HUS 2550 - Social Services and the Disenfranchised

College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

Credit(s): 3
Contact Hours: 47
Effective Term Spring 2024 (630)

Course Description

This course facilitates awareness of the impact minority and other disenfranchised families experience in the United States. Emphasizes historical trends, social stratification, and current status. Analyzes the effects of perceptions and misconceptions on minorities and other disenfranchised families to prepare professionals to work effectively with individuals who are ethnically, culturally, and racially diverse. 

Learning Outcomes and Objectives

  1. The student will explore the historical experiences of minorities and other disenfranchised groups in America by:
    1. examining the history and effects of segregation and discrimination in America.
    2. dissecting the history and future of opportunities available to African-Americans and other disenfranchised groups in this country.
    3. identifying the effects of exclusion, disrespect, and powerlessness.
    4. reviewing the current status of minorities and other disenfranchised groups in America and Pinellas County.
  2. The student will analyze the concept of social stratification in America and how it contributes to inequality and discrimination by:
    1. identifying the class structure in America.
    2. factoring how social-class is obtained and maintained.
    3. classifying the social change process.
    4. describing the social impact and social stressors on family systems.
    5. comparing the role of social statistics.
  3. The student will identify key issues that relate to cultural, ethnic, and linguistic differences by:
    1. investigating the ethnic and racial strengths of individuals and groups.
    2. comparing the influence of cultural values and practices.
    3. applying strategies to reduce ethnocentric judgment.
    4. describing cultural relativism.
    5. recognizing their cultural competence.
  4. The student will develop an awareness, understanding and acceptance of cultural differences by:
    1. recognizing their sensitivity toward ethnic and cultural differences.
    2. demonstrating genuine respect for diverse perspectives and lifestyles.
    3. incorporating strategies to enhance their ability to create and maintain an environment that fosters diversity.
  5. The student will distinguish between perceptions and misconceptions by:
    1. analyzing the definition, sources, and effects of perceptions.
    2. reviewing the myths associated with various disenfranchised groups.
    3. recognizing stereotyping.
  6. The student will evaluate the major institutional problems in America that impact minority and other disenfranchised families by:
    1. identifying the current family structure.
    2. defining the impact of the political system.
    3. recognizing the effects of the economy.
    4. presenting key components of the educational system.

Criteria Performance Standard

Upon successful completion of the course the student will, with a minimum 75% accuracy, demonstrate mastery of each of the above stated objectives through classroom measures developed by individual course instructors.

History of Changes

C&I 12/10/96; DBT 1/21/97 Effective Session 19971 C&I 12/1/98; DBT 12/14/98 Effective Session 19991. Reformatted 7/03/02 mr. 3 Year Review 2006. Flex Access 20091(0415). Effective 20101(0430). 3-Year Review 2010—Acceptable As Is
C&I Approval: 07/21/2023, BOT Approval: 09/19/2023, Effective Term: Spring 2024 (630)

Related Programs

  1. Community Health Worker Certificate (CHW-CT) (595) (Active)
  2. Social and Human Services (HUS-AS) (640) (Active)