critical reflection sajan

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Jun 22, 2024

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Introduction Engaging in critical self-reflection is fundamental practice for social workers like myself. It enables us to examine how our personal beliefs values and experiences shape our worldview. Additionally, it affects our approach to practice (Morley et al. 2019). As a 27- year-old, able-bodied heterosexual male student originally from Nepal, my journey has been marked by both privileges and experiences of oppression. These have influenced my perspectives. Through this critical reflection I aim to explore my unique positionality. I also seek to examine the impact of my intersecting identities. Furthermore, I want to discuss the implications for my social work practice moving forward. My Social Location and Intersecting Identities I grew up in the Newar or Janajati ethnic community in Nepal. Cultural values emphasizing family friendships and respect for elders were ingrained in me from a young age. My upbringing was shaped by the predominantly Hindu and Buddhist influences present in Newar culture. These beliefs and the importance placed on community cohesion have greatly affected how I interact with others. Even after moving to Australia as an adult, this influence remains strong. The collectivist worldview inherent to my cultural background has instilled in me strong sense of interconnectedness. I feel interdependence with those around me. While I may not belong to the highest socioeconomic class, I have been privileged to have the financial means to support myself. I could pursue higher education opportunities. My heterosexual sexual orientation has also afforded me certain privileges. Heteronormative beliefs are widely accepted and often institutionalized in both Nepali and Australian societies (Fook 2022). However, as a person of color and an immigrant I have faced instances where racial discrimination and systemic oppression have limited my access to various opportunities and resources. My Experiences of Privilege and Oppression One major privilege I have experienced is access to quality education. Coming from middle- class family in Nepal allowed me to pursue higher studies. This opportunity is unfortunately not accessible to many individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds in the country (Patil & Mummery 2020). Education has opened doors for me. It provided resources and prospects. These helps achieve personal and professional goals that may not have been possible otherwise. My cultural background as a Hindu has also served as privilege in Australia. Since arriving, I have been able to find communities and temples that align with my beliefs. This fosters a sense of belonging and cultural familiarity in a new environment. Yet this same cultural identity has sometimes exposed me to discrimination. These are based on unfair assumptions about my abilities or potential to integrate into Australian society effectively. For instance, in one notable experience, an employer turned down my job application solely based on the presumption that as a Nepali, I would not be able to communicate effectively

with clients. Such blatant experiences of racial bias. Discrimination are disheartening reminders of the systemic oppression that immigrants and people of color continue to face in many sectors (Katz 2022). Additionally, not belonging to the highest socioeconomic class has limited my access to certain opportunities. Resources are constrained, contributing to ongoing cycles of marginalization and oppression based on economic status. Addressing any biases and difficulties in comprehending the differences between me and diverse others will have an impact on social work Understanding my intersecting identities which come with both privileges and experiences of oppression, is crucial for engaging in critical social work practice. It enables me to recognize potential biases or blind spots. These may arise when working with clients from diverse backgrounds (Pease et al. 2020). For example, my cultural emphasis on community cohesion and interconnectedness could lead me to make assumptions. These assumptions might concern the importance or centrality of such social structures in the lives of clients from different cultural contexts. Moreover, my personal encounters with racial discrimination might inadvertently make me overly sensitive or defensive when addressing issues related to race and racism with clients. Conversely, my privileges as straight male may cause me to lack understanding or awareness. This concerns the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals or those experiencing gender-based discrimination or oppression To mitigate these potential biases and ensure ethical culturally responsive practice, I must continuously engage in critical self-reflection. I must also adopt stance of cultural humility (Watts & Hodgson 2019). This involves actively seeking out educational opportunities to expand my knowledge. I strive to understand diverse cultures, identities and experiences. I remain open to feedback continually challenging my own assumptions and biases. Strategies for Mitigating Privilege and Oppression Drawing from the cultural values emphasizing strong relationships, respect and helping others that were instilled in me from a young age I will employ several strategies to mitigate the impact stemming from my privileges and experiences of oppression. When engaging with diverse clients, I focus on actively listening and creating safe spaces. By fostering environments where clients feel comfortable, they can share their authentic experiences and perspectives. This helps me develop a better understanding of their unique challenges. Their identities and cultural backgrounds become clearer to me. This approach aligns with the cultural emphasis I was raised with on valuing interpersonal connections and relationships Collaborating and co-creating solutions: Rather than imposing my own assumptions or beliefs I will work collaboratively with clients. Together we will co-create culturally responsive solutions. These solutions will be aligned with their specific needs, values and worldviews. This community-oriented and participatory approach to decision-making is deeply rooted in collectivist nature of my upbringing. Continuously educating myself: I will actively pursue ongoing learning and professional development. These opportunities aim at expanding my knowledge and competencies

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