Beverly J. Goodwin, Ph.D.

This workshop will address the connection between ethical practice and multicultural competence by examining the impact that multiculturalism has on the fulfillment and performance of professional duties and responsibilities when ethical issues, conflicts, or both arise in organizational settings. Particular attention will be given to the development of a self-assessment plan that facilitates knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes of multiculturally competent professionals.

Goals and Objectives

By the conclusion of this presentation, participants will be able to:

  1. discuss the relationship between ethical practice and multicultural competence;
  2. examine the influence of beliefs, cultural background, social identity, and biases on personal world views, ethical perspectives, and professional decision-making;
  3. formulate a self-development plan that can facilitate ongoing ethical practice and multicultural competence.

Presentation Outline

  1. What is the connection between ethics and multiculturalism?
    1. How ethical codes address multiculturalism and diversity?
    2. Strengths and limitations of ethical codes in regards to diversity and multiculturalism
    3. Case studies on working with multicultural individuals and families
  2. Identify and discuss multicultural influences and perspectives on ethics for professionals.
    1. Which ethical issues with multiculturalism are present in your workplace?
    2. Which ethical issues with multiculturalism are personally challenging in your workplace?
  3. What influences do beliefs, cultural background, social identity, and biases have on personal world views, ethical perspectives, and professional activities?
    1. Analyze how your cultural background influences your ability to work professionally with people of the same cultural background.
    2. Analyze how your cultural background influences your ability to work professionally with people of diverse cultural backgrounds.
    3. Analyze how your cultural biases and/or prejudices affect your professional work.
  4. The importance of self-awareness in becoming an ethically and multiculturally competent professional.
    1. Develop strategies to reduce cultural biases and/or prejudices.
    2. Design a professional development plan for ethical and multicultural competence.
  5. Concluding statements and wrap-up.