Multicultural Couple Therapy by Rastogi Mudita;Thomas Volker K.; & Volker Thomas

Author:Rastogi, Mudita;Thomas, Volker K.; & Volker Thomas
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 1039498
Publisher: SAGE Publications, Incorporated
Published: 2010-08-15T00:00:00+00:00

Conclusion and Future Directions

In this chapter, we have highlighted cultural considerations that could enrich work with evidence-based couple treatments with the goal of encouraging culturally competent practice. However, we wish to end with a cautionary note about the dangers of utilizing evidence-based treatments or cultural knowledge in an insensitive way. Typically, empirical work and cultural knowledge focus on understanding groups of people. In practice, we see unique couples who have their own specific needs and characteristics. Assumptions about etic and emic characteristics of treatments must be suspended until evidence is uncovered. In addition, clinicians must avoid mistakes of underpathologizing, or not seeing existing problems because of cultural stereotypes, and overpathologizing, or seeing problems when experiences are in fact culturally sanctioned and normal in the cultural context (Lopez & Hernández, 1986). Truly culturally competent practice with empirical treatments includes developing a wide base of knowledge, but careful and observant practice in applying it. Practitioners would do well to consider themselves “researchers” in their work with all clients, shifting between cultural perspectives, making hypotheses based on theories about how a couple functions and what will help, and seeking evidence along the way.

We see this chapter as a first step toward connecting empirical work and issues of culture and cultural competence. Much is left to be done to promote true integration of these domains. More theoretical work, like that offered in this book, and more research to make sure theoretical notions are correct, is clearly called for. We hope that others will be inspired to join us as we continue in this important direction.

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