Cultural Foundations: The Experiences of African and Caribbean Groups in the U.S.

COU AC700 - Cultural Foundations: The Experiences of African and Caribbean Groups in the U.S.

Credits: 2

This course focuses on the experiences of individuals of Black/African and Caribbean descent in the United States. It reviews the history, background and the interplay of social-cultural variables that are critical in understanding and addressing the mental health needs of these culturally diverse populations. Topics of discussion will include the migration experience, acculturation process, assigned ethnic minority status, prejudice and discrimination, educational and socioeconomic characteristics, customs and values that influence health beliefs and help-seeking behaviors, and spiritual/religious traditions and practices. The course will expose students to theories and practices that promote cultural competence, and increase their knowledge of factors that are germane to the provision of culturally-sensitive psychotherapeutic services to Black/African, African-American and Caribbean individuals, families and communities.