Advocating for Marginalized Populations
Context
Our role as social justice advocates involves multiple levels of client support to address psychosocial and sociopolitical barriers that may compromise optimal development and health. In this unit, you explored resources related to social justice advocacy at multiple levels and the impact of discrimination on the development and health of sexual minorities.
According to the AAMFT code of ethics, “the areas of service, advocacy, and public participation are recognized as responsibilities to the profession equal in importance to all other aspects” (AAMFT, 2015). This may be a challenging task at times when our personal beliefs interface with such professional responsibilities.
A number of resources are available to therapists when personal and professional values or beliefs are not in alignment. It is incumbent upon us to take action to resolve such conflicts so that we are prepared to uphold the values of our profession and effectively serve diverse clients.
Discussion Prompt
Consider a population for which you have a strong inclination to advocate and that is at an increased risk of mental health problems due to systemic barriers.
Reference your readings and the professional literature to describe the systemic barriers that confront the population, the impact of those barriers on their health and wellness, and what type of roles you are committed to taking in an effort to eliminate those barriers (for example, change agent, consultant, psychoeducator).
Describe at least one strategy at each of three levels discussed by Dr. Paylo (micro, meso, and macro) in his video interview
