Cultural competence and sensitivity. Getting it right.
In our search for equality in a heterogeneous society, we must remember that equality does not mean the same, it means balance. We must respect the need for others, particularly persons who hold membership in oppressed groups, to reconstruct and reconnect with their own worldviews. When we do this we help create opportunities for individuals and groups to discover their unique qualities rooted in a shared world view. Ultimately, this practice will lead to a healthier and more holistic heterogeneous cultural experience. The goal is not to adopt the worldview of others but to learn about the view of others, respect those views, and use that knowledge as a foundation for creating culturally competent advocacy and practice methods.
Wells-Wilbon
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Department of Social Work, Morgan State University, Baltimore, USA. Arwilbon@aol.com
McDowell
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D000293:Adolescent; D000296:Adolescent Psychiatry; D002648:Child; D002665:Child Psychiatry; D002675:Child, Preschool; D018864:Cultural Diversity; D005006:Ethnicity / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D010553:Personality Development; D011287:Prejudice; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D012951:Socialization