ABSTRACT
The book closes with a chapter that covers multicultural aspects of pediatric neuropsychology, a foundational topic of ever-increasing importance. The present and future of clinical neuropsychology depends upon the cultural competence of its clinicians. The field has somewhat belatedly recognized that the multicultural nature of our society demands that neuropsychologists approach their work with patients who differ from them in race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and many other aspects of identity, with skill, awareness, and sensitivity. Cultural competence is only achievable with genuine dedication to lifelong learning, and with sincere recognition of the privilege that our society continues to confer on members of the dominant culture. The chapter reviews the changing demographics in the United States, and the profound implications for all health care disciplines. The rapid evolution of psychological practice guidelines and ethical codes is then described, before exploring the clear dangers of ignoring culture. The recent emergence of “cultural neuropsychology” is presented, with the remainder of the chapter dedicated to an expanded section on how new neuropsychologists are trained to be culturally competent, including a review of stereotype threat and how to mitigate it.
