Question

How important to the mediation process is the client’s cultural perspective? How can a mediator use information about culture without falling into the traps of stereotyping and over-generalizing?

Answer 1

The cultural perspective can have varying importance, depending on the degree of adherence of the client to subcultural norms.

If their cultural perspective differs from that of the dominant culture, the mediator can ask the clients about their adherence to various subcultural norms.

"In relation to ____________, most members of your ethnic/religious/(other) group seem to believe that __________________________. How does this relate to your beliefs?"

I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.