NR 222 Week 3 Cultural and Societal Influences on Health

Student Name

Chamberlain University

NR-222 Health & Wellness

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Date

Cultural and Societal Influences on Health

Culturally Based Behaviors That May Not Promote Health

In many cultural groups different from one’s own, health behaviors are shaped by traditions, spirituality, and long-standing practices. While these traditions provide identity and meaning, they can sometimes conflict with biomedical approaches to health. For instance, within Native American communities, health is often perceived as an interconnected balance of spiritual, emotional, and environmental well-being, rather than being solely dependent on physiological or medical factors. McLaughlin and Braun (1998) explain that many Native Americans may turn to a shaman or medicine man for guidance, believing that illnesses are spiritual in nature. This reliance on spiritual healing may inadvertently delay medical interventions that could address underlying health concerns more effectively.

Approaching Health Education with Cultural Sensitivity

When promoting health education to Native Americans, it is essential to approach the subject with cultural humility and respect. Instead of disregarding traditional practices, healthcare providers should present medical interventions in ways that complement spiritual beliefs. For example, providers can explain how certain medical treatments support the body’s natural ability to restore balance—an idea that aligns with Native American perspectives. This approach fosters trust and minimizes resistance to medical care.

Mulkey (2004) highlights the cultural importance of menstruation, which is often viewed as a sacred period. Women may choose to limit certain medical treatments during this time. Acknowledging such beliefs before recommending interventions not only respects cultural traditions but also encourages patient participation in health care planning.

NR 222 Week 3: Cultural and Societal Influences on Health

Respecting privacy and modesty is another significant consideration in Native American health practices. Many individuals prefer same-gender healthcare providers, as modesty is deeply valued. Although not always feasible, healthcare organizations should attempt to accommodate these preferences whenever possible. By doing so, providers enhance patient comfort and increase adherence to medical recommendations.

The table below summarizes culturally influenced health behaviors and appropriate strategies to improve health education in Native American communities:

Building Trust Through Cultural Competence

Health promotion among culturally diverse populations requires more than clinical knowledge—it requires cultural competence. Providers who actively seek to understand patients’ traditions, ask respectful questions about spiritual practices, and adapt care strategies accordingly are more likely to gain trust. This trust becomes the foundation for effective health interventions, ensuring that patients feel respected and heard.

References

McLaughlin, L. A., & Braun, K. L. (1998). Asian and Pacific Islander cultural values: Considerations for health care decision making. Health & Social Work, 23(2), 116–126.

NR 222 Week 3 Cultural and Societal Influences on Health

Mulkey, M. (2004). Menstrual traditions and practices among Native American women. Journal of Transcultural Nursing, 15(3), 169–175.