Customer / Patients violent behavior towards nurses in outpatient department in Dubai hospital

Introduction

The research proposal topic is patient /customer violent toward nurses in outpatient department. This research will use both qualitative and quantitative research approach in order to conduct the research in an effective manner.

Research Objectives 

The research objectives for this research are as follows:

·       To identify and determine the relationship between the patients and nurses in outpatient department.

·       To identify the causes of patients violent and aggressive behavior of patients with nurses.

·       To provide solutions to minimize the violent behavior of patients with nurses.

·       To determine the level or extent this aggressive behavior is causing problems to nurses working in the outpatient department.

·       To determine the incidence and happening of violence towards nurses.

·       To compare the verbal and physical violence towards nurses. 

Management Dilemma 

Why the incident of patient / customer violent to ward nurse in outpatient department increasing?

Management question

How we can reduce the incident of patient /customer violent to ward nurses in outpatient department?

Research Questions 

 Q1 what is the reason of patient /customer violent behavior toward nurses in outpatient department?

Q2 what are the nurses’ levels of knowledge on handling violent patients?

Q3 what are the precautionary measures that could be initiated to reduce the violent and aggressive behavior of patients?

Q4 what are the consequences and affects hospital will be expecting because of this aggressive behavior in the future?

Hypothesis 

The hypothesis for above research is as follows:

“The aggressive and violent behavior of patients towards nurses causing serious threats to nurses lives”.

Literature Review

According to Brennan (2000) violence is a complicated word to define as violence can be defined as the happening or an occurrence of an event in which a person is verbally abused, threatened and beaten by a patient or member of the public (Health and Safety Commission Advisory Committee , 1997). Rippon (2000) suggested the definition of an aggression which was provided by Berkowitz (1993) an aggression can be described as a conduct and behavior in which a planned and proposed action is taken in order to damage or harm someone physically or psychologically.

A violent and an aggressive or a brutal conduct or behavior point towards nursing staff by patients in outpatient department is becoming more concern and severe issue for nurses as well as the hospital management and this issue needs more focus and attention as the violent incidents and behavior have increased over a period of time that shows the increased trend of a violence which is prevailing in the society (Rippon, 2000). There was a case study of a large teaching hospital in Ireland as 36 members of staff were questioned and the results showed that 63% of incidents and 29% of physical beatings were not reported. In today’s scenario the trend has changed as nurses are more likely to report 71% after ten years and decrease of 20% among nurses have been found (Rose, 1997).

According to Brennan (2000) the factor of violence has been perceived and realized as a part of nurse’s job as the author stressed the need and demand of zero tolerance in a hospital when dealing with violence. The inefficiency of an effective communication between staff and patients has resulted in aggressive and brutal outbursts (Dolan & Holt, 2000).  There was a research which was conducted in order to determine the patients’ violence towards nurses and the findings suggested that nurses have to be trained in non violence self-defense and therapeutic communication techniques (Balamurugan, Joseb, & P, 2012).   

Research Methodology 

This research study will use both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies (Cooper & Schindler, 2014). As qualitative approach has been used because of cross sectional study for a short time period and sample size is small whereas the quantitative approach is also followed as it could be time consuming and sample size could be large in this study.

Research Design

The research design which will be followed in this study is consisted upon the Data collection and sampling design (Cooper & Schindler, 2014).  

Exploratory Techniques 

It is an exploratory research therefore exploratory research techniques will comprise of secondary data analysis along with surveys and focus groups (Cooper & Schindler, 2014).  .

Data Collection Method 

Data collection involves both monitoring and communication aspects as monitoring includes studies in a way that the researcher investigates the activities of a subject or a nature of some material without attempting to elicit responses from anyone. While the communication aspect describes the way in which researcher questions the subjects and collect their responses by personal or impersonal means (Cooper & Schindler, 2014).

Research Design Descriptors 

The research design descriptors are time dimension, topical scope, research environment, purpose of the study and perceptual awareness in this study. In time dimension as it is a cross sectional study therefore these studies are conducted once and present a one snapshot of one point in time. Topical scope refers to a process in which statistical studies are planned and intended for breadth rather than depth. The population’s trait or an attribute is captured by making inferences from a sample trait and characteristics. Case studies are examined also in which the focus and analysis is done on the fewer events and conditions and their interrelations. Research environment actually focuses on three factors such as field and lab conditions along with the simulations as simulations are more used in the researches (Cooper & Schindler, 2014).

