ABSTRACT

Drawing from feminist standpoint theory, this chapter analyzes the importance of understanding one’s positioning or socio-cultural location based on traditional, analytical categories (race, class, gender) and how our understanding and perspectives of the people around us are often informed by this socio-cultural location. Also discussed in this chapter is how to develop a social consciousness, and how power and privilege affect interactions between those who have it and those who do not, particularly in healthcare settings. Finally, the concept of social justice and its relevance to healthcare practice are explored.