Professionals in Health Human Diversity and Communication Strategies

Culture Defined as a particular group’s values, beliefs, norms and practices that are learned and shared; that guide their thinking, decision and actions. Sometimes confused with other terms

Ethnicity Groups whose members share a common social and cultural heritage passed on to each successive generation. –Examples: African American, Asian American, European American

Race Members share distinctive physical features such as skin color, bone structure or blood group.

Prejudice Making a judgment about a person before you have all the facts defined.

Value Diversity As a health care worker, you will be interacting with patients and coworkers from a variety of different backgrounds. How will you react?

Diversity Encompasses a Variety Social preferences Learning styles Socioeconomic status Religion Sexual identity Cultural attributes Physical challenges Mental challenges

Characteristics of American Culture Egalitarianism- the belief that all humans are equal in their intrinsic worth. Orientation toward action and achievement

American Culture continued The tendency to quantify aspects of experiences that require no quantification Place higher value in utilitarian that aesthetic The belief in self help

Cultural Diversity What it is –The difference we recognize in ourselves and others –Allowing and respecting differences What it is not –Becoming like one another –Melting into one population or culture –Affirmative action

Why is it Important to Us? Better individual patient care Organizations better able to serve clients Morally correct America becoming more diverse

What Culture Shapes One’s sense of social space Communication style Dress and appearance Food and eating habits Time consciousness Relationships Values, beliefs and attitudes Work habits Learning and thinking patterns

Steps for Communication-Person From a Different Culture Determine the level of fluency of English and arrange for an interpreter, if needed. Ask how the client prefers to be addressed. Allow the client to choose seating for personal space. Avoid body language that may be offensive. Speak directly to the client.

Steps, continued Choose a rate of speech and style that promotes understanding and demonstrate respect for the client. Do not assume speaking louder will help understanding. Avoid slang, technical jargon, complex sentences. Determine reading level before using written material.