Abstract
This paper describes the treatment of a Bedouin-Arab in an outpatient psychiatric clinic in the south of Israel by a Russian-Jewish psychiatrist and a Bedouin-Arab mental health practitioner. A comparison is made in the understanding of cultural terminology and strategies, and the appropriate integration of a cultural ritual with modern therapy. The clinical process required the practitioners to weigh the risks and benefits of, in particular, the Bisha ritual [ordeal by fire], and the incorporation of the gender-based familial power differential as a significant factor in such decision-making is outlined. The significance of familiarity with the patient's culture is also discussed and exemplified.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 61-73 |
Number of pages | 13 |
Journal | Journal of Family Psychotherapy |
Volume | 10 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 6 Aug 1999 |
Keywords
- Case study
- Culture
- Family therapy
- Israel
- Psychotherapy
- Rituals
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Clinical Psychology
- Psychiatry and Mental health