HTR 7.01 Discuss concepts of ethnicity, culture and race. Tina Marie Hunt, RN, BSN, HOE

Individual uniqueness We must respect the individuality of each person Various factors influence: Physical characteristics – gender, size, hair, nail, skin color Family life Socioeconomic status Religious beliefs

Influences on Individual uniqueness Geographical location Education Occupation Life experiences

Culture The values, beliefs, attitudes, languages, symbols, rituals, behaviors, & customs unique to a particular group of people. Set of rules

Culture Influences religion, health care and beliefs, food practices, relationships, education, spirituality, and social interactions A foundation of behavior May be different within a group

Culture All have 4 basic characteristics Culture is learned Culture is shared Culture is social Culture is dynamic & changing

Ethnicity A classification of people based on national origin and/orculture Ethic groups share a common heritage, geographical location, social customs, language and beliefs. Many different ethics exist in the U.S.

Common Ethnic groups African American – Central & South African, Dominican Republic, Haiti, & Jamaica Asian American – Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia & Pacific Island, Japan, Korea, Laos, Pakistan, Philippines, Samoa, and Vietnam

Common Ethnic groups European American – England, France, Germany, Ireland, Poland, Russia, Scandinavia & Scotland Hispanic American – Cuba, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spanish-speaking countries in Central and South America

Common Ethnic groups Middle Eastern/Arab American – Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and other North African and Middle Eastern Countries Native American – Over 500 tribes of American Indians and Eskimos

Race A classification of people based on physical or biological characteristics such as the color of skin, eyes & hair; facial features, blood type and bone structure. Used to label a group of people & explain patterns of behaviors The values, beliefs & behaviors learned from the ethnic/cultural group

Cultural diversity Differences based on cultural, ethnic, and racial factors U.S.

Cultural assimilation The absorption of many cultures into the dominant culture. Requires new group to alter their unique beliefs and behaviors and adopt the ways of the dominant culture Melting pot

Acculturation The process of learning the beliefs and behaviors of a dominant culture and assuming some of the characteristics.

Sensitivity The ability to recognize and appreciate the personal characteristics of others. Essential for HC providers