Surpassing "Cultural Competence": Why Humility is Needed in Social Work

In social work practice, one topic that comes up a lot is cultural competency. This implies that we can navigate any cultural encounter sufficiently. As a social worker in the medical field, I have learned that this goal may not be realistic. However, that's why I like to focus on cultural humility instead. 

What is Cultural Humility? 

This term describes the lifelong commitment to a process of self-critique and self-reflection. Rather than attempting to master every culture, you acknowledge that the client is the expert of their own lives. This shifts the balance of power. 

Three Ways Cultural Humility Changes Practice: 

1. The "Expert" Repositions: Upon entering the room, if you say, "I am here to talk about you and how you perceive this issue." you begin to build rapport. It recognizes that your formal education plays a secondhand role to the client's experience. 
2. It Limits Assumption: If I base patient compliance to a treatment plan off of my limited awareness of their culture, then I have failed the patient. Implementing humility requires me to probe the client about their beliefs and culture. It provides a perfect opportunity to craft a treatment plan most suitable for them. 
3. Continued Learning: In social work, education does not stop post-graduation. Cultural humility implies frequently analyzing your personal biases by acknowledging the fact that continuous learning from the client will never end. 

In order to efficiently navigate through systematic barriers within the healthcare system, understanding the concepts of cultural humility is crucial. While social work is rewarding work, it begins with acknowledging what we don't know. 

How do you examine your personal biases upon engaging in a new situation? Share your own reflection pointers below!