Cultural Sensitivity

LaFasto and Larson (2012) suggest that “a predisposition to respond is driven by beliefs about themselves, echoing once again that an understanding of others is deeper if preceded by an understanding of self” (p. 78).

As a humanitarian professional, you will inevitably work with diverse cultures and ones about which you know very little. How do you ensure that you will work effectively with others from different cultures? What do you know about yourself and your own culture that will help you understand how you see the world and how the world might see you? As a professional, you must strive to acquire the knowledge and skill to display cultural sensitivity, and that path begins with looking within yourself.

To prepare for this Discussion:

• Review Chapters 4 and 8 in the course text, and consider what the following statement means: In order to understand others, one must understand him- or herself.
• Review the book chapter by Hays (2008), and think about the importance of cultural sensitivity in humanitarian work and how you need to develop the knowledge and skills to employ cultural sensitivity in your work.
• Complete the interactive media, “Layers of Me,” and consider how your identity may influence your interactions with others.

Post by Day 3 an explanation of the importance of cultural sensitivity for a humanitarian professional. Explain how a humanitarian professional can demonstrate cultural sensitivity when working with diverse populations. Provide an example.