Are there similarities between these groups and the groups you researched?

( First discussion response with one resource sepreated)
Unit 5 Discussion 1
COLLAPSE
What are key factors that need to be addressed when working with African American, Latino, and Native American Clients? Are there similarities between the groups? Are there similarities between these groups and the groups you researched? How would you incorporate the key factors into your plan for working with clients from these groups?
According to Appleby et al. (2010), in order for a social worker to progress the goal of cultural diversity and empower the client, they have to practice from a theory that people of color are vulnerable to victimization by a society that places value on true diversity. In social work the person and their environment are thought of as interacting therefore influencing and shaping one another. Consideration is given to mutual concerns that affect social functioning. Environmental problems also affect social functioning and well-being. This is why it is important to assess all systems in a person’s life and how that might affect them.
Appleby et al. (2010) states there is a large fluctuation among African-American families. Family is considered the most important conveyor of cultural values and traditions. The value of family is highly pronounced. Church also provides parishoners with a sense of identity and comfort. It is also important to be aware of the history of discrimination and racism and how that can impact getting help.
Latinos, according to Appleby et al. (2010), culture represents a way of life that connects them together through their language, values, beliefs and practices that are thought to be acceptable. It guides their thinking and constructs their behavior in the environment. Latinos are made of many different subgroups that vary by national origin, racial stock, generation status in the U.S., and socioeconomic level. Latinos families are usually made up of an extended family structure and values involve the concept of personalismo, respeto, and dignidad. They tend to be more contact oriented and respond better to a personal rather than business manner. It is important to build rapport and trust when working with Latino individuals.
Appleby et al. (2010) share that Native Americans are overrepresented in the child welfare system, have higher rates of certain health problems and are among the poorest people in the United States. Alcoholism continues to be one of the most serious social and health problems facing Native Americans. They are also more likely to be victims of violent crimes than any other racial group. Problems affect each tribe differently. Kinship ties are very important and grandparents are considered an important influence in the family. Their lifestyle supports a deep connection to the land and they have strong beliefs and bonds with nature. It is important to learn some of the basic health beliefs and practices as well as religious traditions when working with Native Americans.
It is important when working with people from other cultures to be aware of your own biases and privileges. Cultural competence should also be assessed to know what you need to learn about your client’s beliefs and cultural background. I would use the Person-In-Environment (PIE) concept to assess how the client has been affected by the different systems in their life to provide a thorough understanding of the individual and their environment.
Resource
Appleby, G.A., Colon, E., & Hamilton, J. (2010). Diversity, Oppression, and Social Functioning: Person-In-Environment Assessment and Intervention (3rd ed.). Pearson Learning Solutions. https://capella.vitalsource.com/books/9781323264515
( Sencond response with one resource)
2 days agoAldison Middleton-Hinton PRIMARY INSTRUCTOR MANAGER
RE: Discussion Post
COLLAPSE
Heather, you’ve presented a very interesting point to consider when working with the Native American community, and that is the loss they’ve encountered historically. With this in mind, how can we create an atmosphere of belonging and autonomy for them in our social work practice and engagement with this target population?
-Dr. A