Placebo effect

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Single Injection of Saline Relieves Chronic Back Pain for a Year, Study Shows

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery showing that a single placebo injection can provide significant relief from chronic back pain for up to a year. Unlike typical placebo studies, where patients are unaware they are receiving a placebo, participants in this study were fully informed that the injection contained no active ingredients. Despite this, the results revealed remarkable benefits, challenging long-held beliefs about how placebos work.

The study, published in JAMA Network Open, involved 101 adults aged 21 to 70 suffering from chronic back pain. Half of the participants received a saline injection—openly labeled as a placebo—while the other half continued with their standard care. The researchers found that those who received the placebo injection experienced significant pain relief for up to one month, with some benefits lasting as long as a year.

The research team, led by Yoni Ashar, a neuroscience professor at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, was particularly interested in the brain mechanisms that contributed to this effect. Functional MRI scans revealed that the placebo group had more pronounced brain responses in pain-regulating areas compared to the usual care group.

Participants in the placebo group underwent a special treatment program designed to enhance the effects of the placebo. In addition to receiving the injection, they engaged in empathetic and validating conversations with a physician from the research team. They were informed that placebos could trigger nonconscious brain pathways to promote natural healing, even though the injections contained no medicinal substances.

Despite knowing they were receiving a placebo, participants still experienced substantial improvements in their pain levels. “The placebo effect is part of every treatment or procedure that advances healing,” Ashar explained. He emphasized that beliefs play a powerful role in the healing process, even in the absence of active medical treatments.

The placebo injection's effects on pain intensity were most significant within the first month, with long-term benefits for associated conditions like depression, anxiety, and sleep disruptions lasting for up to a year. Interestingly, no adverse effects were reported from the placebo injections, and the psychological benefits were profound.

The power of suggestion was further illustrated in a 2007 study cited by Ashar, where hotel maids were informed that their daily work met the Surgeon General’s exercise recommendations. This led to noticeable health improvements, including weight loss and reduced blood pressure, despite no changes in their physical activity. This study supports the idea that the mind-body connection can significantly impact health outcomes, even without direct physical interventions.

This research sheds light on how openly prescribed placebos can be used as a viable treatment option for chronic conditions. It also raises important questions about the future of pain management and the role of patient belief in healing.

Source: Single Placebo Injection Improved Chronic Back Pain for 1 Year: Study | The Epoch Times

Japanese Americans in WWII

 

Barracks and dining hall

Minidoka Internment Camp: A Reflection on Injustice and Resilience

By John Fisher

The Minidoka War Relocation Center, located in Hunt, Idaho, stands as a poignant reminder of the injustices faced by Japanese Americans during World War II. Established in 1942 as one of ten internment camps, Minidoka housed thousands of individuals forcibly relocated from their homes on the West Coast. My wife and I had the opportunity to do a walking tour of the site, where we saw firsthand the remnants of this dark chapter in American history. The camp's legacy not only reflects the hardship endured by its internees but also the resilience and strength that emerged in the face of adversity.

Establishment of Minidoka

Minidoka was born out of the wartime hysteria that followed the attack on Pearl Harbor. President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Executive Order 9066, signed in February 1942, authorized the forced removal of Japanese Americans from designated military zones on the West Coast. As a result, more than 120,000 Japanese Americans were relocated to internment camps across the country, with over 9,000 of them eventually being sent to Minidoka.

The center was located in a desolate part of Idaho, where internees were housed in hastily built tar-papered barracks, surrounded by barbed wire and guard towers. Despite the difficult living conditions, the Japanese Americans placed in Minidoka showed remarkable resilience. Many worked on nearby farms and irrigation projects, contributing to the local economy even as they struggled with the daily hardships of camp life.

Living Conditions and Family Separation

Daily life in Minidoka was difficult and often led to the breakdown of traditional family structures. Meals were served in large mess halls, a practice that undermined the typical family unit. Instead of eating together as they would have in their homes, internees ate in groups determined by barracks assignment, fracturing familial ties. In a culture where family unity and the wisdom of elders were highly valued, this practice was deeply disruptive.

