Sociocultural expression of psychiatric symptoms: a case report from South Asia.
Oxford medical case reports September 1, 2020 2 citations
In various cultures, psychiatric symptoms can be interpreted differently, leading to risks like misdiagnosis or lack of treatment. A case of a 15-year-old married girl who jumped off stairs, claiming a 'jinn' told her to, received three interpretations: psychiatric (psychosis), traditional (spirit possession), or a cry for help. Discussion revealed serious problems in her living environment, tied to a taboo against criticizing in-laws. The authors argue that in vulnerable populations, symptoms may be a disguised protest, and Western medicine must consider cultural and social context to avoid misdiagnosis and prevent family complications.