Social workers have a comprehensive understanding of diversity and its implications on society as well as on individuals’ experiences. They are cognizant of the variety of characteristics and beliefs that make up unique identities. Although social workers see the beauty in what makes humans different, they also recognize the challenges that those in minority groups face. They possess an understanding of how diversity results in some possessing greater power and privilege, while others encounter poverty, oppression, and alienation. Social workers are able to comprehend how the structure of society contributes to discrimination and marginalization of people who exhibit differences. Being competent in diversity and its affects enables social workers to make greater impacts when working with communities and individuals.
Practice Behaviors:
- Apply and communicate understanding of the importance of diversity and difference in shaping life experiences in practice at the micro, mezzo, and macro levels.
- Present themselves as learners and engage clients and constituencies as experts of their own experiences.
- Apply self-awareness and self-regulation to manage the influence of personal biases and values in working with diverse clients and constituencies.
Evidences
Class: I practiced self-awareness by writing an Integration of Faith and Practice Paper. Since my values and beliefs are a significant compass for my choices, I found it helpful to explore how they were shaped overtime. I included a summary of my current beliefs and worldview. The following practice behavior was demonstrated: 2.3
Class: In order to increase my understanding of how to integrate my faith in social work practice, I interviewed an active and passionate Seventh-day Adventist Christian who is also currently a social worker. I specifically inquired about how she upholds her professional and personal values in the work place. I summarized what I learned from this interview and included how I plan to regulate my personal beliefs and biases as I work with people in the future in a Paper. The following practice behaviors were demonstrated: 2.2 & 2.3
Field: I completed my 400 hour practicum at Starr Regional Medical Center, which is a hospital in a rural setting. By working in this environment, I observed how differences in a rural community, such as education levels and life experiences, impact patients and shape how social workers address them. I reported my observations and analysis in a Summary The following practice behavior was demonstrated: 2.1
Field: I demonstrated my desire to engage in learning experiences by attending an enrichment program where a speaker made a presentation on his experience with death. I recorded a summary of what was shared and what I learned in a brief Report. I also took time to include a section on self-awareness regarding my views on death and a plan for how I will regulate my personal values when working with others in the future. The following practice behaviors were demonstrated: 2.2 & 2.3