Family Relations of Muslims in the Post-Soviet Space: Main Features and Approaches to Psychological Counseling

The family relations of Muslims under present-day conditions are undergoing a signifi cant transformation. The increase in the number of divorces makes it necessary to look for the ways to resolve family confl icts and to harmonize marital relations. In this regard, the requirements for the qualifi cation of family psychologists consulting Muslim couples and families are increasing. It is not enough to master one or another method of family counseling for working with Muslim families. The most important role is played by the formation of the specialist's intercultural competence, as well as by mastering the knowledge and understanding the ethnic, religious and regional specifi cs of the clients. The culture of Muslim ethnic groups is collectivistic, which aff ects the relationships both within a married couple and within an extended family, whose role in Muslim communities is still important. In the article, this thesis is illustrated by the analysis of the author's practical case of family counseling. The author, based on the consideration of ethnic and religious values underlying Muslim family relations, examines the most eff ective psychotherapeutic approaches in working with Muslim families and couples.