| Description |
The purpose of this ethnographic study was to explore and describe the folk health belief system of a group of blacks within the social, political and economic context of the rural Virginia community in which they live. The term 'folk' is used here to refer to people's own understandings and ideas, or the emic perspective. Fieldwork was carried out in a county of about 10,000 residents, of whom one third were black. A purposive and convenience sample of adults was drawn from this population for intensive interviews. Informal interviewing was also carried out. Data were gathered through participant observation as well. Data show that there is a blending of spiritual, mental/emotional, and physical aspects of health in the folk belief system. Unity of mind, body and soul is a key theme underlying beliefs about health promotion, prevention of sickness, etiology of health problems, and restoration of health. Spiritual beliefs about health are the predominant ones. God, faith, prayer, sin, fate, the Bible, salvation, and afterlife are all shown to relate to health, sickness, and healing. The relative strength and influence of sacred and secular beliefs vary with individuals according to experience, family interaction, religious training and personal philosophy of life. Resources for health advice, for understanding of body concepts, and for therapeutic measures for sickness include: family, pastors, books, friends, the public media, and allopathic medicine. As it is believed that both general and specific factors affect health, people draw upon both in dealing with health needs. Since health is a multifaceted concept, health practices require a multifaceted approach. Elements from all parts of the ethnomedical system are combined, with people turning to spiritual, physical and psychosocial approaches and resources in resolving health matters. Varying and, at times, conflicting approaches may be used concurrently. This study has implications for nursing practice, education and research. The need for inclusion of cultural aspects in client care and the need for further research are discussed and explored. |
