The Evolving Definition of Cultural Competency: A Mixed Methods Study
- Autores: Lorraine T. Benuto, Jonathan Singer, Jena Casas, Frances González, Allison Ruork
- Localización: International journal of psychology and psychological therapy, ISSN 1577-7057, Vol. 18, Nº. 3, 2018, págs. 371-384
- Idioma: inglés
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Resumen
This research established a definition of cultural competency from the perspective of the psychologists using mixed methodology. In Study 1 (N= 9) participants were interviewed and asked how they conceptualize cultural competency; three emergent themes were identified: awareness, knowledge, and skills. Based on the results from Study 1, a survey was created for Study 2 and completed by psychologists (N= 142). Results from a confirmatory factor analysis did not support cultural competency as a 3-dimensional construct. A post-hoc exploratory factor analysis suggested that cultural competency is best conceptualized as a 2-dimensional construct consisting of knowledge/awareness and skills. Results suggest that the knowledge needed to work with diverse populations is more than simply knowing about the major cultural groups in the United States; a more sophisticated level of knowledge is needed as there are many cultures and sub-cultures.
