Aslıhan Nisanci | Marmara University (original) (raw)

Papers by Aslıhan Nisanci

International Social Work, Jul 14, 2020

This short essay aims to share social workers' experiences of working with refugees during the CO... more This short essay aims to share social workers' experiences of working with refugees during the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey. Three of the authors work in different non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in different cities. NGOs play a vital role in the delivery of psychosocial support services to refugees in Turkey and have been inevitably affected by the pandemic. The major practice challenges are being unprepared for tele-social work, a decrease in financial resources, increasing barriers to resources, and threats to refugee children's wellbeing. Finally, suggestions are made for the near future.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are considered to be the fastest-growing developmental disability... more Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are considered to be the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States. ASD are neurodevelopmental disorders that are characterized by difficulties in verbal and nonverbal communication, social relations, and restrictive and repetitive behaviors. Although the prevalence of ASD stays the same regardless of race, ethnicity, or culture; culturally diverse families may have different experiences. In this article, the term "culturally diverse" refers to immigrants and minorities. This literature review aims to explore culturally diverse families' experiences with having children with ASD. The review of nine relevant articles suggests that families demonstrate differences between concerning treatment and diagnosis, service utilization, beliefs, and coping mechanisms. There is a need for further research that investigates differences between different cultural groups and contexts.

Critical Acculturation Psychology as a Framework for Research with Immigrants

Asosjournal, 2018

Researchers’ interest in the area of migration is increasing. While migration has always been an ... more Researchers’ interest in the area of migration is increasing. While migration has always been an important social phenomenon, the rise of migration waves globally is accountable for this rising attention. Because Turkey is both a source and target country, it is important for Turkish researchers to investigate the experiences of the immigrants in Turkey and of immigrant Turks abroad. As a result, migration researchers should acquire the knowledge of available research frameworks. The main purpose of this article is to introduce critical acculturation psychology to migration researchers. First, acculturation theory, which has long guided studies conducted in the field of cross-cultural psychology, is discussed with a specific focus on its limitations. Then, critical acculturation psychology is introduced. Critical acculturation psychology questions acculturation theory on several grounds and draws attention to subjective experiences and everyday life practices of immigrants. This approach is suggested as a research framework not only for the field of psychology, but also for disciplines such as social work, education, or public health.

Journal of Family Social Work, Oct 23, 2019

There are a very limited number of studies on the Turkish immigrant population in the U.S. This a... more There are a very limited number of studies on the Turkish immigrant population in the U.S. This article explores the parental monitoring strategies Turkish immigrant parents employ and the effects of parental monitoring on the adolescents from the perspective of the parents. In this qualitative study, in-depth, semistructured interviews were conducted with 15 parents (14 mothers and one father) in 14 Turkish families in and around a large Midwestern city. Two types of parental monitoring strategies were identified: (1) Accommodative parental monitoring strategies, and (2) Conflictual parental monitoring strategies. Parents described themselves as overprotective, and the findings reveal the effects of parents' overprotectiveness on the adolescents from the parents' perspectives.

Between-Reporter Agreement Among Couples: Exploring Nonlinear Patterns in Marital Conflict

Journal of Interpersonal Violence, Sep 5, 2022

This study compares self-reported and spouse-reported frequencies of various types of behaviors c... more This study compares self-reported and spouse-reported frequencies of various types of behaviors couples use in marital conflict using data from Turkish Family Structure Survey (2016), which included 9,636 couples. Existing literature reported low levels of agreement among couples. These studies measured between-reporter agreement levels among couples with linear models which report cumulative scores. However, we hypothesized that low levels of agreement reported in the literature might be due to nonlinear patterns in the self-reported and spouse-reported frequencies. To detect such nonlinear patterns, we compared self-reported and spouse-reported frequencies for each level (frequency) of using the types of conflict behavior styles we investigated. This allowed us to explore the patterns of agreement or disagreement at the low, medium, or high levels of using these conflict style behaviors. Findings of this study confirmed our hypothesizes. There are meaningful nonlinear patterns that are not detectable with cumulative comparative scores. There are also differences in these patterns across the types of conflict behaviors we looked at. For example, the nonlinear patterns we observed for aggressive conflict behavior types are different from the patterns for passive conflict behavior types. We also found that these patterns are different for husbands and wives. This paper highlights the limited capacity of linear models for exploring between-reporter agreement levels and it calls for the consideration of using nonlinear methods for these types of systematic investigation. The major limitation is the lack of analysis on the effect of sociodemographic factors on the observed discrepancies other than gender.