Adding to the internal turmoil, the camp director appointed younger men to leadership positions, sidelining the elderly who traditionally held authority within Japanese culture. This shift was a significant cultural blow, as the elderly were seen as the keepers of wisdom and experience. The camp director at Minidoka, Harry Stafford, made decisions that further alienated the internees from their cultural norms, exacerbating the disorientation and loss of identity that many already felt.

The Role of the Military and Service to the U.S.

Despite the injustices they faced, more than 1,000 Japanese American men from Minidoka volunteered or were drafted to serve in the U.S. military. Many of these men joined the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, a segregated unit composed almost entirely of Japanese Americans. This unit became one of the most decorated in U.S. military history, known for its bravery and valor in the European theater. Their service remains a testament to the loyalty and resilience of those who, despite being treated as enemies, fought for the country that had interned them.

Closing and Legacy

Minidoka operated for more than three years, closing in October 1945 after the war ended. The internees were released, but many had lost their homes, businesses, and possessions during their internment. While the camp's facilities were repurposed to house returning veterans, the scars left by the internment experience would last for generations.

In 1979, Minidoka was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and in 2001, it was designated as a National Historic Site. Today, it serves as a place of remembrance, ensuring that the injustices of internment are not forgotten. For those who visit, the site offers a sobering reminder of the importance of civil liberties and the dangers of prejudice.

A Personal Reflection

Walking through the remains of the camp, my wife and I reflected on the incredible resilience of those who were interned here. Seeing the foundations of the buildings and the remnants of the irrigation projects they worked on, we couldn’t help but think of the hardships they endured and the strength they showed in the face of injustice. The Minidoka War Relocation Center stands as a stark reminder of the past, but also as a symbol of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Conclusion

The history of the Minidoka internment camp is a painful chapter in American history, one that speaks to the dangers of fear and discrimination. Yet, it is also a story of resilience, as the internees found ways to survive and even thrive in the most challenging of circumstances. Their contributions to the war effort, despite the mistreatment they endured, remain a powerful testament to their loyalty and courage. Minidoka serves as a reminder of the importance of civil liberties and the need to protect them, even in times of national crisis.

Guard tower

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 9/12/2024 

2. Minidoka National Historic Site (U.S. National Park Service) 

3. Minidoka Internment National Monument | Map, History, & Facts 

Business Communication

photo credit: tpistaffingservice.com

How Is Interpersonal Communication for Business Different from General Communication?

Interpersonal communication plays a significant role in both business and everyday interactions, but the objectives, tone, and structure can vary greatly depending on the context. So, how is interpersonal communication for business different from general communication? Let’s break down the key distinctions across several aspects, from purpose to non-verbal cues, and explore how communication shifts when it moves from casual settings to the professional world.

1. Purpose

The primary difference between business communication and general communication lies in the purpose.

• Business Communication: This type of communication is goal-oriented, aimed at achieving specific professional objectives like decision-making, problem-solving, or delivering organizational updates. Every interaction typically has a desired outcome, whether it's making a sale, resolving a customer issue, or collaborating on a project.

• General Communication: In contrast, general communication is often more casual and relaxed, with no specific outcome in mind. People engage in conversations for socializing, sharing personal experiences, or simply enjoying leisurely interaction.

2. Tone

The tone used in communication also reflects the differences between business and personal settings.

• Business Communication: The tone is usually formal, concise, and professional. Conversations and emails often follow a specific protocol or corporate etiquette, ensuring that interactions are respectful and productive. This tone helps maintain a level of professionalism necessary for the business environment.

• General Communication: In general communication, the tone is informal and more conversational. There's a greater focus on relationship-building and personal connection, and conversations are often filled with casual language, humor, and emotional expressions.

3. Setting

The physical or digital setting of the communication also influences its nature.

• Business Communication: Business interactions typically occur in professional environments like offices, conference rooms, or through corporate email systems and virtual meeting platforms. These settings create expectations of professionalism and focus on the task at hand.

