Module 14: Disorders & Treatment
Hua to8, Public domain image
Description: Mental health concepts and treatments vary significantly across cultures, even though some psychological disorders have universal features. This module examines how different cultures understand and treat psychological distress. We explore how cultural beliefs influence what is considered “normal” versus “disordered” behavior and how these beliefs shape treatment approaches.
Module Learning Objectives: By the end of this module students will be able to…
- MLO1: Compare mental health concepts across cultures. (CLO3)
- MLO2: Evaluate cultural approaches to psychological treatment. (CLO2)
- MLO3: Apply mental health concepts to cultural group analysis. (CLO4)
Why This Module Is Important: Understanding cultural variations in mental health is essential for providing effective psychological care. Mental health professionals use this knowledge to provide culturally appropriate treatment. Healthcare administrators apply these insights to develop inclusive medical services. Social workers use this understanding to support diverse communities, while public health officials apply it to develop culturally sensitive mental health programs. This knowledge helps you recognize how cultural contexts influence both the expression and treatment of psychological distress.
The readings for this Module come from:
Section 15.1 (What are Psychological Disorders?) in Psychology 2e by Openstax, licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Part 10 (Culture & Mental Health) in Culture & Psychology by MMOER, licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0