Reflective Reading Journal 7
2
Reflective Reading Journal 7
Understanding assimilation and acculturation is crucial in counseling as they relate to how
individuals adapt to a new culture or society. Assimilation refers to the process where individuals
adopt the cultural norms and values of the dominant culture, often at the expense of their original
cultural identity. Acculturation, on the other hand, involves maintaining aspects of one's original
culture while also integrating aspects of the new culture. The two concepts differ in their
approach to cultural adaptation
(Guarnaccia & Hausmann‐Stabile, 2016)
. Assimilation leans
toward adopting the new culture entirely, while acculturation allows for a more balanced
approach that retains elements of the original culture
(Guarnaccia & Hausmann‐Stabile, 2016)
.
They are similar in that both involve adaptation to a new cultural environment.
The two concepts differ in their approach to cultural adaptation. Assimilation leans toward
adopting the new culture entirely, while acculturation allows for a more balanced approach that
retains elements of the original culture. They are similar in that both involve adaptation to a new
cultural environment. To determine if assimilation or acculturation issues are impacting a client,
a counselor might use culturally sensitive assessment tools, conduct interviews exploring cultural
background and experiences, or utilize questionnaires designed to measure acculturation levels.
Regarding testing accommodations for individuals with disabilities, one form could be providing
extended time for exams, allowing the individual more time to process and respond to questions.
Other accommodation might include providing a distraction-free environment, allowing the use
of assistive technology, or offering alternative formats for test-taking, such as oral exams instead
of written ones. A worldview refers to the overall perspective from which an individual sees and
interprets the world, including their beliefs, values, and attitudes. Scriptures can offer guidance