Critical Acculturation Psychology as a Framework for Research with Immigrants

the Journal of Academic Social Sciences, 2018

Researchers’ interest in the area of migration is increasing. While migration has always been an ... more Researchers’ interest in the area of migration is increasing. While migration has always been an important social phenomenon, the rise of migration waves globally is accountable for this rising attention. Because Turkey is both a source and target country, it is important for Turkish researchers to investigate the experiences of the immigrants in Turkey and of immigrant Turks abroad. As a result, migration researchers should acquire the knowledge of available research frameworks. The main purpose of this article is to introduce critical acculturation psychology to migration researchers. First, acculturation theory, which has long guided studies conducted in the field of cross-cultural psychology, is discussed with a specific focus on its limitations. Then, critical acculturation psychology is introduced. Critical acculturation psychology questions acculturation theory on several grounds and draws attention to subjective experiences and everyday life practices of immigrants. This approach is suggested as a research framework not only for the field of psychology, but also for disciplines such as social work, education, or public health.

Toplum ve Sosyal Hizmet, 2019

Perception of mental health services among Black Americans

Social Work in Mental Health, 2016

ABSTRACT As the Black American population becomes more diverse, it is important to extrapolate di... more ABSTRACT As the Black American population becomes more diverse, it is important to extrapolate differences among individuals who have historically been grouped as Black or African American in the literature. This review systematically explores differences in the perceptions of mental health services among Black Americans of African-American, African, and Caribbean Black descent. Thirty studies were included in the analysis. The paucity of literature limited the authors’ ability to identify substantial themes for Africans and Caribbean Blacks. Stigma, discrimination, and racism mired the perceptions of mental health services for African Americans. The findings underscored the need for more research to be able to adequately identify and better understand important and nuanced differences in perceptions of mental health within the Black American population. Implications for how to better serve Black Americans through social work practice, intervention, and prevention are discussed.

Social Work, 2014

Social workers play an important role in recognizing and addressing barriers to retention in HIV ... more Social workers play an important role in recognizing and addressing barriers to retention in HIV care. Although there is a large body of literature and research supporting interventions that promote medication adherence, there is limited intervention research that addresses retention in care, the precursor to adherence. Despite many advances in HIV treatment, many African Americans are not engaged in regular care. In a systematic review, the literature was critically appraised to examine intervention research designed to retain HIV-infected African Americans in treatment. Only peer-reviewed studies published from January 2002 through October 2012 were examined. The initial search generated a total of 798 studies. However, of these, only 13 met the inclusion criteria. Results highlight interventions that can be replicated by social workers-such as the use of ancillary support services, the use of adherence manuals, and theory-based interventions-to engage this population in care. Policy implications are also discussed.

Journal of Sociology and Social Welfare, 2016

In Turkey, the word "family" was used for the first time in the title of a ministry with the esta... more In Turkey, the word "family" was used for the first time in the title of a ministry with the establishment of The Ministry of Family and Social Policies in July 2011. This was an important transformation in the area of social services because the new ministry gathered all other previously scattered state social service agencies, including the oldest child welfare agency (Social Services and Child Protection Agency/SHCEK) under its umbrella. There are six main areas of responsibility for the ministry: social relief; family and community services; child services; services for the disabled and the elderly; women's status; and services for the martyrs and veterans. These areas are under the responsibilities of different directorates of the ministry. At first glance, there seem to be two implications of the ministry's organizational scheme. First, the title of the ministry makes one think that social policies in different areas of social welfare are seen as integral parts of

International Social Work, 2020

This short essay aims to share social workers’ experiences of working with refugees during the CO... more This short essay aims to share social workers’ experiences of working with refugees during the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey. Three of the authors work in different non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in different cities. NGOs play a vital role in the delivery of psychosocial support services to refugees in Turkey and have been inevitably affected by the pandemic. The major practice challenges are being unprepared for tele-social work, a decrease in financial resources, increasing barriers to resources, and threats to refugee children’s wellbeing. Finally, suggestions are made for the near future.

