Master
of
Occupational Therapy
Program
State of Maine Cultural Diversity
Student Research Project
The Maine Diversity Manual was developed to support health practitioners
who are faced with a clientele that is rapidly changing - Welcome to the
diverse world of the State of Maine. Despite being recognized as the least
(ethnically) diverse state in the nation on the most recent census, there
are many people in this state who are not from the dominant (white, middle-class,
Christian, heterosexual) group. For those of us in health care, it is
important to have knowledge about the cultural similarities and differences
between our clients and us so that we may provide competent and effective
service to all.
These modules have been designed to provide cultural information on
ethnically and culturally diverse Maine residents. Graduate students from
the Master of Occupational Therapy program at the University of Southern
Maine - Lewiston/Auburn have researched the information and have provided
it in a useful format.
We recognize that not all cultural groups are included. This was an
ongoing academic project until it was suspended due to lack of funds.
We hope to one day continue the progression of adding more ethnic groups.
I would like to caution you on the use of this information. Even though
it is extremely important to learn about the various cultures of our clients,
the information does not provide a prescription for practice. It is important
not to stereotype people. We must always recognize that each person is
a unique individual, and may not behave in the same way as another, even
within the same cultural group. The information in this manual can be
used as a foundation or starting point upon which client-centered practice
is then developed.
Sincerely,
Roxie
Roxie M. Black, Ph.D., OTR/L, FAOTA
Director, MOT Program
(207) 753-6515; rblack@usm.maine.edu
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