Asian mental health and use of drama therapy for acculturative family distancing in immigrant families.

Bharat R Sampathi

doi:10.4081/mi.2018.7806

Abstract

Not available

Highlights

Asian populations have somaticized psychiatric illnesses, perseverating on physical symptoms rather than a potential emotional source
First generation Asian Americans are more accepting of mental illness and are more likely to seek psychiatric help due to increased acculturation to the Western world.[6]
Acculturative family distancing (AFD) occurs when an immigrant family attempts to unite distinct cultural worlds. Parents find it hard to create space for new beliefs on mental health, for example, and conflicts arise as families struggle to maintain a collaborative bicultural identity.[7]

Summary

Introduction

Asian populations have somaticized psychiatric illnesses, perseverating on physical symptoms rather than a potential emotional source. It has been documented that some Asian families believe seeking psychiatric help brings shame to one’s family. They often believe one should be able to exercise individual willpower and avoid negative thoughts.[4] Concern for stigmatization has led some Asian families to hide psychiatrically ill family members at home until severe and damaging psychotic events occur.[5]

Results

Conclusion