The Impact of Culture, Diversity, and Forms of Oppression on the Case (3) In Neveah’s case, culture must be approach from a dual perspective. According to Hepworth, R. H. Rooney, G. D. Rooney, and Strom-Gottfried (2013), an individual’s behavior is understood by considering the cultural and/or racial context. Neveah is functioning within two cultures that maintain opposing norms, values, and beliefs. Neveah was born and raised in the Caribbean Islands until the age of twelve, which influences her perceptions and behaviors. Although she currently lives in the U.S. and is acculturating, her father and stepmother maintain their native culture and religious beliefs. Therefore, Neveah is faced with the dominant U.S. culture and her native culture. Neveah’s lack of cultural grounding may lead to internal and external conflict. She may exhibit confusion as she seeks to acculturate to the dominant culture and find her personal identity. In her treatment, it is imperative to determine the values, goals, and religious beliefs of Neveah, her parents, and society. To overcome this cultural conflict, a visual representation will be created to show the similarities and differences between the cultures. This may facilitate understanding in regards to Neveah’s behavior …show more content…
LGBT youth are at greater risk when they struggle in hostile environments such as school, church, and rejection at home from their parents (Boes & van Woemer, 2015; van Wormer, 2011). To oppose the sexual orientation oppression, Hunter (2011) and Tully (2000) advocate for an empowerment approach that focuses on the therapeutic relationship to empower the client. Neveah’s clinical team will use an empowerment approach to treatment as well as create a “gay-friendly space” at the RTC (Hunter 2011; Tully, 2000). After treatment, Neveah will be referred to an LGBT youth support group to enhance social connections and a safe