Negotiating the Pathways Into Care in a Globalizing World: Help-Seeking Behaviour of Ultra-Orthodox Jewish Parents

Abstract

Background: The study of the pathways into care as a social process subject to a wide range of influences is needed to build appropriate and effective mental health services for culturally diverse societies. Material: Grounded theory and situational analysis of 21 in-depth interviews explores the help-seeking behaviour of ultra-Orthodox Jewish parents: which help-seeking pathways parents follow and how they make the decision to consult regular services for their child. Discussion: Three help-seeking pathways are influenced by glob/calization dynamics and gender: parents draw on diverse parenting discourses and strategies, socio-religious frameworks and cultural realities. Conclusion: Strategies are suggested to enhance the accessibility of services.