Cultural Sensitivity in Neuropsychological Assessment of Filipinos and Filipino Americans

The Philippines is a diverse country in Southeast Asia with influences from other Asian, Spanish, and American cultures as a result of trade and colonization. Over 170 languages are spoken in the Philippines and unique to particular regions of the country, though Filipino and English are the national languages primarily taught in schools. There is significant variability in education level and quality, affected by socio-economic status, region, and education reforms. Common Filipino values are influenced by several factors including collectivism, social acceptance and conformity, and spirituality and religion (particularly Catholicism) that, in turn, impact Filipinos' attitudes toward medical and mental health conditions, treatment-seeking, and how they interact with medical providers. There are very limited neuropsychological measures developed in or translated into Filipino, which must be taken into consideration when interpreting test results. Knowledge of the unique aspects of Filipino history, language, and values can improve neuropsychologists' rapport and better serve Filipino and Filipino American patients.