The purpose of the study is categorized in two aspects like Reporting and Causal-Explanatory. The reporting phase describes the summation of a data in order to understand in a detailed manner to generate statistics for comparison. The causal explanatory involves learning that relates to why that is how one variable causing changes to another. The perceptual awareness involves three perceptions levels one is no deviation perceived, second is deviations are perceived as unrelated and third is deviation perceived as researcher induced (Cooper & Schindler, 2014).   

Developing Distribution Plan and Promotions Strategy

Introduction

This assignment is about developing and formulating distribution plan and promotional strategy that are used and applied as marketing tactics by different organizations.  

Marketing Place Distribution strategy

As far as the distribution strategy is concerned, there is need to understand the importance of target market, selection of distribution channels and location in an appropriate manner. Actually, this is the way or method through which the products or services are gone through different distribution channels. After going through different channels, finally the product is reached to the end user. It can be said in other way that from where and how the consumers will buy the product or service (McDonald & Wilson, 2011). There are other assignment help that make this activity crucial and effective in order to reach target market. These factors can be considered such as the location of the business, location of target market, how to reach target market. The stocking means the warehousing of stocks should also be perceived as significant and important factor. How the stocks or goods will be transported that becomes another key factor as well (McDonald & Wilson, 2011).

Locating the Business

The location of business does relate to the different aspects that need to be assumed and assessed in the assignment writing service. These are related to retailing direct to public or working through an intermediary. The convenience element should also be focused because customers will visit the business place. The location of target market is crucial when planning about locating the business (Ferrell & Hartline, 2012). There is need to understand the fact that how much exposure will this business get and in what manner. The competitors along with their complete information including their presence and location should also be considered. There is need to focus about occupancy cost as well.  

 Channels of Distribution

The channels of distribution can be explained through the help of following diagram (Rosenbloom, 2011).

                               Figure 1: Channels of Distribution (Rosenbloom, 2011)

The above figure has shown the complete way in which channels of distribution will work and in what manner when you ask write my assignment.

Logistics

Logistics is all about developing the plan that will provide basis and ways through which the control and implementation of physical flow of raw materials including the final or finished goods to the end consumers becomes possible (Christopher & Peck, 2012).

Indication of Strategies

There could be different kind of strategies that can be indicated in order to cater and fulfill the demands of target market. The first strategy that will be used is the usage and application of stores that are located in different regions (Hollensen, 2015). This strategy will be used because of the fact that the stores are already present and available therefore they could be utilized in order to stock and place the goods or services in an appropriate manner. In this way, the target market can be effectively catered as the goods and services will be available in different regions where the stores are already available. This will make the distribution strategy effective as the target market can easily access the required goods or services in a convenient manner. The other strategy that can be utilized in order to support or enhance the distribution plan (Hollensen, 2015).

Selling goods or services through online method could become cost effective and reliable as well. In today’s scenario, markets are becoming global through the help of going online as it helps in increasing sales and at the same time many prospective clients or customers are encouraged to visit the shops or stores online (Hollensen, 2015). This can add the population of target market in the near future. The third strategy is not cost effective and it is expensive and time consuming as well. Therefore, the third strategy that is to hire sales team and sell products to supplier and doing campaign door to door is not appropriate and feasible (Hollensen, 2015).

Recommend Three Strategy Options

There can be different kinds of strategy options that can be provided in order to get products or services out to the customer base. The first strategy option that can be used is the application and usage of Social Media (Rosenbloom, 2011). There are different kinds of websites like Twitter, Facebook and Google+ that offer platforms and ways through which the products or services can be easily marketed to the target market in a desired manner.   Social media provides opportunities to potential customers to analyze and assess the products or services of the firm in a different manner. This strategy is more effective when it comes to developing close and long-term relationship with the target market. In this way, the target market is associated with the firm and perceives the firm as their own company and at the same time, the distance between the customer and organization is decreased (Rosenbloom, 2011).

The other strategy option is to conduct an event in the name of customer appreciation in which free refreshments and door prizes can be provided to the loyal and valued customers in a desired manner (Rosenbloom, 2011). These events should be conducted in the company outlets as it will increase the awareness about the firm and at the same time, costumers will be able to become part of these events. The clients or customers other than target market can also visit these events and could become the target market in the near future. The other strategy is about the after sales customer survey in which customer feedback is observed and their personal experiences with the products or services also noted (Rosenbloom, 2011).

Key Types of Marketing Materials

There is need to understand the importance of key types of marketing materials that could be developed in order to successfully compete in the market. The product or service should be defined first along with the identification of target market (Hollensen, 2015). The credibility of an organization should also be enhanced in an appropriate manner. The focus should remain on continuous basis so that time and money resources can be used properly (Hollensen, 2015).     

