752 Cultural Formulation
Cultural Formulation Interview (CFI)
Supplementary modules used to  expand each CFI subtopic are noted in parentheses.
GUIDE TO INTERVIEWERINSTRUCTIONS TO THE INTERVIEWER ARE 
ITALICIZED.
The following questions aim to clarify key aspects of 
the presenting clinical pr oblem from the point of 
view of the individual and other members of the 
individual’s social network (i.e., family, friends, or 
others involved in current problem). This includes 
the problem’s meaning, potential sources of help, 
and expectations for services.INTRODUCTION FOR THE INDIVIDUAL:
I would like to understand the problems that 
bring you here so that I can help you more 
effectively. I want to know about your  experi-
ence and ideas. I will ask some questions 
about what is going on  and how you are deal-
ing with it. Please remember there are no 
right or wrong answers.
CULTURAL DEFINITION OF THE PROBLEM
CULTURAL  DEFINITION  OF THE PROBLEM
(Explanatory Model, Level of Functioning)
Elicit the individual’s view  of core problems and key 
concerns.
Focus on the individual’s own way of understand-
ing the problem.
Use the term, expression, or brief description elicited 
in question 1 to identify the problem in subsequent 
questions (e.g., “your conflict with your son”).1. What brings you here today?
IF INDIVIDUAL GIVES FEW DETAILS OR 
ONLY MENTIONS SYMPTOMS OR A 
MEDICAL DIAGNOSIS, PROBE:
People often understand their problems in 
their own way, which may be similar to or 
different from how doctors describe the