Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

The belief that one's own cultural values and beliefs are superior is known as:

1. Cultural competency.

2. Cultural diversity.

3. Ethnocentrism.

4. Cultural sensitivity.

The correct answer is: Ethnocentrism.

The belief that one's own cultural values and beliefs are superior to those of others is known as ethnocentrism. This concept implies a judgment of other cultures based on the standards and norms of one's own culture, which can lead to misunderstanding and a lack of appreciation for different cultural practices and beliefs. Ethnocentrism often manifests in attitudes that devalue other cultures, viewing them as inferior or less valid. Cultural competency involves understanding and effectively interacting with people from different cultures, which directly opposes the notion of ethnocentrism. Cultural diversity refers to the variety of cultural groups within a society, highlighting the presence and contributions of multiple cultural identities rather than superiority. Cultural sensitivity is the awareness of and respect for cultural differences, promoting acceptance and understanding instead of superiority.