White Values Essay

“White Values” describe the value system of Caucasian American’s of European descent. White values differ from those of minority groups.

This discussion is included for my consideration because not all ethnicity’s have the same beliefs, associations, traits. Therefore, when treating people from different cultures a human services professional much be able to recognize those differences in order to properly help the individual from a particular minority group.

“World view” will help the student to broaden his/her point of view to include the whole world.

Cultural diversity is important because our country, our workplaces and our schools include persons of various ethnics groups and interests. We can learn from one another, but first we must

have a level of understanding about one another in order to work together effectively.
Some of the key guiding principles for working effectively with diverse populations include.
Be aware of your own cultural background/experiences, attitudes, values, and biases that might influence your ability to assist clients from diverse cultural populations.

It is essential that you correct any prejudices and biases you may have regarding different cultural groups. Educate yourself wherever possible to enhance your understanding and to address the needs of culturally diverse clients. This may involve learning about cultural, social, psychological, political, economic, and historical material specific to the particular ethnic group being served.

Recognize that ethnicity and culture may have an impact on a client’s behavior. Assist clients to become aware of their own cultural values and norms, and facilitate discovery of ways clients can apply this awareness to their own lives and to society, as well as within the organization. Respect the client’s religious and/or spiritual beliefs and values. Work to eliminate biases, prejudices, and discriminatory practices. Provide information in a language that the client can understand. Provide information in writing, along with oral explanations.

“Minority” means - a culturally, ethnically, or racially distinct group that coexists with but is subordinate to a more dominant

group.
“Minority status” – a person in a group that differs, especially in race, religion, or ethnic background, from the majority of a population. Members of minority groups are often treated differently than others within the society in which they live.
Some of the specific challenges faced by family members who have one or more member that represent a minority population are – religion, family structure, gender roles, decision and discipline, education and time perception.
The job of the human services worker is to understand the differences in working with people of different cultures and knowing their beliefs within their given culture. To help find the different resources available for the specific culture that the human service worker is helping. The human service worker needs to be non-judgmental when working with different cultural beliefs.
The ways human service workers continue to become diversity competent are by understanding self, social groups, and by continuing education. Employment in-services and conferences.
I believe the meaning of “A little knowledge is sometimes more dangerous than none at all” is a small amount of knowledge can mislead people into thinking that they are more expert than they really are.