Guidance and counseling: A cross-cultural approach

MENA Dubai 2003 Abstract

Author Khiati Abdul Kadir El-Amir
Copy It is noticeable from the review of literature in guidance and counceling domain that the socio-cultural dimensions are neglected. It is, therefore, important for the educational organisations in the Muslim countries to set forth suitable and authentic programs that consider those social and cultural dimensions. The existing theories in guidance and counceling are mainly Western. They are transplanted in the Arab and Muslim countries through lecturers who transmit them without scrutinizing their contents or investigating their divergence from or convergence with Islamic religion, ethics or civilisation. To determine the most important cross-cultural dimensions that should be incorporated in a program for guidance and counseling, the Islamic concept of guidance and counceling should be given due attention. Al-Hisbah may be a point of departure for developing such a concept. A link could be established between Hisbah and guidance and counseling. The elements for an Islamic framework for guidance and counseling could be derivied from the exercise. A proper program for guidance and counseling based on Hisbah is very essential in providing guidance and counseling facilities and services and may save valuable human resources. At the same time, it may contribute to accomplishing mental hygiene to Muslim individuals and communities.