Cognitive-behavioral treatment of a second-generation child of Pakistani descent: Ethnocultural and clinical considerations

Abstract

Ethnocultural variables in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are gaining an increasing amount of attention. This is a welcome development since cultural responsiveness is a core element in ethical and effective CBT practice. However, the literature is sparse and generally silent regarding CBT with children of Pakistani descent. Accordingly, this case based article attempts to close the knowledge gap by reviewing the extant literature pertaining to the role of religion, help seeking behavior, and emotional expression in Pakistani families. The literature review is followed by a case discussion of an 11 year old second generation Pakistani male living in the United Kingdom who is struggling with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The case presentation highlights the importance of culturally informed case conceptualization and individually tailored interventions. The case illustrates the way cognitive behavioral psychotherapy balanced empirically based procedures with a sensitive appreciation of cultural context.