Notions about Culture in Understanding Black Psychopathology: Are We Trying to Raise the Dead?

Abstract

Psychologists in a variety of mental health settings in South Africa have to deal with patients from black population groups. The literature on the diagnosis and treatment of black patients has not only been scarce, but has been further diluted by the fact that there is no formalized structure in training institutions in this area. Furthermore, the resistance to discussing the crucial issues pertaining to proper intervention strategies for this group of patients is remarkable. The author argues that cultural relativity is especially important in our pluralistic society and that failure to recognize cultural diversity is reflective of the cultural assumptions of the dominant minority culture. The author further proposes that such assumptions have race and class implications in that they reflect antiquated racial and class attitudes.