Action Steps

There could be different sorts of actions that can be taken in order to move the distribution plan in an effective manner.  The first action step is about how the distribution plan can be executed as marketing mix can be useful in the execution of distribution plan in a desired manner. The marketing mix involves product, price, place and promotion (McDonald & Wilson, 2011). The product should follow and complete the product lifecycle stage and it should be either intangible or tangible. The price will effect directly the selling of product and it should be considered in the execution of distribution plan. Placement or place involves how the product will be provided to end users and where it will be placed or present for target market or end users.  The promotion also plays a key role to market and sell the product and who will be responsible for doing the promotion is significant (McDonald & Wilson, 2011).

The next action step is when the distribution plan should be executed. The right timing and right tactic for executing the distribution plan is important in the success of distribution plan. The product or service demand and the time of distribution of product are critical in effectively executing the plan. There is need of focusing on the strategy that will assess the timing of distribution plan (McDonald & Wilson, 2011). The right time will definitely serve the purpose of the firm. The last action step is the involvement of those personnel who will be involved in the execution of the plan. These personnel could be entire marketing team consisted of sales executives, marketing professionals along with suppliers, wholesalers, dealers and retailers (McDonald & Wilson, 2011).    

Conclusion

An effective and result oriented marketing distribution plan is desirable for every organization whether working physically or online. There is need to understand the importance and contribution of promotional strategies that makes the distribution plan effective and efficient.  

Research Proposal On Information Security (IS) the application of Information security (IS) controls to mitigate associated risks of online banking in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Information security is an important aspect to consider in online banking specifically in the banking sectors which are working in Saudi Arabia. There is a need to understand the associated risks which are involved in online banking and how the information security protocols have been applied by banks in order to reduce the risks to a considerable extent. The research proposal will be focusing on different aspects relating to information security (IS) and the risks covered in online banking. The research methodology will be done in a manner to support findings and literature review. The interviews will be conducted in the research in order to find primary data effectively to produce the data which will be reliable and trustworthy.

1.     Title

Information Security (IS): The application of Information security (IS) controls to mitigate associated risks of online banking in Saudi Arabia.

2 Introduction

2.1 Research Question

The main emphasis of the research will be on the domain of information security (IS) of online banking in Saudi Arabia and how the risk based approach is involved in online banking. Considering information security (IS), the research questions for this research are as follows:

a)    Determine and identify the risk based approach which is involved in information security of online banking in Saudi Arabia.  This aspect will focus on the risk approach which are causing threats and harms to information security and the way online banking is being affected by this phenomenon in Saudi Arabia.

Before emphasizing on the mentioned scenario, there is a need to understand the critical literature review in order to create the following aspects.

b)    What is Information Security (IS)?

c)     Online banking in Saudi Arabia.

d)     Identification of optimal balance between the technical and non technical IS controls.

e)     The influence of level protections on users’ acceptance.  

2.2 Importance of Research question

The importance of research question can be considered in a way that information security these days have been affected and badly influenced by the risks which are associated with (IS) information security of online banking and the research question will be able enough to answer the issues in an effective manner as it will allow and help in identifying and determining ways through which the risks of online banking can be decreased.  

3 Theoretical Framework

The banking sector has been so much important and significant in contributing its part to the development and progress of Saudi Arabia. The financial industry specifically banking industry of Saudi Arabia has been transforming in a way that in recent times the online banking scenario has been emerged as the most important aspect of traditional banking and online banking has been greatly influenced by another concept and domain of information security in this concern. Information security (IS) is very critical in making contributions towards the success of online banking.

Banks in Saudi Arabia provide online banking services where customers are able to carry out transactions as banks are encouraging customers to do online banking with the provision of secured environment according to banks ‘point of view. The security of information is based upon the five aspects registration, services, security threats and awareness and authentication methods (Qasem, 2014).

Information security has been defined as the defense and guards of information from a extensive variety of intimidation so that business stability is sustained and continued in an effective manner and at the same time reducing risks and increasing return on investments (ROI) thus expanding business opportunities (Turner, 2008).

This fact has been analyzed that information security has been applied to banks operating in Saudi Arabia as banking institutions have turned out to be the main focus and in this aspect the fall down in banking can lead to further down fall in the overall banking sector and will cause a hindrance in the economy of Saudi Arabia.

The increase application and use of information technology and security in online banking perspective have produced or resulted in basic change in terms of how banks are interacting with customers (Dabholkar & Bagozzi, 2002), (Parasuraman & Zinkhan, 2002), (Bauer et al., 2005). Banking organizations are matured enough or not, they have to maintain their energy and strength by bringing change in a way of learning and innovating from their experiences (Hellriegel et al., 2005), (Slocum et al., 2008).

