Assumptions of the Model
1. Cultural competence is a process, not an event.
2. Cultural competence consists of five constructs: cultural awareness, cultural knowledge, cultural skill, cultural en-
counters, and cultural desire.
3. There is more variation within ethnic groups than across eth-
nic groups (intra-ethnic variation).
4. There is a direct relationship between the level of competence
of health care providers and their ability to provide culturally
responsive health care services.
5. Cultural competence is an essential component in rendering
effective and culturally responsive services to culturally and ethnically diverse clients.