Challenging core cultural beliefs and maintaining the therapeutic alliance: a qualitative study. Issue 2 (27th February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yon, Katherine; Malik, Rabia; Mandin, Philippe; Midgley, Nick
• Is Part Of: Journal of family therapy. Volume 40:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 180
• Page End: 200
• Publication Date: 2017-02-27
• Subjects: culture -- therapeutic alliance -- family belief -- qualitative research -- black and minority‐ethnic client groups; 关键词：文化 -- 治疗同盟 -- 家庭信念 -- 定性研究 -- 黑人和少数族裔来访者群体; Palabras clave: cultura -- alianza terapéutica -- creencias de la familia -- investigación cualitativa -- grupos de clientes de raza negra y minorías étnicas; Family psychotherapy -- Periodicals; 616.89156
• DOI: 10.1111/1467-6427.12158
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0163-4445

Abstract

Abstract: Engaging black and minority‐ethnic (BME) individuals in therapy and maintaining a positive therapeutic alliance can be a complex task, especially when challenging a family's core belief system. This study examines how therapists working within a specialist cultural service in London, UK were able to question a family's core cultural belief system whilst building and maintaining a strong therapeutic alliance. Video‐assisted semi‐structured interviews were carried out with two family members and their two therapists, and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings suggest that core beliefs can be effectively challenged within the context of a strong therapeutic alliance if topics are approached in a sensitive and respectful manner, by trusted therapists who have a degree of knowledge and awareness of their own cultural positioning, as well as an understanding of their clients' culture. We propose that engaging with culture in this way can strengthen alliance and facilitate positive change. Practitioner points: Core cultural belief systems can be effectively challenged by therapists within the context of a positive therapeutic alliance Topics need to be approached sensitively with a degree of authenticity, curiosity and respect Respectfully challenging core beliefs while being aware of one's own cultural construction and positioning, can strengthen the therapeutic alliance and promote positive change