Introduction to Human Services BHHS 101 Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

Chapter 6: The Human Services Professional What kinds of client behaviors would be the most difficult to accept? (Page 174-175) How would you meet the challenge of working with these clients? (Discuss your responses with a partner or group of three) Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

Multi-Cultural Competency: Attitudes and Beliefs Counselor Self-Awareness: everyone sees the world through a cultural lens; acknowledge the impact of your past experiences and immersion within a particular culture or cultures Awareness of Client Worldview: understand both your clients cultural background and comprehend (to the best of your ability) your client’s worldview Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

Multi-Cultural Competency: Attitudes and Beliefs Empathy is a core “ingredient” of cultural sensitivity. Ask questions rather than pre-suppose you “know” a client based on their race, age, gender etc. Culturally sensitive helpers seek out diverse experiences in both their professional/personal lives and express an interest and commitment to learning about people with diverse experiences. Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

Multi-Cultural Competency: Attitudes and Beliefs Tolerance is a value that is practiced in everyday life as well as in professional practice. Service delivery and treatment must be multicultural and respond to the uniqueness of your clients’. Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

Multi-Cultural Competency Culturally Appropriate Interventions: synthesize an understanding of both your own worldview and that of the client to develop culturally sensitive interventions that incorporates a respect for the client’s experiences, values, spirituality, language preferences and helping practices Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

Multi-Cultural Competency Barry White and Luciano Pavarotti www.youtucom/watch?v=SyElW_Oov5I What are some universal activities, skills, values and/or behaviors that can “bridge” a cultural divide when working with a client? Let’s Brainstorm Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

Starting at the Beginning: HOPE We often carry (or represent) HOPE to our clients The installation of HOPE is a large part of what we do! Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

HUMAN SERVICE NETWORK Adapted from: Human Services Today, by K. Eriksen, p. 7 Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

Themes and Purposes of Human Services: Problems in Living Who experiences problems in living? Why are there so many problems in living? Focus is on improving the present and changing the future. Changes involve interaction between the client and environment. Difficulties arise in connection with families and communities. Focus is on both the group and the individual. Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

Themes and Purposes of Human Services: Growing Number of Problems in the World The Growing Number of Problems in the Modern World Global changes in recent years The challenge for human services Human Service delivery systems can effectively teach skills to lessen the effects of: Alienation and isolation Transition and stress Unemployment Global concerns Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

Themes and Purposes of Human Services: Self-Sufficiency It is difficult to achieve Providing clients with opportunities to become self-sufficient is a key component of human service delivery: Greater sense of independence Empowering clients to be responsible Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

The Interdisciplinary Nature of Human Services A wide variety of disciplines contribute to the definition of human services Each discipline brings a unique perspective to understanding individuals, families and groups It is difficulty to separate these functions Examples Sociology examines how human societies influence those who live in the societies Psychology is the study of the mind and behavior Anthropology studies the culture, physical, and social development of human behavior Sociology – assesses the individual and the broader culture, tries to account for and understand the differences within human culture; helps human service professionals understand elements of life that affect living, such as family structure, gender, family roles, race, and poverty Psychology – embraces all aspects of the human experience – seeks to understand behavior – “what makes people tick” Anthropology – variation of customs and beliefs; fieldwork is a critical component of anthropologists – live at sites where they are studying to learn about human groups. The integration of this knowledge for human service professionals aids in helping us better understand our clients and the world in which they live. Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1

Dual Focus on the Client and Helper The process of helping is client-oriented The roles of human service professionals are changing to focus on the whole person The responsibility of the human service professional includes developing a relationship with the client Professional help clients use the problem solving process The helper must learn about the client and his or her environment Understanding the client’s environment Empowering the client Encouraging client participation Human service professionals function as educators Professionals help clients use a problem solving process We assist clients in meeting their needs. We have many roles and responsibilities. We must rely on our skills: active listening, empathy, observation, and assessment to establish a relationship. Use of problem-solving skills assist in delivery of services. Humans are complex and have many systems that influence their circumstances. We must ask questions about their present condition, stresses, relationships and everyday events. We attempt to see the situation through the client’s eyes. Questioning and listening should help us understand the client’s world better. Additionally, we take on the role of educator. We assist client’s in improving their intellectual skills, emotional, and behavioral options. Clients feel better about themselves when treated with dignity: like they are capable of change. We promote change, hence clients begin to believe that they can operate and function independently and with self-esteem. Focus is on early in the helping process. Maslow – basic physical needs, safety and security, social belonging needs, self needs, and self-actualization. (1971). We try to start with the client’s most basic needs – this gives the client an early sense of accomplishment of an important obstacle. We also teach clients how to recognize how their environment affects them (physical and interpersonal). Woodside & McClam (2009). Ch. 1