Utilizing Cultural Humility-Based Training for Assessing Racial Trauma Symptoms in African Americans

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of this DNP project was to evaluate the impact of a culturally humility-based training intervention on the motivation, knowledge, and confidence of mental health providers (MHP) in delivering patient-centered culturally sensitive (PCCS) care for African Americans with racial trauma.Background. This intervention addressed the significance of assessing for racial trauma symptoms in African American patients within mental health care, with a particular emphasis on the Trauma Symptoms of Discrimination Scale (TSDS). Existing literature underscores the significance of cultural competence and sensitivity in providing effective care to diverse populations. Racial trauma, linked to experiences of discrimination, is identified as an imperative concern affecting mental health outcomes in African Americans. The gap in provider training regarding racial trauma recognition and management necessitates targeted interventions. This intervention built upon the foundation of cultural humility, aimed to enhance PCCS care through a structured training program focused on assessing and addressing racial trauma symptoms in African Americans, utilizing tools such as the Trauma Symptoms of Discrimination Scale (TSDS). Methods. This project employed a quasi-experimental design to assess the effectiveness of cultural humility-based training in enhancing MHP abilities to recognize and manage racial trauma symptoms in African American patients. The intervention involved an asynchronous online training presentation, including a clinical scenario simulation, and utilized pre- and post-training surveys for quantitative data collection. Statistical analyses, including paired-sample t-tests, evaluated shifts in motivation, knowledge, and confidence. The intervention followed the Plan-Do-Study-Act model, to ensure iterative refinement based on participant feedback. Data was securely collected and analyzed using Qualtrics and Microsoft Excel, respectively. Results. Three participants completed both the pre- and post-intervention surveys. Following the educational intervention, project data demonstrated a consistent knowledge base among participants after the cultural humility-based training intervention. However, notable positive shifts were observed in provider confidence and motivation. Specifically, two out of three participants showed improved confidence scores, with one participant experiencing a four-point increase and another a two-point increase. Moreover, motivation scores increased for two participants, one by two points and another by one point. Out of the nine pre- and post-survey questions, none demonstrated statistical significance which suggests findings may be due to chance. Conclusions. This DNP project highlighted the potential of cultural humility-based training to positively impact MHP confidence and motivation in delivering patient-centered, culturally sensitive care for African Americans with racial trauma. The findings underscore the need for ongoing education and tailored interventions to address racial trauma recognition and management in mental health settings.