Specifics of Turkmen Cultural Attitudes Toward Psychotherapy and Psychiatry
Annotation
This article examines the sociocultural barriers and attitudes that shape the views of ethnic Turkmens regarding professional psychotherapy and psychiatry. An analysis of ethnographic data reveals that, for the majority of Turkmens, the initial step in seeking help is to turn to traditional institutions rather than to psychiatrists. The study explores the conflict between the biomedical treatment model and a collectivist culture in which preserving the family's reputation takes precedence over individual psychological well-being.