The objective of this study was to examine mental
health professionals attitudes regarding health in
relation to gender. Traditional family therapy
theories in general have overlooked the social and
cultural context whereby men and women have unequal
power both politically and financially. The
therapeutic environment is not immune to potential
gender bias and in fact can inadvertently perpetuate
discriminatory practices. The nature of the client
therapist relationship is innately hierarchical and
may actually validate the oppressive practices
prevalent in our society. The purpose of this study
was to explore the perceptions of mental health
professionals in relation to health and gender. A
Semantic Differential tool was used to measure
attitudes of various target terms in this regard. As
therapists, we must have an awareness of gender role
issues in therapy and how such influences impinge on
both the client and ourselves.
health professionals attitudes regarding health in
relation to gender. Traditional family therapy
theories in general have overlooked the social and
cultural context whereby men and women have unequal
power both politically and financially. The
therapeutic environment is not immune to potential
gender bias and in fact can inadvertently perpetuate
discriminatory practices. The nature of the client
therapist relationship is innately hierarchical and
may actually validate the oppressive practices
prevalent in our society. The purpose of this study
was to explore the perceptions of mental health
professionals in relation to health and gender. A
Semantic Differential tool was used to measure
attitudes of various target terms in this regard. As
therapists, we must have an awareness of gender role
issues in therapy and how such influences impinge on
both the client and ourselves.