The Psychological Flexibility Model from a cultural perspective: an interpretative analysis of two Native American healing rituals

What is it about?

This article aims to apply the Psychological Flexibility Model (both a psychopathology theory and mental health theory ) to two Native American healing rituals: the sweat lodge ceremonies and the peyote ceremonies. The underlying purpose is to consider the Psychological Flexibility Model from a cultural perspective. In other words, to reflect on if this theory could be valid across cultures and societies, and if it could truly represent human nature.

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Why is it important?

Because while the Psychological Flexibility Model (and the psychotherapy established over it, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) has received considerable empirical support from numerous studies, it has received little attention from cultural perspectives. Interdisciplinary work between Anthropology and Psychology is still limited, and without adding the cultural factor psychologists risk confusing their own cultural and social environment with what is universally human.