Parental monitoring in Turkish immigrant families in the United States

Journal of Family Social Work

Parental monitoring in Turkish immigrant families in the United States

Journal of Family Social Work

International Social Work, 2020

This short essay aims to share social workers’ experiences of working with refugees during the CO... more This short essay aims to share social workers’ experiences of working with refugees during the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey. Three of the authors work in different non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in different cities. NGOs play a vital role in the delivery of psychosocial support services to refugees in Turkey and have been inevitably affected by the pandemic. The major practice challenges are being unprepared for tele-social work, a decrease in financial resources, increasing barriers to resources, and threats to refugee children’s wellbeing. Finally, suggestions are made for the near future.

Toplum ve Sosyal Hizmet , 2019

Bu makalede iyileşme yaklaşımının kısa tarihsel ve düşünsel arka planı sunulmakta ve yaklaşımın t... more Bu makalede iyileşme yaklaşımının kısa tarihsel ve düşünsel arka planı sunulmakta ve yaklaşımın temel unsurları sosyal hizmet ile ilişkisi bağlamında değerlendirilmektedir. İyileşme yaklaşımını temel alarak ortaya konmuş bir uygulama modeli ele alınarak, yaklaşımın psikiyatrik sosyal hizmet uygulamaları, sosyal hizmet eğitimi ve araştırması için önemi ortaya konmaktadır. Psikiyatrik sosyal hizmet alanında özelleşmiş sosyal hizmet uzmanları psikiyatrik tedavi sürecinin tüm aşamalarında yer alabilir, ruh sağlığı sistemlerini ve politikalarını yönetebilir ve yönlendirebilirler. Sosyal hizmet disiplini patoloji odaklı modern psikiyatriye yaptığı eleştiri ile engellilik hareketi, kadın hareketi, hizmet alan hareketi gibi hareketlerle birlikte eleştirel psikiyatri akımının doğmasına zemin hazırlayan kaynaklar arasındadır. Söz konusu modern psikiyatri eleştirileri ruh sağlığı alanında iyileşme yaklaşımını ortaya çıkarmıştır. Son yıllarda ruh sağlığı alanındaki uygulamaları ve ülkelerin ruh sağlığı politikalarını dönüştüren iyileşme yaklaşımı, sosyal hizmet mesleğinin temel ilke ve değerleri ile örtüşmektedir. Bu nedenlerle iyileşme yaklaşımı hem psikiyatrik sosyal hizmet alanındaki sosyal hizmet uygulamalarına yön verebilir, hem de ruh sağlığı sistemlerinin sosyal hizmet bakış açısına uyumlu şekilde dönüştürülmesine öncülük edebilir.

Researchers’ interest in the area of migration is increasing. While migration has always been an ... more Researchers’ interest in the area of migration is increasing. While migration has always been an important social phenomenon, the rise of migration waves globally is accountable for this rising attention. Because Turkey is both a source and target country, it is important for Turkish researchers to investigate the experiences of the immigrants in Turkey and of immigrant Turks abroad. As a result, migration researchers should acquire the knowledge of available research frameworks. The main purpose of this article is to introduce critical acculturation psychology to migration researchers. First, acculturation theory, which has long guided studies conducted in the field of cross-cultural psychology, is discussed with a specific focus on its limitations. Then, critical acculturation psychology is introduced. Critical acculturation psychology questions acculturation theory on several grounds and draws attention to subjective experiences and everyday life practices of immigrants. This approach is suggested as a research framework not only for the field of psychology, but also for disciplines such as social work, education, or public health.