The acceptance of online baking has to be considered in Saudi Arabia as there is an increased need in information security so that the risk associated with online banking can be reduced to a considerable level as there are factors that can create impacts upon the acceptance of online banking as other factors are also associated with Saudi Arabia as quality of internet connection along as internet quality is critical element in any internet based application. As internet is controlled by Saudi government as the internet is affecting in adopting online banking services and there is a relationship between speed of internet access and use of online banking which has been found in the study (Sathye, 1999), (Almogbil, 2005).

Awareness in terms of the benefits and services of online banking suggesting that lack of awareness of online banking services and benefits are the reasons due to which consumers are reluctant in using online banking services (Howcroft et al., 2002).

The element of trust is also a key factor in the increased use of online banking and e-commerce (Yousafzai et al., 2003) as trust is more significant in online banking than offline banking (Suh & Han, 2002) the online banking transactions involve more sensitive information and customers are more concerned with the access to critical files and information transferred through internet (Alsajjan & Dennis, 2006), (Suh & Han, 2002).     

4. Research Methodology

The research study will be using both primary and secondary sources in a combined way in order to facilitate the interviewing process along with the searching and finding the document and the literature review will also be done in this aspect. In this way the multi method technique will be utilized in this research which is known as triangulation. The reason for selecting this research method is that it will help in providing a desired extent of correctness in research findings (Bryman, 2001).

This research will be done and completed within the situation and background of academic literature therefore the process will begin by appraising the available literature means the secondary data will be analyzed carefully which can be originated and accessed in the form of books, academic articles, Journals and periodicals written by journalists, authors and researchers. Primary data will be collected by the help of performing interviewing in which the nature of the problem will be evaluated in a suitable manner.  The persons who will be interviewed are manager information security and the personnel who are working in online banking departments of different banks. Interviewing is also helpful in providing flexibility and compliance which is very vital in this research as the other method is not as effective for instance questionnaires.

4.1 Interviewing  

The interviewing is a very significant factor in collecting primary sources of information as the interview will be consisted of open ended and close ended questions. This will help in developing standard and flexibility will also be maintained in this way. The open ended questions will be applied in order to explore the hidden areas in a way that ideas and salient features will be discussed and opinions regarding the research will be explored as well (Gill et al., 2008).

The interview questions will follow the different domains and areas which have been developed and organized on the basis of literature review in order to achieve the expected outcomes. There are advantages and disadvantages (Opdenakker, 2006)which are related with interviews in a way that they are very multifaceted to understand effectively as it consists of different skilled conduct or an attitude and knowledge of a domain which is being researched but however, its benefits are very crucial as compare to its drawbacks. 

4.2 Document Search

In document searching this process will help the research to perform the detailed and comprehensive examination in order to support and complement the data which will be obtained from interviews. The documentary confirmation will support in proving reliability of the interview results as results are expected to be biased and undependable.

4.3 Analysis 

In this aspect the data will be analyzed by the help of statistical methods as descriptive statistics will be produced in order to examine and assess the sharing of relevant statistical procedures will be used to explore and understand the data which will be collected in the research (Kumar, 2008).

5.  Reflections

As far as this research is concerned, there can be so many obstacles and challenges which will be anticipated during the process of research. The potential hurdles and difficulties could be in the form of time factor in which the people who will be involved in the process of interviewing will have different priorities as compared to the priorities which have been set by the researcher therefore it will be a tough ask to access the people in a timely manner as the time allocation from the participants for interview will be critical and significant in determining the effectiveness and usefulness of the data.

The access in obtaining information regarding the research will be difficult in a sense that the research is related with the financial sector specifically banks working in Saudi Arabia therefore the confidential matters relating with the information might not be disclosed during the interview as the banks have strict policy and disclosure procedure which may affect in attaining the desired information.    

As far as the conceptual, theoretical problems and challenges are concerned these issues can be considered in a way that sometimes it can be assumed that the limitations and drawbacks of secondary sources can impact negatively in attaining and developing primary data as a matter of fact this issue is of high importance that there is a need of analysis and judgment of the secondary data so that the data which is available should be perceived as reliable and can contribute sufficiently in developing primary data.

From ethical point of view it is very important to conduct the research in confidential manner in a sense that the participant’s information should be preserved in a desired manner and their information will not be given to third party in either way. Ethical issues regarding the plagiarism of the data will be kept in mind by the researcher in a way that the researcher will not try to use and insert the data directly from the internet and this thing will be made sure that participants involved in the interviewing and collecting primary data will be contributing on their own will and consent and no single person will be forced to become a part of this research.

