Development and validation of the Cultural Responsiveness Assessment Measure (CRAM): A self-reflection tool for mental health practitioners when working with First Nations people.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to develop and to validate a measure of cultural responsiveness that would assist mental health practitioners across a range of disciplines, in Australia, to work with Indigenous clients. The Cultural Responsiveness Assessment Measure (CRAM) was developed to provide a tool for practitioners and students to evaluate their own culturally responsive practice and professional development. Following expert review for face validity the psychometric properties of the measure were assessed quantitatively, from the responses of 400 mental health practitioners. Confirmatory Factor Analysis yielded a nine factor, 36 item instrument that demonstrated strong convergent and discriminant validity as well as test-retest reliability. It is anticipated that the CRAM will have utility as both a learning tool and an assessment measure, for mental health practitioners to ensure that services are culturally responsive for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.