Cultural diversity in health and mental health: The case of Haitians living in New York City.
Item
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Title
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Cultural diversity in health and mental health: The case of Haitians living in New York City.
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Identifier
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AAI3008852
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identifier
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3008852
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Creator
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Mith-Joseph, Marie Joelle.
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Contributor
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Adviser: Barbara Katz Rothman
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Date
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2001
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Language
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English
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Publisher
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City University of New York.
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Subject
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Sociology, Ethnic and Racial Studies
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Abstract
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This study was focused towards uncovering possible explanations for differences noted in the doctor-patient relationship involving Haitian patients and white American medical and mental health care providers in New York City. Some Haitians have reported their interactions with white providers were at times degrading. The roots of this negativism was explored. Another component of this study was to use the case of Haitians to further support the inclusion of cultural sensitivity in health care.;Qualitative methodologies were utilized: interviews and participant observation. Three small samples were interviewed about their experiences in this interaction: white American providers, Haitian patients, and Haitian providers. Data gathered were supplemented with literature information.;Some of the white providers interviewed acknowledged the possible existence of biases among their colleagues, and advocated sensitivity training in their education. They also reported difficulties providing health care while responding to stresses imposed by the health care system.;The Haitian patients reported observing other groups treated more positively and felt Haitians were looked upon with disdain and perceived as Black, poor and ignorant.;Haitian providers recognized difficulties white providers may experience providing care to Haitians who are very attached to their culture. However, they also seemed to believe there is a lack of respect for Haitians due to the historically poor image of Haitians in our society and this is displayed in some of the interactions between white providers and Haitian patients.;The results of this study suggest the negative experiences some Haitians have had when interacting with white providers is likely related to the providers'own biases about Haitians, which also appear to interfere in how providers perceive and treat Haitian patients.;The study's results have ramifications for other groups as well. What appears to be implied in this study is an increase likelihood that the image society has of a group can permeate to different institutions in that society, e.g., health care, and have adverse effects on that group. Cultural sensitivity training for providers is also indicated.
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Type
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dissertation
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Source
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PQT Legacy CUNY.xlsx
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degree
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Ph.D.
