Cultural Perception of Mental Illness: West African Immigrants in Philadelphia Perspective - Dr. Patrick Chinedu Duru Book

  • Author: Dr. Patrick Chinedu Duru
  • Publisher: GoldTouch Press, LLC
  • Cover Type: Paperback
  • Pages: 186 pages
  • Language: English
  • Genre: History, Historical Study & Educational Resources
  • Genre Class: Nonfiction, Psychology, General
  • The Igbo of Nigeria always say that "Awo anaghi agba oso ihihe nefu" meaning that the toad does not run in a broad day time for nothing". That is to say, either it is pursuing something or something is pursing it. Thus, the perception in West Africa about mental illness remains a strange one.My research on the cultural perspectives and stigmatization against the mentally ill persons in West Africa is essential to curb the negative stereotypes, myths, and stigma associated with mental illness. The negative perception of mental illness affects not only the individual diagnosed with mental illness but also the families. The topic is interesting to research on as to curtail the seeming long known myths that mentally ill persons are infectious, demon possessed and dangerous to live in a society. The study will also educate the people of West Africa to understand the etiology and different types of mental illness. It will help West Africans to debunk the belief that parents sin, curse, witchcraft or God punishment as responsible for mental illness. Thus, this research will provide insight on the impact of factors like wars, economic deprivation, migration, isolation and cultural effects on mental illness.

    P>About the Author: Dr. Duru was born in Nigeria, where he also completed his primary and secondary education. Right after his secondary school, he proceeded to Panjab University Chandigarh, India, for an undergraduate study. In 1986, he graduated at Panjab University with fi rst class honors in Health Sciences. After his undergraduate studies Dr. Duru worked at Gombe State Ministry of Health under the National Youth Service Program. He also lectured briefl y at the School of Health Technology, Gombe in Nigeria. In 2004, Dr. Duru traveled to the United States where he continued to advocate for the less privileged, the sick, and disabled individuals. Due to his deep love for God and compassion for the sick and the needy, he serves as a Eucharistic Minister at St. Barnabas Church Philadelphia. He is a staunch member of Catholic Charismatic Renewal of Philadelphia Archdiocese. Dr. Duru graduated with a dual Masters degree in Social Work and Public Health at Temple University Philadelphia in 2013, and graduated with PhD in Pastoral Counseling from Graduate Theological Foundation, an affiliate of Oxford University in Oklahoma City, United States. He worked as a Counselor/Therapist for couple of years before he rose to the position of a Director in a Health Care Organization and He is also a member of American Counselor Association (ACA). He is married and has two children; he loves soccer and watching football at his leisure times.

    (BK-9781952155635)

    SKU BK-9781952155635
    Barcode # 9781952155635
    Brand GoldTouch Press, LLC
    Artist / Author Dr. Patrick Chinedu Duru
    Shipping Weight 0.2700kg
    Shipping Width 0.150m
    Shipping Height 0.010m
    Shipping Length 0.230m
    Type Paperback

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