Arab American Women, Mental Health, and Feminism

Research on the mental health needs of and services for Arab American women from a feminist lens has been limited. Through a review of the literature, this article briefly describes Arab American women, their mental health needs, and the mental health services available to them from a feminist viewpoint. The literature cited in this article covers a 20-year period and, in addition to feminism, draws on such disciplines as anthropology, ethnic studies, medicine, psychiatry, and religious studies. On the basis of the literature review, it is recommended that culturally competent mental health practice integrate a feminist lens with Arab American women clients.