Sociocultural guidelines for clinicians in multicultural settings

With the increasing cultural pluralism of the United States, clinicians are more likely to encounter patients from a variety of sociocultural backgrounds. Since this background influences the presentation of disorders and response to treatment, it behooves clinicians to possess guidelines for culturally appropriate practice. The answer is not necessarily in detailed knowledge of specific cultures. Rather, as clinicians we need to know how to consider language variations, the culture of our patients, and our own cultural backgrounds. Sensitivity to such issues may enhance the treatment of all patients.