An Integrative Review of Contemporary Perspectives on Videoconference-Based Therapy-Prioritising Indigenous and Ethnic Minority Populations in the Global South.

Abstract

An integrative literature review was undertaken as a means of drawing together contemporary perspectives on the outcomes and affordances of videoconference-based therapy. This review was conducted in a way which placed emphasis on the need for mental healthcare strategies which are mindful of the cultural and social needs of indigenous and ethnic minority populations, particularly those situated in the Global South. The review was undertaken using an inverse funnelling approach which sought to prioritise literature on videoconference-based therapy literature which specifically focused on indigenous and ethnic minority populations. A series of general and population specific searches across relevant health databases were supplemented by a simultaneous search of Google Scholar. The PICOS search tool was used in developing the search terms, and data was processed using an inductive approach to thematic analysis. A final dataset of 43 articles were included in the review. This body of literature encompassed an international range of studies and included perspectives informed by quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods research. Four key themes were identified across the reviewed literature: indigenous and ethnic minority populations, therapeutic relationships, clinical outcomes and technical and logistical considerations. Based on our findings, there is reason to believe that videoconference-based therapy can be made to be just as effective as offline, face-to-face modes of delivery. However, research into the efficacy, impact and cultural implications of this technology in relation to indigenous and ethnic minority populations represents a significant gap within contemporary literature.