Talking Cultural Curiosity with University of Pittsburgh COTAD

The University of Pittsburgh COTAD (Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity) Chapter conducted a training on "Culturally Inclusive ADLs" that, with their permission, I had to pass along to my crew! Their personal mission is to promote diversity, equity and inclusion within the Pittsburgh OT community and empower students to be more comprehensive and effective clinicians. How awesome is that!?

This was an illuminating training presented by COTAD and three speakers who discussed activity analysis related to their grooming, dressing, spiritual, and other meaningful occupations.  While they provided insights into their own routines and rituals, all of the speakers centered the importance of asking culturally curious questions, for example "what products do you use?" or "can you walk me through your morning self-care routine?" Our clients all have routines and rituals, which can be culturally influenced or meaningful, but still are unique them. 

So, as clinicians we need to get comfortable seeking clarification when we need more information for our activity analysis OT brains! 

Watching the video enhanced my understanding of how and why people choose to show themselves to the world and express themselves, which, while not discussed by the presenters, could include sexual expression for some.  We need to use the same cultural curiosity when talking to our clients about sexuality.  Just like the speakers discuss in the lecture, we really do not know the ins and outs of people's routines, beliefs, and preferences until we ask them very specific questions to learn more about them.  

Clients want us to get to know them without judgement. 

Isn't this what we want when we receive healthcare? We want to be seen and have tailored care customized for us.  The alternative gives clients unaffirming experiences, poor outcomes, and health disparities.  In order to do this, we need to get them talking about themselves and we need to listen.  If you're wondering how to ask questions without feeling invasive or judgmental, practice with your coworkers or classmates.  Or maybe consider where that discomfort is coming from and dismantle that.  We can normalize being curious and not having all the answers, especially when it comes to sexuality and self-expression because of the often personal meaning we associate with those occupations.     

A Big Kudos to the Pittsburgh OT COTAD Chapter for coordinating this event and developing content reflective of our professional values, that often doesn't make it into curriculum and professional education. To learn more you can watch the training here.