Navigating Generational Diversity in Your SLP World

Generational diversity is a type of diversity that is frequently overlooked. Perhaps for the first time in history, many of our professional relationships involve interactions among five different generations. The speech language pathologist (SLP) is likely to experience multigenerational dynamics among clients, supervisors, supervisees, students, or fellow co-workers. Multigenerational environments are often bursting with diversity in experiences, customs, beliefs, values, and worldviews. Due to vast generational gaps, there may be misunderstandings, biases, unspoken attitudes, stereotypes, and even conflicts. Generational differences may intersect across a multitude of other multicultural dimensions. This presentation will explain foundational information regarding generational diversity and provide essential strategies for thriving in multigenerational environments.

Presenters

Alayna E. Townsend
Ph.D. CCC-SLP
Dr. Townsend is the lead speech-language pathologist at UT Physician’s Center for Autism and Related Conditions (CARC) in Houston, TX. She is an Adjunct Professor and Clinical Educator at the University of Houston in the Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. She earned her doctoral degree from Howard University, a master's degree from the University of Cincinnati, and her bachelor’s degree from Xavier University of Louisiana. Dr. Townsend specializes in performing diagnostic speech, language, and social communication evaluations for infants and young children suspected or diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). She has had the opportunity to provide speech and language services in the Bahamas, St. Lucia, Belize, and Ecuador.

Learning Objectives

Define key concepts and terms related to generational diversity.
Identify their individual generational identity and potential blind spots.
Explain at least 5 strategies that will improve their professional interactions in a multigenerational environment.

Agenda

5 minutes	Introduction
10 minutes	Introduction to Key Terms
10 minutes	Explore Individual Generational Identity
5 minutes	Explore Potential Blind spots
15 minutes	5 Strategies
10 minutes	Case Studies
5 minutes	Q&A

Disclosures

Speakers - Financial	Dr. Townsend is an employee of the University of Houston. She is the owner of Alto Publishing-Higher Learning SLP. She receives compensation from sales of her products. Dr. Townsend is receiving compensation from Bright Ideas Media for this presentation.
Speakers - Nonfinancial	Dr. Townsend has no non-financial relationships to disclose.
Course - Content	Dr. Townsend has no additional content information to disclose.
Course - Financial Support & In Kind	This course is being sponsored by Having Our Say and SLP Toolkit.

ASHA

This course is offered for 0.1 ASHA CEUs, Introductory Level, Professional Area, Professional Area

Navigating Generational Diversity in Your SLP World