NEUROSCIENCE, MULTIPLE CULTURAL IDENTITIES, AND CULTURAL STRENGTHS

QUOTES

  • John J. Ratey: "Experiences, thoughts, actions and emotions actually change the structure of our brains. Indeed, once we understand how the brain develops, we can train our brains for health, vibrancy and longevity."

  • Daniel L. Ames and Susan T. Fiske: "Culture is, after all, stored in people’s brains. Moreover, human brains are biologically prepared to acquire culture."

CHAPTER OBJECTIVES

  1. Identify the roles of neurons, neurotransmitters, mirror neurons, and neural pathways in the brain.

  2. Discuss how culture impacts the brain and the differences in individuals caused by the socialization of culture.

  3. Explain cultural identity formation as a critical biological and social process vital for survival and adaptation.

  4. Describe the negativity bias and its effect on responses to life events and counseling.

  5. Discuss the development of individual and cultural strengths.

  6. Explain the role of new brain networks influenced by mirror neurons.

  7. Demonstrate the benefits of counseling that emphasizes strengths over weaknesses.

INTRODUCTION

  • Neuroscience is gaining traction in the mental health fields, affecting counseling, education, psychology, social work, and psychiatry (Jones-Smith, 2016).

  • Despite neuroscience's increasing prominence, many clinicians lack training to leverage new findings.

  • Definition of Neuroscience: The scientific study of the nervous system, evolving as an interdisciplinary science integrating biology, psychology, computer science, mathematics, physics, philosophy, and medicine (Luke, 2016).

  • Chapter focus: Three developments in multicultural counseling:

    1. Neuroscience and cultural identity

    2. Multicultural identity theory

    3. Strengths-based therapy

  • Goals:

    • Understanding the field of neuroscience and cultural/racial identity.

    • Recognizing that everyone possesses a multicultural identity.

    • Exploring cultural strengths.

NEUROSCIENCE, CACREP STANDARDS, AND MAJOR COUNSELING ASSOCIATIONS

  • Training in neuroscience has not historically been a primary focus for counseling and related educational programs (Hansen, 2009, 2012, 2014).

  • The 2009 CACREP Standards emphasize the need for coursework on the neurobiology of behavior, particularly the relation among brain anatomy, biochemistry, and behavior (p. 61).

  • AMHCA Standards (2016) recommend clinical counselors receive training in biological bases of behavior.

  • Various mental health disciplines, including social work and psychology, are integrating neurobiological concepts.

  • Major journals in counseling and psychology have published articles on neurobiological constructs and psychopharmacology.

FOUNDATIONAL CONCEPTS IN NEUROSCIENCE FOR COUNSELORS

BASIC CONCEPTS

Counselors should understand the following:

  1. Neurotransmitters

  2. Neuroplasticity

  3. Neurogenesis

  4. Mirror neurons

  5. Importance of attention and focus

  6. Focus on the positive and wellness (Ivey et al., 2009).

THE BRAIN

  • Consists of billions of interconnected neurons, described as the central nervous system (Siegel, 2012).

  • Neurons send electrical impulses that lead to neurotransmitter release, enabling communication through synapses and dendrites.

  • The brain is dynamic, shaped by experiences, capacity to heal and repair, and influenced by external factors.

  • Cozolino (2010): The brain is a social organ, fundamentally shaped during attachment with primary caregivers, impacting adaptive and maladaptive behaviors.

EMOTIONAL AND FUNCTIONAL CHARACTERISTICS

  • Thinking versus Feeling: The brain operates at both unconscious (automatic) and conscious levels, with emotions influencing thoughts more than the reverse (LeDoux, 2003).

  • The brain is plastic, adapting due to environmental influences (Restak, 2006).

  • Differences in neuro-biology can be influenced by gender, with females typically exhibiting more empathy (Tancredi, 2005).

NEURONS

  • Defined as electrically excitable cells that process and transmit information through electrical-chemical signaling (Warnick & Landis, 2016).

  • Neurons are connected by synapses and do not physically touch; their communication relies on chemical signals.

  • Types of Neurons:

    1. Sensory neurons - respond to stimuli (touch, light, sound).

    2. Motor neurons - transmit signals to muscles and influence gland function.

    3. Interneurons - connect neurons within the same region of the brain or spinal cord (Luke, 2016).

NEURONAL DEVELOPMENT

  • Infancy and early childhood are sensitive periods of neurodevelopment, with experiences influencing neural firing patterns (Kindsvatter & Geroski, 2014).