Türkiye’de yeni bir Ruh Sağlığı Yasası üzerinde çalışılıyor ve çıkarılması planlanan yeni yasa il... more Türkiye’de yeni bir Ruh Sağlığı Yasası üzerinde çalışılıyor ve çıkarılması planlanan yeni yasa ile psikoterapi yapma hakkının yalnızca klinik psikoloji yüksek lisansı ve doktorası olan psikologlara verilmesi planlanıyor. Buna dayanak olarak kimi zaman “Amerika’da da böyle imiş” gibi gerekçeler duyabiliyoruz. Bu argüman kısmen doğru olmakla birlikte, eksiktir. ABD’de farklı meslek grupları kliniklerde ve kendilerine ait özel ofislerinde (buna private/independent practice adı verilir) danışan görebilmekte ve psikoterapi yapabilmektedirler. ABD’de klinik psikolog unvanı almak ile psikoterapi yapabilmek birbirinden farklı iki konudur. Terapi yapabilen psikologlar ise çoğunlukla doktora derecesini (PhD ya da PsyD) alarak klinik psikolog unvanı almış psikologlardır. Fakat psikoterapi yapanlar yalnızca klinik psikologlar değildir. Peki klinik psikologlar dışında kimler, hangi şartlarda psikoterapi yapma hakkına sahiptir?

In Turkey, the word "family" was used for the first time in the title of a ministry (state depart... more In Turkey, the word "family" was used for the first time in the title of a ministry (state department) with the establishment of The Ministry (Department) of Family and Social Policies in July 2011. This article analyzes the process through which the new ministry came into being and discusses the elements of continuity and shift in the current government's family policy. Kingdon's (2002) multiple streams framework is used to analyze the policy making process. Thus, the article discusses how the problem, policy and political streams opened the window for the Ministry of Family and Social Policies. While the problem and policy streams are found useful for the analysis, the problem stream is insufficient to understand the unique context of Turkish politics.

As the Black Americans’ population becomes more diverse, it is important to extrapolate differenc... more As the Black Americans’ population becomes more diverse, it is important to extrapolate differences amongst individuals who have historically been grouped as Black or African American in the literature. This review systematically explores differences in the perceptions of mental health services among Black Americans of African American, African, and Caribbean Black descent. Thirty studies were included in the analysis. The paucity of literature limited the author’s ability to identify themes substantial themes for Africans and Caribbean Blacks, stigma, discrimination, and racism mired the perceptions of mental health services for African Americans. The findings underscored the need for more research to be able to adequately identify and better understand important and nuanced differences in perceptions of mental health within the Black American population. Implications for how to better serve Black Americans through social work practice, intervention and prevention are discussed.

International Social Work, Jul 14, 2020

This short essay aims to share social workers' experiences of working with refugees during the CO... more This short essay aims to share social workers' experiences of working with refugees during the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey. Three of the authors work in different non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in different cities. NGOs play a vital role in the delivery of psychosocial support services to refugees in Turkey and have been inevitably affected by the pandemic. The major practice challenges are being unprepared for tele-social work, a decrease in financial resources, increasing barriers to resources, and threats to refugee children's wellbeing. Finally, suggestions are made for the near future.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are considered to be the fastest-growing developmental disability... more Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are considered to be the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States. ASD are neurodevelopmental disorders that are characterized by difficulties in verbal and nonverbal communication, social relations, and restrictive and repetitive behaviors. Although the prevalence of ASD stays the same regardless of race, ethnicity, or culture; culturally diverse families may have different experiences. In this article, the term "culturally diverse" refers to immigrants and minorities. This literature review aims to explore culturally diverse families' experiences with having children with ASD. The review of nine relevant articles suggests that families demonstrate differences between concerning treatment and diagnosis, service utilization, beliefs, and coping mechanisms. There is a need for further research that investigates differences between different cultural groups and contexts.

Critical Acculturation Psychology as a Framework for Research with Immigrants

Asosjournal, 2018

Researchers’ interest in the area of migration is increasing. While migration has always been an ... more Researchers’ interest in the area of migration is increasing. While migration has always been an important social phenomenon, the rise of migration waves globally is accountable for this rising attention. Because Turkey is both a source and target country, it is important for Turkish researchers to investigate the experiences of the immigrants in Turkey and of immigrant Turks abroad. As a result, migration researchers should acquire the knowledge of available research frameworks. The main purpose of this article is to introduce critical acculturation psychology to migration researchers. First, acculturation theory, which has long guided studies conducted in the field of cross-cultural psychology, is discussed with a specific focus on its limitations. Then, critical acculturation psychology is introduced. Critical acculturation psychology questions acculturation theory on several grounds and draws attention to subjective experiences and everyday life practices of immigrants. This approach is suggested as a research framework not only for the field of psychology, but also for disciplines such as social work, education, or public health.

