Cross-Cultural Considerations in the Assessment and Treatment of Depression: A Comparative Analysis
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- June 26, 2024
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Formella, Zbigniewa & Ugwuanyi, Benedict Chidib
aDepartment of Psychology, Università Pontificia Salesiana, Rome-Italy
bDepartment of Psychology, Enugu State University of Science and Technology, Enugu, Nigeria
Citations – APA
| Formella, Z. & Ugwuanyi B. C. (2024). Cross-Cultural Considerations in the Assessment and Treatment of Depression: A Comparative Analysis. Contemporary Journal of Social Science and Humanities 5(2), 21-32. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.12543842 |
| Depression is a pervasive mental health condition characterized by persistent sadness and loss of interest or pleasure, exhibits diverse manifestations influenced by cultural contexts. This paper examines how these cultural variations impact the assessment and treatment of depression through a comparative analysis. Cultural factors such as beliefs regarding mental illness, stigma associated with seeking psychological help, availability and utilization of social support systems, and adherence to cultural values play crucial roles in shaping the expression of depressive symptoms and patterns of help-seeking behavior. The study employed Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) analysis to explore these dynamics. Data were gathered through a comparative analysis in urban and rural settings across multiple countries, focusing on cultural perspectives on depression manifestation, diagnostic practices, and treatment outcomes. Purposive sampling ensured representation of various cultural groups, and qualitative methods, including semi-structured interviews and focus groups, facilitated data collection. Results indicate significant cultural variations in the presentation, perception, and expression of depressive symptoms, challenging the uniformity of existing assessment tools and treatment interventions. OLS regression analyses further highlight nuanced differences in symptom severity and treatment effectiveness across cultural groups. The study underscores the need for culturally sensitive assessment tools, enhanced training in cultural competence for mental health professionals, and collaborative efforts to improve mental health care accessibility and outcomes for diverse populations. | ABSTRACT |
Keywords: Cultural Competence; Cultural Sensitivity; Mental Health Condition; Cultural Norms; Language Barriers; Cross-Cultural Considerations
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