1. Chapter 2: Using Your Helping Skills with Diverse Populations

2. Diversity A complex concept that includes: Race Gender Disability
Ethnicity
Age
National Origin
Religion
Sexual Orientation
Disability
Beliefs
Language
Lifestyle
Values
Socioeconomic
status

3. Trends in the Workforce
The American workforce is being
impacted by three major trends:
the aging of the baby boomers combined with a tendency for individuals to work longer
increased participation of women
a “changing complexion” made up of individuals from more diverse groups

4. Organizational Barriers
Negative attitudes toward people from diverse groups
Discrimination and prejudice
Stereotyping
Racism
Bias

5. Personal Barriers Poor career planning Inadequate skill preparation
Lack of political savvy
Lack of proper education
Low self-esteem and poor self-image

6. Needed Skills and Attitudes
Customize helping skills to meet individual needs
Recognize and understand differences within groups
Expand and adjust traditional career theories
Recognize differences in values

7. Helpful Guidelines Examine your own attitudes
Focus on respect for each individual
Avoid stereotypes
Consider each person’s needs
When in doubt, ask
Communicate with sensitivity
Adapt your approach as needed
Be attuned to clients’ legal rights

8. Major Legislation
Civil Rights Act of provides the most comprehensive base for elimination of discrimination
Americans with Disabilities Act - provides protection for disabled who want to be employed
Family and Medical Leave Act - enables employees to balance responsibilities of work and family