Core Competency 4

Mia Goodman

Core Competency 4
Engage in diversity and difference in practice

Practice Behavior 4.1: Recognize the extent to which a cultures

structures and values may oppress, marginalize, alienate, or create or
enhance privilege and power.
For example, the Native Indian population I serve as a school social worker
does not put high value on getting an education. They have high drop out
rates, and tend to try to leave school before they are 16. This appears to be
because they are born into families that already own businesses or they get
caught up in street life

Practice Behavior 4.2: gain sufficient self-awareness to eliminate the

influence of personal biases and values in working with diverse groups
Although I personally choose to not discuss and disclose my religion
preference, several times my collegeues and the families I work with will bring
up religion. So I must be aware at all times.
Another example I have seen a lot is the parents allowing their child to make
the decision on whether or not they want to attend school. Which is very
different than the personal values I have had since a child.

Practice Behavior 4.3: Recognize and communicate their understanding of the

importance of difference in shaping life experiences.

Listening to the students and families to understand how their life

experiences have had an effect on their current situations.

Practice Behavior 4.4: View themselves as learners and

engage those with whom they work as informants
Ensure that the student is aware of what placement/intervention is going to be
happening.