Cultural Competency Flashcards

Which statement best describes cultural humility as distinct from cultural competence?

Answer: It is a lifelong process of self-reflection and addressing power imbalances with clients

Cultural humility emphasizes ongoing self-critique, learning from the client, and recognizing power differences rather than claiming mastery.

A Muslim family asks that their father's body be released as quickly as possible after death. What is the most culturally responsive action?

Answer: Facilitate prompt release, since Islamic tradition calls for burial as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours

Islamic practice generally calls for ritual washing and burial as soon as possible, and embalming and cremation are usually avoided.

In Jewish tradition, the initial period of intensive mourning observed at home after burial, called shiva, typically lasts how long?

Answer: Seven days

Shiva means 'seven' in Hebrew and refers to the seven-day mourning period following burial.

A grieving mother speaks limited English, and her 12-year-old son offers to interpret during a bereavement visit. What is best practice?

Answer: Use a trained professional interpreter rather than the child

Professional interpreters protect accuracy and confidentiality and spare children from carrying adult emotional content.

Asking a family 'What do you think caused this death, and what does it mean to you?' reflects which approach?

Answer: Kleinman's explanatory model of illness

Kleinman's explanatory model questions elicit the client's own understanding of the cause and meaning of illness or death.

How does a cultural generalization differ from a stereotype in bereavement practice?

Answer: A generalization is a starting point to be checked against the individual, while a stereotype is applied as a fixed conclusion

Generalizations can guide inquiry when tested against each person's actual beliefs, whereas stereotypes assume every member fits the pattern.

Adult children raised in the U.S. reject the traditional mourning rituals their immigrant mother wants for their father. What should the bereavement practitioner do?

Answer: Help the family talk about what each ritual means and negotiate a plan that honors differing needs

Differing acculturation levels within a family are common, and facilitating dialogue respects every member's grief.