Unique life experiences shape the way we develop our personal and cultural identities
Individuals experience the world from different lenses: our unique life experiences shape the way we develop our personal and cultural identities. It is important for counselors to look at models of cultural identity development to understand where their client lies in the development of their own identity. Additionally, it is integral for the counselor to be able to reflect on their own lived experiences and the reported experiences of their clients in a way that fosters compassion when interacting with clients who have experienced prejudices, microaggressions, and intentional or unintentional bias or discrimination.
Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words:
Using a model described in the text, how would you describe your cultural identity development? Give an example of a common microaggression toward your culture that might occur in the context of a client session. How can counselors become more mindful to avoid microaggressions toward clients who share your cultural identity? How might you adapt your approach to be more respectful while working with clients who culturally identify differently from you?
Firstly, Vittola discusses one of the just causes of war, most importantly, is when harm is inflicted but he does mention the harm does not lead to war, it depends on the extent or proportionality, another condition to jus ad bellum (Begby et al (2006b), Page 314). Frowe, however, argues the idea of “just cause” based on “Sovereignty” which refers to the protection of political and territorial rights, along with human rights. In contemporary view, this view is more complicated to answer, given the rise of globalisation. Similarly, it is difficult to measure proportionality, particularly in war, because not only that there is an epistemic problem in calculating, but again today’s world has developed (Frowe (2011), Page 54-6).
Furthermore, Vittola argues war is necessary, not only for defensive purposes, ‘since it is lawful to resist force with force,’ but also to fight against the unjust, an offensive war, nations which are not punished for acting unjustly towards its own people or have unjustly taken land from the home nation (Begby et al (2006b), Page 310&313); to “teach its enemies a lesson,” but mainly to achieve the aim of war. This validates Aristotle’s argument: ‘there must be war for the sake of peace (Aristotle (1996), Page 187). However, Frowe argues “self-defence” has a plurality of descriptions, seen in Chapter 1, showing that self-defence cannot always justify one’s actions. Even more problematic, is the case of self-defence in war, where two conflicting views are established: The Collectivists, a whole new theory and the Individualists, the continuation of the domestic theory of self-defence (Frowe (2011), Page 9& 29-34). More importantly, Frowe refutes Vittola’s view on vengeance because firstly it empowers the punisher’s authority, but also today’s world prevents this action between countries through legal bodies like the UN, since we have modernised into a relatively peaceful society (Frowe (2011), Page 80-1). Most importantly, Frowe further refutes Vittola through his claim that ‘right intention cannot be used as an excuse to wage war in response to anticipated wrong,’ suggesting we cannot just harm another just because they have done something unjust. Other factors need to be considered, for example, Proportionality.
Thirdly, Vittola argues that war should be avoided (Begby et al (2006b), Page 332) and that we should proceed circumstances diplomatically. This is supported by the “last resort” stance in Frowe, where war should not be permitted unless all measures to seek diplomacy fails (Frowe (2011), Page 62). This means war shouldn’t be declared until one party has no choice but to declare war, in order to protect its territory and rights, the aim of war. However, we can also argue that the war can never be the last resort, given there is always a way to try to avoid it, like sanctions or appeasement, showing Vittola’s theory is flawed.
Fourthly, Vittola questions upon whose authority can demand a declaration of war, where he implies any commonwealth can go to war, but more importantly, “the prince” where he has “the natural order” according to Augustine, and all authority is given to him. This is further supported by Aristotle’s Politics ((1996), Page 28): ‘a king is the natural superior of his subjects.’ However, he does later emphasise to put all faith in the prince is wrong and has consequences; a thorough examination of the cause of war is required along with the willingness to negotiate rival party (Begby et al (2006b), Page 312& 318). This is supported by the actions
Sample Solution
My cultural identity development has been a journey of exploration and growth. Growing up in an adoptive family, I was exposed to both my culture’s traditional values as well as the norms of the dominant society that I live in. This mixing of cultures created a unique understanding for me about what it means to be part of this particular group and shaped how I view the world. One common microaggression towards my culture that I have experienced is implicit assumptions about my language proficiency or knowledge level due to my race/ethnicity. In a client session context, this might manifest itself in incorrect assumptions about how much someone from my cultural background knows about certain issues or topics based solely on their race or ethnicity instead of considering their individual experiences or qualifications. Such microaggressions can lead to feelings of invisibility, invalidation, and alienation which can prevent clients from feeling comfortable when engaging with clinicians who are not sensitive to these dynamics. Therefore, it is important for providers to consider how such biases may impact the therapeutic relationship and make sure they create an environment where all clients feel safe and respected regardless of background.
My cultural identity development has been shaped by my heritage, family, experiences and values. Growing up in a multi-cultural household has allowed me to gain an appreciation for different cultures and backgrounds. As I’ve grown older, I’ve become more aware of the history of my people, their struggles and victories. This has made me proud to be part of a rich culture that is unique from everyone else’s. I have come to accept myself as an individual with a distinct cultural identity that I take pride in sharing with others.