Relational processes of cultural humility in counseling: A structural equation modeling study

Abstract

The relational nature of cultural humility (CH) has been evident since the beginning of its conceptual and empirical explorations in multicultural counseling. However, few studies have intentionally used a theory-driven framework to examine the relational processes of CH. In the current study, we used a structural equation modeling approach to examine the relationships between CH, empathy, therapeutic working alliance, and real relationship through a common factors framework. Using a sample of 610 adult counseling clients, we found that CH accounted for approximately 60% of the variance in the working alliance and 58% of the variance in the real relationship. Moreover, we found that empathy partially mediated the dispositional and situational effects of CH on both relational outcomes. We discussed strategies to cultivate CH in counseling relationships. We also recommended future researchers identify other theoretically related mediators and moderators.