Conceptual Frameworks / Models, Guiding Values and Principles
The NCCC embraces a conceptual framework and model for achieving cultural and linguistic competence based on the work of Cross et al. (1989). The NCCC uses this framework and model to underpin all activities.
Cultural Competence: Definition & Conceptual Framework
Cultural competence requires that organizations:
have a defined set of values and principles, and demonstrate behaviors, attitudes, policies and structures that enable them to work effectively cross-culturally.
have the capacity to (1) value diversity, (2) conduct self-assessment, (3) manage the dynamics of difference, (4) acquire and institutionalize cultural knowledge and (5) adapt to diversity and the cultural contexts of the communities they serve.
incorporate the above in all aspects of policy making, administration, practice, service delivery and systematically involve key constituency groups who have lived experiences and the communities in which they live.
Cultural competence is a developmental process that evolves over an extended period. Both individuals and organizations are at various levels of awareness, knowledge and skills along the cultural competence continuum. (adapted from Cross et al., 1989)
Culturally Competent Guiding Values & Principles
Systems and organizations must sanction, and in some cases mandate the incorporation of cultural knowledge into policy making, infrastructure and practice.*
Cultural competence embraces the principles of equal access and non-discriminatory practices in service delivery.*
Cultural competence is achieved by identifying and understanding the needs and help-seeking behaviors of individuals and families.*
Culturally competent organizations design and implement services that are tailored or matched to the unique needs of individuals, children, families, organizations and communities served.*
Practice is driven in service delivery systems by client preferred choices, not by culturally blind or culturally free interventions.*
Culturally competent organizations have a service delivery model that recognizes mental health as an integral and inseparable aspect of primary health care.
Cultural competence extends the concept of self-determination to the community.*
Cultural competence involves working in conjunction with natural, informal support and helping networks within culturally diverse communities (e.g. neighborhood, civic and advocacy associations; local/neighborhood merchants and alliance groups; ethnic, social, and religious organizations; and spiritual leaders and healers).*
Communities determine their own needs.**
Community members are full partners in decision making.**
Communities should economically benefit from collaboration.**
Community engagement should result in the reciprocal transfer of knowledge and skills among all collaborators and partners.**
Family is defined differently by different cultures.***
Family as defined by each culture is usually the primary system of support and preferred intervention.***
Individuals/families are the ultimate decision makers for supports and services for themselves and/or their children.***
Linguistic Competence: Definition
The capacity of an organization and its personnel to communicate effectively, and convey information in a manner that is easily understood by diverse groups including persons of limited English proficiency, those who have low literacy skills or are not literate, individuals with disabilities, and those who are deaf or hard of hearing. Linguistic competence requires organizational and provider capacity to respond effectively to the health and mental health literacy needs of populations served. The organization must have policy, structures, practices, procedures, and dedicated resources to support this capacity.
Goode & Jones (modified 2009). National Center for Cultural Competence, Georgetown University Center for Child & Human Development.
Guiding Values and Principles for Language Access
Services and supports are delivered in the preferred language and/or mode of delivery of the population served.
Written materials are translated, adapted, and/or provided in alternative formats based on the needs and preferences of the populations served.
Interpretation and translation services comply with all relevant Federal, state, and local mandates governing language access.
Consumers are engaged in evaluation of language access and other communication services to ensure for quality and satisfaction.
Footnotes
* Adapted from Cross, T. et al, 1989
** "Other Guiding Values and Principles for Community Engagement" and "Family & Consumers" are excerpts from the work of Taylor, T., & Brown, M., 1997, Georgetown University Child Development Center, (GUCDC) University Affiliated Program, and
*** "Promoting Cultural Diversity and Cultural Competency- Self Assessment Checklist for Personnel Providing Services and Supports to Children with Disabilities & Special Health Care Needs Goode, T., 2002, NCCC, GUCDC.
Find Resources and Tools under checklists that reflect these values and principles in policy and practice.
The NCCC embraces a conceptual framework and model for achieving cultural and linguistic competence based on the work of Cross et al. (1989). The NCCC uses this framework and model to underpin all activities.