Problems Encountered in the Counseling Process in the Context of Cultural Sensitivity and Coping Methods: Opinions of School Counselors

Abstract

This study, it is aimed to examine the problems that arise in the context of cultural sensitivity in the counseling process and the methods of coping with these problems based on the views of school counselors. For the data obtained using the interview technique, which is one of the qualitative research methods. The study included a total of 35 participants, with 25 women and 10 men, who had a minimum of three years of professional experience in private and public schools during the 2021-2022 academic year. Interviews were conducted digitally on the Zoom platform using a semi-structured form developed by the researcher. All interviews were subjected to content analysis. According to the results of the data analysis conducted with the Maxqda 2020 program, the participant's perspective on the concept of cultural sensitivity consists of self-awareness, respect, and acceptance of different cultures. The most important cultural challenges reported by the participants were gender and sex, different value judgments, socioeconomic status, and language. Feelings of inadequacy and desperation were reported as the most intensely felt emotions in the face of these challenges. Participants reported using various methods to overcome cultural challenges, such as consulting colleagues gaining knowledge, and making various suggestions to overcome cultural inadequacies. It is thought that the findings obtained in this study will create an important awareness as it is a first in the literature, and it is hoped that it will contribute to policymakers, counselor educators, counselor candidates, and all counseling professionals in this field.