Analyze the influence of culture on family relationships.

Analysis should include

  • a definition of cultural competency (to include religion, socio-economic background, sexual identity, physical and cognitive abilities, age)
  • exploring the cultural influences affecting various aspects of family life
  • a description of various family structures (e.g., single parent, nuclear, step, blended, foster and adopted, extended, same-sex, grandparent as head-of-household)
  • identifying the roles of individuals within the family across various cultures
  • comparing family functioning across various cultures
  • a reflection on the way the family practices their cultural norms.

Process/Skill Questions:

Thinking

  • What is your definition of culture? Why is it important to value cultural differences?
  • How can diverse cultural norms influence values, beliefs, and goals of others?
  • How does where a family lives affect their family relationships?
  • What challenges might a family encounter when relocating to a region with different cultural norms?

Communication

  • How can you learn more about different cultures? Why would you want to?
  • What are some examples of nonverbal cues and how might these be influenced by cultural norms and expectations?
  • How do stereotypes affect potential relationships?

Leadership

  • How can your role within the family differ from those of other cultures?
  • What are your goals for working with people from diverse backgrounds?
  • How do cultural traditions influence your relationships?
  • What actions can you take to improve your relationships with those from different cultural backgrounds?

Management

  • What resources are available to help you learn about different cultural norms?
  • How can you use research to improve relationships?
  • What are the short-term and long-term benefits of embracing diversity?