Cultural Diversity

What is the difference between culture, ethnicity, and race?

Culture – the values, beliefs, attitudes, languages, symbols, rituals, behaviors and customs unique to a particular group of people and passed down from one generation to the next Culture is learned Culture is shared Culture is social in nature Culture is constantly changing

Common ethnic groups in U.S.: Ethnicity – classification of people based on national origin and /or culture Common ethnic groups in U.S.: African American Asian/Pacific American European American Hispanic American Middle Eastern/Arabic American Native American

Race – classification of people based on physical or biological characteristics such as color of skin, hair, and eyes.

What is cultural diversity? Differences based on cultural, ethnic, and racial factors. Why is it important for healthcare workers to understand cultural diversity?

Cultural sensitivity – the ability to recognize and appreciate the personal characteristics of others Ex: Native American or Asian culture: calling an adult by first name is not acceptable, so always address a patient by last name unless given permission to use first name.

Holistic care – caring for the whole person Holistic care – caring for the whole person. Taking care of not only physical needs, but also social, emotional, and mental needs.

Understanding Cultural Diversity Areas of cultural diversity include: Family organization Language Personal space Touching Eye contact Gestures Healthcare beliefs Spirituality Religion

Family Organization Nuclear family Extended family Patriarchal family Matriarchal family

Language Provide interpreter if necessary Speak slowly Use nonverbal communication as well as verbal Use pictures to clarify meaning of words

Personal Space The distance people require to feel comfortable while interacting with others Varies among cultural groups Read DHO pg 255 Personal Touch and Space for examples

Eye Contact Different among different cultures European American view it as polite and showing interest Asian Americans may consider it rude Native Americans may use peripheral vision Hispanics may use brief eye contact

Gestures While pointing may be acceptable in some cultures it can be considered rude in Asian and Native American cultures.

Healthcare Beliefs Graphic organizer

Religious Beliefs Graphic organizer

Respecting Cultural Diversity Listen to patients as they express their beliefs Appreciate differences in people Learn more about the cultural and ethnic groups that you see frequently Recognize and avoid bias, prejudice, and stereotyping Ask questions to determine a person’s beliefs Evaluate all info before forming an opinion

Allow patients to practice and express their beliefs as much as possible Remember that you are not expected to adopt their beliefs, just respect them Be sensitive to how patients respond to eye contact, touch, and invasion of personal space Respect spirituality, religious beliefs, symbols, and rituals