Cultural Competence in Feminist Family Therapy

Abstract

In recent years African American families have assumed a higher level of visibility among consumers of psychological services. Despite this they are often reluctant consumers with a history of insensitive treatment from mental health institutions. Many African American men and women are also wary of feminism. These factors may leave the feminist family therapist with unique challenges in providing treatment to African American families. This article explores the need to view the African American family's experience in the context of African American cultural imperatives and the antagonistic relationship between African Americans and the dominant culture in the U.S. The authors also address the importance of the therapists' awareness of their own racial identity, the role of white skin privilege, and the role of racism in the lives of African and white Americans.