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1. You are a CPRS working with a refugee family from Syria who have
recently arrived in Canada. The family consists of a father, a mother, and
three children aged 10, 8, and 6. The father speaks some English, but the
rest of the family does not. You notice that the mother seems very anxious
and depressed, and often avoids eye contact with you. She also seems
reluctant to participate in any activities or services that you offer. How
would you approach this situation using cultural competency?
Answer: A possible approach is to use the LEARN model of cultural
competency, which stands for Listen, Explain, Acknowledge,
Recommend, and Negotiate. First, you would listen to the father's
perspective on the mother's condition, and try to understand the cultural
and social factors that may be affecting her mental health. For example,
you may ask about the family's history of trauma, migration, acculturation,
religion, gender roles, family dynamics, etc. Second, you would explain
your role as a CPRS and your professional assessment of the mother's
situation, using simple and clear language. You would also explain the
benefits and risks of different interventions or referrals that you can offer,
such as counseling, medication, support groups, etc. Third, you would
acknowledge any differences or similarities between your views and the
father's views, and express respect and empathy for his concerns and
preferences. Fourth, you would recommend a course of action that is
culturally appropriate and acceptable for the family, based on your
professional judgment and evidence-based practice. For example, you may
suggest a female counselor who speaks Arabic and has experience
working with refugees, or a support group that includes other Syrian
women who have gone through similar challenges. Fifth, you would
negotiate with the father and the mother (if possible) to reach a mutual
agreement on the best way to proceed, and address any barriers or
objections that they may have. You would also follow up with them
regularly to monitor their progress and satisfaction.
Rationale: This approach demonstrates cultural competency by respecting
the family's culture and values, engaging them in a collaborative process
of decision-making, providing them with relevant and accurate
information, and tailoring the intervention to their specific needs and
preferences.
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