Cross-Cultural Assessment of Psychological Trauma and PTSD (PDF)

by
John P. WilsonJohn P. Wilson

Recent advances in trauma treatment, coupled with ongoing traumatic world events, point to a critical need for global standards in assessment. But despite the best intentions of Western psychology, one model does not fit all cultures. Cross-Cultural Assessment of Psychological Trauma and PTSD addresses key issues in the field to help fill this knowledge gap.

Focusing equally on theoretical concepts, culturally valid assessment methods, and cultural adaptation in trauma and resilience, 29 experts present the cutting edge of research and strategies. Extended case examples (including West Africans in Austria, Hmong in the U.S., and Aboriginal people in Australia) illustrate an informative range of symptom profiles, comorbid conditions, and coping skills, as well as secondary traumas that can occur in asylum seekers. Professional concerns are also highlighted, from training and competency issues to the challenges of translating assessment into treatment. The results are a vital set of insights and guidelines that will contribute to more aware and meaningful practice.

Included in the coverage:

• Twenty-one questions central to understanding trauma in cultural context.
• In-depth studies on the effects of trauma over multiple generations, and developmental issues among traumatized youth.
• A review of traditional interventions and current trauma assessment practice from China.
• Reports on the combined use of psycho- and pharmacotherapy in treating refugees.
• Cross-cultural perspectives on the Impact of Events Scale—Revised and other widely used assessment methods.
• Renewed debates over the nature of PTSD as a reaction to mass trauma.

With the world in its current state, Cross-Cultural Assessment of Psychological Trauma and PTSD is necessary reading for practitioners and academics in mental health. It is also highly relevant to those in a range of ethnomedicine, social work, and international aid and advocacy.

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