Cultural syndromes are patterns of behavior and psychological symptoms that manifest in certain cultures or social groups and that may be incomprehensible or difficult to diagnose from a purely clinical perspective. These syndromes reflect the influence and interactions between culture, society, and individual psychology, and can vary widely in their presentation and severity. They are characterized by the presence of shared beliefs, social norms and cultural values that influence the way psychological symptoms are experienced and expressed.
What are they? Cultural syndromes and how do they manifest?
Cultural syndromes, also known as cultural disorders or cross-cultural syndromes, are patterns of behavior, thought, and emotion that are specific to certain cultures or ethnic groups. These patterns can influence the way people experience and express their emotional problems, as well as the way they seek help and treatment.
It is important to note that cultural syndromes are not psychological disorders. in themselves, but represent manifestations of the interaction between culture and individual psychology. These syndromes can manifest in various ways, such as somatic, emotional, cognitive or behavioral symptoms, and their diagnosis and treatment can be challenging for mental health professionals.
Main symptoms presented by cultural syndromes:
Cultural syndromes can present a wide variety of symptoms, which may include:
- Cultural-specific expression of emotional problems.
- Cultural beliefs and explanations on mental health.
- Social stigma associated with mental disorders.
- Emotional reactions influenced by cultural factors.
- Expression of symptoms through cultural practices
It is essential to take into account the cultural and social context in which these syndromes manifest in order to make an accurate diagnosis and provide effective treatment. Below, seven examples of cultural syndromes that have been identified in different parts of the world will be presented.
7 Examples of Cultural Syndromes
1. Susto (Latin America)
Susto is a common cultural syndrome in Latin America that is characterized by intense fright or sudden fear that is believed to cause physical and emotional imbalances. This syndrome manifests itself with somatic symptoms such as insomnia, loss of appetite, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. Susto is considered a disease of the soul that may require treatment through traditional healing rituals.
2. Nervous attack (Mediterranean, Latin America, Middle East)
Nervous attacks are cultural syndromes that are characterized by acute episodes of emotional loss of control, which can include crying, screaming, trembling and loss of consciousness. This syndrome is more common in Mediterranean, Latin American and Middle Eastern cultures, and is attributed to the accumulation of social and family tensions. Nervous attacks are seen as a way to release repressed emotions and can be treated with emotional and psychological support.
3. Tsogoo (Mongolia)
Tsogoo is a cultural syndrome observed in Mongolia that is characterized by a feeling of tightness in the chest and throat, accompanied by difficulty breathing. This syndrome is commonly associated with emotional conflicts and accumulated stress. In Mongolian culture, tsogoo is considered an energy balance problem and can be treated with traditional healing methods such as herbal medicine and shamanic rituals.
4. Koro (Southeast Asia, China)
Koro is a cultural syndrome characterized by the belief that the genitals are retracting or disappearing, which can cause intense fear of death. This syndrome is most common in Southeast Asian and Chinese communities, and is related to concerns about safety and the perpetuation of life. Koro can be treated with anatomy education and cognitive behavioral therapy to address irrational beliefs.
5. Windigo (Native Americans)
Windigo is a cultural syndrome observed in various Native American communities that is characterized by the belief in possession of a devouring spirit that leads to antisocial behavior and cannibalism. This syndrome is associated with the fear of scarcity and is considered a spiritual imbalance that requires the intervention of a shaman for healing.
6. Hikikomori (Japan)
Hikikomori is a cultural syndrome identified in Japan that is characterized by extreme social withdrawal and prolonged isolation at home. People who experience hikikomori often avoid social contacts and face difficulties maintaining interpersonal relationships. This syndrome is considered a response to social stress and may require psychological and social interventions to facilitate social reintegration.
7. Shenjing shuairuo (China)
Shenjing shuairuo, also known as Chinese chronic fatigue syndrome, is a cultural syndrome characterized by extreme fatigue, body aches and generalized weakness. This syndrome is common in China and is attributed to psychosocial factors, such as work stress and social pressures. Shenjing shuairuo treatment may include a combination of psychological, medical, and traditional Chinese therapies.
In conclusion, cultural syndromes represent the intersection between culture, society, and individual psychology, and reflect the diversity of ways in which emotional problems manifest in different cultural contexts. Understanding these syndromes is crucial to providing sensitive and effective care to people who experience them, recognizing the importance of considering cultural background in mental health assessment and treatment.