Developing Intercultural Competence: An Action Plan for Health Educators

Abstract

In today's multicultural society, intercultural competence has become a critical component of the health educator's skill portfolio. This competency is required for understanding ourselves and others from different cultures, managing relationships, developing and implementing programs that match the needs of target audiences, and integrating our insights as educators into larger political and economic institutions. Intercultural competence requires knowledge of culture theory; awareness of the impact of culture on health beliefs, health behaviors, and learning styles; and a willingness to change behavior in ways that promote cultural synergy. Health educators can improve their intercultural competence by studying culture theory; participating in cross-cultural simulations; developing insights into the behavior of individuals and groups experiencing cross-cultural tensions; developing personal strategies for responding to cross-cultural conflicts; expanding opportunities to interact with individuals from other cultures; and keeping an intercultural journal and clipping file. These actions can help health educators develop the type of intercultural skills needed for effective health education within today's multicultural society.