Cultural Sensitivity and Cultural Competence

Abstract

The intent of this chapter is to provide a framework for achieving and maintaining cultural competence and cultural sensitivity. To achieve the goal, the chapter is organized along several points where cultural competence and sensitivity are salient and prerequisites for conducting research and providing psychological services. Definitions and guidelines are provided for the two constructs followed by a brief discussion of the terms, ethnicity, ethnic group, and culture. Suggestions are provided for achieving competence as a counselor, clinician, researcher, and at a personal level. Since the achievement of cultural competence and sensitivity requires common skills and psychological perspectives, emphasis will be placed on the research setting. Thus, the chapter's last section focuses on cross-cultural methodological and procedural concerns including gaining entry to the field, cultural measurement equivalence, and collecting data and reporting the findings. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2005 APA, all rights reserved) (from the chapter)