756 Cultural Formulation
CULTURAL PERCEPTIONS OF CA USE, CONTEXT, AND SUPPORT
CAUSES
This question indicates the meaning of the condition 
for the informant, which may be relevant for clini-
cal care.
Note that informants may identify multiple causes 
depending on the facet of the problem they are con-
sidering.5. Why do you think this is happening to 
[INDIVIDUAL]? What do  you think are the 
causes of his/her [PROBLEM]?
PROMPT FURTHER IF REQUIRED:
Some people may explain the problem as the 
result of bad things that happen in their life, 
problems with others, a physical illness, a 
spiritual reason, or many other causes.
Focus on the views of me mbers of the in dividual’s 
social network. These may be diverse and vary 
from the informant’s.6. What do others in [INDIVIDUAL’S] fam-
ily, his/her friends, or others in the com-
munity think is causing [INDIVIDUAL’S] 
[PROBLEM]?
STRESSORS  AND  SUPPORTS
Elicit information on the individual’s life context, 
focusing on resources, so cial supports, and resil-
ience. May also probe oth er supports (e.g., from co-
workers, from participation in religion or spiritu-
ality).7. Are there any kinds of supports that make 
his/her [PROBLEM] better, such as from 
family, friends, or others?
Focus on stressful aspects of  the individual’s environ-
ment. Can also probe, e.g., relationship problems, dif-
ficulties at work or school, or discrimination.8. Are there any kinds of stresses that make