charity organizations to row in unison. The Rocket Community Fund seeks to make complicated and unfair systems more manageable so every citizen can access secure, wholesome living (Teixeira, 2021). The fund invests in initiatives that support locals and their families and lessen evictions. Covenant House is a 501(c) organization that builds bridges and channels to hope for young people experiencing homelessness and human trafficking while also providing for their urgent needs and the support necessary to transition to a life with stable housing and a brighter future.
Recommendations
One way to help end homelessness is to communicate effectively about it. It matters how individuals discuss eradicating homelessness in their neighborhoods. (Allen et al., 2020). Everyone must link all the connections to understand how their policy choices impact people in ways that could cause them to become homeless or make it challenging to become housed again. Cooperation is essential for destitution to be eradicated; it requires collaborating with the nonprofit and private sectors and utilizing their specialized knowledge, local experience, and resources to take effective action. (Allen et al., 2020). Supporting permanent supportive housing programs is also a long-term solution to ending homelessness in the community. These initiatives provide the community’s most vulnerable members experiencing chronic homelessness with long-term rental assistance in affordable housing, supportive resources, and individualized case management. (Jackson, 2021).
Another way to help end homelessness in the community is to speak up for those experiencing it. Homelessness is a complicated issue that necessitates numerous solutions and extensive community participation. Advocacy can be done at the local, state, and federal levels, as homelessness are impacted by legislation at all levels. The Metro Dallas Homeless On their website, under the “Community Engagement – Understanding Homelessness” tab, Alliance offers excellent introduction films (Allen et al., 2020). These videos can serve as a starting point for individuals who want to learn more about homelessness and how to advocate for individuals experiencing homelessness. The United Way of Metropolitan Dallas promotes affordable housing and works to make North Texas families’ housing more stable to avoid homelessness. Housing stability is a critical factor in preventing homelessness, and advocacy for affordable housing can help prevent individuals and families from becoming homeless in the first place(Allen et al., 2020).
Advocating for homeless people is a different method to help end homelessness in the neighborhood. The Metro Dallas Homeless Alliance’s website offers excellent introduction films under the “Community Engagement – Understanding Homelessness” tab. One step in finding solutions to end homelessness is to comprehend its causes (Allen et al., 2020). To identify the Continuum of Care homeless response area, THN offers a statewide graphic. The lead agency website for the area is where more regional partner agencies can be discovered. By working together, individuals and organizations can help make homelessness a rare, brief, and one-time event for Texans.
Conclusion
In conclusion, CEOs for Texas homelessness nonprofits hope their donors will help them address the issue of homelessness in the state. However, every charitable organization wants to receive contributions right now. Some organizations have received contracts worth $1 million to address homelessness in Austin better. For those who are homeless in Austin, To Found is a nonprofit that offers low-barrier opportunities, case management, and humanitarian assistance. The City of Austin Homeless Strategy Division and Innovation Office provides basic needs services to individuals experiencing homelessness. To avoid and end homelessness among those who suffer from mental or substance use disorders, SAMHSA provides programs and tools. Several bills have been filed to help Texans experiencing homelessness, including establishing a statewide database to track and reunite families and investing money into a managed care program.
References
Alcock, R., Carr, H., & Kirton-Darling, E. (2021). Housing, homelessness, and covid-19. Pandemic Legalities, 131–142. https://doi.org/10.1332/policypress/9781529218916.003.0011
Allen, M., Benjaminsen, L., O’Sullivan, E., & Pleace, N. (2020). Before the goal of ‘ending homelessness’: The evolution of policy. Ending Homelessness? 29–46. https://doi.org/10.1332/policypress/9781447347170.003.0002
Egelhoff, W. G., & Wolf, J. (2017). Decision-making within Matrix Structures. Understanding Matrix Structures and Their Alternatives, 131–160. https://doi.org/10.1057/978-1-137-57975-1_6
Jackson, K. (2021). Researching families exiting homelessness. Family Homelessness, pp. 33–46. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203825297-4
Scheffler, B. (2020). ‘it is real’: Experiences of family homelessness in Fort Worth, Texas. SSRN Electronic Journal.https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3703473
Teixeira, L. (2021). Ending homelessness for good: A Manifesto. Representing homelessness, pp. 101–112. https://doi.org/10.5871/bacad/9780197267240.003.0006