Cultural Foundations: The Experiences of African and Caribbean Groups in the U.S.

ORG AC700 - Cultural Foundations: The Experiences of African and Caribbean Groups in the U.S.

Credits: 2

This course focuses on the

experiences of individuals of Black/African and Caribbean descent in the United

States.  It reviews the history,

background and the interplay of social-cultural variables that are critical in

understanding and addressing the mental health needs of these culturally

diverse populations. Topics of discussion will include the migration

experience, acculturation process, assigned ethnic minority status, prejudice

and discrimination, educational and socioeconomic characteristics, customs and

values that influence health beliefs and help-seeking behaviors, and

spiritual/religious traditions and practices. The course will expose students to

theories and practices that promote cultural competence, and

increase their knowledge of factors that are germane to the provision of

culturally-sensitive psychotherapeutic services to Black/African,

African-American and Caribbean individuals, families and communities.