Problems of defining and comparing abnormal behavior across cultures

Individual versus Societal Focus

The problem diagnoses given by U. S. Black and White male and female counselors were analyzed to determine whether they were individually or societally focused. After viewing a videotape of culturally varied client vignettes, the participating counselors responded in writing to the question "What do you think is the problem?" The data were scored according to an individual-societal continuum. Race appeared as a strong source of difference: Black males and females tended to use a societal focus more frequently than did the White males and females. However, while the Whites' diagnoses were almost exclusively individual, the Blacks employed more equal distribution of individually and societally focused responses. Another major implication of this study is the relatively weak significance of sex differences.

Review of child and adolescent refugee mental health

OBJECTIVE

To review stressful experiences and stress reactions among child and adolescent refugees, as well as interventions and ethical considerations in research and clinical work, within the framework of the chronological experiences of child refugees; namely, the phases of preflight, flight, and resettlement. Highlighted are special refugee populations such as unaccompanied minors, asylum seekers, and former child soldiers. Pertinent medical findings are summarized.

METHOD

The authors reviewed articles from 1990 to 2003 addressing the topics above. Literature was gathered from databases including PsycINFO, Medline, and SocioFile. Pertinent earlier papers and those from other disciplines cited in database-identified articles were also included.

RESULTS

Child and adolescent refugees suffer from significant conflict-related exposures. Reactions to stress may be mediated by coping strategies, belief systems, and social relations.

CONCLUSIONS

More research is needed on interventions, specifically on efficacy and cultural relevance. Interventions that have an impact on multiple ecological levels need further development and evaluation.