ABSTRACT

Ethics for Global Mental Health examines the limitations of current normative approaches to global mental health (GMH) work and argues for a values-based framework that prioritizes accountability and contextual relevance of humanitarian and profession-specific values. It cautions against using aspirational ideals as operational guidance. Chapters are organized around challenges arising in humanitarian research, disaster relief, post-conflict recovery, fieldwork, and refugee resettlement and are designed to equip readers with strategies for resolving professional dilemmas and negotiating conflicting priorities. Also included is a sample training curriculum as well as case studies and exercises that help professionals address countertransference and burnout, and recognize ethically questionable practices such as trauma tourism, rescuer fantasy, or savior complex.

chapter |9 pages

Introduction and Overview

chapter 1|17 pages

Global Mental Health in a Changing World

chapter 2|10 pages

Contemporary Humanitarianism

chapter 3|12 pages

Humanitarian Ethics

chapter 6|11 pages

Aspirational Guidance:

Principles of Humanitarian Assistance

chapter 7|9 pages

Operational Guidance:

IASC Guidelines

chapter 8|12 pages

Ethical Dilemmas:

Damned If You Do and Damned If You Don’t

chapter 9|13 pages

Ethically Questionable Practices

chapter 10|11 pages

Safety Imperative and Self-Care

chapter 13|6 pages

Conclusion and Future Directions