HS 213 Multicultural Issues

Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Examines the effects of cultural differences on the client and human service provider. Increases awareness of cultural differences and the skills to develop and apply appropriate intervention strategies in cross-cultural situations. Focuses on course group work as a method to navigate cross-cultural interactions.

Prerequisite: HS 150 and HS 155 each with a grade of C or better; or consent of instructor.
Student Learning Outcomes:

Increase awareness and knowledge of cultural differences, and skills needed to function effectively in a pluralistic society.
Identify and examine personal biases, assumptions, values, attitudes, and limitations and how these can effect cross-cultural relationships.
Explain social, political, and historical factors that confront racial, ethnic, and other cultural groups.
Make associations of how privilege and power relations in U.S. society are inextricably interrelated with racial, ethnic, and cultural group membership.
Explore various racial, ethnic, and cultural groups and examine their influence on members’ worldview.
Develop the skills to respond in culturally appropriate ways to work effectively across cultures.
Describe personal biases, past experiences and potential areas of conflict related to counseling cross-culturally.
Identify the student’s own group memberships and identities and describe how these might influence his/her work with clients who are similar and different.

Content Outline

Definition and Exploration and Examination
- Culture and its influence on reality and worldviews
- Ethnic, racial, and cultural identity
- Racism and the social construction of race
- Race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, social class, ability status, and discrimination
- Privilege, power, and oppression
- Stereotyping and generalization
Cultural Self-Identity and Assessment
Effect of Racial, Ethnic, and Cultural issues on Cross-Cultural Relationships on the Helping Process
Development of Multicultural Awareness, Knowledge, and Skills
Development of Various Helping Styles and Approaches to Cross-Cultural Situations