Abstract

Evidence-based practice (EBP) has contributed substantially to the advancement of knowledge in the treatment and prevention of adult mental health disorders. A fundamental assumption, based on documented evidence of effectiveness with certain populations, is that EBP is equally effective and applicable to all populations. However, small sample sizes of ethnic minority populations in randomized clinical trials prevent strong and clear conclusions about the effectiveness and generalizability of EBP with regard to people of color. In addition, the appropriateness of EBPs to ethnic minority communities has rarely been investigated. This article critically examines the applicability and dissemination of adult mental health EBP to diverse ethnic minority populations. It highlights limitations of EBP rooted in its epistemological narrowness, exclusion of communities of color, and lack of cultural competence and examines whether the practice of EBP has overstepped its evidence. This article presents a framework characterized by pathways of epistemological partnership and substantive inclusion of racial and ethnic minority groups to facilitate the promotion of culturally responsive EBPs and to inform mental health practice and policy implementation.

Highlights

  • Evidence-based practice (EBP) has contributed substantially to the advancement of knowledge in the treatment and prevention of adult mental health disorders

  • Evidence-based practice (EBP) in the provision of mental health care for adults is a powerful mandate in the United States, where it has dramatically influenced and transformed mental health services in many communities and contributed significantly to the advancement of knowledge in the treatment and prevention of mental health disorders

  • A major impetus for EBP is the need to increase the effectiveness of mental health practices with clients through the use of standardized interventions based on rigorous scientific research (Drake et al, 2001)

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Summary

Introduction

Evidence-based practice (EBP) has contributed substantially to the advancement of knowledge in the treatment and prevention of adult mental health disorders. These recommendations require substantial engagement with and investment in ethnic minority communities to address persistent disparities in mental health care, promote culturally competent and effective practice, and engage in authentic partnership and meaningful transformation.

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