(P. 49-53) WHAT MUST THERAPISTS BEAR IN MIND TO ENSURE THAT TREAT...
132.
(p. 49-53)
What must therapists bear in mind to ensure that treatment does not clash with the
values and norms of their client's culture? Must a therapist come from the same culture as the
client to fully understand the client?
Students answers' may vary. Key terms and concepts that may be included in student
responses:
▪ Most psychotherapies are focused on the individual, but many cultures focus on the
collective or group rather than the individual.
▪ Most psychotherapies value the expression of emotions and the disclosure of personal
concerns, but some cultures value emotional restraint.
▪ Many psychotherapies expect clients to take the initiative in communicating their concerns
and desires, but some cultural norms dictate deference to people in authority.
▪ Socioeconomic class and cultural differences between the client and therapist can create
tensions.
▪ Ethnic matching is not an important predictor of the effectiveness of therapy; cultural
sensitivity can probably be acquired through training and experience.