“We may have different religions, different languages, different colored skin, but we all belong to one human race (Kofi, 1938).” As children we are innocent, playful, and accepting. Then, as we get older we are influenced by our environment; which could be our upbringing, the people around us, and our cultural. According to Rosado, cultural diversity is a system of beliefs and behaviors that includes and respects diverse groups whether in an organization or the world in general. It also acknowledges and values everyone’s socio-cultural differences, and inspires and enables their contribution within the community. It is apparent that we live in a world that is filled with people of all different religion, race, sexual orientation, …show more content…
Subtle racism could be defined as perpetuated in normative and invisible forms and is generally outside of our conscious awareness. Most people will say they probably never experienced racism because it has been subtle, like in my experience. However, just because racism isn’t blatant does not mean it does not exist. “Unconscious negative beliefs and feelings about racial groups may not appear on a survey but may be revealed in everyday interpersonal interactions at work, at school, or on the street.” (Clair & Denis, 2015)
Difference in Perceptions and Values
I have come to realize that just because I am African American and my classmate in school is African American does not mean that we share the same values or view life the same way. We all come from different backgrounds, walks of life, and have totally different experiences. Whether our experiences are good or bad could also determine our perception. For example, two people could be from the same ethnic group but have two different socioeconomic experiences. Or I could be going up for the same job as an African American male and he could get the job over me just because he is a man.
ACA and …show more content…
In doing that the counselor must take into account the clients culture. During initial meeting of the client a counselor should make sure they have a good understanding of the client’s culture and even social background; so that the counselor makes the best decision when treating the client. The counselor should understand and incorporate cultural factors while avoiding stereotypes and getting out the mindset that on size fits all when treating clients (2014).
Communication Styles
Communication is the key to understanding each other culturally. Communication differs from culture to culture. It is important that a counselor understands their clients culture to understand how they communicate. Because you could think the way a client looks at you or the tone of their voice may mean one thing and it could totally mean another. “Mental health professionals may assume that certain behaviors or rules of speaking are universal and possess the same meaning. This may create major problems for therapists and their culturally distinct clients (Sue & Sue, 2016).”
Building