NEUROTRANSMITTERS

  • Chemicals released from nerve cells that transmit impulses and influence cognitive, emotional, and behavioral responses.

  • Production of neurotransmitters can be impacted by environmental stressors and lifestyle choices (Warnick & Landis, 2016).

  • **Four Key Neurotransmitters: **

    1. Acetylcholine - Critical for learning and memory; deficiency leads to memory loss.

    2. Serotonin - Mood stabilizer; low levels can result in depression.

    3. Dopamine - Affects motivation and energy levels.

    4. GABA - Reduces anxiety and promotes sleep; deficiency can hinder relaxation (Farmer, 2009).

NEUROPLASTICITY

  • Defines the brain's ability to change and adapt as a result of life experiences (Butz et al., 2009; Holtmaat & Svoboda, 2009).

  • Neurogenesis, the creation of new neurons, peaks during infancy and puberty; however, it continues into adulthood.

  • Patterns established in childhood through environment influence future stress management and adaptability (Siegel, 1999).

CULTURAL NEUROSCIENCE

DEFINITION

  • Cultural neuroscience investigates the interplay among culture, biology, mind, and brain functionality (Kitayama & Park, 2010).

  • Aims to understand cognitive functions and self-identity through a cultural lens, emphasizing that cognitive processing differs across cultural contexts.

CULTURAL MAPPING

  • Examines how cultural environments influence cognitive processes and the neurological basis for identities.

  • Key studies indicate that cultural backgrounds affect brain functionalities (Curtis & Bharucha, 2009; Tang et al., 2006).

CULTURAL IDENTITY FORMATION

  • Cultural identity is a process essential for one’s survival and adaptation. The individual experiences cultural activities aimed at learning social roles within a community (Siegel, 1999).

NEGATIVITY BIAS

CONCEPT

  • The brain possesses a negativity bias, where negative experiences hold more weight than positive ones, influencing client responses, decision-making, and therapeutic progress.

  • Negative emotions or experiences often create stronger memories and reactions compared to positive ones (Baumeister et al., 2001).

THERAPY IMPLICATIONS

  • Therapists should recognize and address the negativity bias by fostering a strengths-based approach instead of focusing purely on negative experiences.

CULTURAL IDENTITIES

MULTICULTURALISM

  • Individuals often hold multiple cultural identities shaped by race, ethnicity, and personal experiences.

  • The sense of self and identity is reliant on consistent engagement with cultural environments.

COUNSELOR’S MULTICULTURAL IDENTITY

  • Counselors must understand their cultural identities to provide effective therapy and avoid potential biases detrimental to clients (Duan & Brown, 2016).

STRENGTHS-BASED THERAPY

CONCEPT

  • Emphasizes identifying and leveraging client strengths rather than focusing on deficits. Strength-based approaches stimulate brain networks involved in positive emotions and responses.

THERAPY IN PRACTICE

  • Counselors are encouraged to highlight clients' accomplishments and capabilities to shift neural pathways towards resilience and positive behavior changes.

SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS

  1. Cultural Identity Formation: Essential for survival and adaption, impacting attachment patterns and emotional functioning.

  2. Neural Connections: Human relationships shape our neural architecture.

  3. Development through Interaction: Culture influences identity through participation and observation.

  4. Multiple Identities: Recognition of diverse cultural identities within individuals is essential.

  5. Negativity Bias: Awareness necessary to guide clients effectively.

  6. Strengths as Pathways: Should be recognized and built upon.

  7. Knowledge of Cultural Strengths: Critical for successful counseling.

KEY TERMS

  • Neuroplasticity: The brain's capacity to change throughout life.

  • Cultural Neuroscience: Studies the relationship among culture, mind, and brain.

  • Negativity Bias: Tendency for negative experiences to outweigh positive ones psychologically.

  • Mirror Neurons: Neurons that fire both when an action is performed and observed.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

  1. How have you utilized mirror neuron concepts in client interactions?

  2. Predict the future impact of cultural neuroscience on counseling practices.

  3. Discuss personal experiences with the negativity bias.