Global citizenship and social justice among speech-language pathologists: A scoping review

Introduction: This scoping review outlines the literature findings that relate to global citizenship and the interconnection between social justice among health professionals, specifically speech-language pathologists. The review aims to provide a synthesis of the relevant literature and thorough thematic identification of common themes. 

Method: Arksey and O'Malley's scoping review framework was used for the searching of critical databases, specifically CINAHL, Medline, the Cochrane Library and Google Scholar. Following the appraisal and synthesis process of the relevant literature, key themes were identified with particular reference to social justice among health professionals (especially speech-language pathologists). 

Results: Four (4) key themes were identified, namely, (i) education and ongoing developmental support, (ii) ethical and moral obligations, (ii) cultural competency, and (iv) community engagement for intergroup empathy and helping. 

Conclusion: This review defines the parameters of a speech-language pathologists’ practice as a global citizen interconnected with social justice and the accountabilities to enable impactful changes creating culturally sustaining practice.