Final answer:
The 'Competence' standard under APS guidelines calls for inclusion of cultural relativism and holistic approaches in practice, requiring professionals to adapt to and respect indigenous cultures while being reflective and collaborating ethically with cultural insiders.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ethical standard of Competence under the APS guidelines applies to practicing with indigenous individuals through the lens of cultural relativism and holistic approaches. This involves adapting interventions to cultural contexts, actively seeking cultural knowledge, and being reflective in practice. A critical aspect of being competent is understanding and embedding one's practice within the community and cultural context. Community psychologists and anthropologists, in particular, strive to acknowledge and work within these contexts, using skills such as ethnography and engaging with cultural insiders to ensure interventions are respectful and effective. Moreover, they maintain a commitment to ethical practice by collaborating with cultural insiders to address power asymmetries.
By adhering to the principle of cultural relativism, professionals can refrain from imposing their own cultural values onto the indigenous population; instead, they can appreciate and understand the unique cultural elements they encounter. This strategy fosters a foundation for constructing cross-cultural relationships and pursuing common interests.