In our multicultural society we need to learn to live with difference in a constructive way. Difference should not be seen just as a problem but as a potential for growth. Both clients and counsellors bring with them certain cultural attitudes, values, beliefs and behaviours. Societal and political events apply pressures and condition us and through these events we become socialised and learn what is expected of us. We see our roles as fixed and
Therefore, each tribe may have different ways of viewing things and doing things. Keeping this in mind, it is also important to integrate culture into the recovery process. (Clifford,
A person may change his or her attitudes and behaviors when around social groups in order to feel accepted even if they don’t particularly believe in the group behaviors. In order to feel accepted in society we change our attitudes and behaviors to better fit into that of the social norm. With each different group come different behaviors so that rejection does not happen. The more people we have around the more pressure and influence is put upon us to change our behaviors. This can have both positive and negative effects however.
As a result of our varied cultural backgrounds, we could have potential conflicts. To avoid these conflicts, I must employ several communication strategies to communicate competently. This ultimately involves forming a deep understanding of the groups represented in the audience, as well as identifying and being sensitive to the norms and values of these groups. Then, I must cater the aim and information in the presentation to the audience to make it more relevant and important to the groups. Incorporating various forms of media in the presentation aid in the communication process as well.
It varies because of mood and behavioral influences. If one is in a bad mood they will typically communicate negatively and without thinking about the affects it may have on someone else. Regardless of how we communicate we need to realize that all communication is cultural. In essence, it portrays ways we have learned to speak and send nonverbal messages. Not only are there different principles and contexts to consider, but there are also cultural barriers.
While in the work place I often experience many challenges, by taking a step back and evaluating the situation, my actions and experience I can make informed choices that can help me to perform in a caring productive way. When taking part in reflective practice you have to be open, honest, and non defensive, you have to think that by doing something different is not the same as doing something better. You need to ask yourself questions such as, how did I work? , Did I use my knowledge of the service user in the decision-making? , Were personal values involved?
Some of the challenges that arise when communicating with different cultures are difference in communication styles, attitudes towards conflict, decision-making styles, and approaches on tasks. It is important we accept each and everyone’s differences. Non-verbal communication may be more effective when dealing with different cultures and languages. Effective communication requires special attention and consideration from each party. When cultural barriers exist, one must rely on nonverbal communication to relay the correct message.
Dowling, Donald C.,, Jr. (2014). CROSS-BORDER DIVERSITY INITIATIVES FOR RECRUITING AND RETENTION. GPSolo, 31(2), 68-69. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1520011958?accountid=32521 Diversity plays a huge role in U.S. domestic human resources and employment law compliance. Members from different parts of the world that belong to an International project team can come across misunderstanding because of cultural differences.
301 cert – Principles of communication Its important to encourage communication within work place. This means allowing the individuals to express themselves and understand the communication of others. For this to be effective you must recognise that each person in unique meaning there will be differences in the way each person communicates. There are different influences that affect communication such as cultural differences, language differences. Specific needs such as physical difficulties can influence a person ability to communicate, always be sensitive to the specific needs of the individual so communication is encouraged from the start.
They can value and celebrate differences in others rather than maintain an ethnocentric stance and can demonstrate comfort with differences between themselves and others. They have an awareness of personal and professional limitations that may warrant the referral of a client to another victim service provider or agency that can best meet the clients' needs. Self-awareness also helps in understanding the process of cultural identity formation and helps guard against stereotyping. As one develops the diversity within one’s own group, one can be more open to the diversity within other groups. Cultural competence also requires victim service providers to appreciate how workers need to move from cultural awareness to cultural sensitivity before achieving cultural competence, and to evaluate growth and development throughout these different levels of cultural competence in practice.