The other issue which is expected that I will be working as a researcher in this study and at the same time the potential bias during the research might come which may cause in a negative way. The knowledge and awareness regarding the research can influence in a way that my already developed assumptions and thinking about the research might play a disturbing role but I will make sure that the research could be done by the help of neutral and open mind so that the research should not be affected because of potential bias (Law & MacDermid, 2008). My position as a researcher in a political field can influence this research in a way that the political scenario will be influencing the research study as in the country there are different situations which may cause difficulties in the research and the research might be affected as the researcher can be affected by the political situations.     

Conclusion & Recommendation - A Soft Option: Comparative Analysis of the Community-Based Punishments as an Alternative to a Custodial Sentence

5.1 Introduction

In this chapter, conclusion and research recommendations are presented to show the evidences of accomplishing the research aim and objectives. The conclusion has been presented in the light of the literature reviewed and the critical analysis of past studies based on the secondary data related to the variables that have been studied in the current research study. 

5.2 Key Findings

The main research question in the current research was to find out how are the community-based punishments different from the custodial services in restoring offenders with justice, equity, truth, hope and impartiality. The study found that community-based punishments are beneficial for the society for a variety of reasons as these are innovative way in which different kinds and categories of criminals can be dealt with in an effective manner. In response to the research questions’ answer, the study summarized that community-based punishment as a reflection of restorative justice can be implemented in UK as a soft alternative of retributive approach or custodial sentences. It can be depicted that custodial sentences cannot be eliminated from the criminal justice system as large and intense crimes where the offender remains a big danger to the society, punishments and imprisonments are vital approach. On the other side, community-based punishments can be imposed on small criminals or those who show the signs of restoration. The study highlighted that in opting the soft alternative, governments would not only be able to filter offenders but also allow the jails and prisons’ authorities in maintaining their expenditures.

Both the theories as well as critical comparison results identified community punishments as cost-effective approach if implemented with appropriate and complete policy intentions (Allen, 2012; Eley et al., 2016). Community-based punishments are reported to have a positive impact on the individuals of the society who are given the opportunity to go back towards their community, their friends and the relatives to redeem themselves and to regain their integrity and lost pride (McIvor et al., 2013; Subramanian & Shames, 2013). In contrary, custodial sentences are subjected to weaken the protective factors, which are highly necessary to bring the offenders towards restoration. These factors include education, mental and physical health (Grimwood & Berman, 2012). However, the rate of offending was found associated with both the community-based sentences and custodial sentences. In case of community punishments and orders, such offending rates may be lower than the other option in some countries of the world. In summary, UK must analyze the variety of community-based punishments and penalties in order to replace it with the custodial sentences up to certain extent i.e. until it reaps cost-effectiveness and social improvements and relationships benefits for the country. Thus, effective implementation would not be possible without filtering offenders based on criteria of justice, equity, truth, hope and impartiality. 

5.3 Recommendations

The research recommendations extracted from the findings of the current study for UK offenders provide appropriate suggestions to the relevant authorities. UK authorities should take effective measures to ensure that practices considering multiple factors should be implemented in an effective manner to prevent the overcrowdings of the prison, to decrease the overall expenditures, to develop appropriate policy intentions and to pursue the offender filtering process in order to control reoffending rates. Furthermore, they should take effective measures in ensuring that the individuals who have been provided with this form of punishments should be helped to enable them to identify and realize their mistakes so that they can become a valuable asset for the society. Rehabilitation under restorative justice is only successful when it walks besides retributive justice and custodial sentences for the high profile and big criminals. The authorities must consider the importance of restorative justice approach and the community-based punishments as a path for developing strong relationships between the victims and offenders in such a way that offender realize their wrong acts as wrong and avoid doing any such act in future. For this purpose, needs of both victims and offenders must be aligned simultaneously in the criminal policies and laws. 

5.4 Future Research Path

A future research can be initiated in investigating the consistency in the criminal polices of UK and the factors necessary for effective implementation of community-based punishments as an alternative to custodial sentences. The investigation may encompass study of resource availability, expenses and expenditures, educational standards, community engagement and support and the public acceptance to given offenders a recognized place and opportunity to restore. 

5.5 Conclusion
Thus, with the end of the study, it can be concluded that current research aim and objectives were achieved successfully.

Results & Findings - A Soft Option: Comparative Analysis of the Community-Based Punishments as an Alternative to a Custodial Sentence

4.1 Introduction

The current chapter pertains to present secondary data findings and the discussion and analysis with an aim to conduct detailed comparative analysis of the data that has been gathered for the community-based punishments and the custodial services. The data for the current research study has been gathered from secondary sources that have been identified as relevant for the current research study. By summarizing the key factors, benefits and effectiveness of community-based punishments over the custodial sentences, the chapter also includes a coherent discussion on the research objectives. Furthermore, the chapter includes the development of conclusion based on the secondary data that has been gathered for the purpose of research and for deriving valid findings for the current dissertation writing service. 

