Reference no: EM133602912

Question: Review and respond to the post. Suggest one concept presented in the readings that the learners could use to promote inclusion, engagement, or diversity at their practicum sites.

Equity and equality are important terms in the field of social work because it refers to fairness and justice, providing the same to all. Equity means recognizing that we do not all start from the same place and must acknowledge and make adjustments to imbalances, (Hugman, p. 142, 2008). Working in the field of social work, we will come across many individuals who have different ethnic backgrounds than our own. It is important to have cultural competence and humility, because this allows us to to learn about other cultures, but allows for us to examine our own beliefs and cultural identities. At my practicum placement, we interact with many individuals who differ in cultural backgrounds. During group sessions, the social worker facilitating the group always makes sure to allow each individual to voice their thoughts and opinions. There have been many instances where a participant may state something that other participants or even a social worker may not completely agree with, but having an understanding of cultural differences is important. This allows for others to have respect for others opinions, beliefs, and norms. Different emotional expressions that are appropriate to one individual may not be for another because of differences in cultures, (Hugman, p. 143, 2008). For some cultures, expressing anger, fear, or sadness is something that is culturally acceptable, while in some cultures this is frowned upon and should be done in private. At my practicum, I have noticed how the social workers will interact with different individuals in different manners due to their upbringing and culture. There has been an incident where a social worker respected the participant voicing their opinion, when another participant did not agree. The participants were somewhat getting a little heated, but the social worker holding the group explained that it is important to allow others to have differing opinions, but it is also important to respect the individual that is speaking. The social worker explained that not everyone may agree with what is being said, but explained to the participant who was getting very upset, that is it okay if they would like to exit themselves from the group for a little to collect their thoughts so that the group could continue for the rest. The social worker engaged in equity, because they gave each participant the opportunity to state their opinions, and did not treat anyone differently based on their responses.

Hugman, R. (2008). Social Work Values: Equity or Equality? A response to Solas. Australian Social Work, 61(2), 141-145.