Yon, K; Malik, R; Mandin, P; Midgley, N; (2018) Challenging core cultural beliefs and maintaining the therapeutic alliance: A qualitative study. Journal of Family Therapy , 40 (2) pp. 180-200. 10.1111/1467-6427.12158.

Preview

Text Midgley_challenging core cultural beliefs_.pdf - Accepted Version Download (315kB) | Preview

Abstract

Engaging black and minority-ethnic (BME) individuals in therapy and maintaining a positive therapeutic alliance can be a complex task, especially when challenging a family's core belief system. This study examines how therapists working within a specialist cultural service in London, UK were able to question a family's core cultural belief system whilst building and maintaining a strong therapeutic alliance. Video-assisted semi-structured interviews were carried out with two family members and their two therapists, and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings suggest that core beliefs can be effectively challenged within the context of a strong therapeutic alliance if topics are approached in a sensitive and respectful manner, by trusted therapists who have a degree of knowledge and awareness of their own cultural positioning, as well as an understanding of their clients' culture. We propose that engaging with culture in this way can strengthen alliance and facilitate positive change. Practitioner points: Core cultural belief systems can be effectively challenged by therapists within the context of a positive therapeutic alliance Topics need to be approached sensitively with a degree of authenticity, curiosity and respect Respectfully challenging core beliefs while being aware of one's own cultural construction and positioning, can strengthen the therapeutic alliance and promote positive change.

Download activity - last month

Export as JSONCSVXML

Download activity - last 12 months

Export as JSONXMLCSV

Downloads by country - last 12 months

Export as JSONXMLCSV

Archive Staff Only

View Item