4.2 Comparative Analysis of Community-based Punishments and Custodial Sentences

Numerous research articles, books and authority reports published by the different countries’ government have researched and summarized numerous similarities and differences, which justify the community-based punishments as the better and soft alternative for the custodial sentences and imprisonments. 

4.2.1 Differences between community-based punishments and custodial sentences
4.2.1.1 Offenders Filtering

One of the major differences highlighting the effectiveness of the community-based punishments over imprisonment is filtering of offenders. Department of Corrections, (2012) in their authority report discussing the criminal justice system of New Zealand and spotting out the differences in non-community based alternatives to imprisonment stated that criminal justice system of custodial sentences does not consider significance of managing offenders through filtering them. The filters can be placed on the type and intensity of the crime or the age of the criminals. Additionally, the authors further added in context of the alternative non-custodial punishments to deal with the more serious statistics of sentencing in the country. Among the different non-custodial punishments highlighted in this study, include “These include infringements or fixed penalties, police diversion, police warnings and cautions, and family group conferences (for young offenders)”.

In consistence with the opinions of Department of Corrections, (2012), authors Henrich et al., (2010) also acknowledged the need to categorize and classify the criminals based on the intensities of their crimes and subsequently impose different type of punishments on them. As stated by Henrich et al., (2010) community-based punishments is beneficial for small criminals so that these small criminals do not get into contact with other big and serious criminals that have done murder or something for which they were thrown into the prison. It can be examined that there are numerous individuals that consider the need and importance of some sort of imprisonment as necessary in some conditions specifically when the offender is demonstrably a continuing danger to community. 

4.2.1.2 Overcrowding Issues

Another difference between the custodial sentences and the community-based punishments is the overcrowding. Ardley, (2005) in his research has confirmed the effectiveness of community-based punishments in decreasing the number of prisoners and as a result, prison becomes less packed. In the similar context, less security is required in the prisons when the small criminals are transferred to the community rehabilitation centre and this can help police to focus on the security of the jail as well. Authors of dissertation writing believe that harsher imprisonments are unable to curb crime rates. Taylor, (2011) also said that overcrowding of the prisons is a key challenge faced by the European and Britain countries. It can be depicted that prisons are there for the protection of public however, the rights and needs of the offender also come out as crucial element. Overcrowded prisons are unable to fulfill the needs of all the offenders simultaneously. 

4.2.1.3 Cost and Expenditures of Punishment

Travis & Sparrow, (2010) in their study have substantiated that on average imprisonment costs £38,000 a year to send someone to prison. The higher cost of the imprisonment can be controlled through community-based punishments. Such punishments as an alternative can help jail authorities incurring less cost in the management of the activities related to prisons and jails. Researches have found parole and conditional imprisonment as effective alternative for the offenders.

In contrary, authors Rix et al., (2010) have highlighted the community-based punishments such as Fine Payment Work orders and probation as effective only when the authorities implementing these concentrate highlight on the responsible factors such as “untrained placement supervisors; the lack of clarity and consistency in monitoring attendance and responding to non-compliance; and the relatively high administrative costs” (p.5). 

4.2.2 Similarities between community-based punishments and custodial sentences
4.2.2.1 Reoffending

The inability of the custodial sentencing in filtering criminals in past studies have also reported reoffending as the critical issue demanding implementation of community-based punishments. There are several contrasting statistics about the increasing rate of reoffending both in non-custodial convictions and in community-based punishments. Grimwood & Berman, (2012) within their research have reported the statistics of the Ministry of Justice in England and Wales. They pointed out that reoffending rates in the country are rising for the offenders “who were released from custody, received a non-custodial conviction at court, received a caution, reprimand, warning or tested positive for opiates or cocaine in a given twelve month period (p.23)”. It shows the ineffectiveness of the community sentencing in dealing with the crime rates. There are several underlying factors and reasons behind reoffending such as moral implications of criminality and experiences in the prison.

Grimwood & Berman, (2012) argued that it can be depicted although custodial sentences are necessary for helping an addict in solving his addiction problems. The sentences are also seen as helpful in teaching range of both cognitive and practical skills to the prisoners. However, such skill learning and development is also possible within the community-based punishments. Grimwood & Berman, (2012) also argue that prison sentences have the potential to weaken the protective factors such as education, mental and physical health. Likewise, such a decrease in the protective support can reduce the rehabilitation of the offenders. 