• General Communication: General communication happens in more informal settings, such as homes, social gatherings, or personal phone calls. There’s less structure, and the atmosphere is typically relaxed.

4. Content

Content is another clear distinction between business and general communication.

• Business Communication: The content is focused on work-related topics, such as projects, strategies, performance reviews, or organizational updates. Conversations are tightly focused on moving the business forward, leaving little room for off-topic discussions.

• General Communication: Conversations in casual settings often cover a broad range of topics, from personal stories and hobbies to general news and small talk. There is more freedom in what can be discussed, as the interactions aren't tied to specific goals or outcomes.

5. Structure

The structure of communication also differs significantly between the two contexts.

• Business Communication: Business interactions are often highly structured. Written communication, such as emails or reports, follows specific formats, including formal greetings, body text, and conclusions. Meetings are typically guided by agendas, and there are clear expectations for how interactions should progress.

• General Communication: In contrast, general communication is much more flexible. Conversations can be spontaneous, shifting from one topic to another without any rigid structure or formalities.

6. Feedback

Feedback in business and personal communication serves different purposes.

• Business Communication: Feedback is direct and immediate, intended to clarify information or move business objectives forward. There's little room for ambiguity, as professional settings demand clear and actionable responses.

• General Communication: Feedback in casual conversations tends to be more personal and empathetic, aimed at strengthening relationships and emotional bonds rather than achieving specific goals.

7. Non-Verbal Cues

Non-verbal cues are another area where business and general communication diverge.

• Business Communication: In professional environments, body language is more restrained, with limited use of gestures and expressions. The focus is on maintaining a formal and respectful demeanor.

• General Communication: Non-verbal cues in everyday communication are more varied and expressive, with people using facial expressions, gestures, and body language to convey emotions and build rapport.

8. Technology

The tools and platforms used for communication also reflect the differences between business and casual interactions.

• Business Communication: In the business world, formal tools are used, such as corporate email platforms, business software, and virtual meeting rooms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. These tools are designed to enhance productivity and professionalism.

• General Communication: Personal communication often leverages informal channels like social media, personal emails, or messaging apps like WhatsApp, allowing for a more casual and immediate exchange of ideas.

Conclusion

Interpersonal communication for business is fundamentally different from general communication in its purpose, tone, structure, and setting. While both forms of communication aim to convey messages and foster relationships, business communication is more goal-oriented, formal, and structured. In contrast, general communication is casual, flexible, and often focused on personal connection rather than achieving specific objectives. Understanding these differences is crucial for navigating professional and personal interactions effectively.

Source: Business Communication vs General Communication: Difference Between, Examples

Healthcare Communication

How Is Communication Different in a Health Setting Than in Normal Usage?

Effective communication is essential in every aspect of life, but it plays a particularly critical role in healthcare. So, how is communication in a health setting different from everyday communication? The differences come down to the purpose, level of attentiveness, use of language, confidentiality, and emotional sensitivity. Let’s explore each of these key distinctions.

Purpose and Goals

In health settings, communication is highly goal-oriented. Medical professionals communicate with clear objectives in mind, such as gathering patient information, providing instructions, or offering emotional support. Every conversation has a specific purpose—whether it's diagnosing an illness, explaining a treatment plan, or comforting a patient.

In contrast, normal communication is often casual and spontaneous. Conversations in everyday life typically don’t have a set goal and can flow freely without needing a specific outcome.

Active Listening

Active listening is vital in healthcare. Doctors, nurses, and other professionals must fully focus on the patient’s words, concerns, and symptoms to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments. It’s not just about hearing—it's about understanding the underlying issues and building trust.

In everyday communication, listening may not always require the same level of detail. While attentiveness is important in all conversations, the stakes are generally lower compared to those in health settings.

Technical Language

Medical communication relies heavily on technical language. Healthcare professionals use medical terminology to ensure clarity and precision. This helps prevent misunderstandings that could affect patient care.

