A nurse is taking a class on providing culturally competent care for clients with severe mental illnesses. Which response best reflects the nurse's self-awareness of the sociocultural factors influencing his or her beliefs?

Question

1. "When I was growing up, my parents believed that mental illnesses were the work of evil spirits."
2. "All that I need to understand about the culture of mental illness is available on the Internet."
3. "My father was a psychiatrist, so I am very knowledgeable about how to work with mental illnesses."
4. "I have been through therapy, so I know what to expect from clients with mental illnesses."

Answer 1

1
Rationale: The nurse who acknowledges what parents or significant others have said about mental illness recognizes that one's heritage has an impact on one's beliefs and can influence one's practice. Stating that a parent's occupation makes one knowledgeable about mental illnesses suggests arrogance on the part of the nurse and does not invite self-reflection. Believing that one can learn about cultural differences through popular media does not promote self-awareness or critical thinking. Stating that because of therapy one understands the culture of those with mental illness suggests that psychotherapy is the only way to gain awareness of sociocultural differences.