Multiracial Competence in Social Work: Recommendations for Culturally Attuned Work with Multiracial People

Abstract

According to the 2010 U.S. census, approximately 9 million individuals report multiracial identities. By the year 2050, as many as one in five Americans could claim a multiracial background. Despite this population growth, a review of recent empirical and theoretical literature in social work suggests a disproportionate lack of attention to issues ofmultiraciality. Instead, social work practice models remain embedded in traditional societal discourses of race and culture that often exclude or marginalize the experiences of multiracial individuals and families.This article summarizes recommendations following the domains of awareness, knowledge, and skills in the NASW Standards for Cultural Competence in Social Work Practice to support culturally attuned social work practice with multiracial people. The authors argue that a culturally attuned practice approach--one that is inclusive of multiraciality--is not only timely, but also consistent with the profession's ethical obligation to provide culturally relevant services to all consumers and clients.

Cultural Intelligence for Clinical Social Work Practice

“…Davis (2008) defines intersectionality as ''the interaction between gender, race, and other categories of difference in individual lives, social practices, institutional arrangements, and cultural ideologies and the outcomes of these interactions in terms of power'' (p. 68). As suggested by Jackson and Samuels (2011) and Samuels and RossSheriff (2008), intersectionality is useful in understanding multiraciality. As an analytical tool, considering intersectionality in practice allows for developing an understanding of the intersection between and within group difference.…”

Beyond Race: Examining the Facets of Multiracial Identity Through a Life-span Developmental Lens

“…Despite significant population growth, social workers are generally uninformed about the identity development of this diverse group and seek additional information about multiracial identity in preparation for their work with multiracial clients (Benedetto & Olisky, 2001;Harris, 2002). Unfortunately, social work has contributed little empirical knowledge to the developmental processes encompassing multiracial identity (Jackson & Samuels, 2009). This is disconcerting, since the profession is known not only for its ethical obligation to understand culture and its function in human behavior and society (NASW, 1999), but also for its potential to offer a unique, more inclusive understanding of multiracial identity development by utilizing the profession's ecological and strength-based perspectives.…”

A Four‐Factor Outcome Model for Family Case Management Services With Children and Families Who Have Experienced Complex Trauma

“…For example, in a review of research on resilience, Zolkoski and Bullock () concluded, “Parental factors such as support, monitoring, and communication skills are crucial resources for youth” (p. 2301). Research and theory on cultural competence and cultural, economic, and racial sensitivity replicates the concerns of case managers (see Jackson & Samuels, , for discussions of the NASW recommendations).…”