The Impact of Religio-Cultural Beliefs and Superstitions in Shaping the Understanding of Mental Disorders and Mental Health Treatment among Arab Muslims
Year: 2023
Type: article
Abstract: This study aimed to explore mental health and wellbeing perspectives among Arab Muslims and assess the impact of Arab-Islamic culture on their understanding of mental disorders and treatment options. Semi-structured interviews with 12 participants (six men; six women) were conducted online during the COVID−19 pandemic and analyzed thematically. The results identified six themes that demonstrated the significant influence of Arab-Islamic culture on participants’ comprehension of mental disorders and preferred treatment methods. The absence of mental disorder-related concepts within the formal mental health treatment framework led to hesitancy in seeking professional help, and relying on Arabic resources for mental health information further perpetuated misconceptions and stigma within the Arab Muslim community. The study concludes that Arab-Islamic culture plays a crucial role in shaping the understanding of mental disorders and treatment preferences among Arab Muslims, but the lack of formal mental health treatment concepts and reliance on Arabic resources may hinder professional help-seeking and exacerbate misconceptions and stigma in the community.
Authors: Abdulaziz Alqasir, Keis Ohtsuka
Institution: Victoria University
Language: English
Subfield: Health
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Funder: Victoria University
OpenAlex ID: W4385576575