It is imperative that social workers gain in-depth knowledge of their clients' cultures and be culturally sensitive. In learning about their clients' cultures, social workers must be aware of how powerful and significant culture is in relating to clients' behavior, values, and beliefs. Becoming culturally competent requires the ability to integrate awareness, knowledge, and skills while maintaining a positive working relationship with the client (Sue & Zane, 1987). Today, concerns regarding cultural competence continue to heighten the importance of preparing social workers for a diverse society. American society is becoming increasingly culturally diverse. The 2010 census indicates that the racial and ethnic composition of the American population has increased significantly over the years. The US Bureau of the Census predicts that the United States will continue to experience the following demographic changes over the next half century: Hispanics will represent 24.5% of the population (16.35% in 2010), African Americans will represent 13.6 % of US population (12.6% in 2010), Asian Pacific Islanders will increase to 8.2% of US population (4.8% in 2010), American Indians will account for 0 .9% of the US population (0.9% in 2010) and whites will represent 52.8% of the US population. population (72.4% in 2010). Ethnic minorities seeking services should have access to culturally sensitive social workers who recognize and address practical dilemmas when working with increasing numbers of culturally diverse people in the community. Professionals who work with minority groups “must provoke moral sensitivity, political consciousness, and social action” (Aponte, Rivers, & Wohl, 1995, p. ix). It is imperative for… half of the paper… to be successful in working effectively with diverse populations. Social work practitioners can use information from this study to document the cultural activities that MSW graduates engage in. competence. The study will provide current and future social workers with specific details and strategies they can employ to assist them on their journey to culturally competent practice. Additionally, this research study will offer examples of what social workers can do to develop their knowledge, skills, and values. This study should provide social workers with information by examining what social workers do after graduation to help them remain culturally competent. Social workers will be able to understand the barriers/obstacles that make it difficult to engage in professional development on this topic.
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