Cultural Competence in Immigrant-Focused Social Services: A Mixed-Methods Exploration of Client Perceptions and Engagement at SAMHA
Rissanen, Bettina (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025051010513
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025051010513
Tiivistelmä
This thesis aimed to examine how immigrant clients perceive cultural competence among social service professionals at the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Association (SAMHA) and how these perceptions influence their engagement with SAMHA's services. The thesis examined immigrant clients’ experiences with social service professionals, focusing on factors such as respect for cultural backgrounds, culturally tailored services, and language support.
An online survey was distributed to SAMHA clients. The survey collected both quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, while the qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. A total of fourteen participants completed the survey. Cultural competence, as a foundational concept, was explored in the literature review, while the cultural humility framework and Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory were used to analyze participant responses.
The findings showed that immigrant clients generally have positive perceptions of SAMHA’s culturally grounded and responsive practices. Participants highlighted the importance of shared identity and language with SAMHA staff, as well as the respectful and client-centered approach of the organizations services. Participants also reported that SAMHA's services positively impacted their personal lives and integration into Finnish society. However, the findings also suggest a need for improved language support and more organizational resources.
An online survey was distributed to SAMHA clients. The survey collected both quantitative and qualitative data. The quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics, while the qualitative data was analysed using thematic analysis. A total of fourteen participants completed the survey. Cultural competence, as a foundational concept, was explored in the literature review, while the cultural humility framework and Bronfenbrenner’s ecological systems theory were used to analyze participant responses.
The findings showed that immigrant clients generally have positive perceptions of SAMHA’s culturally grounded and responsive practices. Participants highlighted the importance of shared identity and language with SAMHA staff, as well as the respectful and client-centered approach of the organizations services. Participants also reported that SAMHA's services positively impacted their personal lives and integration into Finnish society. However, the findings also suggest a need for improved language support and more organizational resources.