Experiencing Gender and Culture Differences in Global Healthcare Settings: American Students Providing Therapy in Jordan

ABSTRACT

Behavioral health therapists working collaboratively with physicians in foreign countries may encounter culture and gender norms that vary from their country of origin. A team of students and faculty from the United States who delivered therapy and training in a Jordanian health clinic experienced differences in how female patients access and engage in health care and how the provider’s gender can affect treatment. Dissonance experienced by behavioral health therapists between their beliefs and some aspects of an unfamiliar work culture may be mediated by developing cultural competence, discussing their experiences with other providers, and increasing their awareness of efforts by global organizations that are leading change.

KEYWORDS:

• Behavioral health
• collaborative care
• gender
• global health