[Cultural expression of psychopathology]

Background  Psychiatry and psychology have struggled since their earliest development with the question whether psychopathology manifests itself identically around the world, and whether a disorder can be better understood from a biological or a socio-cultural perspective. Aim  To describe the culture and psychopathology debate based on recent developments in ICD and DSM, illustrated with depression and PTSD. Method  Clinical experience, previous publications in other languages, and a recent PubMed search on culture and psychopathology. Results  There is some consensus in worldwide studies on the universal manifestation of these two disorders. On the other hand, there is broad criticism due to three forms of bias: poor construct validity, looping effects and category truncation. DSM has developed concepts and tools that can enhance cultural competence in practice and in research. Conclusion  Researchers and practitioners should develop phenomenological skills to describe and incorporate the local expression of psychological problems into practice. And take into account the three forms of bias mentioned.