Multiculturalism

Longevity, mobility, and other issues make our population demographics increasingly dynamic. Multiculturalism represents acknowledgement that assumptions, experiences, and meanings are not universal; that the worldviews they give rise to are not identical between or among individuals or groups; and that these numerous perspectives are all valid (even if seemingly undesirable or unjust). In health, mental health, and substance abuse treatment, cultural competency (the ability to work effectively with varied cultures and with that of the current client in particular) is positively correlated with clients' treatment entry, engagement, and favorable outcomes. In the last decade, cultural competency and culturally relevant interventions have been of increasing concern and interest among clinicians; researchers in psychology, social work, and public health; and policymakers as health disparities between non-Hispanic Whites ...