May 6 - 8, 2002
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Providing Culturally Competent Disability Services
to Persons Born in other Countries May 6 - 8, 2002 |
Cultural values, beliefs and attitudes of immigrant Chinese
Fancott, C.
Sunnybrook & Women's Health Sciences Centre
Toronto, Ontario Canada
carol.fancott@swchsc.on.ca
Abstract
This qualitative study has explored cultural values, beliefs, and attitudes of immigrant Chinese women (aged 50 - 70 years) toward physical activity and exercise. Symbolic interaction within a cultural model provided a theoretical framework in which to un derstand the findings of this study. For these women, the meaning of physical activity and exercise were subsumed under the broader rubric of health, which may be viewed through a Chinese cultural lens related to values of family and longevity. These wome n see health as increasingly important as they age. At this life stage, they are receptive to messages about health, particularly in regard to diet and exercise, elements they have identified to be within their control and responsibility. Exploring underl ying cultural meanings may help to direct appropriate interventions and strategies by health care professionals to promote and enhance health and well being in diverse, multicultural populations in Canada, the United States, and elsewhere.