Focal Point, Volume 02 Number 04

In the last two decades there has been a movement in the mental health field toward improved services to children and families who are members or minority populations. Recognized as at risk and underserved, families of minority populations have repeatedly been the subjects of research and demonstration projects. Mental health professionals serving these children and families today are faced with the nagging question: What constitutes appropriate services for minority clients? Fortunately, the cumulative results of twenty years of work in this area are now becoming apparent. The knowledge base has grown and models for working cross-culturally have been developed and reviewed in the literature. These models have been given such labels as ethnic-sensitive practice (Devore & Schlesinger, 1981), cross-cultural awareness practice (Green, 1982), ethnic competence (Green, 1982), and ethnic minority practice (Lum, 1986). Each of these models has contributed to our understanding of the role of cultural difference in the helping process.https://pdxscholar.library.pdx.edu/ssw_focalpoint/1005/thumbnail.jp