CULTURAL and LINGUISTIC COMPETENCY

Full Answer Section

1. Cultural and Linguistic Competence

I believe that my overall cultural and linguistic competence is strong. I have a deep understanding of my own culture and how it shapes my beliefs, values, and behaviors. I am also aware of the different cultures that exist in the world, and I am respectful of those differences. I am fluent in English, and I have some knowledge of other languages.

However, I also recognize that I have some weaknesses in my cultural and linguistic competence. For example, I am not as familiar with some cultures as I would like to be. I also sometimes make assumptions about people based on their culture, which can be inaccurate.

1. How will this awareness help me communicate with families?

My awareness of cultural and linguistic differences will help me communicate more effectively with families. I will be able to understand their perspectives and needs better, and I will be able to communicate with them in a way that is respectful and appropriate. I will also be able to provide them with information and services that are relevant to their culture.

For example, if I am working with a family from a culture that values collectivism, I will be more likely to involve the entire family in decision-making. If I am working with a family from a culture that values indirect communication, I will be more likely to use indirect communication myself.

1. What did you learn that surprised you?

I learned that there is a lot of diversity within cultures. For example, not all people from the same culture have the same beliefs or values. I also learned that there are many different ways to communicate effectively across cultures.

One thing that surprised me was the importance of nonverbal communication in some cultures. For example, in some cultures, eye contact is considered to be a sign of disrespect. In other cultures, it is considered to be a sign of respect.

I am still learning about cultural and linguistic competence, but I am committed to becoming more culturally and linguistically competent. I believe that this is an important skill for anyone who works with people from different cultures.