|
Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry
Transcultural Psychiatry and International Studies
China
Robert Edmundson, Associate Professor at WVU, presented three presentations during his September 2007 visit to Beijing Normal University. He gave a power point presentation to faculty and staff of the counseling center at BNU regarding services provided to students at WVU. He also presented to approximately 200 students regarding mental health issues on college campuses. The third presentation was a workshop for teachers and community professionals on the use of group therapy in dealing with addictions.
Mr. Edmundson believes that one accomplishment of the visit was the sharing and exchange of information. He realized that many of the mental health stigmas which confront US students are perhaps even greater in China. The idea of asking for help appears to elicit a lot of shame for many Chinese students. Mr. Edmundson said that he was glad he was able to encourage and model a healthier way of confronting problems.
Mr. Edmundson also met and spent time with several graduate students who were available as guides, and translators. In return, they had an opportunity to practice speaking English, and compare and contrast cultures. He also met faculty members from several universities besides Beijing Normal University. This helped in spreading the name of WVU and established contacts for future visits.
* Click any image to Enlarge.
|
