Author: Bertrand, Didier

Source: Mental Health, Religion & Culture, Volume 8, Number 4, December 2005 , pp. 309-327(19)

Publisher: Routledge, part of the Taylor & Francis Group

Abstract:

In describing the ritualized practices of Cambodian mediums, we want to demonstrate their social and therapeutic role in Cambodian society. We examine the development of mediumnic cults within the context of the restructuring of Cambodian society after several years of war and turmoil. From their names and history in relation to Buddhism, which reinforces their power and credibility, spirits called borameï, who possess the medium, can provide the clients and patients with information about, and solutions to, the problems they are facing. The medium's practices allow the patient to come into contact with these supernatural entities, and as such the medium can be viewed as performing a role not unlike that which psychotherapists play in contemporary Western society. Providing care and support, these mediums act as dynamic and effective healers of mental health.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/13674670412331313177

Affiliations: 1: Centre d'Etudes et de Recherches en Psycho-Pathologie, Université de Toulouse le Mirail, France

Publication date: 2005-12-01

More about this publication?

• Editorial Board
• Information for Authors
• Subscribe to this Title
• ingentaconnect is not responsible for the content or availability of external websites

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Religion ,  Neurology & Psychiatry ,  Anthropology & Archeology
• By this author: Bertrand, Didier

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers