ABSTRACT
The ethnic, racial, and cultural composition of the world is continuing to evolve, perhaps more so now with a recent surge in asylum seekers, refugees, immigrants, emigrants, and migrants. Consequently, many mental health professionals are caring for more diverse populations. Whereas there is value on knowing cultural values of specific populations for whom healthcare professionals provide care, it is impossible to know the beliefs and values of all groups. Therefore, having a general framework for collectivistic and individualistic cultures is a starting point for assessment, the first step for counselling and planning care for individuals and their families. Cultural competence requires professionals to understand collectivism and individualism as a guide to multiple cultures. The collectivism versus individualism continuum of values includes orientation to self or group, decision-making, knowledge transmission, individual choice, personal responsibility, the concept of progress, competitiveness, shame and guilt, help-seeking, expression of identity, and interaction/ communication styles.
