Mike Tyson Essay -- Biography Biographies Papers

Mike Tyson Mike Tyson, the youngest ever heavyweight boxing champion of the world was born in a ghetto in the state of New York. His Father departed the family home two years after his birth, leaving his Mother to raise three children with very limited financial means. Subsequently, his Mother found a new partner who was abusive and violent. She then turned to alcohol in an attempt to escape from her existence. Michael, now aged five years, felt neglected and unloved by her but at this time he was unaware that his Mother was suffering from terminal cancer. (Gutteridge & Giller, 1996) Tormented by older children because of his high-pitched voice and clothes from a school charity group, Tyson learned quickly that he could retaliate against the bullies if he physically assaulted them. (Gutteridge & Giller, 1996) Tyson joined street gangs and was arrested for thirty crimes ranging from theft to assault before the age of twelve. Sentenced to a Juvenile Delinquents Centre for two years for mugging a young female, Tyson spent his time in prison learning the sport of boxing. Upon release, Cus D’Amato, a boxing manager and promoter, legally adopted Tyson and provided a stable environment and family atmosphere. â€Å"The following five years were the happiest and most contented Tyson had ever felt†. (Hoffer, 1998, p61) While Tyson was working towards winning the junior Olympic championship, D’Amato died leaving Tyson feeling devastated and alone. Turning professional a year later, Tyson went on to win the world heavyweight boxing championship aged only twenty years old. Once again, Tyson’s behaviour became increasingly errati... ... Fradiman, J. & Frager, R. (1994) Personality & Personal Growth. Harper Collins: N Y Gutteridge, R & Giller, N. (1996 ) Mike Tyson. The release of Power. Queen Anne Press : Herts Hoffer, R, (1998) A Savage Business, The come Back and Come Down of Tyson. Simon & Schuster : New York Hough, M. (1998) Counselling Skills & Theory. Hodder & Sloughton : London Mischel, W. (1976) Introduction to Personality. 2nd Edition Holt, Rinehart & Winston : London Ryckman, R.M. (2004) Theories of Personality. Thomson Wadsworth : U.K. Scott, P. & Spencer, C. (1998) Psychology. A Contemporary Introduction. Blackwell : Oxford Lane, M. (2004) Can a lottery win make you happy? BBC News on Line Magazine. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/magazine/3579213.stm Accessed: Nov 10th at 10am.