Equality diversity and rights in health and social care Essay Example
Equality diversity and rights in health and social care Essay Example

Equality diversity and rights in health and social care Essay Example

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  • Pages: 10 (2683 words)
  • Published: August 3, 2017
  • Type: Case Study
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In a health and social care environment, the priority is to give importance to equality, diversity, and rights. This means that every individual, regardless of their race, age, or gender, should have their rights protected and be treated fairly. Additionally, by emphasizing these aspects, acceptance and respect for every individual can also be promoted.

These differences can encompass various aspects, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, and more. The exploration of these differences takes place in a secure and supportive setting. It involves comprehending each other's perspectives and going beyond mere tolerance to appreciate and respect the diverse characteristics within every individual.

Examples of Gender Differences

Historically, women were regarded as inferior to men and were perceived as less important.

Despite progress, there remains a wage gap between men and women in similar positions.

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Women also face obstacles in advancing their careers, often referred to as the 'glass ceiling'. Furthermore, derogatory terms like 'slag' are more commonly directed towards women than men.

Culture

Our cultural heritage includes shared activities, beliefs, values, knowledge, and ideas within specific groups. However, the media frequently gives preference to white middle-class culture as being superior.

People have a tendency to feel more at ease with others who share the same cultural background. Additionally, those in positions of power and influence often prioritize individuals who are similar to themselves.

Codes of Behavior

People have varying codes of behavior based on their beliefs, values, and backgrounds. Different aspects of one's life may require different standards of conduct. For instance, individuals who typically lead quiet and law-abiding lives may behave differently at football matches or when spending time with specific friends. As early years practitioners,

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it is crucial that we maintain a high level of professionalism in our work at all times and follow the policies and procedures established by the organization.

It should be noted that our work takes place within a regulated setting and requires the trust of parents and families. Hence, our behavior outside of work can also impact our professional status.

Equality

Equality refers to treating individuals based on their specific requirements. For instance, if Michael Flanders wanted to board the plane, just stating "you have the same stairs as everyone else" would not suffice. What is essential is to provide a boarding method that accommodates each person's individual needs without causing them embarrassment or treating them unfairly compared to others. Failure to do so would be considered discrimination.

Rights

Rights are the privileges we possess as members of society.

Our society recognizes the interconnection between rights and responsibilities. For example, we have the right to live peacefully, but it is also our duty to act peacefully. Read what is challenging behavior in health and social care. These rights are commonly known as "moral rights" and are based on principles of justice or injustice, fairness or unfairness, and right or wrong. Age discrimination within the field of health and social care occurs when individuals aged 40 years or older experience unfavorable treatment regarding their employment terms. Both parties involved in an age discrimination claim can be above the age of 40.

Color discrimination refers to the unjust treatment of individuals based on their skin color. This form of discrimination can occur independently or in conjunction with racial discrimination. Even within

the same racial group, people may experience varying treatment due to their skin color. Discrimination against disabled individuals arises when they are treated differently because of their disability. Additionally, if an employer fails to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified disabled employees and applicants, discrimination can take place. A disability is defined as a physical or mental impairment that significantly restricts one or more major life activities. Lastly, national origin discrimination encompasses different manifestations of unequal employment opportunities related to an individual's country of origin or ancestral origins, among other factors.

The text examines the issue of discrimination rooted in race and national origin, observing that individuals may encounter unequal treatment due to physical, cultural, or linguistic characteristics associated with their nationality. In a similar vein, racial discrimination transpires when individuals receive disparate treatment based on their race compared to others in similar circumstances. This differentiation can be attributed to inherent traits linked to their race, such as physical attributes. Additionally, courts have acknowledged that racial discrimination within employment can occur if employees experience differential treatment because of engaging in interracial dating or marriages, exhibiting racially oriented attitudes and beliefs, or affiliating with racially oriented groups. It is significant to note that the courts emphasize that racial discrimination extends beyond minority races.

Whites, like others in similar situations, have also faced discrimination. Religious discrimination occurs when individuals are forced to compromise their religious beliefs or risk job opportunities due to employment rules or policies. This can happen if employers fail to provide reasonable accommodations, such as adjusting work schedules. Gender discrimination refers to unfair treatment based on gender, including sexual harassment and unequal pay. Sexual harassment encompasses unwanted

verbal comments, gestures, or physical contact of a sexual nature that occurs at the workplace or work-related settings.

Discriminatory Practice

Discrimination involves treating individuals less favorably than others due to factors like race, color, gender, disability, ethnic origin, nationality, age, or religion.

