kaitlin dasia asked:


Music is certainly the best way to soothe the soul and calm the troubled mind. Be it any occasion, any situation, music is the best way to make the environment lively and let the hearts and minds of the listeners be totally relaxed and joyful. No occasion is complete without relevant music being played. It certainly touches the deepest corner of the heart and appeals to every soul. Someone has rightly said that it is one of the purest and the loveliest creations of the human mind. Only an emotionless and hard hearted person would not patronize it otherwise everyone else loves listening to the rhythms full of love and compassion.

There are a number of musicians and singers who have devoted their entire lives in creating melodies that make every soul feel elated. The music is present in every corner of this world in a variety of forms and kinds. It has innumerable genres and classifications. Every style appeals to different kind of people and every form belongs to some region. There are a number of best seller music forms like classical, folk, western, pop, jazz, metal etc.

There are few popular numbers which are extremely hit amongst the ardent best seller music lovers across the countries. These tracks are sung and performed by the most successful artists who have a large fan following. The best seller music is really hyped and tops the charts. The blues music is another genre that really fascinates the youth who immediately connect with the emotions of love and care depicted in these subtle melodies. There is a special genre especially for the young ones who really loves listening to the fun filled and cute songs with humorous yet meaningful lyrics. Children’s music is not only popular amongst the kids but even the adults love to listen to it.

If you are an admirer of the brilliant classical music then you can find some of the most appreciated compositions which really entertain you. These subtle and soft tunes in the soulful songs are really mesmerising. There are various online music stores on the internet and the users can search for the best compilations music in which the most amazing tracks and songs are featured.



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Duane Shinn asked:


Will learning to play a musical instument make you more intelligent? Could the brain grow larger than normal by learning to play a musical instrument? Questions such as these have been arising everywhere over the past few years and not only in science journals either. The interest of the general public in these studies involving music and the development of the brain has led to the publishing of many articles, to the delight of music-lovers everywhere. But all the information gathered, the reliable and the questionable, has left many still confused about how much importance should be put on use of musical training for brain development.

If your feeling confused about what you have learned, certain valid points considered may help clear your thinking. It seems that the most benefit is derived from early musical training when it comes to strengthening the connectors in the brain and creating new pathways. Research demonstrates the definite influence that music training has on the long-term development of specific parts of the brain. The research findings of Gottfried Schlaug, Herman Steinmetz and their associates were published in Discover magazine in 1994. They did a comparison of 27 classically trained right handed musicians with 27 right handed non-musicians using a technique called MRI, abbreviated for magnetic resonance images. Their findings revealed that the planum temporale (the brain’s auditory processor) was larger in the left hemisphere and smaller in the right in comparison with the group of non-musicians. Musicians who started training before the age of seven had even more outstanding differences. The differences were especially notable among musicians who started early training, specifically before the age of seven. Shlaug claims that the study of music also promotes enlargement of the corpus callosum, a bridge of sorts between the brain’s two hemispheres. He discovered that among musicians who began their musical education before seven years of age, their corpus callosum was thicker by 10-15% compared to non-musicians. It was suspected that a larger corpus callosum improves motor control by making a faster connection between the hemispheres of the brain.

Later research published in a 2002 issue of Science magazine showed the results of a study conducted by Dartmouth music psychologist Peter Janata which confirmed that music is one of the best stimulants for improved connectivity between the right and left hemispheres of the brain and between areas responsible for emotion and memory. A team of scientists led by Janata reports that with musicians, they have found certain areas of the brain to be 5% larger, and specifically the auditory cortex in expert musicians, up to 15% larger than people with little or no musical background. In addition, those who started studying music early in childhood have increased development of up to 15% in the brain area called the corpus callosum, which is a four-inch bundle of nerve fibers connecting the left and right side of the brain. There is growing evidence that detailed and even skilled motor functions are enhanced, besides the growing evidence from research studies that some brain region connectivity, as well as some types of reasoning functionality is improved by music training. The corpus callosum in musicians is evidently essential to the performance of such tasks as the coordination of fingers. As any muscle must grow to accommodate the tasks at hand, this portion of the brain also grows to make one more proficient at these necessary musical skills.

In a study conducted by Dr. Timo Krings and reported on in Neuroscience Letters 2000, non-musicians and pianists of the same age and gender were asked to complete a series of intricate finger movements. In this study, pianists and non-musicians of the same age and gender were asked to perform sequences of complex finger movements. Correct movements were noted by both groups, but less activity was seen in the brains of the pianists. The conclusion drawn by the researchers was that the pianists’ brains make skilled moves with less effort. There are a staggering number of ways that the human brain and its development are affected thanks to the study of music. With all this research at your fingertips, how do you decide what type of musical studies will benefit yourself or your children?

An article by N.M. Weinberger published in Musica Research Notes in 2002 made an interesting point about how the Mozart Effect, although not living up to it’s musical hype, has raised the public eye to the research being conducted in the field of music. Listening to just a few minutes of Mozart invites a whole new world of musical possibilities to the listener. The academic evidence discovered for using music study as a tool to aid brain development is compelling, even with the hype regarding the Mozart Effect. Dr. Frank Wilson from the University of California’s School of Medicine in San Francisco says his research reveals improvement in coordination, concentration, memory, eyesight and hearing when a person engages in practicing the art of music.

According to Frank Wilson’s research, learning to play an instrument brings about these benefits: better coordination, improved concentration, memory, eyesight and hearing. According to Wilson, all other activity pales in comparison to musical training which refines the entire neurological system by improving connections and motor skills in the brain. Dr. Wilson says that he believes musical instruction is vital for total brain development.

The conclusion we draw from what we’ve learned is that studying music can be an important tool to enhance various important functions of the brain. Therefore, if you are a lover of music, pick up that musical instrument you have always wanted to learn and get started today - you have much to gain.



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Roger H. Meyer asked:


Have you ever sat somewhere and marveled at how quiet it was? You are acutely aware of sound because it is so unusual to be without noise, We always hear hum from machines, the rumble of traffic, a plane, or other people talking Modern noise pollution is subtle, inconspicuous, and more dangerous than we realize

Exposure to most noises causes irritation, stress, and can result in permanent hearing loss and health problems. It’s difficult to eliminate noise, Often we try to cover offending ambient noise with music. If you like the music, it usually results in fewer physical problems.