On the other hand, everyday communication uses simpler, more informal language. People tend to avoid jargon or specialized terms unless they are in specific professional or technical conversations.

Confidentiality

In healthcare, strict privacy laws and ethical guidelines are in place to protect patient information. Maintaining confidentiality is a critical aspect of building trust and providing ethical care.

In normal conversations, confidentiality is often less emphasized. While people may share personal details, the legal and ethical obligations to protect information are not as rigid as they are in health settings.

Emotional Sensitivity

Healthcare professionals must be highly sensitive to a patient’s emotional state. They provide empathy and support, recognizing that patients may be dealing with anxiety, fear, or grief. Communication in these situations requires a deep understanding of the patient’s emotional needs.

In everyday communication, emotional sensitivity varies depending on the context and relationship. While empathy is important, the level of emotional support usually isn’t as critical as it is in a healthcare setting.

Conclusion

Understanding these differences is key to effective communication in healthcare. It ensures patient safety, builds trust, and helps provide quality care. In health settings, communication is more structured, attentive, and emotionally sensitive compared to everyday interactions.

Keywords: healthcare communication, active listening, medical terminology, confidentiality, patient care

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 9/9/2024 

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Open-ended Questions

Why Use Packback Questions to Boost Classroom Discussions?

In today’s digital world, it’s important to keep students engaged and thinking critically. Packback Questions is a great tool to help with that. It allows students to ask discussion questions, get instant feedback, and improve their learning experience. Here’s why Packback can make a big difference for both students and teachers.

Encourages Active Participation

Packback helps students take an active role in learning by encouraging them to ask thoughtful questions. Instead of just listening or reading, students get involved in discussions, which makes the learning experience more interactive and meaningful.

Builds Critical Thinking Skills

Packback helps students practice critical thinking by pushing them to come up with questions that explore ideas in a creative way. Instead of just repeating information, students connect different ideas and look for deeper answers. This improves their ability to think through problems.

Instant Feedback for Improvement

With Packback’s AI system, students receive instant feedback on their writing and the quality of their questions. This means they don’t have to wait for the teacher’s comments—they can improve their questions and responses right away. This helps them learn faster and improve their skills with each post.

Makes Teaching Easier

For teachers, Packback offers tools to manage classroom discussions more effectively. The platform helps keep discussions on-topic and respectful, so teachers can spend more time giving useful feedback to students, knowing that Packback is helping with the basics.

How to Write a Good Packback Question

To make the most of Packback, students should learn to write strong, open-ended questions. Here’s how to do that:

1. Start with "Why" or "How": These types of questions lead to more thoughtful answers, rather than just "yes" or "no."
2. Be Specific: For better responses, focus your question on something specific. For example, instead of asking, "How should a company market themselves?", ask, "What marketing strategies could a small family pizza shop in Detroit use to grow their delivery business?"
3. Add Context: Give some background information or personal experience to make the question more relatable. Sharing facts or stories helps others understand the question better.
4. Connect to Real Life: Ask questions that tie the course material to real-world situations. This makes the conversation more interesting and helps students see the practical side of what they’re learning.
5. Use Visuals: Including pictures, videos, or graphs can make the question more engaging and give students something to think about as they answer.

Final Thoughts

Packback Questions is a great tool for creating meaningful classroom discussions. It helps students develop critical thinking skills, get instant feedback, and participate in active learning. For teachers, it makes managing discussions easier and more efficient. By writing thoughtful and specific questions, students can get the most out of this platform.

How Do Students Use Packback?

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 9/9/2024 

1. Packback Questions 

2. Why is my class using Packback Questions? – Packback 

3. How to Ask Quality Questions on Packback - Packback 

4. How do I create a good quality post? - Packback 

Communication Defined

photo credit:expal.com

Understanding the Different Types of Communication: Interpersonal, Group, and Public

Communication is a vital part of human interaction, helping us share information, express ideas, and build relationships. Depending on the context and audience, communication can take various forms—interpersonal, group, or public. Each type has unique characteristics that shape the way messages are exchanged and understood. In this article, we will explore these three forms of communication, outlining their key differences and importance in different settings.

