Thoughts, Prayers, and Policy: Alternative Concepts of Mental Health to the Western Medical Paradigm

Presenter

Lila A.

Campus

Middlesex Community College

Sponsor

Binnur Ercem, Department of Behavioral Science, Middlesex Community College

Schedule

Session 3, 1:30 PM - 2:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board C32, Poster Showcase Room (163), Row 4 (C31-C40) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to investigate alternative methods of conceptualizing mental health and providing care other than those offered by the Western Medical Paradigm. Contrary to conventions in the West, other cultures have approached mental health in the past and present through holistic treatment or spiritual and religious explanations. The different ways that societies approach mental health have a direct result on how cultures promote habits for mental wellness and categorize behavior. This research is less concerned with evaluating any specific mental health treatment in the Western Medical Paradigm, but with how the broader designation of disordered behavior as a biopsychological issue impacts culture and perceptions of belonging. Social media is the greatest vehicle for the marketing of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy; posts are written every day that joke and advocate for anyone exhibiting the mildest deviation from "normal" behavior to seek formal psychological treatment. But what is "normal" behavior? Perhaps some of the "disordered" behaviors that people exhibit are normal behavioral and social responses to global issues, social media use, and conforming to capitalist work culture. Therefore, it is possible that normal emotions, personal transformations, feelings, and sensations are being incorrectly pathologized due to the influence of the Western Medical Paradigm. This research will hopefully compare and contrast global approaches to mental health to reveal the strengths and lacks of how the West approaches supporting mental unwellness and disorder through medicine and policy. 

Keywords

Mental Health, Cultural Anthropology, Social Media, Globalization

Research Area

Sociology and Anthropology

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