Question

The professional school counselor was confronted with a student from a culture different from his own. What would be the challenges you would have faced if you had been the counselor? What steps are you taking to ensure that you will be as prepared as possible for multicultural counseling situations? Finally, give an example of a culture within your community that you need to improve your knowledge of and why.

Answer 1

The primary function of a counselor is to achieve interdisciplinary and emotional development. Super and Harckness recognized that cognitive development occurs in a specific ‘cultural niche’ which is understood with respect to the degree of adaptation. The aim thereafter is to alter the environments for the culturally different in such a manner that boundaries to their personal, professional or academic development can be overcome.

Every culture has specific values. By appreciating this, counselors can effectively reach out to each individual based on their personal and social strengths.

Cultural differences can be vast and cross-cultural communications can challenging at times. The difference in verbal or otherwise communicable languages poses a big challenge while other factors are a difference in gender roles, religious beliefs, body language, and different understanding in areas of work or study. A few more concerns expressed by Reynolds and Kaiser (1990) are:

• The consequences of social inequality can be seen in the disadvantage for academic and professional attainment.

• Measurement of different attributes when used with subjects from different cultures.

• The differential, predictive value of tests with minority groups is questioned.

• Differences in the habit of doing tests among such groups.

One of the most effective tools counselors can utilize to engage clients from other cultures is to openly acknowledge any differences. It is ideally done so as to not undermine either cultural or religious beliefs. The expression a willingness to learn more about, and showing respect for, their worldview, belief systems, and means of problem-solving is also effective as it gives a feeling of satisfaction to the student.

Self-reflection makes a culturally-competent counselor. Clearly identifying his own worldview and personal beliefs from those who are different from him assist in uncovering personal prejudices, feelings, and stereotypical ideas about students from other cultures. Being open-minded and willing to educate about culturally different groups involves a feeling of familiarity to both the parties.

Professional counselors may not master the ability to comprehend the unique cultural differences. But this knowledge grows with work and the acknowledgment of diversity. The field of professional counseling continually provides opportunities to gain new insights and skills with each new client.