ETHNIC VALIDITY IN PSYCHOTHERAPY

An ethnic validity model is presented as an alternative framework from which psychotherapy can be conceptualized and practiced within and across ethnic groups. This model is advanced in response to research findings, to evidence of ethnocentric biases in American psychology, and to criticisms of public policy. An ethnic validity model emphasizes that there are a variety of ways of living (of being human) each of which offers strengths and limitations. The model addresses the convergence, divergence, and conflict between different ethnic world views and their consequent emergence in cross-ethnic patterns of interaction. It emphasizes the importance of attending to those possibilities in understanding and conducting psychotherapy and the potentials of growth for both therapist and client from doing so.