Postulates new way of describing identity development process under oppression using optimal theory. From this optimal worldview, oppression is perceived as self-alienating and yielding a fragmented sense of self, based upon devaluation by self and others. Describes optimal theory as providing new inclusive model of identity development. Describes…

Considers it imperative that counselors engaged in multicultural counseling have understanding of what is meant by culture. Suggests that philosophical assumptions underlying worldview, the deep structure of culture, provide framework for better understanding cultural differences. Contends that viewing culture from this holistic perspective…

Examines competence in terms of practitioner's worldview. Explores the history of how frames of reference are influenced by secular intelligence and how imprecision of commonly used terms limits conceptual competence. Presents more precise multicultural lexicon as means of fostering critical thinking about competence in multicultural research and…