RUNNING HEAD: SKILL DEVELOPMENT

Skill Development Shawntia Williams Georgia State University: SW3000

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Abstract In this paper I will discuss cultural diversity along with cultural competency. These two concepts go hand in hand with the NASW (2011) Standards for Cultural Competence in Social Work Practice. I have explored all ten standards as it relates to my growth and development. Another concept that will be tackled is my social action plan.

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Introduction Cultural diversity is a mixture of differences that are present in culture. Cultural competency can be defined as behaviors, attitudes, and policies used in cross cultural scenarios. In dealing with clients and cultural competency it is important to organize an action plan. The action plan will explore your past and present progress with cultural competency. A social action plan will assist future social workers to aide clients and colleagues in becoming culturally competent and remaining competent. Cultural Competency Action Plan Standard 1. Ethics and Values-I have familiarized myself with the expectations of not mixing my professional lifestyle with my personal lifestyle. As difficult as it may be to maintain the separation of the two when it comes to dealing with diverse groups I am dedicated to making sure it doesn't occur. Standard 2: Self Awareness I have allowed myself to open up and explore in great detail my values, strengths, weaknesses as well as my biases. In exploring these areas I have learned to not only understand me a little bit better but others as well. I have come to understand that my perception or assumptions may not be how things truly are. Standard 3: Cross Cultural Knowledge I have had the opportunity to become familiar with clients from cultures other than my own. Experiencing my cultural immersions have opened my mind to multiple ways interact with clients as well as colleagues. Standard 4: Cross- Cultural Skills I have become cross cultured by exploring my cultural immersions and allowing me to learn history, stereotypes, traditions, and even food dishes. This will assist me in identifying with various cultures. Standard 5: Service Delivery as a future social worker I have met and interacted with a variety of people and opened up the door for connections to strengthen relationships that can provide community resources. Standard 6: Empowerment and Advocacy as a future social worker I feel that advocating for clients in social policies and programs for diverse groups is ongoing throughout my career. Standard 7: Diverse Workforce I look forward to meeting and interacting with diverse colleagues to continue to enhance my cultural competency. Standard 8: Professional Education I am currently gaining the proper education at Georgia State University to further my knowledge in cultural competency. I also want to continue my education after obtaining my Bachelor's degree to obtain my Master's degree. Standard 9: Language Diversity My goal is to become knowledgeable on different languages. I want to be able to have general conversations in languages other than English. Standard 10: Cross- Cultural Leadership I think that change starts with you as an individual to make a difference. So I would want to work closely with other social work professionals to spread the awareness of cultural competency. Social Action Plan Everyone has some form of culture. As a future social worker it is my duty to make sure all clients are treated fairly. For this reason I need to not only help myself and others as well to understand the importance in acknowledging culture. The lack of culture competency creates a harmful environment because inadequate services are given because cultural differences are not understood. On the micro level I want to provide weekly discussion groups for individuals that are suffering from oppression and or wanting to explore culture. On the mezzo level I want to do community outreach activities exploring various cultural history, customs and even food. This will bring the community closer together and bring awareness all in one. Lastly, the macro level I

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would contact government officials in attempt to implement mandatory cultural policies making employers and schools required to acknowledge cultural education monthly. .Conclusion In order to be a successful social worker being cultural competent is a necessity. Dealing with individuals coming from various backgrounds can strengthen the ability to help clients. Oppression is all around us in many different shapes and sizes and in order to end it someone has to take a stand. In taking a stand, you have to be self aware in order to create an effective social action plan.