Counseling Diverse Populations

Catalog description

COUNSELING DIVERSE POPULATIONS: SOCIAL, LINGUISTIC AND CULTURAL FOUNDATIONS. This course will provide learners with an introduction to the influence of culture on human behavior and mental processes. From an ecological systems lens, learners will be encouraged to explore their own cultural background, self-identity, worldview, self-esteem, and to understand how their implicit biases and perspectives influence the counseling process. Topics begin with an examination of theoretical definitions of culture, and cover a broad range of theories and research findings regarding cultural influences on human behavior and cognitive processes. Learners will examine the diversity of human expression in contexts ranging from everyday modes of functioning, family, work, and other social relationships. With an understanding of how culture influences human behavior, learners will be equipped to understand one's own cultural identities and therefore interact with clients and stakeholders with cultural sensitivity. Course content will highlight cross-cultural research and methodology. Registration is limited by program of study.