Narrative and Cultural Humility: Reflections from "The Good Witch" Teaching Psychotherapy in China

People from Eastern and Western cultures have different perceptions and understandings of the world that are not well represented by a collectivist/individualist distinction. These differences are brought to the fore in moments of culture clash, and narrative can offer insights for deeper cross-cultural knowing. Ruthellen Josselson's book Narrative and Cultural Humility recounts her experience teaching group therapy to Chinese therapists and highlights the need for cultural humility when narrating one's experiences and the experiences of different relational cultures. It also highlights the values and needs that are universally human.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 14 November 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

People from Eastern and Western cultures have distinct perceptions and understandings of the world that cannot be adequately captured by the dichotomy of collectivist versus individualist. These differences are deeply ingrained in personal relationships and the ways individuals seek to comprehend others in relation to themselves. When individuals from the East and West come into contact, these disparities often surface in startling instances of cultural clash. However, when viewed through a contextualized narrative lens, these encounters can provide valuable insights into deeper cross-cultural understanding.

In her book "Narrative and Cultural Humility," Ruthellen Josselson recounts her decade-long experience teaching group therapy to Chinese therapists. Through her personal anecdotes, Josselson vividly illustrates the profound cultural dissonance she encountered. Many of her students viewed her as a "good witch," perceiving her as a transformative healer who offered something magical rather than as a teacher of psychotherapy with theories and techniques that could be learned. At the same time, Josselson was often perplexed by the learning styles and organizational processes of her Chinese students, which differed greatly from her own experiences. In these instances, along with others documented in the book, Josselson challenges the underlying assumptions embedded in cultural worldviews on both sides, which manifest in nearly every interaction. This retelling underscores the importance of cultural humility when narrating one's experiences and the experiences of different relational cultures.

While narrative is inherently rooted in culture-bound worldviews, it can also serve as a means of bridging these differences. Narrative and Cultural Humility ultimately tells the story of what it means to recognize our own unspoken assumptions and better connect with others from diverse backgrounds. By embracing cultural humility, we can cultivate greater empathy, understanding, and respect for the diverse tapestry of human experiences.

Weight: 312g
Dimension: 235 x 155 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197667354