How Psychology Offers Culturally Similar Perspectives Evaluation of Similarities in Cultural Influences Evaluation of Differences in Cultural Influences Conclusion

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Introduction/Background How Psychology Offers Culturally Similar Perspectives Evaluation of Similarities in Cultural Influences Evaluation of Differences in Cultural Influences Conclusion

Introduction/Background

Psychology in the Middle East has garnered significant attention in recent years, shedding light on the unique dynamics of psychological practices within this region (Hassan et al., 2021; Oakley et al., 2019). Understanding the key figures, central concerns, and theoretical conflicts within Middle Eastern psychology provides a comprehensive view of its evolution and divergence from Western psychology.

Middle East Psychology

The Arab region, comprising 22 member states across Asia and Africa, represents approximately 5% of the global population and is characterized by diverse cultural and economic landscapes (Saab et al., 2022). Islam serves as the predominant religion, with Arabic being the official language, influencing the socio-cultural fabric of the region (Saab et al., 2022).

Key Figures of Islamic Psychology

Islamic psychology boasts a rich history, with notable figures such as Ibn Sina, Muhammed Zakariyah-e-Razi, Al-Ghazali, and Ibn-Khaldun shaping its foundational principles (Martyn Shuttleworth, 2019). Their contributions have laid the groundwork for understanding the intersection of religion and psychology within Islamic contexts.

Central Concerns and Theoretical Conflicts

Muslim populations, particularly those residing in Western countries, encounter various challenges encompassing spiritual, biopsychosocial, and economic dimensions (Tanhan & Young, 2021). Despite the importance accorded to mental health stability in Islam, limited access to mental health services persists among Muslim communities (Tanhan & Young, 2021). Leveraging the expertise of Muslim mental health professionals becomes imperative in addressing these disparities through tailored interventions and research initiatives (Tanhan & Young, 2021).

How Psychology Offers Culturally Similar Perspectives

The integration of religion within psychological frameworks has gained traction, evident in initiatives such as the American Psychological Association’s Division 36 on the Psychology of Religion (APA, 2018). Studies highlight the positive correlation between religiosity and mental health, emphasizing the need for culturally sensitive approaches that resonate with diverse belief systems (Iqbal & Skinner, 2021).

Evaluation of Similarities in Cultural Influences

Cultural influences permeate both Islamic and Western psychology, underscored by shared values of justice and inclusivity (Rifai, 2022). The interplay of socio-political, religious, and economic factors shapes the psychological landscape, fostering a nuanced understanding of human behavior across diverse contexts (Rifai, 2022).

Evaluation of Differences in Cultural Influences

Disparities in acculturation levels and language proficiency pose significant challenges for high acculturated immigrants and ethnic minorities, hindering their access to mental health resources (Dahlan et al., 2019). Cultural barriers further compound these challenges, necessitating culturally tailored interventions to bridge the gap in mental health care delivery (Dahlan et al., 2019).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the juxtaposition of Islamic and Western psychology underscores both commonalities and differences in their cultural underpinnings. Acculturation, coupled with concerted efforts in research, training, and advocacy, holds the key to fostering mental health equity among diverse populations, transcending linguistic, ethnic, and geographical boundaries.

References

American Psychological Association. (2018). The psychology of religion: An empirical