Cultural Features as Advantageous to Therapy: A Singaporean Perspective

Abstract

Singapore is a nation comprised of a multicultural, multiethnic population. When working with non-Western clients, cultural differences are sometimes experienced as obstacles to therapy. However, it is important to note that many features of Asian culture and lifestyle can be protective and unique solutions can be derived from the individual or family’s culture and context. This article hopes to add to the existing literature through a discussion of how systemic therapy is amenable to the Singaporean context and how specific cultural features of the Singaporean Chinese, while presenting at times as obstacles to therapy, can also be seen as potential strengths and employed as resources when working with these families.