How to Work with Muslim Clients in a Successful, Culturally Relevant Manner: A National Sample of American Muslims Share Their Perspectives.

Publisher: Oxford University Press Country of Publication: United States NLM ID: 2984852R Publication Model: Print Cited Medium: Internet ISSN: 1545-6846 (Electronic) Linking ISSN: 00378046 NLM ISO Abbreviation: Soc Work Subsets: MEDLINE

Publication: <2012-> : Cary, NC : Oxford University Press
Original Publication: New York : National Association of Social Workers

Islam*/psychology ; Mental Health Services*; Humans ; United States ; Social Work

Despite the growing size of the American Muslim community, little research exists on the provision of culturally relevant services to members of this population. The purpose of this study was to identify American Muslims' perceptions regarding what practitioners should know about Muslims and Islamic culture to provide successful mental health services to members of this community. To conduct this study, a purposive snowball sampling method was employed to obtain a national sample of community-dwelling American Muslims (N = 213). Qualitative analysis identified eight interlaced themes, which can be summarized as follows: (1) know basic Islamic beliefs, (2) recognize intragroup ethnic/cultural differences, (3) develop self-awareness of personal biases, (4) respect Islamic gender roles, (5) avoid making assumptions, (6) use Islamic beliefs/practices as strengths, (7) understand bias in the larger secular culture, and (8) consult with Muslim therapists/Imams. The findings equip practitioners with the information they need to provide effective, culturally relevant services to members of the unique American Muslim community from a posture of respect and cultural humility.
(© 2023 National Association of Social Workers.)

Keywords: Islam; Muslims; cultural competence; cultural humility; religion

Date Created: 20231130 Date Completed: 20231225 Latest Revision: 20231225

20231225

10.1093/sw/swad048

38031456