Dr. David Blunt - an adjunct professor and published theorist on multicultural
psychology and issues related to cross-cultural perspectives that value
diversity as a primary construct in content delivery. In
his article titled,
The Effects of Multiculturalism within the Parameters of
Instructional Course Design, he suggested the communication of an effective
curriculum finds its dependency within the multicultural environment of the
classroom, and efficacy of the professional educator while embracing student
diversity.
He has argued successful student assimilation may depend upon the accuracy of an
established curriculum that appropriately adapts to a flexible teaching and
learning environment, in which both instructor and student benefit. Furthermore,
the students’ cultural orientation and home community socio-influences become
problematic for a historically White, middle class, monocultural teacher who
lacks adequate diversity training techniques.
Preparation requires multicultural training, one in
which teachers do not perceive students of color with views of low academic
expectations. Therefore, multicultural educational course design must account
for the stereotype, ethical, and racial myths that abound throughout the
education system.
Dr. Blunt has also written on the ethical dilemmas
that break the confidentiality of the client eventually testing the
psychologist’s boundaries such that not taking action may place the patient in a
position where they suffer, hurt themselves, or others in his article titled,
Confidentiality, Informed Consent, and Ethical
Considerations in Reviewing the Client's Psychotherapy Records.
He suggested the effectiveness in obtaining a valid
informed consent might depend upon the therapists training, experience, and
sound judgment in conveying the extent of the therapy and limitations imposed by
the information disclosed. Therefore, maintaining confidentiality during
counseling while working with minors may pose unique scenarios in which the
therapists must re-evaluate his/her approach to therapy. This article reviewed
important ethical issues related to confidentiality, informed consent, the right
to know, and HIPAA requirements fundamental to the therapeutic success of all
parties involved.
Consider these questions during your journey in
life:
1. Why does it have to be now...
2. How impressed are you with yourself...
3. Can you recognize the wolves among the sheep...
4. What happens if success is not measured over time...
5. Have you determined the value of your circle of influence...
6. In the final analysis where do the problems begin and end...
Book: Dr. Blunt offered ground breaking research
related to the referral views of conservative pastors throughout California. His
abstract stated: Different philosophical perspectives have emerged regarding the
basis for mental health healing that contrast pastoral counselors with their
secular counterparts.
These philosophical differences limit client
referrals, treatment options, and professional collaboration between religion
and psychology. Previous research shows secular counseling is a viable option
for pastors as they assist congregants in more liberal denominations with mental
health issues. However, there is an absence of research addressing whether
Foursquare Church pastors view secular counseling and referral as beneficial for
their congregants.
This non-experimental quantitative study, drawing
upon therapy and counseling theories, included survey data from 134 Foursquare
Church pastors on their views toward theology, counseling, secular referral, and
counseling preparedness and confidence using the Pastoral Attitudinal Survey
toward Referral scale (PASTOR) and the Scriptural Literalism Scale (SLS). Key
research questions assessed the pastors’ responses to theological, counseling,
and referral subscales as a function of the pastors’ age, experience, counseling
course credits, and theological conservatism.
Principal component analysis and univariate analysis
of variance demonstrated the pastors were a homogeneous group in their
recognition of the value of secular referral; however, the majority of the
pastors would not refer their congregants to secular counselors. This study
promotes positive social change by encouraging mental health awareness and
secular collaboration as pastors help congregants seek secular mental health
healing options while continuing to embrace their religious views.
See his 2008 published research printed in book
form:
Religion
and Mental Health: Perceptions and Referral Attitudes of the International
Church of the Foursquare Gospel Ministers in California Toward Counseling and
Psychology.
Dr. David R. Blunt
PO Box 910
Harbor City CA 90710-0910
See his brief bio |