Journal of clinical and consulting psychology. (Journal file).

Hall, Gordon C. Nagyama (2001).

Psychotherapy research with ethnic minorities: Empirical, ethical, and conceptual issues Vol. 69 (3), 502-510

Hall's article discusses the need for culturally sensitive therapies (CSTs) for ethnic minorities. According to the author, empirically supported therapies (ESTs) have not been shown to be effective with ethnic minority populations. In his discussion of the need for CSTs, he states some important considerations that must be brought to psychotherapists' attention in therapy with minorities, such as interdependence, discrimination, and spirituality. There is a need for researchers to include ethnic minorities in studies of psychotherapeutic effectiveness. Also, empirical support exists for specific psychotherapies for specific disorders, but there is not sufficient evidence to determine whether or not ESTs are effective with minority populations. In addition, CSTs are in high demand because the minority populations seeking therapy are rapidly increasing in size. If CSTs are not developed, then the remaining ESTs will not be sufficient in reaching a growing market seeking psychotherapy.

Hall spends a great deal of time addressing the differences between European American contexts and minority contexts, especially in terms of interdependence, discrimination, and spirituality. Past research shows that ethnic minority groups emphasize group identity and relational interdependence much more than European American individuals. This collectivist point of reference will greatly impact just how efficacious psychotherapy is for ethnic minority groups. Hall suggests at least modifying the theory of family structures when dealing with ethnic minority families. In the same vein, using terms that have rich and pertinent ethnic meanings will have greater impact than using psychological terminology that are more familiar to European Americans.

Dealing with the anxiety associated with discrimination issues may best be addressed using community and group resources. A broader view of the client as a member of the greater society, including religious, political, and social aspects, may be much more effective than using ESTs to treat this anxiety.

Finally, Hall wisely addresses the importance of spirituality in conceptualizing most ethnic minority populations. However, he warns against European American interpretations of spirituality dominating the discussion. Spirituality in ethnic communities often encompasses religious, social, and political behaviors, not just beliefs. Yet, ESTs have primarily been developed by individuals who are anti-religion and who promote a "value-free" psychotherapy. Hall emphasizes the importance of, at least, a psychotherapist having a respect for spiritual diversity as a minimal criterion for CSTs.