In our society, different groups unfortunately experience various forms of discrimination on a daily basis. These forms encompass both direct and indirect discrimination. Direct discrimination occurs when someone openly treats another person differently based on certain factors. For example, gender-based discrimination is evident if a woman is deliberately overlooked for a promotion despite meeting all the requirements in favor of a less qualified man.

On the other hand, indirect discrimination arises when a rule or requirement is enforced in a way that results in unfavorable treatment for a specific group of people.

Prejudice involves holding an unjustified or incorrect negative attitude towards an individual because of their membership in a particular social group such as race or gender.

(e.g. sexist). Stereotyping: A stereotype refers to a rigid and generalized belief regarding a particular group or category of people (Cardwell, 1996).

Wearing leather apparel is often associated with bikers, such as those known as "hells angels". Stereotypes can be useful for quick responses in familiar situations. However, they also limit our ability to see the individuality of people, resulting in misunderstandings and generalizations. Stereotyping is a common way of simplifying our social world and reducing mental effort when meeting new people.

Stereotypes involve the categorization of individuals, suggesting that all members of a group have certain characteristics and abilities. These stereotypes contribute to creating social divisions and biased attitudes, promoting an "us" versus "them" mentality and giving rise to in-groups

and out-groups. Most stereotypes generally convey a negative perspective.

Positive examples, such as judges (who are often regarded as "sober as a judge"), overweight individuals (often seen as "jolly"), and television newsreaders (perceived as trustworthy, respectable, and unbiased), exist. Nonetheless, negative stereotypes are more prevalent. Both covert and overt abuse of power occur. Covert abuse of power implies that it is concealed, like a secret spy mission.

The covert abuse of power is kept concealed from the general public. It occurs in various contexts such as the government, home, or workplace. Covert abuse of power refers to the misuse of power, regardless of the setting.

The term "overt" indicates something that is openly and universally recognized. In the context of power abuse, overt abuse pertains to situations where the abuse is happening in plain sight. This form of abuse can happen in different settings including government systems, police forces, households, and other scenarios. For example, a spouse who engages in overt abuse does not conceal their behavior, which could involve witnessed verbal mistreatment.

An overt abuse of power can be observed in the police context when an officer intentionally disregards a red light, not due to an emergency situation, but simply because they are unwilling to wait. In contrast, within the government, an overt abuse of power is exemplified by dictators who prioritize maintaining control over their country and consequently employ unjust use of their authority. Covert and overt abuses of power are antonyms as they represent complete opposites.

com/q2083893. html) P3 - The purpose of this section is to explain the possible consequences of discriminatory behavior on individuals who utilize health or social care services. In our present-day society,

inequality and discrimination persist in different ways, both overtly and covertly. Discrimination can frequently be observed based on factors like social class, culture, race, nationality, and others. Regrettably, this leads to unjust treatment and abuse within society. It is crucial to acknowledge that society plays a significant role in influencing individuals' traits and actions.

Why do some people have a negative attitude or always seem ready to oppose those around them? Why do some individuals feel that life is unfair to them? Is fear, worry, low self-esteem, and feeling marginalized by society the cause of discrimination and prejudice? These questions explore how these conditions can affect individuals. Discrimination and ethnocentrism in healthcare providers result in individuals having difficulty accessing needed services. In my opinion, discrimination directly impacts people's behavior, psychology, and physical well-being. This assignment aims to explain how discrimination affects those who utilize health and social care services. I will utilize my knowledge and comprehension of the subject to illustrate the primary influence on individuals living in discriminatory conditions.

Discrimination has extensive effects on individuals, leading to a gradual decline in confidence due to consistent differential treatment. This can lead to increased isolation and disengagement from society. Discrimination significantly influences multiple facets of people's lives, such as their health, education, employment, social care, and legal rights. It also affects their attitudes, lifestyles, and opportunities, ultimately shaping their future. Despite the presence of anti-discrimination laws, prejudice and discrimination persistently influence individuals' prospects in life.

The text examines the persistence of statistical discrimination in society and health services, acknowledging its challenging recognition. Discrimination can be evident, where individuals experience differential treatment and can readily perceive its impact. Alternatively, discrimination

can be covert and more difficult to discern. Discrimination has adverse effects on individuals, detrimentally impacting their quality of life and overall well-being. Those who face unfair treatment constantly live without having their safety needs met and often suffer from lower self-esteem throughout their lives. Maslow's analysis of human needs indicates that discrimination undermines individuals' self-esteem, safety requirements, and opportunities for self-actualization. Furthermore, non-verbal reactions from others can shape an individual's internal sense of self-worth.

