Cultural Competence

570 Words2 Pages

Introduction
“We may have different religions, different languages, different colored skin, but we all belong to one human race." Kofi Annan ( Ghanian Diplomat, 7th UN Secretary General, 2001 Nobel Peace Prize Winner; b. 1938 ). The development of cultural competence can have far-reaching effect not only on the client but also the counsellor and the communities to which they strives. Sue’s (2001) multidimensional model of cultural competence includes three dimensions of cultural competence Foci individual, professional, organizational, societal. Group-specific attributes appropriate action depends on the target group; components attitudes, knowledge and skills. This paper will look on the multidimensional model of cultural competence and how …show more content…

Hence, as Sue 2007 stated a counsellor should not cause their individual cultures impact their personal and professional live, such as their professional, self-awareness, knowledge and skills. For example, in certain job vacancy shows sexism while others show classism your address will not afford you to get a job. While being cognizant of one’s own culture, beliefs, and values, it is crucial that the counsellor don’t become culturally encapsulated. Cultural encapsulation puts counselors at risk of using stereotypes, becoming judgmental, and imposing their values on their clients. Stereotypes, perceptions, and beliefs that counselors hold concerning groups that are culturally different could hinder their ability to form helpful and effective relationships. Collaborative relationships might be difficult to form in the presence of such hindrances. To combat these counselors need to develop multicultural competence for their profession and continuing education within the society as it evolve every day. A culturally competent counselor does not see her or his group’s cultural heritage, history, values, language, traditions, arts/crafts, as superior to that of others. A culturally competent counselor is open to the values, norms, and cultural heritage of clients and does not impose her or his values/beliefs on clients (Sue & Sue,

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