Diversity​
HMSV 346: Diversity Issues in Human Services
(From the course syllabus) This course serves as an introduction to multicultural helping. The influence of socio-identities (e.g., race, ethnicity, religion, gender, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, disability) on individuals’ functioning, concerns, and the helping process will be explored.
Students will have increased knowledge about the eight major social identities that every person possesses (race, ethnicity, class, gender, sexual orientation, physical abilities, age, and religion/spirituality) and the impact of these identities on the helping process and relationship.
Three dimensions of multicultural competence:
Awareness of one's own cultures, beliefs, and values and how these factors may impact the helping relationship.
Knowledge of others' cultures, beliefs, customs, and values. Have an increased awareness about racism, prejudice, oppression, and privilege.
Skills in utilizing culturally appropriate interventions with diverse clients, including techniques, education, empowerment, and advocacy.
The cultural immersion project was designed to allow students to empathically experience a different and non-dominant culture, learn more about a specific group, and gain greater self-awareness of personal values and beliefs.
For this assignment, I gathered valuable insight on the experiences of an African American single mother serving active duty in the U.S. Navy. During our interview, I explored the importance of her membership to the group, positive and negative dimensions of the group's culture, and how membership affects various aspects of her life. Her responses were analyzed and compared to any generalizations and stereotypes found in research conducted about the culture prior to the interview. Further analysis was made on her particular intersections of oppression. A PowerPoint of interview highlights is provided below.
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The cultural immersion project increased my appreciation and understanding of a culture separate from my own. Focusing on African American counseling contributed greatly to my multicultural counseling skillset and allowed me adopt a holistic perspective when assisting my clients at the Help & Emergency Response shelters during my student internship.
This course enhanced my skills in working in a team structure with culturally diverse colleagues and practicing interpersonal communication.
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The Genderbread Person Model demonstrates the many components and fluidity of gender and sexual identity
Compare and contrast cultural issues related to counseling and human services.
Examine the importance of diversity.
Explain how globalization impacts individuals and society.