• YouTube Video about immigration and cultural sensitivity in Finland.

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHAn2QplaCs

Cultural factors affect the thinking and behavior of all of us, although not always consciously. They shape the way we interpret the world, perceive norms and values, and understand ourselves and others.

Culture influences what kind of thought patterns we adopt, how we express ourselves and how we evaluate different situations.

Language, traditions, beliefs, and social structures are all part of culture, influencing how we see the world and how we process information.

• One practical example of this is the way we deal with time. For example, in Western culture, time is often seen as linear and forward-looking. We consider the future separate from the past, and we think of events as proceeding in chronological order.

• On the other hand, in many Eastern cultures, such as Japan, the concept of time can be more cyclical and dependent on the events of the natural cycle. The future and the past can merge, and the idea of the passage of time can be central.

• This cultural difference can be seen, for example, on a practical level, so that in the Western context strict adherence to schedules and efficient progress may be emphasized. In the Eastern context, on the other hand, perhaps more emphasis is placed on flexibility and natural flow.

Cultural factors also have a great influence on what causes psychological stress. They affect how the load is expressed and how it is interpreted. Cultural factors can also play a role in finding means of survival and help. 

• For example, in some cultures there may be a strong stigma towards mental health problems, which can make it difficult to seek help. A person may experience pressure to hide their mental difficulties and avoid professional help, as mental health problems may be taboo or considered a weakness.

By understanding the influence of cultural factors on our thinking, we can broaden our perspectives and promote interaction with different people.

Cultures are constantly changing and can take on new, different meanings. Because of this, it is not possible to give any general instructions that could be applied in all situations. We always have to create a separate understanding of the cultural context and the cultural factors affecting the problem for each person. 

Cultural sensitivity means respectful interaction and communication between different cultures. Every person can express their own culture and be met with understanding.

Cultural sensitivity is the desire to understand different people and their backgrounds. A culturally sensitive person recognizes their own culture and is aware of its effects on their thinking and behavior. A culturally sensitive person knows how to reflect on their own role and works to strengthen a non-discriminatory atmosphere.

Culturally sensitive services do not mean special services for each group, but flexible services that suit the needs of different customers. They can include comprehensive support, planned guidance, and more time to adapt.

Developing cultural sensitivity helps in working within a multicultural community and meeting people from different backgrounds. 

You can continuously improve in this area, and everyone benefits from a culturally sensitive approach. We all have the opportunity to promote another person's mental health when our interactions are appreciative and respectful.

In addition to our cultural background, each of us is an individual with our own personal needs. This is important to remember when meeting someone from a different culture.

• See the person primarily as an individual, not as a stereotype.

• Respect differences.

• Consider the other person's life experiences and strengths.

• Reflect on the influence and importance of your own cultural background on your attitudes.

• Be open and patient.

• Show interest in different cultures.

• Ask the other person about their customs, values, and culture, rather than making assumptions or generalizations.

• Approach the person as an individual, not just as a representative of a particular culture.

• Consider individual needs.

• Use cultural interpreters whenever possible.

• Be flexible.

• Allow more time than usual for meetings, especially if the person is not fluent in the local language or familiar with the local service system.

• Use plain language, visual aids, sign language, and an interpreter when communicating with someone who is not fluent in the local language.

• Work with an interpreter whenever necessary.

• Provide advice, assistance, and support with filling out forms and making appointments as needed.

• Keep in mind that a person may have difficulty expressing their symptoms or experiences, even when using an interpreter or speaking the local language.

• Offer guidance and accompaniment: Contact the receiving service and provide any necessary additional information about the person and their needs.

• Cultural sensitivity also involves planning and delivering services with consideration for different people and their needs. This includes clear communication and personalized service guidance, which enhance the provision and effectiveness of services.

• Focus on genuine, direct engagement with the person.

• Remember that a person is not solely defined by their cultural background.

• Prioritize issues related to work, study, or other areas needing support, rather than focusing on cultural characteristics.

• If the mentee’s cultural background or religion influences their ability to practice a certain profession, discuss it openly.

• If you have concerns about something related to the mentee’s cultural background, ask directly instead of making assumptions—this fosters trust.

• Be aware of your own culture and how it influences your actions.

• Avoid ranking cultures in your mind.

Ask about the family: 

Understanding a person's family background can provide valuable context for their situation.

• • What kind of family did the person grow up in?

  • What is their current family environment?

Explore the community and cultural background:

• • Ask about the broader community and cultural environment the person comes from.

  • What kind of community do they currently live in?

It is often easier to describe one's family background than to explain one's cultural background, so start with these questions to build a deeper understanding.

Video of a culturally sensitive encounter: https://youtu.be/mHAn2QplaCs (Finnish, 4:18)

Read here how to enable and translate YouTube subtitles.

• Cultural sensitivity means respectful interaction between different cultures, which enables everyone to express and understand their own culture.

• A culturally sensitive approach requires a desire to understand different people and their backgrounds.

• A culturally sensitive approach recognizes the effects of one's own culture and strives to strengthen a non-discriminatory atmosphere.

• Culturally sensitive services offer flexible services that adapt to the needs of different customers.

• When meeting, individuality is emphasized and differences are respected.

• Important operating methods are openness, interest in different cultures, consideration of individual needs, and flexibility.