Discovering attitudes and styles of dealing with diversity is the answer to solving any problems that may arise. There are four areas that should be considered in the diverse healthcare workplace. The things that influence the level of difficulty relate to knowledge, understanding, acceptance, and behaviors toward diversity. In this newsletter we will discuss knowledge.
The knowledge individuals possess about diverse backgrounds and cultures is important when caring for patients and working well with coworkers. Stereotypes or fixed images are created when people have limited knowledge and develop generalized opinions. These images influence the way people relate to each other. Generalizations often become frozen or fixed even when there is evidence to the contrary.
Inaccurate assumptions and drawing incorrect conclusions based on fixed or generalized impressions obviously will result in poor interactions with others. This creates strained working relationships and affects workplace productivity. Attempts to get accurate data and draw upon previous contacts and relationships before characterizing others will allow more openness towards patients and co-workers. Responding with a desire to learn about other cultural and generational perspectives will bring richness that comes from that knowledge. Adding factual data to personal information brings balance and reduces learned biases.
Many insensitive words and phrases have been identified with suggested alternatives. For example, when talking about “oriental” people it is much better to use “Asian” or a specific nationality such as “Korean” or “Japanese” when possible. When referring to female coworkers, call them “women” rather then “girls.” Instead of “chairman,” use the word “chair.” If you refer to someone telling a “white” lie, it is still a lie, and calling it “white” does not make it okay. Someone is not “blacklisted”; he or she is “banned.” Likewise, a person is not a “black sheep”; he or she is an “outcast.”
The bottom line is that people who make an effort to find out more about diverse cultural groups work better with others and enjoy their work more. People who have an interest in learning about other people and their history create the kind of environment where everyone enjoys working. This is the way to understand and use information to develop unbiased working relationships.
Set up your environment for success by making it fun. Have individuals share specific information about cultures of interest at staff meetings so everyone can grow in a non-threatening way. Have groups of people make up poster displays for your staff lounge. Have the staff choose a theme for monthly luncheons that highlight diverse foods. Do show-and-tells at a staff meeting and have people bring something personal to share with others. Bring a movie about lifestyles of different cultures and have people compare their lifestyles with the ones seen in the film. Have people read an article about a culture that is different from their own and compare their views with the author.
For more information on diversity, contact Doris Young at 800 673-8005 or www.DorisYoungAssociates.com.
