Chapter 1 Principles and Assumptions of Multicultural Social Work Practice Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

Diversification of U.S. and Implications for Social Work The Graying of the Workforce The Feminization of the Workforce and Society The Changing Complexion of the Workforce and Society Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

The Graying of the Workforce Elderly population increasing Concerns: Lack of knowledge Stereotypes Governmental policies Ageism Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

The Feminization of the Workforce and Society Dual roles Concerns: Greater stressors Structural family changes Poverty Unequal pay for equal work Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

The Changing Complexion of the Workforce and Society People of color majority by 2050 Issues: Immigration Rates Differential Birthrates Glass ceiling impacts everyone 45% public school population Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

Cultural Diversity and the Challenge to Social Work Maximize care and minimize harm Cultural competence What is cultural competence? Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

Theme One: Cultural Universality vs. Cultural Relativism Etic—universal perspective Emic—culturally specific perspective Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

Theme Two: The Emotional Consequences of “Race and/or Differences” Reactions to racism, sexism, homophobia, etc. Discomfort with “hot topics” Shifting the dialogue Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

Theme Three: The Inclusive or Exclusive Nature of Multiculturalism What defines multiculturalism? Race, gender, sexual orientation, social class, disability, etc. OR Only race? Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

Theme Four: The Sociopolitical Nature of Social Work Practice power Who holds the power normality? to define normality? Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1) Eurocentric definition Racial/cultural consequences

Theme Five: The Nature of Culturally Competent Social Work Practice Culturally competence is rare Standards derived from: Eurocentric values Belief systems Cultural assumptions Traditions of larger society Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

The Multiple Dimensions of Human Existence All individuals are, in some respects: Individual Level: like no other individuals Group Level: like some other individuals Universal Level: like all other individuals Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

Individual and Universal Biases in Social Work Values such as: Individualism, autonomy, independence, and uniqueness are coveted Social science seeks universal facts and principles to explain human behavior Social work has neglected studying identity at the group level for sociopolitical and normative reasons Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

What is Multicultural Social Work Practice? Broadening helping role and process Being consistent with life experiences and cultural values Recognizing individual, group,and universal dimensions Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

What is Multicultural Social Work Practice? (Cont’d) Learn about culture-specific strategies Balance individualistic approach with collectivistic reality Focus on both client and client systems Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)