Clinical Application of Gender and Diversity
Address the following areas. Support each of your answers by referencing specific information from the readings, discussions and activities.
a. Determine which practices, as a marriage and family therapist, you will keep and which practices you will change because of the things you learned in this course?
b. Select a gender or diversity issue that you believe you would have difficulty working with as a MFT. Describe the origins of the issue, and then describe what would be difficult for you. Give specific measures you can and would take in the face of this difficult situation.
A gender or diversity issue that I believe would be difficult for me to work with as a MFT is the concept of privilege; when discussing matters related to race and ethnicity it becomes increasingly important for me to recognize how these social constructs affect others in ways that may not be visible or known immediately. This can create challenging situations especially given how deeply entrenched certain beliefs are amongst some people who may refuse change even if presented with valid arguments against them! That said, if faced with such a situation I would strive firstly by taking an objective stance on the matter rather than passing judgement – offering up evidence-based facts when possible but remaining respectful all throughout.
In addition, another measure that could help alleviate any ensuing tension between myself and a client would involve creating safe spaces where everyone’s ideas are heard equally while also allowing for more difficult conversations which focus on underlying causes instead of surface level disagreements only - this way all sides involved can address those root issues head-on while forming better understandings along the way too! Finally it’s important also take time out afterwards reflect/process any events/conversations had during our sessions as well so as maintain emotional stability in order continue providing excellent care going forward