1. You are a CPRS working with a refugee family from Syria who have

recently arrived in Canada. The family consists of a father, a mother, and

three children aged 10, 8, and 6. The father speaks some English, but the

rest of the family does not. You notice that the mother seems very anxious

and depressed, and often avoids eye contact with you. She also seems

reluctant to participate in any activities or services that you offer. How

would you approach this situation using cultural competency?

Answer: A possible approach is to use the LEARN model of cultural

competency, which stands for Listen, Explain, Acknowledge,

Recommend, and Negotiate. First, you would listen to the father's

perspective on the mother's condition, and try to understand the cultural

and social factors that may be affecting her mental health. For example,

you may ask about the family's history of trauma, migration, acculturation,

religion, gender roles, family dynamics, etc. Second, you would explain

your role as a CPRS and your professional assessment of the mother's

situation, using simple and clear language. You would also explain the

benefits and risks of different interventions or referrals that you can offer,

such as counseling, medication, support groups, etc. Third, you would

acknowledge any differences or similarities between your views and the

father's views, and express respect and empathy for his concerns and

preferences. Fourth, you would recommend a course of action that is

culturally appropriate and acceptable for the family, based on your

professional judgment and evidence-based practice. For example, you may

suggest a female counselor who speaks Arabic and has experience

working with refugees, or a support group that includes other Syrian

women who have gone through similar challenges. Fifth, you would

negotiate with the father and the mother (if possible) to reach a mutual

agreement on the best way to proceed, and address any barriers or

objections that they may have. You would also follow up with them

regularly to monitor their progress and satisfaction.

Rationale: This approach demonstrates cultural competency by respecting

the family's culture and values, engaging them in a collaborative process

of decision-making, providing them with relevant and accurate

information, and tailoring the intervention to their specific needs and

preferences.