Culture plays a significant role in shaping what is considered normal and abnormal behavior. Different cultures have different norms and values, and these norms and values influence what is considered appropriate or inappropriate behavior. For example, in some cultures, expressing emotion openly is considered normal, while in others it is not (Lewis-Fernández & Kirmayer, 2019). Similarly, in some cultures, certain behaviors such as talking to spirits or experiencing visions are considered normal and may even be considered a spiritual experience, while in others, these behaviors would be considered abnormal.
Culture also plays a role in shaping how mental health conditions are perceived and treated. In some cultures, mental health conditions may be stigmatized and considered a sign of weakness, leading to a lack of understanding and support for those who are affected. In contrast, other cultures may have a more holistic approach to mental health, recognizing the connection between mental and physical well-being and incorporating traditional healing practices such as meditation, yoga, or herbal medicine (Lewis-Fernández & Kirmayer, 2019). This can lead to a more accepting attitude towards mental health conditions and a willingness to seek help and support (Lewis-Fernández & Kirmayer, 2019). Additionally, cultural differences in communication styles, family dynamics, and social support networks can also influence the course and outcome of mental health conditions. Understanding the cultural context is important in providing culturally sensitive and effective mental health care.
One culture-specific disorder that is worth mentioning is Koro, which is a disorder primarily found in Southeast Asia, particularly in China, Singapore, and Malaysia. It is characterized by the belief that one’s genitals are retracting into the body, causing anxiety, fear, and panic. Individuals experiencing this disorder may also feel scared because they believe that this will lead to impotence or death. Therefore, the disorder is often associated with cultural beliefs and fears around sexuality and the loss of virility. This belief can also lead to a wide range of physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, and difficulty breathing. Koro is considered a culture-specific disorder because it is not found in other cultures, and the symptoms are closely linked to the cultural beliefs of the people who experience it.
Koro is a disorder that affects men and women, but it is more commonly reported in men. The onset of Koro is usually sudden and is often triggered by a traumatic event or stress. It is worth mentioning that Koro is not recognized as a distinct disorder by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) or the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-11) (Ghosh & Chowdhury, 2020). Koro has been reported in some cases as a mass psychogenic illness and it’s been observed in outbreaks, where a cluster of people within a community or a group develop the symptoms simultaneously. In Southeast Asian cultures, there is an emphasis on maintaining virility and masculinity, and the belief that the genitals are retracting is seen as a loss of masculinity and a threat to the individual’s identity (Ghosh & Chowdhury, 2020). Additionally, this belief is often linked to supernatural causes, such as possession by evil spirits or curses.
It can be concluded that cultural beliefs and convictions play a vital role in defining what is seen as normal and abnormal behaviors. Distinct norms and values within various nations and cultures shape how certain actions and mental health issues are viewed. That is why it is crucial to take into account cultural context when providing appropriate and effective mental health care. Moreover, understanding and appreciating cultural diversity can lead to a more inclusive society, where cultural diversity is appreciated and admired.
References
Ghosh, S., & Chowdhury, A. (2020). A case of two culture-bound syndromes (Koro and Dhat syndrome) coexisting with obsessive–compulsive disorder. Indian Journal of Psychiatry, 62(2), 221. Web.
Lewis-Fernández, R., & Kirmayer, L. J. (2019). Cultural concepts of distress and psychiatric disorders: Understanding symptom experience and expression in context. Transcultural Psychiatry, 56(4), 786-803. Web.