Document Type
Poster
Publication Date
4-23-2015
Disciplines
Anthropology | Medicine and Health | Social and Behavioral Sciences | Social and Cultural Anthropology | Sociology
Advisor
Jessica O'Reilly, Sociology
Abstract
In this ethnographic study, we looked at how the Somali people view illness and disease in a Western society. In addition, we looked at how differing views and cultural practices affected their treatment and interpretation of Western medicine. Due to the ongoing increase of Somali people in the United States, this topic is important in showcasing the difficulties that newcomers face when it comes to medicine and how these experiences shape their view of Western medicine. These difficulties include language barriers and cultural differences. Our main focus was on the St. Cloud area due to its close proximity to the College of Saint Benedict and the fact that Minnesota has the highest percentage of Somali people in the U.S. The study involved interviews from the director of English Learners at Discovery Community Elementary School, doctors at the St. Cloud Hospital emergency department and within the CentraCare clinic system, a Somali community health worker, and Somali college students.
Recommended Citation
Anderson, Jeffry J.; Macrae, Sinloria C.; Meckeler, Katee A.; Yang, Jennifer N.; and Xiong, Sheng, "Bridging the gap: The St. Cloud Somali community’s view of illness and disease in a Western society & its effects on patient care" (2015). Celebrating Scholarship & Creativity Day (2011-2017). 54.
https://digitalcommons.csbsju.edu/elce_cscday/54