We know that brain waves are modified by sounds. Beta brain waves, those between 14 and 20 hertz are most common. We achieve relaxed concentration or lucid awareness when alpha waves, between 8 and 13 hertz, are present Music with about 60 heats per minute–particularly that of Mozart, Brahms, and Bach–shifts the brain’s activity from beta to the higher-awareness alpha waves

It’s called the Mozart Effect. This type of music lowers stress and increases concentration. A study in England found students scored 10 points higher on an IQ test after listening to Mozart compared to those exposed to silence, white noise, or other music. White noise is just low-level random sounds. Examples are radio static and running water.)

Researchers suggest that we respond to music because our bodies are rhythmic. Our breathing, heartbeat, and many other body functions have an intrinsic rhythm.

Certain music invigorates people, while other melodies calm them. Other tunes make you sleepy or keep you awake Supermarkets, department stores, and event managers have used music to shape human behavior. Music can be used to make people move faster or slower, to encourage them to shop longer, persuade them to action, or help them to relax.

Other recent research links exposure to music to improved mental skills. Einstein played the violin and believed this helped his subconscious mind to solve problems. Many people who suffer from insomnia find that some of Bach’s music helps them. Lively popular music boosts energy and endurance. These results aren’t new

But being exposed to music you dislike causes negative effects, including higher blood pressure and stress. Most adults refer to the tunes teenagers listen to as noise. Teens feel the same way about other people’s music. There’s a story about a large group of young people gathering daily near a convenience store. They weren’t doing anything wrong, but their presence irritated the store’s owner and customers. The owner had an idea. He piped classical music outside the store, and the teens quickly disappeared.

Martin Gardiner of Brown University checked the relationship between arrest records of teenagers and their involvement in music. Gardiner found that the more a teen was associated with music, the lower the arrest record. Teens with music education were less likely to get into trouble than students without it. Those who also played a musical instrument, played in a band, or were in a chorus had even fewer problems with the law.

Retail stores have discovered that sales increase when they play easy-listening music. Apparently this music calms shoppers and encourages them to spend more time in the store.

Light, easy-paced music tends to help most people concentrate for a longer time, and improves their ability to memorize facts. However, with some people this music has the opposite effect. It distracts and disturbs those who are more analytical or inhibited than the norm. Listen to various kinds of music to determine its effect on you.

The tempo of religious music induces a feeling of peace and helps a person cope with physical and emotional pain. On the other end of the spectrum, heavy metal, rap, or martial music excites the nervous system and prompts people to dynamic action or aggressive behavior. It’s not surprising that Gulf War pilots listened to recordings of heavy metal music before launching their offensive flights into battle.

Studies are under way to determine if music can cure or help emotional problems and people with brain injuries or Alzheimer’s.

The effects of sounds on other aspects of nature have also been known for centuries. In southern India, farmers believe the gentle sounds of humming and buzzing insects guarantee healthy sprouting of the sugarcane. Carefully conducted experiments have proved that plants grow faster when music, especially tunes in the low frequency range of 100 to 600 hertz, are piped over the fields or into greenhouses. Farm animals and pets have been known to respond to music.

Your heartbeat tends to synchronize with any ambient pulsation. With modern rap music, there is concern as to what the unnatural rhythm changes do to listeners’ bodies, emotions, and even their subconscious. Long-term effects are unknown.

Music will influence our health and behavior. By knowing about its effects, we can use it to our benefit.



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Sarika Kabra asked:


It is very difficult to categorize music and yet these days any album coming out is referred to by its particular genre. In order to really enjoy the different genre of music, it is important to understand them. This article will take you through all the major types of music that rule the hearts of millions of people around the world. You can decide which is best for music recording and which you can actually try to learn.

One of the most important categories of music is classical music. This is the type of music that needs a lot of hard work because of its inherent complexity. Classical music is not simple and definitely not for bathroom singers. It needs a lot of practice and learning to master this art. Most operas feature this music and the divas who sing the classical songs are highly respected for their range and layered performances. Classical music is taken very seriously by people who love it and if you are interested in it you may have to be coached rigorously to be stage ready.

Another type of music that has roots in very early days is the tribal music. Tribal music is inherent to particular tribes and does not need any expensive studio equipment for its creation. The tribal music of many African, Hawaiians and the American Indian tribes have qualities unique to them. Lots of African tribal music is fast paced while the Hawaiian music is very lively. American Indian music often has a haunting quality that stirs the soul. Similarly, the Nordic tribes or the Arabic ones have their own music that can be very spontaneous and emotive. If you love dancing to simple, nature based music, tribal music is best for you.

Hip-hop is a rather new kid on the block in comparison to the aforementioned veterans of music. However, it has caught the fancy of the young generation to a huge extent. Low waist pants, gesturing moves, a cool attitude and rhythmic word play ? all come together to give a special quality to hip hop music. If you want to be considered hip and cool, you may want to consider a number of hip hop songs while you download music on your iPod.

Another famous music genre is Rock. Long hair, a guitar in hand and a loud voice are the main features of a rocker. The kind of frenzy a rock band evokes is hard to emulate. The pulsating music and aggressive moves make this music, one of the most popular on earth. If you are a member of a rock band, you have a ticket to instant fame.

You can also opt for the rustic and definitely much softer music genre called country music. Other musical forms are jazz which is one of the most soulful categories, blues which as the name suggests specializes in sad numbers, dance which you will love if you work as a disc jockey, folk which is another age old form of music and many others.



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Steve Pak asked:


Do you like music? Whether it is rock, jazz, classical country, rap, easy listening or polka, music is important in our everyday lives. It can bring out a rainbow of emotions in us. The slow, soulful playing of violins can remind us of past loved ones. A strong beat can give us energy and motivation before starting an important task. And so-called “elevator music” helps to calm our nerves while waiting in doctors’ waiting rooms. Regardless of your background, such as being Amish and living in Amish Country Ohio, music is a part of your life. But how important is music to our babies?

