Social and Cultural Diversity Paper: First Draft

1. Introduction

1. In the multicultural world of the 21st century, helping professionals must recognize the influence that race, social class, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and cultural dynamics have on both macro and micro relationships.

1. Definition of cultural diversity

1. Culture is that which shapes us; it shapes our identity and influences our behavior. Culture is our “way of being,” more specifically, it refers to the shared language, beliefs, values, norms, behaviors, and material objects that are passed down from one generation to the next.

1. Personal history.

1. Personal Biases

1. African Americans

1. Challenges as a Therapist

1. Acceptance

1. Cultural Diversity

1. Documenting experiences with discrimination

1. Not legally allowed to get married

1. How my cultural background impacted these experiences?

1. Sexual Orientation Lesbian

1. Identify memories of contact with those who were culturally different than you

1. Living and working in Atlanta

1. Experiences associated with these differences

1. Dealing with residents that are predominantly African American

1. Living in a transitional area that is predominantly African American

1. How has your life experience affected how you may relate to persons different than you?

1. Self-Awareness
2. Acceptance

1. Understanding of the concepts of racism/discrimination.

1. What does it mean to be a subtle racist?
2. Why could there be significant differences in perceptions and values of members within the same ethnic group?

1. ACA and NAADAC codes of ethics.

1. Discuss how the ACA and NAADAC codes of ethics will inform your practice.

1. 1. Identify and cite the specific ACA and NAADA multicultural codes that you will use to inform your practice.

1. What did you learn about the importance of cultural sensitivity in treatment planning?

1. How do communication styles differ across cultures?

1. How might strategies to build rapport be differentiated based on culture ?

1. Examine underlying reasons for differential treatment methods.

1. 1. Consult several professional journals on treatment practices and cultural biases.

   2. Identify sources of potential counselor cultural bias within these practices.

1. What resources could help you to become more informed regarding cultural diversity? Cite resources you can use to dispel your personal biases.

1. How could you apply your learning to your future practice as a counselor?

1. Conclusion

1. In the multicultural world of the 21st century, helping professionals must recognize the influence that race, social class, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and cultural dynamics have on both macro and micro relationships.

Katie,

You have a well-organized outline that addresses the component of the Writing Instructions. As you read through my comments above, I would have liked to have seen a greater level of detail to better illustrate what you intend to draft your essay around.

As you prepare to write your draft, reflect on your personal biases and influences. The next step of this project will be to compile a list scholarly sources you will be using in your paper. While the draft needs to be formatted on accordance with APA, it does not require an abstract. Be sure to review the rubric posted. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask. Overall good job,

Bonnie