On April 22, many citizens, researchers, and clinicians engaged in the #MarchforScience across the world to promote how science shapes our lives and improves society. According to the official March for Science website, the march was a celebration of science. “People who value science have remained silent for far too long in the face of policies that ignore scientific evidence and endanger both human life and the future of our world. New policies threaten to further restrict scientists’ ability to research and communicate their findings. We face a possible future where people not only ignore scientific evidence, but seek to eliminate it entirely. Staying silent is a luxury that we can no longer afford. We must stand together and support science.” – March for Science In an interview with PBS NewsHour (click here to read the full story: http://www.pbs.org/newshour/updates/people-joining-skipping-march-science/), I discussed my reasons for joining the March for Science. As a psychologist, I am fully aware of the role that psychological science plays in our lives. I've had the opportunity to talk with policy makers in D.C. about the benefits of psychological science to help understand and address issues in society. The American Psychological Association also officially supported the march in D.C. and for decades have supported the use of science in policy decisions on Capital Hill. Here is a video on how psychological science has helped society. Tips on Talking With Policy Makers About Science In a previous post, I have discussed some strategies on advocacy. In my years of engaging in advocacy, these tops have been helpful in getting my messages across to policy makers.
You can visit the APA website for more information on advocacy. Copyright 2017 Erlanger A. Turner, Ph.D.
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A recent study in the Journal of Black Psychology highlights the continued need for cultural competency. Chu and colleagues (2016) define cultural competency as the clinician: having cultural awareness of how their own values and beliefs impact their perceptions of the client, having knowledge of the clients background and worldview, and having the skills to provide treatment in a culturally sensitive manner. According to the authors, David Goode-Cross, Ph.D. and Karen Grim, Ph.D. (2016), Black therapists reported that they occasionally feel that their formal training on working with Black clients appeared limited. The study reports that decades of research have noted challenges therapists experience when working with Black clients such as over-identification with the client, judgment or rejection by the client, and the clients’ reactions to perceived differences based on socioeconomic status (Goode-Cross & Grim, 2016). Although the study specifically discusses Black therapist, those who are non-Black may also have significant challenges connecting with clients who are not of the same ethnic group. Given the diversity of the United States, it is paramount that clinicians have training in cultural competency to improve their treatment with their clients. Numerous studies have demonstrated that when a clinician is culturally sensitive, clients have greater benefits and treatment efficacy is enhanced. Furthermore, many mental health professions including the American Psychological Association have ethical guidelines that require clinicians to have training and skills in diversity and cultural competency. Common themes when working with African American clients:
Portions of this blog were previously published on Psychology Today by Dr. Erlanger Turner, Ph.D. Have you ever searched the internet looking for information and resources to better understand your child's mental or physical health? If you're like most adults, you have sought the help of google or your favorite internet source to find information at your fingertips. A new website (http://infoaboutkids.org/), was recently developed to provide parents with information on common issues related to physical development in children and adolescents, emotional health and problems associated with thinking, and healthy relationships. According to a post by the American Psychological Association's Public Interest blog, InfoAboutKids.org is a new web-based clearinghouse created to disseminate the latest research and evidence-based guidance on raising a family and helping children. The site is designed for three major audiences (parents, educators and health professionals). You can read the full details here. You can visit http://infoaboutkids.org/ to get information on topics such as: autism, sleep, toilet training, anxiety, gender identity, and healthy peer relationships. |
AuthorDr. Turner is a licensed psychologist with expertise in behavioral pediatrics, child mental health, disruptive behavior disorders, and minority mental health. He is also certified as a National Register Health Service Psychologist. Archives
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