101100: Female Genital Cutting: An Ethical Dilemma

About the Course:

This course is based on the article, “Social Work and Female Genital Cutting: An Ethical Dilemma,” published in the Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics, Volume 4, Number 1 (Spring 2007). This article examines the practice of female genital cutting (FGC) in the context of social work values and ethics. The article argues that, in spite of social work’s respect for cultural diversity, the profession has a responsibility to work toward the elimination of harmful practices such as FGC, even when such practices are valued by a given society. A rationale for this change effort is put forward, as are bases for the development of effective interventions.

Journal/Publisher:

The Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics

Publication Date:

Spring 2007, Vol. 4, No. 1

Author

Ike Burson, Ph.D., L.G.S.W.

About the Author:

Ike Burson, Ph.D., L.G.S.W., is an assistant professor at Mississippi State University, Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work, Mississippi State, Mississippi.

Recommended For:

This course is recommended for health care professionals, especially psychologists, counselors, social workers, and nurses who seek knowledge about female genital cutting and related ethical issues. It is appropriate for intermediate to advanced levels of participants’ knowledge.

Course Objectives:

1. Identify forms of FCG.

2. Recognize cultural justifications for FGC.

3. Apply ethical standards to the issue of FGC.

4. Analyze FGC from a feminist perspective.

5. Explain a cultural relativist view of FGC.