Understanding the Experience of Black Clients in Marriage and Family Therapy

Keywords

marriage, family therapy, african american

Abstract

Past research on Black clients’ utilization of therapy focused on the barriers that prevent Black clients from attending therapy and the reasons for these barriers. However, few studies have been conducted that focus on how Black clients attending therapy actually experience these barriers. This study utilized both Likert and open‐ended questions to examine the obstacles 16 Black clients face in their attempts to attend family therapy. The most frequently identified obstacles were related to concerns over family member response and cultural barriers to therapy. Participants also reported concerns about racial and/or cultural differences and a lack of understanding by non‐Black therapists. The implications of this study addressed how to effectively meet the therapeutic needs of Black clients.

Original Publication Citation

Awosan, C., Sandberg, J.G., & Hall, C.H. (2011). Understanding the experience of Black clients in marriage and family therapy. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 37(2), 153-168.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2011-04-01

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/5292

Publisher

Journal of Marital and Family Therapy

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Family Life

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

Link to Full Text

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