Cultural competence for transracial adoptive parents

This article provides a clear conceptual definition of cultural competence for transracial-cultural adoptive (TRA) parents based on an extensive revie w of the literature and feedback from both experts and parents. Following t he differentiation of cultural competence as defined in the social work lit erature and cultural competence as applied to TRA parents, a three-part def inition of cultural competence for TRA parents is presented. The article ex pands on each of three constructs: racial awareness, multicultural planning , and survival skills. In addition, it describes the process of beginning t o operationalize the constructs. Finally, implications for social work prac tice, education, and research are suggested.