Although there is some research to suggest that the optimal situation is one in which there is similarity between the service recipient and worker, such matches are a rare luxury. It would not be feasible for the social worker to try to memorize cultural traits while trying to become familiar with these families. Subgroups and individuals within particular groups are quite diverse. Instead, the social worker must have an appreciation of the cultural differences between her culture and her clients', respect her clients' culture, and behave in a manner that exemplifies this respect. The goals in becoming more culturally competent are to continue to learn about differences and to rid oneself of stereotypes.
Cultural competence demands an approach to service recipients in which assumptions are few.
The hand-outs provided in Appendix Four of this guidebook can be used to begin a discussion of cultural competence and what this means for you and your staff.