Identity, Culture and Psychosis: A Non-systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction

Given the results of multiple epidemiological studies showing a greater incidence of schizophrenia in migrants, especially in second-generation migrants, many researchers tried to investigate which factors could be associated to these findings, in order to have a better understanding of the migration process itself and simultaneously to contribute to improve knowledge about schizophrenia. In line with the research suggesting that social factors are important contributors to psychological suffering and vulnerability to psychosis, several authors pointed cultural identity as a possible mediator between migration and psychosis.

Objectives

To review different perspectives on the current literature about the relationship between cultural identity and psychosis.

Methods

Non-systematic review searching on the database MEDLINE and additional searches through secondary references.

Results

Concepts like identity clarity and identity value attributions are closely related to psychological well-being and may influence vulnerability or resilience to severe mental illness. Simultaneously, these concepts are also regarded as closely linked to social and cultural identity. Feelings of uncertainty between multiple existential positions that may arise for migrants (especially if hierarchical and unequal relationships of power are established) could compromise the sense of meaning and coherence of the self and compromise identity structure, thereby predisposing to psychotic experiences.

Conclusions

Even taking into account the heterogeneity of the reviewed articles, there seems to be some consensus regarding the importance of culture on how individuals experience themselves and others and that preservation of a solid and coherent cultural identity may be a crucial aspect to take into account when studying resilience against severe mental diseases.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.