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 WorkforceThe Feminization of the

Workforce and SocietyThe 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 rolesConcerns:

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 perspectiveEmic—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.

OROnly race?

Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

Theme Four: The Sociopolitical Nature of Social Work Practice

Who holds the powerpowerto define normalitynormality??

Multicultural Social Work Practice – Chapter (1)

Eurocentric definition

Racial/cultural consequences

Theme Five: The Nature of Culturally Competent Social Work

PracticeCulturally competence is rare

Standards derived from: Eurocentric values Belief systems Cultural assumptionsTraditions 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)