Interpersonal Communication

Interpersonal communication is the exchange of information between two or more people, often focusing on one-on-one interactions. This type of communication is not limited to words alone; it involves both verbal and non-verbal cues like body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice. Whether in personal relationships, such as friendships or family interactions, or professional settings like meetings and interviews, interpersonal communication is foundational for creating and maintaining connections.

Effective interpersonal communication relies on clear messaging, active listening, and an understanding of non-verbal cues. For instance, when discussing a sensitive topic, a warm tone and open body language can help convey empathy, while crossed arms or a stern voice might create tension. This personal level of communication is crucial in developing trust and fostering meaningful relationships.

Group Communication

Group communication involves the exchange of messages among multiple individuals, usually between three and twenty people. The goal is often to share information, generate ideas, solve problems, or achieve common objectives. This type of communication is common in settings such as team meetings, project collaborations, and social gatherings.

Unlike interpersonal communication, which focuses on personal relationships, group communication emphasizes collective participation and cooperation. Members of a group contribute ideas, offer feedback, and engage in discussions to move toward a shared goal. Effective group communication requires active participation from all members, clear direction from leaders, and an environment that encourages open dialogue. Success in group communication often hinges on collaboration and the ability to listen to and build on each other’s contributions.

Public Communication

Public communication, or public speaking, is the act of sharing information with a large audience. This form of communication typically involves a speaker addressing a crowd to inform, persuade, or entertain. Public communication is commonly seen in speeches, presentations, conferences, and public announcements.

Unlike the interactive nature of group communication, public communication is usually one-way, with the speaker delivering a message to an audience without expecting direct feedback during the presentation. The focus is on delivering a clear, impactful message that resonates with a large number of people. Effective public speakers use a combination of verbal and non-verbal communication, such as storytelling, visual aids, and vocal tone, to engage and hold the audience’s attention.

Key Differences in Communication Types

Each form of communication serves a different purpose and context, with key distinctions in how messages are conveyed and received:

1. Interpersonal vs. Group Communication: Interpersonal communication usually occurs between two people, with a focus on building relationships and personal interactions. In contrast, group communication involves multiple individuals working together to achieve common goals. While interpersonal communication is more intimate and personal, group communication is about collaboration and collective decision-making.

2. Interpersonal vs. Public Communication: Interpersonal communication is typically private and involves a back-and-forth exchange, fostering closeness and connection. Public communication, on the other hand, is directed at a larger audience and is often more formal, with the speaker having less direct interaction with the listeners.

3. Group vs. Public Communication: Group communication is interactive, with participants actively exchanging ideas and working together. Public communication is generally one-sided, with a speaker presenting information to an audience that may not have the opportunity to respond immediately. While group communication fosters discussion and collaboration, public communication aims to inform or persuade a broader audience.

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between interpersonal, group, and public communication helps us navigate various social and professional environments more effectively. Whether we're building personal relationships through interpersonal communication, collaborating in a team setting, or delivering a public speech, each form of communication plays a crucial role in how we connect with others and achieve our goals. By mastering these communication styles, we can enhance our ability to convey ideas clearly, work efficiently with others, and engage audiences on a larger scale.

Here are 12 open-ended questions exploring the definition of communication:

1. How would you define communication in your own words, and what key elements do you believe are essential for effective communication?
2. In what ways do non-verbal cues like body language and facial expressions contribute to the overall process of communication?
3. How does the context in which communication occurs influence the way messages are interpreted?
4. Can you describe a situation where communication was misunderstood, and what factors might have contributed to that misunderstanding?
5. How does the relationship between communicators impact the way messages are delivered and received?
6. What role do emotions play in the way we communicate with others, and how can they enhance or hinder communication?
7. How do you think cultural differences affect the definition and practice of communication?
8. In your opinion, what is the most important aspect of communication: the message being conveyed or how it is delivered? Why?
9. How do digital and analog communication methods differ, and what are the strengths and weaknesses of each?
10. How would you describe the role of active listening in the communication process, and why is it important?
11. How does technology, such as social media or messaging platforms, change the way we define and practice communication?
12. What are the most significant challenges in defining communication across different disciplines, such as interpersonal, group, and public communication?

