Discussion Board 1 and 2

Discussion 1: Cultural Identity

What is culture? Is it synonymous with  nationality? Can culture emerge from the intersection of multiple  factors, such as gender identity, ability status, or language? Consider  these questions as you prepare to describe your own culture.

For  this Discussion, think about how you would identify your culture.  Consider aspects of your identity such as your ethnicity, gender  identity, religion, race, ability status, sexual orientation, or any  other identifiers that contribute to what you would consider your  culture.

By Day 3

Post a description of important  aspects of your culture that an outsider might not know. Explain the  information a social worker would need to know about your culture in  order to effectively assist your family in the face of a pressing issue.  Describe potential consequences of a lack of cultural awareness on the  social worker’s part.

Discussion 2: Cultural Competence

The term cultural competence denotes an  integrative perspective on the cultures of other people. Individuals  displaying higher levels of cultural competency tend not to promote  their culture over others or vice versa—they instead demonstrate an  interest in learning more about the customs, habits, and behaviors of  those whose backgrounds are different from their own.

For this Discussion, review one of the case studies in the Readings and consider your knowledge of the client’s culture.

By Day 4

Post a description of your  level of familiarity with the culture of the client. Describe at least  two additional pieces of information you would need to gather from the  client in order to best assist him or her.

Discussion 2: Cultural Competence