Why do people tend to deny, rationalize, and avoid discussing their feelings and beliefs about race and ethnicity?

1.Why do people tend to deny, rationalize, and avoid discussing their feelings and beliefs about race and ethnicity?

2.Historically, racism and issues associated with it have been resistant to change. State some reasons for the resistance.

This discussion questions meets the following NASAC Standards:

18) Understand diverse racial and ethnic cultures, including their distinct patterns of interpreting reality, world view, adaptation, and communication, and to incorporate the special needs of minority groups and the differently abled into clinical practice.

19) Understand the importance of self-awareness in one’s personal, professional, and cultural life.

102) Sensitize others to issues of cultural identity, ethnic background, age, and gender role or identity in prevention, treatment, and recovery.

119) Recognize the importance of individual differences by gaining knowledge about personality, cultures, lifestyles, and other factors influencing client behavior, and applying this knowledge to practice.

121) Conduct culturally appropriate self-evaluations of professional performance, applying ethical, legal, and professional standards to enhance self-awareness and performance.