The case for cultural competency in psychotherapeutic interventions

Annu Rev Psychol. 2009:60:525-48. doi: 10.1146/annurev.psych.60.110707.163651.

Abstract

Cultural competency practices have been widely adopted in the mental health field because of the disparities in the quality of services delivered to ethnic minority groups. In this review, we examine the meaning of cultural competency, positions that have been taken in favor of and against it, and the guidelines for its practice in the mental health field. Empirical research that tests the benefits of cultural competency is discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cultural Competency*
  • Delivery of Health Care / methods
  • Healthcare Disparities
  • Humans
  • Minority Groups / psychology
  • Prejudice
  • Psychotherapy / methods*
  • Quality Assurance, Health Care
  • Stereotyping