Increasing Diversity and Oppression Scale Scores through Relational Cultural Theory

Abstract

Despite the centrality of diversity and oppression to the standards of social work, more research is needed to determine the most effective teaching method. The Diversity and Oppression Scale allows researchers to assess students’ awareness, responsibility, self-confidence, practitioner and client congruence, and social work responsibilities, allowing various teaching methods to be tested. A significant difference following two graduate human diversity and societal oppression courses, framed by Relational Cultural Theory, indicates that a class dedicated to the use of this framework may be well suited to facilitate the learning that is essential in social work.