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, for whom the Baby Mozart Music Festival DVD is named after, has become one of the most celebrated composers of all time. However, his musical achievements as a child are equally amazing. At the age of just three-years-old, Mozart was already playing the clavichord (basically, a small piano). One year later, he was already writing short pieces of music!

Signs of Mozart’s musical genius continued during his childhood. At just five-years-old, he gave his first concert at an Austrian university. At seven-years-old, Mozart once picked up a violin and played perfectly part of a musical piece that was new to him. Amazingly, Mozart had never had a single formal violin lessons! Young Mozart toured Europe for three years, and was featured in various concerts for kings and queens. When he returned to Austria, he wrote his first opera at the age of 11-years-old!

Will your child be the next Mozart? Well, whether or not your child is Amish and living in Amish Country Ohio, music is nonetheless important in his or her life. Here are some reasons why nurturing early childhood music is so vital:

1. Music can help to develop a child’s fine motor skills (i.e. using small muscle groups to play a piano) and gross motor skills (i.e. using large muscle groups to dance). In addition, music improves vocal, speaking and listening skills.

2. Rhythm and pitch are part of your child’s natural development. Sometimes children

would rather sing than listen, skip than walk, and dance instead of standing still. Is this normal? It is, and here is proof:

? A fetus is already aware of the heartbeat of his or her mother.

? For centuries, music and lullabies have become standard methods for helping babies to fall asleep.

? In what experts refer to as “The Mozart Effect,” exposure to classical music can have a significantly positive effect on humans’ physical and mental health. Several studies have proven this theory. And this beneficial effect of classical music influences not only adults, but children as well.

3. The sharing of musical instruments and playing in a “band” can help toddlers to learn important social skills.

4. Music can have an important influence on the development of a child’s brain, particularly through the age of six-years-old. During these years, the most significant brain development occurs.

5. Infants and toddlers tend to be less inhibited about making errors, than older children are. After children start elementary school, they are required to learn the “correct” way to sing a song or play an instrument. However, pre-school children can have jam session on a toy grand piano, without being worried about hitting the right keys. As a parent, try to grin and bear the sour notes.

Not every child can become a musical genius. However, regardless of whether or not you are Amish and living in Amish Country Ohio, music is fundamental in nurturing your child’s physical, mental, and social development. It is more than just music to his or her ears.



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Victoria Hemmingway asked:


The fetus can already hear while still inside the mother?s womb.? He hears his mother?s heartbeats, the grumbling of her stomach, and sudden loud noises like a car blaring or a drum banging.? Once he hears a sudden loud sound, the mother usually feels a perceptible sudden jerking movement in her womb.? And when the baby is delivered to the world, he is assaulted by a myriad of noises he has never heard of.

The Effects of Music to Infants

Like stated above, babies inside the womb can hear sounds.? If his mother is fond of listening to soft music or humming to her baby, that same kind of music and the same kind of humming produces a calming effect to her infant when he comes out into the world.? If he becomes fussy, the mother usually hums the familiar tune and the baby soon calms down.? Hearing is also one of the baby?s ways in recognizing his mother as he turns towards her familiar voice when she speaks to him.

Another importance of music to infants, aside from its calming effects, is that it stimulates the baby?s brain, allowing him to recognize different tones and pitches.? Take for example the Mozart Effect.? It has been studied that infants who listen to music played by Mozart greatly enhances the baby?s IQ as the music helps in the formation of neural bridges in his brain.

Toys for His Brain Development

There are so many toys that produce musical tones and notes that can further aid in the development of his young brain.? For one, there are the musical mobiles that are placed above the baby?s crib.? Once you wind up the toy, it starts producing melodic sounds as well as starts spinning.? Both the spinning action as well as the music captures the baby?s attention that pretty soon his brain is recognizing the music and the shapes and colors of the toys hanging above him.? Some mobile also produces soothing lullaby songs that lull your baby to sleep, teaching him how to comfort himself.

Toys that produce music also play an important role not only in his hearing development but also in his eye-hand coordination.? You will notice that his attention will be drawn towards the toys that play a song, and soon, he will be reaching for that toy, further aiding him in the development of his motor functions.

You have to make sure though that the toys you will be giving him is always age appropriate.



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Jim Hartley asked:


Parents can support and encourage their children’s successful learning by helping them create a positive study environment. Here are some of the ideas we give to parents of children who have attended SuperCamp, our summer enrichment program for youth and teens. Children spend a lot of time studying at home (we hope!) so why not help them take responsibility for their study space and make it work for them? With just a little effort it can actually be a positive, appealing area where they feel comfortable and motivated.

In all our Quantum Learning teachings we build an awareness of an important concept? we use it at SuperCamp and we use it in our teacher training and in-school programs?and it’s also worth remembering when creating a positive study environment at home. Everything Speaks means that everything in the environment sends a message that either enhances or detracts from learning. Think about tidy vs. cluttered chaos, light and airy vs. dim and dark, inviting and functional vs. any old place.

Location

As they say in real estate, location is everything. Find a place that’s quiet and free of distractions?so, if possible, not the family room or the dining room table! The ideal is a defined study area in your child’s bedroom.

Furnishings

Make sure home study areas have good lighting (ideally, natural light and a lamp), shelves for reference books and supplies, and a computer, if needed. Obviously, they’ll also need a desk or table with space for their study materials as well as a work area that’s not cramped. And a comfortable “sit-upright” chair will help them stay alert and focused.

Resources

Make sure your kids don’t have to waste valuable study time looking for a pen! Help them stock up on pens, paper, and pencils, and have them all within reach, not just somewhere in their room! Also make sure they have whatever reference material they need.

Music

Some classical music is “brain friendly” and enhances the study environment. Baroque music helps students to focus and to access their most resourceful learning state. The music optimizes the functions of the brain that store and retrieve information. Many (most?!) children will think that their own music is best, but try to convince them to try baroque?they may well notice that it makes their study time easier, and want more! Suggest that they try some Bach, Handel, or Vivaldi while they’re studying and save their own music for breaks. If your kids are resistant, a first step might be to suggest that they choose music that does not have words?words interfere with the part of their brain they need to study effectively, even if they’re not consciously listening to the words!