4.2.2.2 Need for Policy Intentions

Additionally, McIvor et al., (2013) have emphasized that both the custodial sentences and the community need strong policy intentions for better implementation. Authors in discussing the experience of introducing unpaid work for offenders stated that this type of community-based punishment is effective for those who are unable to pay fines. Authors argue that implementation with strong policies have positive effects on the level of default at each stage of the enforcement process. 

4.3 Discussion of Research Findings

Both literature review and critical analysis findings can be analysed to achieve the key aim of the current research and to accomplish research objectives. The key guiding aim of the research was to investigate Community-Based Punishments as an Alternative to a Custodial Sentence. The objective of the study was to analyse the concepts behind the two options and the effectiveness and benefits of the community-based punishments as a soft alternative to the custodial sentences. The comparative analysis findings confirmed the evidences gathered from the other European countries.

Both literature and comparative analysis described that the community-based punishments are related to the punishments awarded by the judiciary in which the culprit is not sent to jail (Alarid, 2016; Eley et al., 2016). The community punishments are based on restorative justice while the custodial sentences are focused on the retributive approach. The findings confirm restorative justice as an approach considering crime as a social subject affecting social interrelationships (Rodriguez, 2007)while retributive approach considers crime as a legal offence subjected to proportionate punishments i.e. custodial sentences (Cullen et al., 2000; Markel, 2009).

Both types of punishments are sub-divided according to the needs of the victims and offenders in different European countries (Ardley, 2005; McIvor et al., 2013; Department of Corrections, 2012). However, under community-based punishments, criminals are being sent back to the community to perform different community services and to ensure little punishments from the society in order to offer that culprits chance to redeem themselves. The discussion further highlighted that these sorts of punishments are primarily offered to those individuals that are not involved in dangerous crimes and do not have the past history when it comes to getting involved in any illegal activity or activities that can be termed as anti-state. It has been identified through the discussion that these kinds of punishments can consider to be beneficial for the authorities who are facing different issues related to overcrowding of jails due to an excessive amount of criminals that have been put into these jails (Grattet et al., 2009; Groot & Van Den Brink, 2010; Garvey, 2014). Therefore, the establishment is looking towards these kinds of punishments for the individuals involved in minute crimes. The rationale behind this activity is also related to providing opportunities to the individuals who have not been involved in criminal activities before a chance to improve themselves. Furthermore, custodial sentences are not able to rehabilitate the offenders and ultimately helpful in reducing the reoffending rate (Grimwood & Berman, 2012). It was also found that both of the punitive approaches are based on the policy intentions and implementation measures planned and acted upon for successful implementation of the alternatives. 

4.4 Conclusion

From the comparative analysis of the community-based punishments and the custodial sentencing highlighted that community-based punishments are beneficial for the society in general as they are helpful for guiding the criminals in improving themselves and leading a better life than what they have been doing before. However, such efforts are not effective and successful until appropriate factors highlighted above are taken into account. The chapter concludes that community-based punishments are generally imposed in cases different from the custodial sentencing cases. Therefore, similarities and differences between these two punitive approaches comes out as necessary for the successful implementation of community-based punishments within UK, as a soft alternative. The next chapter of the study presents research conclusion and recommendations.

Research Design & Methodology - A Soft Option: Comparative Analysis of the Community-Based Punishments as an Alternative to a Custodial Sentence

3.1 Introduction

Methodology forms an important constituent in the research, where the conclusion needs to be drawn from the critical review of the secondary academic data and resources. The methodology of comparative analysis incorporates the research design, articles selection strategy, inclusion and exclusion criteria, data collection methods and data analysis methods (Kumar, 2010). A separate section of the chapter also incorporates ethical considerations.

3.2 Research Design

Research design refers to the plan of research through which the stated aim and objectives set for this criminology thesis could b achieved (Creswell, 2013). The research design of the present study is based on the qualitative method and theoretical evaluative analysis of the community penalty. It looks into the comparative analysis of the restorative justice approach and the retributive justice approach to show the relative effectiveness of the community based punishments and custodial sentences (Flick, 2011). The design tends to investigate how the community-based punishments able to rehabilitate offenders. This is a library-based study using information from forums and websites. Academic journals are located using Coventry University library catalogue and other criminological databases to relate to restorative justice, retributive justice, community penalties, offender treatment and many more. Thus, the current researches design offers much more than a simple methodological investigation (Vogt et al., 2012). The comparative analysis design considers it as an ethical issue because as a desk-based study it raises much less risk compared to the empirical studies (Merwe et al., 2009; Eley et al., 2016; Allen, 2012) have also employed the comparative analysis research design within their studies in investigating community-based punishments within different European countries.

