What is the recommended approach for social workers when introducing unfamiliar food substitutes to immigrant families?

Arranging small discussion groups for demonstrations of new foods is the recommended approach because it fosters a supportive and interactive learning environment. This method allows social workers to engage immigrant families in a way that not only introduces them to unfamiliar food substitutes but also provides context, cultural relevance, and practical demonstrations on how to prepare and incorporate these foods into their dietary practices.

By using discussion groups, families can ask questions, share their experiences, and express concerns, which can lead to a deeper understanding and acceptance of new food options. This collaborative approach builds trust and promotes cultural sensitivity, as social workers can also acknowledge the families' traditional foods and practices while gently integrating new substitutes. The communal aspect of group discussions can reduce feelings of isolation and make trying new foods a more enjoyable and less daunting experience.

Other methods, such as simply providing a list of food substitutes or offering instructions only on nutritional balance, lack the interactive and supportive elements that help in fostering acceptance of new dietary practices. Encouraging families to try new foods without support could lead to rejection of those foods due to cultural differences or unfamiliarity, as it may not address the family's specific preferences or concerns.