Affirmative signs

Positive signs will remind your child’s subconscious mind of his or her potential to learn. Help your child create an inspiring atmosphere by making some signs?use lots of color (our brains love color!) and the following ideas to get you started:

- I BELIEVE IN MYSELF

- EVERYTHING I DO DESERVES MY BEST EFFORT

- LEARNING IS FUN AND NATURAL!

- EVERY CHALLENGE OFFERS A GIFT

- I AM UNIQUE AND VALUABLE

- I AM RESPONSIBLE FOR WHAT I CREATE

- I CAN LEARN THIS!

- EVERYONE HAS THE RESOURCES TO BE SUCCESSFUL

Another good idea is to have an achievement area (a bulletin board would work well) for awards, papers with good grades, and lists of accomplishments. A bulletin board would also work well for posting study schedules and reminders of project due dates.

Homework support

Your show of interest, support, and guidance in helping your child create a positive study environment at home will go a long way toward establishing great homework habits. It’s also a good idea to create and agree on homework guidelines so you can continue to work together toward success. Why not have a special lunch together and set up a plan that will work for both of you? You could also consider a reward for consistently following “the plan.”

- Homework time: Sometimes it’s not easy because of extracurricular activities, but try to define a specific time each day that homework will be started.

- Distractions: Fewer distractions equals more productive time. Make a plan with your child about the timing for phone calls, internet “browsing”, and play time.

- Breaks: Breaks are important. Research shows that students remember more of the information learned at “beginnings” and “endings” of study periods. Thus, better retention is experienced when frequent breaks are taken. A ten-minute break after each hour of study time will enhance learning. (For younger children who don’t have such long study periods, a five-minute break every half hour will work well.)

- Flexibility: You will both need to agree to be flexible?sometimes homework will have to start a bit later, sometimes a family commitment will mean starting a little earlier, sometimes a break may need to be slightly longer than five or ten minutes. Flexibility keeps you and your child connected!



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Chris Peace asked:


If you’ve ever had the opportunity to go to an art museum when children were present, you know that most of them aren’t interested. The same is true for classical music concerts, literature, or anything that was never shown on MTV or some other cable channel. That’s a shame because these parts of our culture have much to offer them. The good news is that you can use arts and crafts for kids to encourage your children to have a greater appreciation of art - one that will last a lifetime.

Talk about Your Child’s Artwork

One way to encourage children to have an interest in the arts is by taking an interest in their art. When you dismiss their creative efforts with arts and crafts for kids, you are sending them a message that these things are not important. If you don’t care about their efforts, why should they care about the efforts of dead strangers?

Instead, when your child shows you something he or she has created using arts and crafts for kids, talk about the results. Ask your child questions about the color or the subject. Treat their artwork as the work of a creative mind because that’s exactly what it is. Then when you go to the art museum discuss the same types of questions about the art there. Your child will be much more engaged in the conversation.

Appreciate Art from Your Child’s Perspective

Children are generally very practical when it comes to art. If you’ve seen their creations using arts and crafts for kids, you know most of them stick to realism. That’s why they may not always be impressed with some of the art you’re going to encounter in the local museum. If you child dismisses an important work of art as ugly or stupid, don’t chastise him or her. Instead, ask for concrete reasons for the dismissal. Say, “What don’t you like about it?” instead of “Don’t say that! This is a valuable piece of art!”

Remember that not everyone is entitled to an opinion and that includes your child. The more he or she feels able to express that opinion the more creative he or she will become and the less likely he or she is to hate the museum.

Learning to Love Other Types of Art

While arts and crafts for kids can help your child gain an appreciation of artwork, there are other ways to instill a love of other types of art. For example, if you want your child to love literature, don’t hand him or her a dusty book. Instead, read to them from the book or watch a well-done film version or listen to the story on tape. These alternative approaches will make the literature more accessible to children and you can help explain what’s happening step by step.

Learning to Love Art

One of the best parts of arts and crafts for kids is that they can give your children a reason to love the best of the world’s culture and art while possibly giving them the skills to make their own contribution.



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Abhishek Agarwal asked:


Asperger Syndrome As A Milder Form Of Autism

There is a difference between autism and Asperger Syndrome. Language is not affected in Asperger Syndrome, and since the symptoms are not obvious, it is difficult to pin down as a disorder. Also, it does not develop in early life, but seems to come on at a later stage in life. It is difficult to deal with, therefore if either your child or you find difficulty in communicating or suffer from behavioral attitudes in a social environment, you should consider it necessary to visit your family doctor who will be able to assist you.

There have been a number of distinguished and successful people who have suffered from Asperger Syndrome. According to historians, even Mozart and Einstein had been victims of this disorder. But, at the same time, the fact is that it is not to be associated with mental retardation. The people suffering from this disorder are usually highly intelligent and have keen mental faculties. Just as an autistic child struggles to interact in a group, a person with Asperger Syndrome finds it extremely difficult to adjust to a social environment. Children can be victims of unfair treatment in school if this disorder is left unchecked. In fact, once a child knows that he has Asperger Syndrome, he is aware that he can get help which is a relief to him instead of feeling that he is different from everyone else. So, correct diagnosis can help all around.

Symptoms Of Asperger Syndrome To Watch Out For

There are symptoms that are similar to autism, namely, being in a confused state when in a social gathering. Another symptom is the inability to deal with change ? the person would like everything to be the same ? a sudden change of scene is extremely disturbing and may cause anxiety.

Sometimes a person with Asperger Syndrome may be impolite without necessarily meaning to be that way ? he has difficulty in judging other people?s mental processes. Another symptom is focusing on interests that capture his attention, but those with Asperger Syndrome are more controlled than their autistic counterpart.

If you see yourself with any of these symptoms or if you find them in a family member or close friend, you should seek medical help, and your doctor will be able to assist you with advice, and if need be, refer you to a specialist in the field. He will also recommend that you study all you can about the disorder and thus gain an insight into the symptoms and how it can be treated. It is best to get timely help, so that you can move on with your life.



