Is it possible to ethically research the mental health needs of the Somali communities in the UK?
Dublin Core
Title
Is it possible to ethically research the mental health needs of the Somali communities in the UK?
Author
Mohamed, A.D.
Loewenthal, D.
Loewenthal, D.
Publisher
2009/04/00
Language
English
Publication Date
20090400
Abstract
This article summarises ethical issues that arise when researching common mental disorders within the Somali communities in the UK. It addresses the danger of researching these disorders from a Eurocentric perspective which risks overlooking the difference in conceptualisation of mental illness between diff erent cultures in the West and Somalia. An ongoing study exploring Improving Access to Psychological Therapy (IAPT) for Somali people in the UK is presented. The participants' own meaning of mental health and illness as well as their conceptualisation of anxiety and depression are examined. In developing the study, standard research paradigms are critically examined in order to take account of the unique aspects of Somali culture and experience. Focus group method is adopted to uphold both ethical and methodological rigour in the research. A participatory approach for developing ethical protocols within different refugee communities is recommended.
Primary Classification
18.5.6
Secondary Classification
18.5.6;9.5.4;17.1;21.7
Primary keywords
cultural pluralism--[pri];culture--[pri];health services research--[pri];mental disorders--[pri];mental health services--[pri];refugees--[pri]
Secondary keywords
behavioral research;community participation;ethnic groups;focus groups;health services accessibility;knowledge, attitudes, practice;mental health;mentally ill persons;minority groups;psychology;research design;research ethics;vulnerable populations
Subject
Great Britain--[pri];Somalia--[pri]
Subject
Improving Access to Psychological Therapy
Journal Article
Journal of Ethics in Mental Health [electronic] 2009 April; 4(1): 1-6
Link for Internet access
Note
36
Primary Document Type
ja
Call Number
journal
Subject Captions
em
Bibliography
58 refs.
Title Descriptor
United Kingdom (Great Britain)
Collection
Citation
“Is it possible to ethically research the mental health needs of the Somali communities in the UK?,” Islamic Medical & Scientific Ethics, accessed January 20, 2025, https://imse.ibp.georgetown.domains/items/show/34541.