Current research in transcultural psychiatry in the Nordic countries.

This article discusses major themes in recent transcultural psychiatric research in the Nordic countries from 2008 to 2011: (a) epidemiological studies of migration, (b) indigenous populations, and (c) quality of psychiatric care for migrants. Over the past several decades, the populations of the Nordic countries, Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden, which were relatively homogeneous, have become increasingly culturally diverse. Many migrants to Nordic countries have been exposed to extreme stress, such as threats of death and/or torture and other severe social adversities before, during, and after migration, with potential effects on their physical, mental, social, and spiritual health. Growing interest in transcultural issues is reflected in the level of scientific research and clinical activity in the field by Nordic physicians, psychologists, social scientists, demographers, medical anthropologists, as well as other clinicians and policy planners. Research includes work with migrants and indigenous minorities in the Nordic countries, as well as comparisons with mental health in postconflict countries. We conclude by suggesting future directions for transcultural psychiatry research and providing guidelines for the education and training of future clinicians in the Nordic countries.

[Ethical aspects of transcultural research]. / Etiske aspekter af transkulturel forskning.

An increasing number of patients in contact with the Danish health services have a non-Danish background. What are the ethical questions and dilemmas doctors face with this patient population in relation to their participation in medical research? This paper discusses the core medical ethical principles, including autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence and justice in relation to the participation in research of members of various ethnic groups.