People often try to categorize one another based on single factors such as place of origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender, language, tribal affiliation, national boundaries, and personal
philosophy. Today’s world is so diverse and complex, however, that you cannot assign an individual to such a simple category. Instead, diversity and complexity are best expressed through self-
described ethnicity, which may be based on a variety of factors. Reflect on the definition of ethnicity and consider how it might influence your human services practices.