Journal of Family Social Work, Oct 23, 2019

There are a very limited number of studies on the Turkish immigrant population in the U.S. This a... more There are a very limited number of studies on the Turkish immigrant population in the U.S. This article explores the parental monitoring strategies Turkish immigrant parents employ and the effects of parental monitoring on the adolescents from the perspective of the parents. In this qualitative study, in-depth, semistructured interviews were conducted with 15 parents (14 mothers and one father) in 14 Turkish families in and around a large Midwestern city. Two types of parental monitoring strategies were identified: (1) Accommodative parental monitoring strategies, and (2) Conflictual parental monitoring strategies. Parents described themselves as overprotective, and the findings reveal the effects of parents' overprotectiveness on the adolescents from the parents' perspectives.

Between-Reporter Agreement Among Couples: Exploring Nonlinear Patterns in Marital Conflict

Journal of Interpersonal Violence, Sep 5, 2022

This study compares self-reported and spouse-reported frequencies of various types of behaviors c... more This study compares self-reported and spouse-reported frequencies of various types of behaviors couples use in marital conflict using data from Turkish Family Structure Survey (2016), which included 9,636 couples. Existing literature reported low levels of agreement among couples. These studies measured between-reporter agreement levels among couples with linear models which report cumulative scores. However, we hypothesized that low levels of agreement reported in the literature might be due to nonlinear patterns in the self-reported and spouse-reported frequencies. To detect such nonlinear patterns, we compared self-reported and spouse-reported frequencies for each level (frequency) of using the types of conflict behavior styles we investigated. This allowed us to explore the patterns of agreement or disagreement at the low, medium, or high levels of using these conflict style behaviors. Findings of this study confirmed our hypothesizes. There are meaningful nonlinear patterns that are not detectable with cumulative comparative scores. There are also differences in these patterns across the types of conflict behaviors we looked at. For example, the nonlinear patterns we observed for aggressive conflict behavior types are different from the patterns for passive conflict behavior types. We also found that these patterns are different for husbands and wives. This paper highlights the limited capacity of linear models for exploring between-reporter agreement levels and it calls for the consideration of using nonlinear methods for these types of systematic investigation. The major limitation is the lack of analysis on the effect of sociodemographic factors on the observed discrepancies other than gender.

Critical Acculturation Psychology as a Framework for Research with Immigrants

the Journal of Academic Social Sciences, 2018

Researchers’ interest in the area of migration is increasing. While migration has always been an ... more Researchers’ interest in the area of migration is increasing. While migration has always been an important social phenomenon, the rise of migration waves globally is accountable for this rising attention. Because Turkey is both a source and target country, it is important for Turkish researchers to investigate the experiences of the immigrants in Turkey and of immigrant Turks abroad. As a result, migration researchers should acquire the knowledge of available research frameworks. The main purpose of this article is to introduce critical acculturation psychology to migration researchers. First, acculturation theory, which has long guided studies conducted in the field of cross-cultural psychology, is discussed with a specific focus on its limitations. Then, critical acculturation psychology is introduced. Critical acculturation psychology questions acculturation theory on several grounds and draws attention to subjective experiences and everyday life practices of immigrants. This approach is suggested as a research framework not only for the field of psychology, but also for disciplines such as social work, education, or public health.

Toplum ve Sosyal Hizmet, 2019

Perception of mental health services among Black Americans

Social Work in Mental Health, 2016

ABSTRACT As the Black American population becomes more diverse, it is important to extrapolate di... more ABSTRACT As the Black American population becomes more diverse, it is important to extrapolate differences among individuals who have historically been grouped as Black or African American in the literature. This review systematically explores differences in the perceptions of mental health services among Black Americans of African-American, African, and Caribbean Black descent. Thirty studies were included in the analysis. The paucity of literature limited the authors’ ability to identify substantial themes for Africans and Caribbean Blacks. Stigma, discrimination, and racism mired the perceptions of mental health services for African Americans. The findings underscored the need for more research to be able to adequately identify and better understand important and nuanced differences in perceptions of mental health within the Black American population. Implications for how to better serve Black Americans through social work practice, intervention, and prevention are discussed.