Additionally, the exploratory research design has been adopted to ensure that benefits of the community-based punishments are explored in an effective manner in comparison to the custodial sentences through the current research study. Furthermore, the research has adopted qualitative approach in providing a detailed account of the benefit that community-based punishments have for the individuals as well as for the overall community as well. 

3.3 Articles Selection Strategy

Subsequent to the choice of comparative analysis research design, it was very important to determine the appropriate article selection strategy. Data research strategy in the current study was ethnographic content analysis. The reason behind the choice of this strategy is the fact that the research was required to be based on secondary content solely. Therefore, all the relevant information was gathered past researches and journal articles.

For comparative analysis of the community-based punishments and custodial sentences, the study needed to focus on the selection of appropriate research articles. Keywords based strategy was used to search relevant data from sources. The main keywords used included “community-based punishments”, “effectiveness of community-based punishments”, “factors considered for community-based punishments”, “custodial sentences”, “effectiveness of custodial sentences”, “factors considered for custodial sentences”, “similarities between community-based punishments and custodial sentences” and “differences between community-based punishments and custodial sentences”. By using all the chosen keywords, the inclusion and exclusion criteria were set for the current investigation. 

3.4 Inclusion and Exclusion Criteria 

3.4.1 Inclusion Criteria

All the sources used for the comparative analysis of the custodial sentences and the community-based met all the listed parameters prior inclusion in the current study.

· The scope of selected source must be to compare custodial sentences with the community-based punishments

· The material and information must be published in English

· The material and information used must be global

· Only those articles and materials were included, which were published after 2006

· Extensive range of sources qualified for the inclusion (although research articles were preferred yet authoritative reports and forum-based discussion were included)

· Coventry University library catalogue and other criminological databases were used for search 

3.4.2 Exclusion Criteria

· All those studies and articles were excluded, which were published in a non-English language or published before 2006

· The source or material that was confined to investigation in a specific geographical boundary, country or territory was excluded

· The study with limited focus on any one of the variable (either community-based punishments and custodial sentences) were excluded 

3.5 Data Collection Methods

In pursuance of the identified article selection strategy given in the above section, the current study was based on the secondary data collection only since there was no involvement of the primary Study participants. A secondary source of information refers to the kind of information that is obtained through secondary sources such as online sources, journal articles, and books, etc. The source of data that has been adopted in a current research study is a secondary source of information. Through the adoption and use of secondary sources of data collection, the research has developed concrete findings on the issues that have been taken up for this particular research study. The research investigation looked at books and articles that analyses different effects about restore offenders relative to the ones kept in police custody or in the imprisons. Websites like Google Scholar or library databases will help in finding information about my topic. All the data sources were analysed and discussed critically.

3.6 Data Analysis Methods

The data collected was analysed using the ethnography content analysis method. By using the most frequently using words and terms in the collected articles and sources, respective codes and categories were developed. The main categories of the analysis investigated are specified below.

· Similarities between community-based punishments and custodial sentences

o Reoffending

o Need for Policy Intentions

· Differences between community-based punishments and custodial sentences

o Offender’s Filtering

o Overcrowding Issues

o Cost and Expenditures of Punishment 

3.7 Ethical Considerations

According to Melewar et al., (2014), ethical considerations are the most important component of the research methodology regardless of the primary or secondary data based research design. Since the current study was focused on secondary data analysis, therefore, all the information, which has been acquired in the research, was kept confidential. The three specific ethical considerations were looked into the current study. These include interpretation of the information, identification of the appropriate sources of data collection and ownership of the data. By focusing on the unbiased and non-prejudiced presentation of the research findings, current study has also focused on the fair presentation of the information (Garvey, 2014). Besides, academic researchers have realised identification of appropriate data sources as one of the vital element in the secondary data based studies (Denscombe, 2014). Therefore, current research study has also given strict focus on the choice of valid and authentic sources of data collection such as journal articles and books. Similarly, in maintaining the sensitivity in using secondary data in the current study, complete ownership of data was taken into account by providing complete in-text citations and final reference list (Myers & Venable, 2014). 

3.8 Conclusion

Based on the research design and methodology chosen, it can be analysed that comparative design was expected to help in achieving the central guiding aim and objectives of the study effectively. The ethnographic research strategy adopted; whereas, the explanatory research design chosen both were capable of achieving the aims of secondary-data based research successfully. The ethical considerations that have been identified include appropriate interpretation of the data along with finding authentic sources of data collection to validate the findings of a particular research study. The outcomes and findings extracted from the previous studies shed light on numerous similarities and differences. These collected data findings are explained and critically discussed in the subsequent chapter.