Experiencing love and belonging can make individuals feel excluded. Additionally, residing in an environment where safety is compromised by verbal abuse and potential physical harm can result in feelings of insecurity. Consequently, this can worsen physical health problems aggravated by stress and depression. Moreover, individuals from lower social classes frequently encounter difficulties in accessing healthcare services or finding employment due to prejudice related to skin color, nationality, race, religion, etc. As a result, these individuals have limited opportunities for socioeconomic advancement because they lack the necessary resources and education required for desired job positions.

Moreover, people from various countries frequently confront obstacles in enhancing their societal standing. For example, while pursuing job prospects, an individual could be unjustly denied a favorable position simply because of their complexion or accent, despite possessing sufficient expertise and credentials. As mentioned previously, certain healthcare establishments continue to harbor bias and disparity, subsequently affecting the welfare of patients. Owing to prejudiced attitudes and discriminatory behavior exhibited by healthcare providers, individuals encounter challenges in obtaining essential medical care. Consequently, people may experience illnesses or struggle to comprehend their own health conditions due to feeling marginalized and undeserving of such services.

Exclusion from economic, cultural, political, and social activities due

to lack of financial resources results in individuals being deprived of the full rights and benefits of citizenship. This inequality is exacerbated by the uneven distribution of state-provided services. For example, non-white patients in mental health services often experience differential treatment compared to their white counterparts. The Mental Health Act Commission recently reported that individuals of Afro-Caribbean ethnicity were disproportionately subjected to compulsory detention under the Mental Health Act 1983.

In society, despite the implementation of laws to combat discrimination, they may not be sufficient to completely eradicate it. Discrimination persists in various forms despite these legal measures. According to a textbook:

  • The law can mitigate overt discrimination;
  • Covert discrimination continues to persist;

No substantial progress has been achieved in improving the circumstances for women, individuals from lower social classes, and black people.

Throughout history, women have often been viewed as the weaker sex. In certain countries, it is believed that women are not capable of holding the same level of employment as men, leading to unfair treatment and a lack of respect towards women. This mentality has resulted in an unequal distribution of power, with men having more control over decision-making. Additionally, this discrimination has led to limited opportunities for women in the workforce and has hindered societal progress. Furthermore, gender discrimination has contributed to poverty and social exclusion within society.

For example, the needs of lesbians and gay men who are at risk of experiencing poverty are being established. The study discovered that 21% of respondents were living in poverty, with 57% stating that they found it challenging to make ends meet. The findings also clearly outlined the various effects of

harassment and discrimination, as well as the extent of social exclusion faced by lesbians and gay men. The discrimination faced by these individuals due to their abnormal human sexual orientation has had a profound impact on them, leading to a lifetime of prejudice, diminished self-worth, and low self-esteem in various aspects of their lives such as school and the workplace.
Furthermore, a significant number of respondents have experienced social exclusion. Participants reported encountering problems related to harassment, discrimination, or prejudice at different stages of their lives, including when disclosing their sexuality to family and friends, during their time in education or training programs, and in the workplace.

There were common problems of isolation and loneliness at school or in continuing education, as well as exclusion in areas such as housing and insurance. Institutional racism is evident within the National Health Services, indicating that discrimination still exists in some healthcare providers. For instance, white patients and non-white patients are treated unfairly, denying them equal opportunities for accessing healthcare services. People with mental health problems often receive inadequate support from the healthcare system and are more likely to be involuntarily detained under the Mental Health Act 1983. Once in the hospital, they become more vulnerable to experiencing unfair treatment from the organization.

Mental health patients may develop more severe mental disorders due to receiving harsher treatment from healthcare professionals. Numerous studies have focused on the varying treatment received by individuals of Afro-Caribbean ethnicity, who often experience more severe mistreatment from those around them. Discrimination is evident in cases where patients do not speak English or English is not their first language, as they are not provided with interpreters during treatment.

Additionally, ethnic minority patients frequently endure racial harassment, with limited policies in place to address such issues. This discrimination within social services directly impacts human health.

The damaging effects of discrimination, whether it be based on racism, religion, or culture, often result in severe psychological disorders for many individuals. This is especially true for children who experience prejudice or discrimination, as it hinders their normal development. Ethnic discrimination further impacts the health of minority racial and ethnic groups by affecting their mental and physiological well-being, as well as contributing to risky behaviors like excessive alcohol consumption and substance abuse. Research indicates that racial discrimination significantly burdens racial/ethnic minority populations, leading to decreased well-being (such as lower self-esteem, happiness, and life satisfaction) and increased rates of psychosis, hopelessness, anxiety, anger, and substance abuse.

The text states that depression is linked to perceived discrimination (http://grants.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-06-348.html). In my opinion, it is necessary for the government to address both overt and covert discrimination in the population by implementing anti-discrimination policies.

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