Issues in Mental Health Assessment with Indigenous Australians
Document Type
Book Chapter
Publication Date
2010
Abstract
In this chapter we briefly discuss the various elements that comprise the concept of assessment, as well as the distinction between assessment and testing. We explore the issues related to the lack of fit between Western and Australian Indigenous perspectives on mental illness. We examine the history of assessment and testing with culturally diverse groups, and explore a range of emergent principles and guidelines for practice to improve and govern assessment practices with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. We conclude that assessment and those practitioners conducting assessment must be repositioned (and reposition themselves) to play an important role in the development of procedures and practices in the provision of mental health care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in Australia.
ISBN: 978-1-74241-091-3
Recommended Citation
Drew, N., Adams, Y., & Walker, R. (2010). Issues in mental health assessment with indigenous Australians. In N. Purdie, P. Dudgeon, & R. Walker (eds.), Working together: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health and wellbeing principles and practice (Ch 14). Canberra, ACT: Dept of Health and Ageing.
Comments
Due to copyright restrictions this Book Chapter is unavailable for download.
Working Together: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Mental Health and Wellbeing Principles and Practice may be accessed from the Kulunga Research Network here