The therapeutic role of Khmer mediums (kru boramei) in contemporary Cambodia
Titel:
The therapeutic role of Khmer mediums (kru boramei) in contemporary Cambodia
Auteur:
Bertrand, Didier
Verschenen in:
Mental health, religion & culture
Paginering:
Jaargang 8 (2005) nr. 4 pagina's 309-327
Jaar:
2005-12
Inhoud:
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 boramei, 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.
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