Beliefs, Biases, and Assumptions
Module 1 - Lesson 3 of 4
Introduction
All of us have biases. Sometimes we are not even aware of them. They have a strong impact on understanding, decision making, and behavior. This can be a real problem in caring for others. To solve any problem, we must first know it's there!
Warm Up
Exploring Beliefs
Ask yourself the following questions and notice what answers come to mind.
- Think back to when you were 10 years of age.
- What age did you consider to be ‘old’?
- What did you think then about older people?
- How old are you now?
- What age do you now consider to be ‘old’?
- What age would you like to grow to?
Jot down some thoughts and compare notes with a friend or co-worker. Discuss where your preconceived ideas might come from and how they might impact your behavior toward older clients.
Dig In
Exploring Diversity and Bias
One of the most important aspects of diversity is cultural diversity. Texans include people with differing beliefs, values, and concerns. This richness is reflected in all care settings and requires caregivers to be comfortable with differences.
How can you acquire cultural competence?
It starts with awareness of your own values, beliefs, and biases. It grows as you gain knowledge about the many different cultures of your care recipients.
Ask yourself these questions:
- What are my personal beliefs, opinions, and ideas about people of different cultures?
- Who are my care recipients, their families, and my co-workers?
- How can I learn about them and their culture?
In particular, be aware and respectful of lifestyles, beliefs about health, and accepting help.
Ask about the following:
- Special food, drinks, objects or clothing
- Customary rituals or people used to treat illnesses
- Family members who make healthcare decisions when the person is no longer able to decide
If you have limited knowledge about their culture, explain so and why you’d like to know about it. Use an interpreter or translator if there is a language barrier.
Exploring Myths and Assumptions About Living in a Community
Many people are fearful when thinking about a move from their home to an assisted living community or nursing home. People do not know what to expect, and worry about losing control over their lives. They may say things like the following: "Everyone will have dementia" or "The food will be awful" or "Will I be able to see my family?" or "Will someone help me with my medications?" Take time to ask about their concerns and to answer them honestly.
Most people who work in any aspect of long term-care are always trying to balance quality care, quality-of-life, safety, and security. Take time to find out what is most important to the individual you are serving.
Wrap Up: Lesson 3
The following are tips to help bridge cultural gaps:
- Be aware of your biases and beliefs.
- Be interested in, and respectful of, differences.
- Verify any interpretations you make to ensure they are correct.
- Share your experiences honestly.
- Acknowledge any discomfort, hesitation or concerns that come up.
- Take time and pay attention.
- Do not judge.