Directions: To work effectively with clients of diverse backgrounds, we must take time to understand ourselves and the cultural influences that have shaped our values and beliefs. Please keep in mind that the topics we are discussing are sensitive in nature and often deeply personal. Remember, it is okay to have different opinions and experiences. We must learn to discuss difficult topics respectfully. Initial post: TIP: Copy and paste the prompts into your discussion board post, and then respond to each question. This will help your post to remain organized and ensure that you cover all aspects of the prompt. Construct your own definition of culture and then share two cultural values that have shaped you. Choose a culture that you are unfamiliar with. Do some basic research and then share two things that you learned that helping professionals should be aware of when working with that cultural group. Identify what you consider your personal strengths and describe how your personal strengths will be an asset in relationship development with clients. Reply post: Please respond to at least one peer and respond to one of the above prompts, then add your own personal strengths and how they would help with working with the named cultural group. REPLY BACK TO THIS STUDENTS POST: Construct your own definition of culture and then share two cultural values that have shaped you. the beliefs, social forms, attitudes, values, goals, practices, and material traits of a racial, religious, or social group. The two values that have really shaped me throughout life, is the attitudes and beliefs. Attitude is a large part of how I was raised, being that the attitude that you provide to the world, is what you should expect in return from others. If you are a kind person, you will have kindness returned to you. Beliefs stem from both faith, and the way that you treat others. Faith saved my life during some very hard times in my life, although now I do not practice faith as much as I used to, however, I still believe and I still know to this day, that faith saved my life. Choose a culture that you are unfamiliar with. Do some basic research and then share two things that you learned that helping professionals should be aware of when working with that cultural group. Within the Indian culture, there are 7 major religions, and religion is very important to individuals of the Indian culture. This is something that we need to keep in mind when we are caring for and working with individuals with an Indian background. Another aspect that should be kept in mind, that many people may not think about, is the fact that cows are sacred to this culture. Having something with cow print, could come across as being disrespectful and in return, this could cause clients to not want to receive care any longer, or may not even return despite the amount of help that they may or may not need. Identify what you consider your personal strengths and describe how your personal strengths will be an asset in relationship development with clients. I believe that I am a very easy-going person, that can relate to a lot more than people think, as well as I am very compassionate, especially when it comes to helping others
