Search results for ‘Subject term:"mental health problems"’ Sort:
Results 1 - 1 of 1
Consideration of cultural factors in working with Chinese American families with a mentally ill patient
- Author:
- KUNG Winnie W.
- Journal article citation:
- Families in Society, 82(1), January 2001, pp.97-107.
- Publisher:
- The Alliance for Children and Families
This American article discusses cultural beliefs of Chinese American families in relation to their experience of a mentally ill relative. Somatic factors and psychosocial stresses as causes of mental disorders are found compatible to the belief systems of these families. The stress-vulnerability dialysis is recommended as the explanatory model to be adopted by clinicians when they communicate the causes of mental illness to these families. Ways to harness support from extended families and community resources are also suggested. Also examined is a viable working alliance between these families and clinicians in terms of a therapeutic bond, consensual treatment goals, and relevant tasks. Finally, elements of a family intervention model compatible with cultural beliefs of these families are proposed.