Cultural Genograms in Family Social Work: A Teaching Method for Increasing Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the importance of cultural diversity and sensitivity in social work practice. As a result, accredited social work programs in the United States have been mandated to provide students with course content regarding cultural diversity as it pertains to race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, ability, and sexual orientation. One effective way to teach cultural awareness and sensitivity is through the use of cultural genograms.

A cultural genogram is a visual tool that illustrates the relationships between individuals within a family system, taking into account their cultural values, beliefs, and practices. The method challenges students to examine the development of their own cultural values and critically explore these values in a group setting with other students who have different experiences and perspectives. This can be a powerful way to increase cultural awareness and sensitivity among social work students.

A recent study found that using cultural genograms as an experiential training tool with social work students resulted in four interrelated themes emerging from the data analysis: initial uncertainty about, and discomfort with, uncovering and sharing family information in a classroom setting; a voyage of discovery, sharing, growing, and changing; an exercise worth doing. The study also found that the cultural genogram was an effective way to stimulate critical thinking and reflection among students.

The use of cultural genograms in social work education has several benefits. First, it provides students with a practical tool for understanding family systems and dynamics. Second, it encourages students to critically examine their own cultural values and biases, which is essential for effective practice in diverse settings. Finally, the method fosters a sense of empathy and understanding among students, as they learn to appreciate the complexities of family relationships.

In conclusion, using cultural genograms as an experiential training tool with social work students can be an effective way to increase their cultural awareness and sensitivity. The method challenges students to examine their own cultural values and critically explore these values in a group setting with other students who have different experiences and perspectives. By incorporating cultural genograms into social work education, educators can help prepare students for practice in diverse settings and promote culturally competent care.

References:

Social Work Education (The International Journal), 31(5), 2012, pp.570-586.

Cultural genogram in family social work