Assignment: Working With Diverse Populations

Human services professionals working with diverse populations often face challenges because of the clients' various values and beliefs. Long-established beliefs (and sometimes fears) may influence clients' access to services and resources, interfering with your ability to practice as a professional. For this Assignment, select a key issue related to working with a diverse population of clients in a specific region or area. Consider key barriers to providing services for this population and how you might overcome these barriers.

To complete this Assignment:

Write a 3- to 4- page paper that addresses the following:

- Describe the issue and region or area you selected. Include the population of clients, and be sure to use official resources when obtaining this demographic information.

- Explain challenges for human services professionals practicing in the region or area you selected. Include key barriers to providing services (e.g., language, accessibility, social stigma).

- Explain a strategy or process to assist with reducing prejudice, stereotyping, or bias in accessing services related to the issue you selected. Include how you, as the human services professional, might implement this strategy or process in the region or area you selected.

Reminder: Proper formatting and APA citations are required. Refer to the Writing Template for Course Papers for additional guidance.

Kane, M. N. (2008). How are sexual behaviors of older women and older men perceived by human service students? Social Work Education, 27(7), 723-743.

Note: Retrieved from Walden Library databases.

This article examines undergraduate students' perceptions of sexual behavior among older adults. It emphasizes the need for educators to heighten students' awareness of older adults in order to reduce oppression and discrimination.

Painter, K., & Scannapieco, M. (2009). Part II: Multisystemic therapy: Addressing racial disparity and its effectiveness with families from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. Journal of Family Social Work, 12(3), 197-210.

Note: Retrieved from Walden Library databases.

This article examines the health and mental health services delivered to racial and ethnic minorities. It also identifies considerations for practitioners working with children and families from diverse populations.