Acculturation

z Why relevant to AODA services?y Conflict and stress related to these issues

can relate to substance use patternsy Understanding of concepts can impact quality

of treatment services and case management needs

x What types of services and resources will best match client’s needs

x What types of support will be most usefulx Provider’s sense of cultural influences and self-

awareness

Acculturation

z Backgroundy Newer term and concept

y Past perception on cultural transition based on assimilation

z Assimilationy Assumes a complete shift

to new culture takes place (one direction)

y Assumes all groups can and want to transition to new culture

Acculturation

z Degree of connection to and use of cultural practicesy 2 factors:

x 1) Sense of connection (emotional/behavioral) to cultural practices & norms

x 2) Level of use in everyday life (ability/opportunity) to use cultural practices & norms

Factors in acculturation

z Several possible pathsy Shift to adopt practices of new/other culturey Incorporate and use elements of both culturesy Strong emphasis on maintaining own cultural

practices; resist or impede influences of newy Use elements of both cultures to create new

culture

z Issue of culture shock and acculturative stress