Exploring Culture-Bound Syndromes & Gender: A Narrative Literature Review in The Indian Context

Background: Culture-bound syndromes (CBS) are culturally shaped patterns of distress, symptoms, and behaviours that are recognised and interpreted within specific sociocultural contexts. In India, cultural beliefs, traditional healing practices, gender roles, and social expectations influence the expression, recognition, and management of mental health concerns. Women may experience distinctive forms of culturally mediated distress due to gender-based inequalities, family responsibilities, social restrictions, and stigma. Aim: This study aims to identify and describe common culture-bound syndromes reported among Indian women and explore the influence of cultural and gender-related factors on their manifestation, recognition, and management. Methodology: A narrative literature review was undertaken to synthesise existing academic literature on culture-bound syndromes in the Indian context, with particular emphasis on women. Relevant literature was identified through academic databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, ProQuest One Psychology, and SAGE Journals. The review examined descriptions of syndromes, associated sociocultural factors, gender-related patterns, and implications for mental health assessment and care. Results: The reviewed literature describes several culturally influenced presentations, including possession syndrome, Bachadani (uterine) syndrome, distress associated with vaginal discharge, Dhat syndrome-related beliefs about bodily vitality, Jhinjhinia, and mass psychogenic illness. Findings from selected studies suggest that cultural beliefs and local explanatory models significantly influence symptom interpretation, help-seeking behaviour, and treatment preferences. Bachadani syndrome among Kashmiri women illustrates the relationship between bodily symptoms, cultural understandings, and gendered experiences of distress. The literature also highlights the role of traditional healing practices, stigma, and limited cultural competence in mental healthcare. However, the available evidence varies in scope and methodological quality, and gender-specific prevalence patterns remain insufficiently established. Conclusion: Culture-bound syndromes represent an important area of culturally responsive mental healthcare in India. Understanding the intersection of culture, gender, and psychological distress may improve clinical assessment, reduce misdiagnosis, and support appropriate interventions. Strengthening cultural competence among mental health professionals, addressing gender-related barriers, and conducting further empirical research on women’s experiences are essential for developing inclusive and gender-sensitive mental health services.