Abstract

In this article, we argue that the cultural models approach provides a useful framework for cultural–clinical psychology. We begin with a brief review of this approach before presenting the distinction between cultural models for normalcy and deviancy. As well, we consider how both normalcy and deviancy can be culturally valorised or devalorised. Given that mental disorders do not always neatly fit with available cultural models, we offer evidence-based examples of unscripted as well as scripted distress. We conclude by considering key hypothesis–generating questions and some methodological approaches that could be used to improve and extend the evidence base underpinning the cultural models approach as applied to the study of culture and
mental health.