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Self- Reflection and Examination Andrea Scott Los Angeles Pacific University Psyc 430 Cultural Psychology Dr. Kimberly Smarr October 22nd, 2023

The concept of culture itself is a compound word, to gain a thorough understanding of its evolution would take decades as it differs from generation to generation. Self-mastery can be achieved through self-reflection, identifying personal biases, and carefully examining one's strengths and weaknesses. The cultural background of an individual significantly shapes their attitudes and behaviors. The customs and beliefs ingrained in a culture tend to influence the way people perceive and respond to various situations. Upon my initial review of Russell's chart, I had a preconceived notion about what steps he should take to alleviate his workload-induced stress and minimize the possibility of self-harm. I was also able to point out his isolation from others, his inability to make meaningful relationships, and managing his depression. Upon further review, I found that the stress, loneliness and isolation comes from a deeper place and that it stems from a trauma-informed upbringing that was traumatic and unstable during his childhood. Hence, the reason why he struggles in his current life.

As a result, I began to question what brought Russell back to therapy and what motivated him to seek assistance. His hypersensitivity of being alone, the fear of making huge financial decisions were the reason for seeking out therapy, in my opinion. Even though it was a small part of the job, it wasn't all about the Hi-tech company. It was later revealed that Russell felt this way due to his Mother having a gambling addiction, his partners only committing to the relationship for financial gains. As I observed Russell's situation, I realized that it was necessary for me to step back, assess the circumstances, and empathize with what he was going through. Based on the physical attributes, and introduction of Russell I automatically placed assumptions on him because he was a African-American Homosexual male. There were also biases placed on him due to his wealth status. It's important to remember that assumptions can lead to bias. When Russell came to therapy, he was a financially stable, middle-aged, African-American homosexual man. He had a stable job as a vice president, worked from home, and got to travel the world. At first, some might wonder what he had to complain about. However, I had to redirect this bias, as it was based on external appearances and materialistic things. It's important to remember that just because things appear fine on the outside, it doesn't necessarily mean that everything is okay on the inside. Being a mother, my instinct was to nurture him more than act as a therapist. I sensed

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that he needed a friend who he could connect with outside of his existing relationships. As Russell's therapist, I must separate my opinions and feelings to provide him with the best care. These initial feelings can lead to countertransference. There has always been a stigma on therapy within the African-American culture; it is seen as a personal weakness, some often see it as how can one relate when they have not had similar experiences. Having cultural sensitivity helps clients feel comfortable and creates more willingness to try new things while also incorporating traditions and norms into their sessions. Cultural sensitivity helps open doors for patients to feel heard and validated while staying in touch with their roots and values. Having a better understanding of your client's culture will also help you to provide better resources to them, culture is something that is deeply rooted in your client's identity so it is important to learn and respect your client's culture to build trust with your client. Providing unbiased culturally competent and sensitive care is a therapist's top Priority incorporating cultural sensitivity into therapy sessions can create a more comfortable environment for clients and increase their willingness to try new things while still embracing their traditions and norms. Cultural sensitivity allows patients to feel understood and validated while staying connected to their roots and values. Understanding your client's culture can also help you provide better resources and build trust with them, as culture plays an important role in their identity. As a therapist, it is essential to strive for unbiased, culturally competent, and sensitive care for your clients.

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