The complexity of social/cultural dimension in communication disorders

Abstract

There has been growing recognition in the field of communication disorders concerning the importance of multicultural and diversity issues. This discussion needs to move beyond the theoretical and descriptive stage to the clinical use of this knowledge to improve the communicative functioning of diverse populations. This paper argues that the tenets of evidence-based practice and the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) by the World Health Organization can be used to advance the scholarship and service concerning diversity issues. Both evidence-based practice and the ICF are client-based approaches that can facilitate the achievement of culturally relevant rehabilitation outcomes. This article discusses the use of evidence-based practice and the ICF for providing assessment and intervention that address the social and cultural complexities of the persons we serve. In addition, the author states that work on diversity issues can also be used to discover crucial underlying knowledge regarding communication and communication disorders.