What distinguishes race from ethnicity?

Race is distinguished from ethnicity primarily through the attributes they refer to. Race commonly pertains to observable physical traits such as skin color, facial features, and hair type that are often used to categorize individuals into groups. It is largely a social construct, influenced by historical and societal factors.

Ethnicity, on the other hand, is related to cultural factors, including shared heritage, language, traditions, and customs. It encompasses the lived experiences and social identities of individuals within a particular cultural group. While people of the same race may have diverse ethnic backgrounds, individuals from the same ethnicity may share similar values, language, and historical experiences regardless of their physical appearance.

Understanding this distinction is crucial in counseling, as it can lead to more effective communication and a better grasp of a client’s identity and experiences. Recognizing that race is tied to physical characteristics while ethnicity focuses on cultural practices enables counselors to engage more sensitively and accurately with clients from diverse backgrounds.