Social Work, 2014

Social workers play an important role in recognizing and addressing barriers to retention in HIV ... more Social workers play an important role in recognizing and addressing barriers to retention in HIV care. Although there is a large body of literature and research supporting interventions that promote medication adherence, there is limited intervention research that addresses retention in care, the precursor to adherence. Despite many advances in HIV treatment, many African Americans are not engaged in regular care. In a systematic review, the literature was critically appraised to examine intervention research designed to retain HIV-infected African Americans in treatment. Only peer-reviewed studies published from January 2002 through October 2012 were examined. The initial search generated a total of 798 studies. However, of these, only 13 met the inclusion criteria. Results highlight interventions that can be replicated by social workers-such as the use of ancillary support services, the use of adherence manuals, and theory-based interventions-to engage this population in care. Policy implications are also discussed.

Journal of Sociology and Social Welfare, 2016

In Turkey, the word "family" was used for the first time in the title of a ministry with the esta... more In Turkey, the word "family" was used for the first time in the title of a ministry with the establishment of The Ministry of Family and Social Policies in July 2011. This was an important transformation in the area of social services because the new ministry gathered all other previously scattered state social service agencies, including the oldest child welfare agency (Social Services and Child Protection Agency/SHCEK) under its umbrella. There are six main areas of responsibility for the ministry: social relief; family and community services; child services; services for the disabled and the elderly; women's status; and services for the martyrs and veterans. These areas are under the responsibilities of different directorates of the ministry. At first glance, there seem to be two implications of the ministry's organizational scheme. First, the title of the ministry makes one think that social policies in different areas of social welfare are seen as integral parts of

International Social Work, 2020

This short essay aims to share social workers’ experiences of working with refugees during the CO... more This short essay aims to share social workers’ experiences of working with refugees during the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey. Three of the authors work in different non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in different cities. NGOs play a vital role in the delivery of psychosocial support services to refugees in Turkey and have been inevitably affected by the pandemic. The major practice challenges are being unprepared for tele-social work, a decrease in financial resources, increasing barriers to resources, and threats to refugee children’s wellbeing. Finally, suggestions are made for the near future.

Parental monitoring in Turkish immigrant families in the United States

Journal of Family Social Work

Parental monitoring in Turkish immigrant families in the United States

Journal of Family Social Work

International Social Work, 2020

This short essay aims to share social workers’ experiences of working with refugees during the CO... more This short essay aims to share social workers’ experiences of working with refugees during the COVID-19 pandemic in Turkey. Three of the authors work in different non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in different cities. NGOs play a vital role in the delivery of psychosocial support services to refugees in Turkey and have been inevitably affected by the pandemic. The major practice challenges are being unprepared for tele-social work, a decrease in financial resources, increasing barriers to resources, and threats to refugee children’s wellbeing. Finally, suggestions are made for the near future.

Toplum ve Sosyal Hizmet , 2019

Bu makalede iyileşme yaklaşımının kısa tarihsel ve düşünsel arka planı sunulmakta ve yaklaşımın t... more Bu makalede iyileşme yaklaşımının kısa tarihsel ve düşünsel arka planı sunulmakta ve yaklaşımın temel unsurları sosyal hizmet ile ilişkisi bağlamında değerlendirilmektedir. İyileşme yaklaşımını temel alarak ortaya konmuş bir uygulama modeli ele alınarak, yaklaşımın psikiyatrik sosyal hizmet uygulamaları, sosyal hizmet eğitimi ve araştırması için önemi ortaya konmaktadır. Psikiyatrik sosyal hizmet alanında özelleşmiş sosyal hizmet uzmanları psikiyatrik tedavi sürecinin tüm aşamalarında yer alabilir, ruh sağlığı sistemlerini ve politikalarını yönetebilir ve yönlendirebilirler. Sosyal hizmet disiplini patoloji odaklı modern psikiyatriye yaptığı eleştiri ile engellilik hareketi, kadın hareketi, hizmet alan hareketi gibi hareketlerle birlikte eleştirel psikiyatri akımının doğmasına zemin hazırlayan kaynaklar arasındadır. Söz konusu modern psikiyatri eleştirileri ruh sağlığı alanında iyileşme yaklaşımını ortaya çıkarmıştır. Son yıllarda ruh sağlığı alanındaki uygulamaları ve ülkelerin ruh sağlığı politikalarını dönüştüren iyileşme yaklaşımı, sosyal hizmet mesleğinin temel ilke ve değerleri ile örtüşmektedir. Bu nedenlerle iyileşme yaklaşımı hem psikiyatrik sosyal hizmet alanındaki sosyal hizmet uygulamalarına yön verebilir, hem de ruh sağlığı sistemlerinin sosyal hizmet bakış açısına uyumlu şekilde dönüştürülmesine öncülük edebilir.

