A set of congruent behaviors, attitudes and policies that come together in a system, agency or among professionals to enable that system, agency or those professions to work effectively in cross-cultural situations.The word culture is used because it implies the integrated pattern of human behavior that includes thoughts, communications, actions, customs, beliefs, values and institutions of a racial, ethnic, religious or social group. Theword competence is used because it implies having the capacity to function effectively.

Five essential elements contribute to a system’s, institution’s or agency’s ability to become more culturally competent which include:

• valuing diversity;
• having the capacity for cultural self-assessment;
• being conscious of the dynamics inherent when cultures interact;
• having institutionalized culture knowledge; and
• having developed adaptations to service delivery reflecting an understanding of cultural

These five elements should be manifested at every level of an organization including policy making, administrative andpractice. Further, these elements should be reflected in the attitudes, structures, policies and services of the organization.

Cross, T., Bazron, B., Dennis, K., & Isaacs, M., (1989). Towards a culturally competent system of care, Volume 1. Washington, D.C.: GeorgetownUniversity Child Development Center, CASSP Technical Assistance Center.