In typical middle-class cultural interviewing settings for counseling, the focus is usually on Answers: A. the family. B. the individual. C. the group. D. the cultural/environmental context.
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is B. the individual.
In typical middle-class cultural interviewing settings for counseling, the focus tends to be on the individual. This is because, in many Western, middle-class cultures, there is a strong emphasis on individualism. The idea of the individual as an autonomous being who makes choices and decisions is central to the worldview. This perspective assumes that the person seeking counseling is primarily responsible for their own actions, thoughts, and emotions, and is the primary focus of therapy.
Counselors working in these settings typically inquire about the individual’s experiences, feelings, and thoughts. They may focus on the individual’s history, their personal challenges, and their internal world to identify potential solutions or coping strategies. For example, in a therapeutic setting, the therapist might ask about the individual’s background, childhood experiences, emotional responses, or current concerns. The goal is often to support the individual in developing insight and strategies for personal growth or to address mental health issues.
This individual-centered approach contrasts with other cultural frameworks where the family or community may be more central. In some cultures, family dynamics or group interactions may be more relevant, and counseling could focus on understanding relational or communal contexts. However, within the middle-class cultural framework, there is a tendency to prioritize the individual, their personal autonomy, and their internal emotional and psychological state.
In conclusion, the middle-class cultural model typically emphasizes individual autonomy and self-development in counseling settings, making B. the individual the most appropriate answer. This approach is rooted in cultural values that prioritize self-sufficiency and personal responsibility.