SOCIO-CULTURAL APPROACH IN FORMING INCLUSIVE COUNSELING AND EFFECTIVE AT SMAS MUHAMMADIYAH 1 BANYUWANGI

Abstract

The socio-cultural approach is one of the important aspects in creating inclusive and relevant guidance and counseling services, especially at SMAS Muhammadiyah 1 Banyuwangi which has diverse student backgrounds. This research was conducted to understand how socio-cultural values are integrated into the counseling process to help students overcome various problems, such as adaptation difficulties, social gaps, and interpersonal conflicts. Using qualitative research methods and case study approaches, data were obtained through in-depth interviews, observation of counseling activities, and analysis of supporting documents. The results showed that the application of strategies such as classical tutoring, home visits, and community approaches has been proven effective in strengthening the relationship between counselors and students and improving students' skills in dealing with differences. In addition, the integration of local culture in counseling programs has a positive impact on increasing mutual understanding among students.  The implications of this study confirm the need for counselor training to better understand the socio-cultural context of students, so that counseling services can be designed according to their needs and conditions. This research makes an important contribution to the development of a guidance model that respects socio-cultural diversity in the educational environment.