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Colin Ellison asked:


Unfortunately there is tremendous stigma associated with diapers. Most people view diapers as babyish. This is the main reason most older children,adolescents,teenagers,and adults are reluctant to wear them to bed. In fact most of them wouldn’t be caught dead in a diaper. Older children,adolescents,and teenagers are at a point in their lives where they want to become more independent and in their minds diapers represent a stage in their lives when they were more dependent on their parents. In their view wearing diapers to bed is regressing. Although I sympathize with this view,to a large extent I think it misses the mark.

One of the hallmarks of independence is the ability to take care of one’s self-this includes managing health problems. I feel that by wearing diapers to bed the youngster is taking responsibility for the situation which is a very mature thing to do and is what adults do. In fact it could be argued that the youngster is acting more like a baby by not wearing diapers to bed. By not wearing the appropriate protection to bed they are absolving themselves of responsibility and they are in effect saying they are helpless to control the situation.

We all know what the function of wearing a diaper is,so it shouldn’t make a difference whether you’re 2 or 102 the purpose is still the same. Unfortunately when you mention the word diaper to most people the image that immediately comes to mind is that of a baby. Most people think that a diaper and plastic pants are something to be outgrown like a high chair or a bib(of course they make bibs for adults also so even this image is wrong).

Due to the stigma surrounding diaper use in older children,teenagers,adolescents, and adults the diaper manufacturers seem to be placing a stronger emphasis in many cases on the appearance of the garments rather than functionality or as artists might say they’re emphasizing form over functionality. Tying in with this concept is the emphasis on discretion. Some of the ways the manufacturers seem to be doing this are by the introduction of underwear like products,garments that are less bulky so they can’t be noticed under clothes, and the design of diapers with a cloth like(also known as a nonwoven) outer layer.

Since a significant number of people suffer from daytime incontinence I can certainly understand this but there are a large number of people who suffer from bed-wetting as well, and in these particular cases we should use whatever type of garments are necessary and not be concerned with how a product looks or its image since it’s only worn at night anyway. Granted there are companies that manufacture diapers for both daytime and nighttime use but I think that the stigma surrounding diapers has colored the diaper manufacturers in a negative way and this might prevent them from manufacturing,marketing, and selling products that truly meet the customers needs.

As far as the introduction of the underwear like products are concerned I think these serve more of a psychological than a protective function for the bed wetter because for all intents and purposes they’re diapers. Because they pull on like underwear as opposed to taping on this seems to help a person more psychologically. While this may be the case in many situations they don’t work as well as diapers.

The same with the introduction of diapers with a cloth like outer covering. Again this is an example of a product that is more underwear like as opposed to diapers with a plastic outer covering. Of course there is the possibility that these types of diapers could have been introduced because they’re more cost effective for the manufacturers to produce,they’re more breathable and therefore presumably more comfortable to wear,and they’re theoretically healthier for the individual’s skin,or it could be for all these reasons. However considering that there are companies that make both styles of diapers I suspect that the introduction of this style is due more to aesthetic reasons and that the diaper manufacturers feel these will be less embarrassing to wear. Furthermore some people have commented that the diapers with a cloth like outer layer are actually more uncomfortable to wear and in fact provide less effective protection than the disposable diapers with a plastic outer covering.

I’ve heard of cases where people have used the disposable diapers with a cloth like outer cover for bed-wetting and leaked right through them. While this doesn’t happen with everybody, people should have the option of buying diapers with a plastic outer covering if that’s what they prefer and if that’s what works best for them. A number of people seem to be disappointed with the fact that most diaper manufacturers are moving away from making diapers with a plastic outer covering. Perhaps customers should write or call the diaper companies and complain about this. In many cases companies do respond to consumer criticism.

As I said before people should have a wide variety of products to choose from due the fact that people have different needs and preferences in this area and I’m not against people using pull-ups,disposable diapers with a cloth like outer covering, or other products of a similar nature if that’s what they prefer and if they offer adequate protection for the user however as mentioned previously this isn’t always the case. What I am against is this emphasis on discretion and image at all costs as opposed to manufacturing,marketing, and selling products that will most effectively manage a person’s bed-wetting.

The trade-off between image and protection is made by large amount of people unfortunately and I believe that many of these people will suffer as a result. To me I would think it would be much more satisfying to use a product that might be considered “babyish” by most people but offers better protection than to use a product that is considered more “dignified” but that leaves the wearer and bedding drenched. In a situation such as this a person has to ask him or herself how much is it worth to them to wear a product that has a better image versus a product that will offer more effective protection and therefore provide more comfort.

People who are reluctant to wear diapers to bed because most people feel they are strictly for babies need to keep in mind the old saw “what is popular is not always right,what is right is not always popular.” There was a time when most people thought the earth was flat,slavery was an acceptable practice,and the sun revolved around the earth but we now know these views are incorrect. I believe that in time we’ll become more informed(and as a result more enlightened) about this issue also. Furthermore there are plenty of companies that manufacture and sell plastic pants,pin-on cloth diapers,and disposable tape-on diapers for older children,adolescents,teenagers,and adults that wet the bed so this is a very common problem. This is another thing that people need to consider.

Most pediatricians,child psychologists,and other medical professionals advise against using diapers in older bed wetters because they feel it might hurt the youngster’s self-esteem and self-image. In fact one book I read said the following- “I’ve known parents that have kept their children in diapers at night as late as 7,8,9,and even 12 years of age but wearing diapers makes a child feel like a baby” and “diapers are a symbol of babyishness.” Maybe there are some children and teenagers who actually want to wear diapers to bed but they feel that their parents will look down on them for requesting this because the youngster realizes that most people feel diapers are for babies only. And since many books and other sources suggest that only babies wear diapers that’s probably why there is such reluctance to use them for bed-wetting. In other words it’s possible that many people feel ashamed about wearing diapers to bed not because they actually feel that way but because the professionals do and they believe that they should feel this way also.

This wouldn’t be the first time we are cowed by what the experts say as Stanley Milgram’s experiment and other psychology experiments so vividly demonstrate. Parents could feel the same way also-they might want to use diapers for their bed wetter or want to grant the child’s request to wear diapers to bed but they too might be influenced by what the authorities say.

