Culture and reflexivity: systemic journeys with a British Chinese family

Abstract

AbstractThis paper describes a reflective space created between two Singaporean Chinese systemic psychotherapists and a British Chinese family – the Chans. The family attended the Marlborough Cultural Therapy Centre (MCTC) in London and was given two separate culture‐specific systemic treatments by different therapists, which were reflected upon collaboratively with the Chans. A brief literature review of British Chinese and mental health, culture and reflexivity is described. The authors discuss clinical implications including the impact of British Chinese cultures and the effect of mental health issues on the family. The process and outcomes of the treatment are explained using the frame of reflexivity. Clinical implications discussed include the impact of British Chinese cultures and the effects of schizophrenia and anxiety on the family.Practitioner points Reflexivity is an interactional process creating change through repeated awareness, reflection and action related to our similarities and differences This process may helpfully guide practitioners through therapeutic journeys Reflexivity is especially important when considering both similarities and differences – even when the therapist is working with clients from a similar (ethnic) culture Involving clients in the writing process enhances reflexivity for both therapists and clients and in itself can be thought of as a further intervention