Source: Conversation with Copilot, 9/8/2024 

1. Group Communication: Definition, Types and Best Practices 

2. Public Communication – Definition, Importance and Types 

5 Axioms of Communication

 

Five Axioms of Communication: Unlocking the Hidden Dynamics of Human Interaction

In everyday life, communication is more than just a series of spoken words or written messages. According to Paul Watzlawick’s renowned Five Axioms of Communication, every interaction carries deeper layers of meaning that shape human relationships. Understanding these principles can help us navigate complex social dynamics, improve our interactions, and avoid misunderstandings. Here, we explore each axiom in detail, revealing how they influence communication in subtle yet powerful ways.

Axiom 1: One Cannot Not Communicate

Every action—or inaction—is a form of communication. Whether we speak, remain silent, gesture, or avoid eye contact, we are conveying a message. For example, silence during a conversation may indicate agreement, discomfort, or even resistance. The key takeaway from this axiom is that communication happens whether we intend it or not, making it impossible to “not communicate.” This principle emphasizes that even unintentional behaviors, like body language or facial expressions, play a significant role in how others perceive us.

Axiom 2: Content and Relationship

Every communication has two levels: content (what is being said) and relationship (how it is being said). While the content focuses on the literal message, the relationship aspect reflects the tone, body language, and context in which the message is delivered. For instance, a simple statement like “I’m fine” can convey vastly different meanings depending on the speaker’s tone and demeanor. This axiom reminds us that the relationship between communicators heavily influences how messages are interpreted.

Axiom 3: Punctuation of Communication

Communication is an ongoing process, and how we “punctuate” it—that is, how we interpret the sequence of events—shapes the meaning of interactions. Different individuals may perceive the same conversation differently depending on how they view its beginning and end. For example, in a heated argument, one person may believe their anger is a reaction to being ignored, while the other may feel their withdrawal is a response to the initial anger. These different interpretations, or punctuations, can lead to misunderstandings, highlighting the need for clarity and empathy in communication.

Axiom 4: Digital and Analogic Modalities

Communication involves both digital (verbal) and analogic (non-verbal) elements. The digital aspect is the words we use, while the analogic aspect consists of non-verbal cues such as gestures, facial expressions, and tone. Both forms are crucial in conveying meaning. For example, saying “I’m happy” in a monotone voice with a frown sends conflicting signals. Understanding and aligning both modalities ensures that our messages are clear and authentic, fostering better relationships and interactions.

Axiom 5: Symmetrical or Complementary Interactions

Human interactions can be symmetrical, where individuals are equal in power or status, or complementary, where there is a difference in power. In symmetrical interactions, both parties may challenge each other or collaborate as equals. In complementary interactions, one party takes a dominant role while the other is submissive. Both types of interactions influence communication dynamics. In a workplace setting, for example, communication between a supervisor and an employee may be complementary, while conversations between colleagues may be more symmetrical. Recognizing the nature of these interactions can help us adapt our communication style accordingly, creating a more harmonious exchange.

Conclusion

Paul Watzlawick’s Five Axioms of Communication provide a foundational understanding of the complexities behind human interaction. By recognizing that every behavior communicates something, acknowledging the influence of relationships on content, understanding the importance of interpretation, and appreciating both verbal and non-verbal elements, we can become more effective communicators. Whether in personal relationships or professional settings, these principles help us navigate the intricate dance of communication with greater awareness and skill.

References

1. Watzlawick, P., Beavin, J. H., & Jackson, D. D. (1967). Pragmatics of Human Communication: A Study of Interactional Patterns, Pathologies, and Paradoxes. New York: Norton.

The 5 Axioms of Communication by Paul Watzlawick - Encora