This raises an interesting question-is the fact that diapers have such a negative image by most of society the result of assimilating the opinions of most medical professionals,or is the negative opinion of diapers by most medical professionals influenced by how the public feels-the proverbial chicken or egg debate. How much of our attitudes regarding diaper use by older bed wetters is influenced by cultural attitudes,parents and other relatives,medical professionals,and other factors?How and to what degree do these factors interact with each other?I think it would be interesting to study this issue in depth.

By gaining better insight into how these ideas developed we might have a deeper understanding of why we have such negative attitudes regarding this issue which in turn might significantly reduce the stigma associated with using diapers to manage bed-wetting in older children,adolescents,teenagers,and adults.

To get back to self-image older children and teenagers are particularly sensitive and concerned with self-image and the image that diapers conjure up in most peoples minds are babies. Commercials also stress this. For example the ad for Huggies pull-ups has the following motto-”I’m a big kid now!” the implication being that only babies wear diapers. I have heard urologists,pediatricians,and other medical professionals(who in my opinion should be more sensitive and also should know better regarding this issue) claim that putting an older child,teen,or adult in diapers at night makes them feel undignified but to me it’s more undignified waking up in pee soaked sheets and clothing!

It would be interesting to see how developmental psychologists feel about this issue. We tend to have certain preconceived ideas about our child’s growth process and if they deviate from that in the slightest we become alarmed. For example children should talk by a certain age,they should read by a certain age,they should walk by a certain age,etc. And while it is true that we should have reasonable parameters established for theses situations in order to rule out the possibility of cognitive and/or physical problems,the same reasoning shouldn’t be applied in my opinion to the use of diapers and plastic pants for the management of bed-wetting in older children,adolescents,teenagers,and adults.

Frequently we feel pressured to use socially accepted methods to resolve various medical issues but in some cases it’s a good idea to consider alternative approaches and this may entail using methods that a large majority consider unorthodox or not accepted by the mainstream. A case in point is the following. In the May-June 2007 issue of AARP magazine there was an article on Naomi Judd. It talked about how the traditional treatments that were used by her doctors to treat he hepatitis were not working so she tried various non traditional methods which are not fully accepted by western medicine such as biofeedback,aromatherapy,and meditation. It turns out that these methods worked.

I think that the use of diapers to manage bed-wetting in older children,adolescents,teenagers,and adults is another example of a management technique that is not fully accepted by most medical professionals and the public. Just like Naomi Judd had the courage to try alternative approaches to manage her disease people must have the courage to use alternative methods to manage bed-wetting.

I think we need to reevaluate our attitudes on diaper use for older bed wetters for two reasons. As mentioned previously in some cases the pull-ups and “Goodnites” aren’t as effective at protecting both the youngster and the bed. The second reason is that it makes the person who has no other option but to wear diapers to bed feel they are somehow inadequate. This in turn can lead to feelings of low self-esteem,low self-worth,and subsequent depression.

In going over the literature and opinions of many professionals regarding diaper use in older bed wetters one thing sticks out in my mind-the status quo has a negative opinion of diaper use. The literature and opinions are very consistent regarding this issue-most people believe you shouldn’t keep a bed wetter in diapers past the age of 4 or 5.After that the majority of people feel you should use pull-ups or “Goodnites” only.

It’s my firm opinion that we have a double standard regarding this particular form of incontinence. For instance we seem to have no problem with the use of diapers for developmentally disabled children,the elderly with incontinence,and people suffering from disorders such as cerebral palsy,multiple sclerosis,Alzheimer’s disease,Parkinson’s disease,or other ailments, but if you suggest putting an older child,adolescent,teen,or adult with a bed-wetting problem in a diaper people think you’re barbaric and should be driven out of town on a rail.

There is a saying that goes something like this- “Nothing is good or bad but thinking makes it so.” While this is not the case for everything-torture,murder,rape,and stealing are inherently bad-there is nothing intrinsically shameful about wearing diapers to bed. Wearing diapers to bed after the age of 4 or 5 is considered shameful because we have been conditioned to think this way for years. It would be interesting to see how other cultures feel about this issue but unfortunately I suspect they feel the same way we do. From what I understand the Japanese,British,and most Europeans are even more uptight about this issue.

There are many different reasons I feel most parents don’t use diapers to manage bed-wetting with both teenagers and older children. The next few sections discuss this. I believe that one of the reasons for our negative reactions toward older children being in diapers at night stems from attitudes left over from potty training. Many parents try to motivate their child during this stage with praise such as “we’re so proud of you,you’re becoming a big kid now!” While these parents might have good intentions(of course we all know the road to hell is paved with good intentions),unfortunately they use the same approach with an older child or teenager who still needs diapers at night .Children and teens still in diapers at night see the commercials for Huggies pull-ups and might remember what their parents told them about diapers during their potty training years and then feel ashamed about using diapers for their bed-wetting. In addition many parents try to motivate their child to achieve night dryness by claiming that only babies wear diapers. I think this puts a lot of pressure on a child and most likely will exacerbate the situation.

Children grow at different rates-just as some children walk sooner than others,talk sooner than others,and learn to read sooner than others,some need diapers at night later than others. In my opinion a different approach is warranted. The parents need to encourage their children by letting them know that peoples bodies develop at different rates and there is no shame in using diapers to manage the bed-wetting. I would remind the child that people of all ages have problems with wetting the bed and many of them also wear diapers during the night.

A second reason for peoples negative feelings toward older children still being in diapers could be the fact that parents used to use cloth diapers and rubber pants for their babies. This meant lots of work for parents especially before the advent of washing machines. In this circumstance parents felt compelled to get their children out of diapers as soon as possible. If an older child had to wear diapers to bed for bed-wetting the parents might have been upset about the prospect of having to spend years washing diapers and rubber pants. Subsequently many parents used the shaming approach to try to get them out of diapers.

Over the years we’ve become more enlightened about this issue(although we still have a long way to go in my opinion) and most people realize that this approach doesn’t work and in many cases can make the situation worse. That being said the people who had the bed-wetting problem when they were younger remember their parents using this approach with them and they might use this technique with their children also.

