This paper is intended to be self-exploratory and should examine your own cultural heritage and how it has influenced the development of your identity. The purpose of this paper is to help you clarify the impact of culture on your identity, life experiences and world views by 1) identifying the major groups that have contributed to your cultural identity; and 2) exploring how your cultural identity might influence your interactions with individuals from other cultural groups. Your paper should address aspects of your own process of identity formation (e.g., race, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, religious factors, family values, socioeconomic influences, language, ancestry, citizenship and any other factors which might convey privilege or promote oppression).
A. Construct your own personal narrative of how you became aware of race, how this understanding has developed over time, and where it now fits into your life referencing the theories of cultural identity development. Please reflect on and identify terms, ideas, and concepts you are learning about in this course. A discussion of white or racial/ethnic identity development should be included in this paper.
B. Reflect on early life experiences and discuss how your family of origin and culture has influenced how you view other cultural groups. Questions to consider:
What were my first experiences with people who did not share my racial-ethnic background?
What did I learn from my family about cultural diversity and differences?
What are my stereotypes and biases about individuals from other groups?
What role, if any, did the issues of power and privilege play in my development?
What role did religion/spirituality play in my development
C. Discuss how your own cultural background, value system, and family roles might influence your work with clients with similar and different cultural backgrounds. What implications do your worldviews have for your ability to understand, empathize, and work effectively with people who might have different identities?
APA7TH citations only
