What term refers to the differences among individuals based on cultural, ethnic, and racial factors?

Cultural diversity refers to the variety of experiences, perspectives, and practices that individuals from different cultural, ethnic, and racial backgrounds bring to a society. It encompasses the recognition and appreciation of the unique contributions that various groups make and promotes the idea that these differences enhance the richness of a community's social and cultural fabric. This concept is crucial in health care and social services, as understanding and respecting cultural diversity can lead to more effective communication, improved patient care, and better health outcomes.

The other terms do not capture this idea of differences. Cultural uniformity suggests a lack of diversity, where cultural differences are minimized or absent. Cultural integration refers to the process by which individuals from different backgrounds come to share a common culture, which can sometimes overlook the distinctiveness of separate cultures. Cultural assimilation describes the process where individuals or groups adopt the customs and attitudes of another culture, often losing their original cultural identity. Thus, cultural diversity is the most appropriate term to describe the differences among individuals based on cultural, ethnic, and racial factors.