A third reason for our negative attitudes regarding this stems from our attitudes toward various milestones in a person’s life. Most cultures have certain expectations of when we’re supposed to achieve certain things-we’re supposed to get a driver’s license by a certain age(I know a woman who is 24 who still does not have a driver’s license),we’re supposed to graduate from high school by a certain age,etc. Nowhere are our cultural expectations more deep-seated than with bed-wetting and diaper use and if a person needs diapers past the age that is considered socially acceptable by most people we instill in them the idea that they should feel ashamed.

To get back to parental attitudes toward diaper use I wonder if one of the reasons most parents are so adamant about getting their child or teenager out of night diapers is that a part of them feels ashamed about it. It’s a very competitive world out there and every flaw a child might have is looked at as something that must be hidden or fixed at all costs. The prevailing attitude among many parents is that their kids must be perfect at everything because any sign of imperfection is viewed by society as a sign of weakness. There is immense pressure for parents to make sure their children go to the best schools,to participate in numerous after school activities because it looks good on their records,play sports,etc. Imagine if it got out that 18 year old Susan is still in diapers and plastic pants at night? So much for going to Harvard!

Parents are also competitive with one another and unfortunately some hyper competitive parents use their children as pawns either consciously or subconsciously in this competition. They feel that any flaw the kids might have is a reflection on their parenting skills and might make them look bad. “What would our friends and neighbors think if they found out our 15 year old son still wears diapers and plastic pants at night? How embarrassing!” We need to grow up! Everybody has some flaws-that’s what makes us human! The only thing we can do is accentuate our strengths and do the best we can to work on our flaws and try to improve ourselves but we shouldn’t obsess about our weaknesses.

A fourth reason for our negative feelings concerning using diapers to manage bed-wetting has to do with our emphasis on self-image. Although this is a universal concept this concept is especially important in the U.S. Most of our ideas of self-image unfortunately tend to be rather superficial. We’re very concerned with status,power,image,and success and these four things are inextricably linked in many people’s minds with having a strong self-image. A large number of people believe that wearing diapers represents the opposite of all four of the qualities in which people feel a strong self-image consists of .In particular a significant number of people believe wearing diapers represents a feeling of being powerless,no doubt due to the fact that most people associate diapers with babies. Many people of course view babies as the paragon of powerlessness. Because of this view a large number of people develop a negative self-image if they have to use diapers for bed-wetting.

A fifth reason is that some people believe that by putting the child in diapers for bed-wetting you in essence “are giving them permission to wet the bed” or that “it’s okay to wet the bed.” Believe it or not I’ve heard some people say this and I think it’s one of the most ridiculous things I’ve ever heard. Since the purpose of having the child or teenager wear diapers at night is to keep the bed dry I think it sends the opposite message-that it’s not okay to wet the bed. In no way can putting a child or teenager in a diaper for a problem they can’t control be construed as “it’s okay to wet the bed.” I think it sends the message that the parents are going to make their children as comfortable as possible until a cure is found. Or if the treatment options currently available don’t work or are not viable for some reason, they’re going to have them wear diapers because it’s more healthy for the child and it makes them more comfortable.

Diapers should not be the first option used for bed-wetting, but by the same token they should be used if all alternatives have been exhausted or are not desirable or feasible. To me diapers should be viewed no differently than sanitary napkins for women.

A sixth reason why most people are so against older bed wetters remaining in diapers at night is group think. People in general want to conform and with that tendency comes the fact that people go along with the prevailing wisdom without questioning its validity. They internalize it and it becomes so ingrained in their thinking that they can’t imagine anything else. We’re like fish in water-it becomes so much a part of their life and environment that they don’t even notice it. The fact that the majority believe in something is no guarantee that it’s right. History shows that in many cases it is the minority or a sole visionary who is right and the majority wrong.

Finally we tend to put too much credence in what experts say without questioning its validity. I ‘m not suggesting that we shouldn’t listen to anything the experts say but we should keep the following points in mind: experts frequently have conflicting opinions which could mean either that they in fact have opposite opinions on certain issues or that the issue is complex and they need to undertake more research in order to make a definitive conclusion or come to a consensus.

Second, there have been many situations where the experts were later shown to be wrong. Childcare is no exception. For example it was originally thought that playing Mozart would have a positive effect on an unborn child’s brain development. This theory known as the “Mozart Effect” was later shown to be false(who knows-after further research and an improved understanding of cognition they might change their minds again-this has also happened with certain things) With this in mind it’s conceivable that our current opinions about using diapers to manage bed-wetting are wrong also( I strongly believe that this is the case and that our thinking on this issue is completely misguided) although with how entrenched our attitudes our regarding this issue it might take a generation or more to overcome this inertia and reconsider our current attitudes concerning this situation.

A seventh reason why most parents use pull-ups or “Goodnites” instead of diapers for their youngster’s bed-wetting may be that they’re not aware of the different brands and types of products out there to manage bed-wetting. As mentioned previously there are many choices available to manage one’s bed-wetting. Also some styles might not be used as much because of generational differences. For example,although some younger parents use pin-on diapers and plastic pants for their babies, most younger parents are probably not familiar with pin-on diapers and plastic pants since they’re not as popular as they once were. The parents who do use pin-on cloth diapers and plastic pants for their babies might continue to use them if their child or children who wet the bed since the parents are familiar with them but parents who don’t use them or are not familiar with them might not use them unless their friends,relatives,or other people recommend them. Second,even if parents are aware of the different choices out there to manage their child or teenager’s bed-wetting it’s very time consuming sorting through all this information in order to make an informed decision about the best type of product to buy. There’s a bewildering array of products out there to deal with bed-wetting and it can be quite daunting learning about all the different products out there.

That’s where the role of medical professionals comes in to play. I think urologists, pediatricians,and other medical professionals should have some basic knowledge of the different types of diapers available to manage bed-wetting and the advantages and disadvantages of each. While they obviously can’t have an encyclopedic knowledge of this they can apprise their patients of the basic styles of cloth diapers such as as pin-on diapers,pull-ons,snap-ons,and Velcro; and disposable diapers such as tape-on diapers and pull-ons.

