Between Two Worlds: Filipinos in the U. S. Navy

Psychiatric illness among Filipinos in the U. S. Navy usually appears as a stereotyped clinical syndrome in which hypochondriasis and paranoia are prominent. The authors suggest that the distinctive Filipino child-rearing practices and certain cultural concepts related to feelings of obligation and shame are crucial in the determination of this clinical picture. A better understanding of the cultural factors in psychiatric symptomatology may help the therapist to establish a more effective relationship with such patients.