Researchers’ interest in the area of migration is increasing. While migration has always been an ... more Researchers’ interest in the area of migration is increasing. While migration has always been an important social phenomenon, the rise of migration waves globally is accountable for this rising attention. Because Turkey is both a source and target country, it is important for Turkish researchers to investigate the experiences of the immigrants in Turkey and of immigrant Turks abroad. As a result, migration researchers should acquire the knowledge of available research frameworks. The main purpose of this article is to introduce critical acculturation psychology to migration researchers. First, acculturation theory, which has long guided studies conducted in the field of cross-cultural psychology, is discussed with a specific focus on its limitations. Then, critical acculturation psychology is introduced. Critical acculturation psychology questions acculturation theory on several grounds and draws attention to subjective experiences and everyday life practices of immigrants. This approach is suggested as a research framework not only for the field of psychology, but also for disciplines such as social work, education, or public health.

Türkiye’de yeni bir Ruh Sağlığı Yasası üzerinde çalışılıyor ve çıkarılması planlanan yeni yasa il... more Türkiye’de yeni bir Ruh Sağlığı Yasası üzerinde çalışılıyor ve çıkarılması planlanan yeni yasa ile psikoterapi yapma hakkının yalnızca klinik psikoloji yüksek lisansı ve doktorası olan psikologlara verilmesi planlanıyor. Buna dayanak olarak kimi zaman “Amerika’da da böyle imiş” gibi gerekçeler duyabiliyoruz. Bu argüman kısmen doğru olmakla birlikte, eksiktir. ABD’de farklı meslek grupları kliniklerde ve kendilerine ait özel ofislerinde (buna private/independent practice adı verilir) danışan görebilmekte ve psikoterapi yapabilmektedirler. ABD’de klinik psikolog unvanı almak ile psikoterapi yapabilmek birbirinden farklı iki konudur. Terapi yapabilen psikologlar ise çoğunlukla doktora derecesini (PhD ya da PsyD) alarak klinik psikolog unvanı almış psikologlardır. Fakat psikoterapi yapanlar yalnızca klinik psikologlar değildir. Peki klinik psikologlar dışında kimler, hangi şartlarda psikoterapi yapma hakkına sahiptir?

In Turkey, the word "family" was used for the first time in the title of a ministry (state depart... more In Turkey, the word "family" was used for the first time in the title of a ministry (state department) with the establishment of The Ministry (Department) of Family and Social Policies in July 2011. This article analyzes the process through which the new ministry came into being and discusses the elements of continuity and shift in the current government's family policy. Kingdon's (2002) multiple streams framework is used to analyze the policy making process. Thus, the article discusses how the problem, policy and political streams opened the window for the Ministry of Family and Social Policies. While the problem and policy streams are found useful for the analysis, the problem stream is insufficient to understand the unique context of Turkish politics.

As the Black Americans’ population becomes more diverse, it is important to extrapolate differenc... more As the Black Americans’ population becomes more diverse, it is important to extrapolate differences amongst individuals who have historically been grouped as Black or African American in the literature. This review systematically explores differences in the perceptions of mental health services among Black Americans of African American, African, and Caribbean Black descent. Thirty studies were included in the analysis. The paucity of literature limited the author’s ability to identify themes substantial themes for Africans and Caribbean Blacks, stigma, discrimination, and racism mired the perceptions of mental health services for African Americans. The findings underscored the need for more research to be able to adequately identify and better understand important and nuanced differences in perceptions of mental health within the Black American population. Implications for how to better serve Black Americans through social work practice, intervention and prevention are discussed.