They can also inform them about the different types of waterproof pants such as plastic pants and the different types of waterproof sheets. If possible they should also have a list of several companies that sell both kinds of diapers and a list of websites(such as bed-wetting forums, incontinence organizations,and other resources) .These organizations can provide further information not listed in the physicians office such as additional companies that manufacture and sell incontinence products,information about bed-wetting support groups,etc.

I was reading that in the U.S. and other countries they have wound,ostomy,and continence nurses. From what I understand wound,ostomy,and continence nurses(abbreviated wocn nurses)perform the following functions: they inform patients of the different types and brands of products available to manage incontinence;the different ways some products may effect the skin such as causing diaper rash and/or other problems; what types and brands of skincare products to use if this is the case- Desitin,A&D ointment,powder,petroleum jelly such as the Vaseline brand,lotions,etc.;the pros and cons of different absorbent products;in addition to the different companies that sell incontinence products in order to help guide the patient in making a decision about what type of products to purchase based on their current needs.

I think this is a good thing that we have these types of specialists-after all it’s very time consuming trying to find out this information on your own whereas a nurse or other medical professional specializing in bed-wetting and other incontinence issues can find the information more rapidly and efficiently due to the resources they have at their disposal. It’s my belief that if more people become aware of the different diapering methods out there to manage bed-wetting more people might use these products thereby decreasing the stigma associated with older children,teenagers,adolescents,and adults wearing overnight diapers. The medical community can play a big role in the reduction of this stigma by informing both parents and patients of these options.

A second way to reduce the stigma associated with using diapers to manage bed-wetting in older children,adolescents,teenagers,and adults is to have talk show hosts discuss this on their shows. I think this would be a perfect topic to discuss on Oprah. Due to the nature and depth of the material she could make it a two or more part series on her show. She could invite experts on bed-wetting to discuss what it is,the age groups effected,adult bed-wetting,different cures and treatments for it and the advantages and disadvantages of each,the best ways to cope psychologically if it can’t be cured,and the different types of protection to manage bed-wetting.

As far as protection is concerned the experts would discuss the different diapering options available to manage bed-wetting and the advantage and disadvantages of each. Some of the options discussed on this segment would be cloth diapers such as pin-on,pull-on,and other types, disposable diapers such as tape-on and pull-on,the various types of waterproof pants such as plastic pants,and the various types of waterproof sheets. I think it’s important to mention all these options for two reasons. One, it’ll make parents aware of options to manage their youngter’s bed-wetting they might not have known about or if they did know about them they might not have considered them before. Two,by doing this more people might consider using these different types of garments thereby decreasing the stigma surrounding them.

Oprah has a lot of clout and influence and I believe that people such as her(and other celebrities) could help lessen the negative image of bed-wetting and diaper use. I guarantee after this episode of Oprah diapers would sell like hot cakes- department stores such as Walmart and Target and food stores such as Giant couldn’t keep them on the shelf .By both doctors and celebrities recommending diapers this might have a snowball effect. For instance someone who uses diapers for their bed wetter because doctors or celebrities recommended them might in turn recommend using diapers to their friend/friends who have children with bed-wetting problems thereby increasing the number of people who use diapers to manage bed-wetting. The subsequent increase in the number of people using diapers to manage bed-wetting will do more to decrease the stigma associated with using diapers for bed-wetting.

We as a society have matured as far as many medical issues are concerned. For example there is less stigma surrounding mental illness and other medical problems,but unfortunately bed-wetting and the use of diapers to manage it is an issue that remains taboo. We are very stubborn regarding this issue. Most people for a variety of reasons do not want to budge regarding this issue. I suspect that in the future we will loosen up about this issue to a certain extent,but I also think there will always be people who view this in a negative light no matter how persuasively we argue the merits of wearing diapers for bed-wetting.

One of the major reasons for the stigma of diaper use in older bed wetters has to do with our thoughts and feelings on the issue of dignity. Many older children,adolescents,and teenagers feel undignified about wearing diapers to bed. To a large extent our concept of dignity is shaped either consciously or subconsciously by people we admire such as sports figures,entertainers,and heroes. We have this idealized image of them and we tend to extrapolate that image to all aspects of their personal lives. Because of this perfect image we have of them we couldn’t imagine them having a problem like bed-wetting. Of course we must remember that these individuals are human also and are subject to the various health problems that everyone else has. In fact many famous stars such as Suzanne Sommers, Johnny Carson,and Michael Landon(to name a few) experienced bed-wetting when they were growing up.

I also feel that are ideas about dignity go hand in hand to a large degree with our feelings about independence-being able to take care of yourself and run your own life. As mentioned earlier diapers represent to many people a return(at least symbolically) to a state when their parents took care of them which is a blow to a child or teenager’s ego. Adults who have to wear diapers to bed also feel this shame. Many people find it very difficult to get past this feeling of shame and unfortunately some people can never get past it. Although most people find it undignified wearing diapers and plastic pants for bed-wetting,personally I think it would make a person feel more undignified laying all night in pee soaked bedding and pajamas!

Dignity also relates to a feeling of control which in turn relates to are sense of self-esteem and how self-confident we feel about ourselves. When we are self-confident we have a feeling that we are in control of our lives and that in turn makes us feel more dignified. Again by wearing diapers to bed we feel a lack of control which in turn makes us feel less self-confident. This in turn erodes our feeling of dignity. This is the case with many other medical problems as well. For example a person who has to wear a cast for a broken leg or a person who has to take insulin shots for diabetes might feel either consciously or subconsciously that he or she doesn’t have control. The cast or needle represents the feeling of a lack of control. The same is true for wearing diapers and plastic pants to bed. Of course every person is different in the degree in which they have these feelings and their ability to overcome these feelings.

One thing that we must realize however is that we should not be defined by our illness. The fact that a person has to wear diapers to bed is only a part of who that person is. A person’s dignity should be measured by the fortitude they exhibit in dealing with life’s adversities and how well they treat other people. If a person has to wear diapers to bed and they deal with it with a sense of grace and humor then the fact that he or she needs diapers at night should not detract one iota from their dignity.



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