Description

The Strategies in Collaboration study was developed

to investigate the collaboration styles of certain ethnic

groups in the USA and to determine approaches for improving

collaboration between these ethnic communities and mainstream

health and service agencies. The methodology included focus

groups and interviews with community leaders and essential

administrative staff of health and human service agencies.

While similarities in collaboration styles were found, significant

differences between each of the ethnic communities and the

mainstream community became apparent. Study results indicated

that styles of communication, collaboration, expectations,

assumptions, values, and privilege varied significantly. These

factors often created barriers against effective collaboration.

Working with normative communication styles during collaboration

– plus taking steps to build trust – were found to be effective

strategies. Through assessment and training, agencies can

acquire the cultural competence required to build partnerships

of mutual trust and respect, which can then result in effective

collaboration.