Forensic populations are some of the most diverse of all treatment populations, thus making cultural competence an important attribute for those who administer treatment in forensic settings. In fact, nearly all professional codes of conduct emphasize multicultural competency as a vital skill for clinical practice. Cultural awareness and competency are necessary for the skilled treatment provider in any setting and particularly in forensic settings. How might a person’s culture impact behavior? As a forensic treatment professional, being more aware of culture, diversity, and cultural competency may impact the effectiveness of your professional practice.
To prepare for this Discussion:
Review and reflect on the course media segment Multicultural Considerations. Think about the importance of multicultural competency in-group treatment of forensic populations.
Take the self-assessment, Cross-cultural healthcare quality quiz found in the resources.
Note: Self-assessments often are used to evaluate strengths and areas for improvement, develop professional goals, and measure progress. This week, you complete the self-assessment, analyze the results, and determine areas that you would like to develop. This assignment will help you draw on your strengths, address your areas for improvement, and understand how to meet your professional goals.
Reflect on the results of your self-assessment in terms of what these results tell you about your own cultural awareness and competency. Think about the areas and levels of your cultural awareness and competency. Identify the cultural competencies you would like to develop or develop further.
Consider how the results of your self-assessment might impact your professional goals.
With these thoughts in mind:
By Day 4
Post a brief summary of the results of your self-assessment and the implications of these results in terms of your cultural awareness and competence. Describe your reaction to these results, and explain how you plan to use this information to further develop your cultural competence and accomplish your professional goals.
Be sure to support your postings and responses with specific references to the resources.