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theses

This study provides a qualitative analysis of how a sample of Guatemalan psychologists conceptualize and work with psychological trauma. Ten psychologists living and working in Guatemala completed semi-structured interviews developed by the researcher to investigate their conceptualization(s) and clinical experience of treating trauma. Participants also answered a brief demographic questionnaire about their clinical training and professional practice. Interviews were analyzed for themes, which were grouped into meta-themes around four main areas: re-experiencing memories, unformulated emotional distress, hyperarousal and loss of meaning/connection. Selected interviews were also analyzed holistically as “cases” to examine how the internal logic and assumptions of each perspective varied. Different conceptual models of trauma emerged, and given the diversity of ideas, it is not possible to talk about ideas of a “Guatemalan model” of trauma. While primary themes showed some similarities to occidental ideas, the research also reveals how different participants employ multiple different concepts, each with different organizing assumptions. This includes use of alternative therapies (i.e., energy-based therapies), spiritual elements, social psychologies and interpersonal perspectives. Established trauma concepts— such as PTSD— import their own organizing assumptions, which may or may not be consistent with the basic assumptions of different cultures. Participants’ ideas showcase how trauma concepts can evolve to become more culturally syntonic with different worldviews. An original theoretical framework is proposed for analyzing trauma concepts cross culturally. While the study of trauma may recognize common themes or similarities, cultural sensitivity requires greater awareness of philosophical differences. While not mutually exclusive, the professional mandate to provide evidence-based treatments may potentially come into conflict with the equally important mandate to provide culturally sensitive care. When it comes to treating trauma, pluralism in concepts proves indispensable if the field hopes to uphold its multicultural values.

ETD_6532

Psy.D.

Includes bibliographical references

by Jeffery Buchanan Brand

doi:10.7282/T3HT2R8G

ETD doctoral

The author owns the copyright to this work.