TEAM 2 African American Culture

docx

School

Sinclair Community College *

*We aren’t endorsed by this school

Course

1101

Subject

Anthropology

Date

Dec 6, 2023

Type

docx

Pages

Uploaded by MRK1048

Exploring Cultures and Ethnic Groups in America Team Members: Karley MacDuff, June Dulski & Laura Bennouna Ethnic group: African Americans Important information for getting started: ● For EACH section you MUST INCLUDE WHERE you found your information (i.e. URL to the site where you got your information). Remember, you need this for EACH answer! ● You must ALSO PUT YOUR NAME AT THE END of EACH section you completed . This allows your instructor to see which group member completed what portion of the assignment. ● To complete this template LEAVE IN the topic (i.e. Describe your assigned ethnic group and their culture) AND required word count (i.e. minimum 100 words). Type your response UNDER that heading. Section 1: Basic culture information: Describe your assigned ethnic group and their culture. ( minimum 100 words ) - make sure you address AT minimum each of the following: definition of your population, country(s) of origin for your ethnic group, major religion(s) of your ethnic group. A majority of present day African Americans' ancestors were trafficked from Africa to the New World by way of the Middle Passage between 1510 and 1867. More than eighty percent were taken from Africa's southern coast. These present day countries included Senegal, Gambia, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Liberia, Côte d'Ivoire, Congo, Zaire, Angola, and Namibia. A large number also have European and Native American ancestry. However, very few in comparison to their African descendants. The religious beliefs and rituals they brought with them to the Americas have ancient African origins of Egypt, Cush and Punt. Today, their religious beliefs reflect evangelical Christianity with rituals pertaining to the supernatural. (word count: 107) Laura Bennouna African American Place of Origin • FamilySearch https://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/African-Americans African-American Families - African-american Families In The New Millennium https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2594329/?page=1 Revised 2/22

Discuss the family structure and gender roles of your ethnic group. ( minimum 100 words ) - make sure you address AT minimum each of the following: the roles of males and females in your group, is your ethnic group patriarchal or matriarchal, discuss the role of the elderly AND children. The structure of the African American family is the culmination of historical events resulting in familial dynamics. It is predominantly matriarchal where the women are head of their household. This is because women had to raise children in the absence of a father. Although this is so, a family is seen as an extended family unit made up of a community of other families. Men and women don't necessarily play different roles according to their gender - with no distinct line drawn between them. Rather, they equally distribute their parental, financial and domestic duties, adopting a more flexible role. Pride and education pertaining to their history is instilled in African American children at a young age. This ensures they will be prepared for what's to come when they reach adulthood: prejudice and discrimination. Parents' demands of behavioral standards are enforced with physical punishment most others would view as abusive. Yet it is an aspect of the culture and not to be judged as negative. Anything less would be perceived as neglect and unloving in nature. Showing love toward their children is the core of their upbringing as well as the future and continuation of a strong heritage. Elders are highly respected and nurtured as well. They offer wisdom from enduring more hardships than their youth. Grandmothers often play an important role as surrogate mothers, sharing the responsibilities with their daughters or daughter-in-laws. (word count: 231) Laura Bennouna Black Slave Gender Roles: How They Were Changed by Emancipation African American Place of Origin • FamilySearch Gender Roles In African American Culture | ipl.org African-American Families - African-american Families In The New Millennium Describe the role of animals/pets in your ethnic group. ( minimum 80 words ) – make sure you address AT minimum each of the following: do animals and/or meat hold significance within their religion, how are animals treated - generally OR as pets. Whether or not they had to hide them, African American households could not care for their Revised 2/22

pets on their own. Despite the educational obstacles caused by segregation, many veterinarians and animal rescue professionals contributed to the human-animal relationships in the black community. Pet owners relied on networks of professionals and services to keep their animals safe and healthy. The African Americans would take great care of animals. In the 1970s there were plenty of African American vets and rescues. However, there is one mammal that is significant to African Americans. When they were enslaved they would hunt possums. which would help the African Americans explore the woods at night, which has been said to help them escape just from hunting. (word count: 132) Karley Macduff Pet Keeping and Pet Hiding in Black America - US History Scene How Culturally Significant Mammals Tell the Story of Social Ascension for Black Americans What are their traditions and holidays? African American holidays and traditions encompass a rich tapestry of cultural practices that have evolved over time. It's important to note that African Americans have diverse backgrounds and come from various regions of Africa, the Caribbean, and the United States, so traditions may vary depending on individual and regional experiences. Some notable holidays: Also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, Juneteenth commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It is celebrated on June 19th each year, symbolizing the day in 1865 when Union soldiers arrived in Texas, announcing the end of slavery. Celebrations often include community gatherings, parades, picnics, music performances, historical reenactments, and discussions on African American history and culture. Kwanzaa is a week-long celebration honoring African heritage and culture. It takes place from December 26th to January 1st. Created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966, Kwanzaa is observed by many African Americans who light seven candles representing the principles of Nguzo Saba: Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith). Families come together to reflect on these principles, exchange gifts, partake in communal meals, and engage in cultural activities like storytelling, drumming, and dance. Revised 2/22

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help

Celebrated in February, Black History Month pays tribute to the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history. It originated from Negro History Week, established by historian Carter G. Woodson in 1926. During this month, various events, lectures, exhibitions, and performances take place, highlighting African American history, culture, and prominent figures. It's important to remember that traditions and celebrations may vary among individuals and communities of African Americans. These are just a few examples! (word count: 223) June Dulski Pioneer Day Activities in St. George, UT (oureverydaylife.com) What are the main social issues that impact your ethnic group? African Americans in the United States face a range of social issues that impact their communities. These issues are rooted in a history of systemic racism, discrimination, and inequality. Here are some of the main social issues that significantly affect African Americans: Racial Discrimination: African Americans continue to face racial discrimination in various aspects of life, including employment, housing, education, and criminal justice. Discrimination can limit opportunities, contribute to wealth and income disparities, and perpetuate social and economic inequality. Economic Inequality: African Americans experience higher poverty rates, lower median household incomes, and limited access to economic opportunities compared to their white counterparts. Factors such as wage gaps, unequal access to quality education and job opportunities, and systemic barriers contribute to economic disparities. Education Disparities: African American students often face disparities in education, including unequal access to quality schools, resources, and experienced teachers. Achievement gaps in academic performance and graduation rates persist, impacting long-term opportunities and economic mobility. Criminal Justice System: African Americans are disproportionately affected by the criminal justice system. They face higher arrest rates, harsher sentencing, and a greater likelihood of being targeted by law enforcement. Issues such as racial profiling, biased policing, and mass Revised 2/22

incarceration contribute to the overrepresentation of African Americans in prisons and perpetuate a cycle of criminalization. Health Disparities: African Americans experience significant health disparities, including higher rates of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. Factors such as limited access to quality healthcare, disparities in health insurance coverage, and unequal distribution of resources contribute to these disparities. Voting Rights and Political Representation: African Americans have historically faced barriers to voting and political representation. While progress has been made with the passage of civil rights legislation, voter suppression efforts, gerrymandering, and other challenges continue to impact the ability of African Americans to exercise their full political rights and representation. Housing Inequality: African Americans often face housing discrimination, limited access to affordable housing, and residential segregation. The legacy of discriminatory housing policies such as redlining and racial disparities in homeownership contribute to unequal housing opportunities and disparities in neighborhood resources and quality of life. Police Brutality and Systemic Violence: Incidents of police brutality and systemic violence against African Americans have sparked widespread protests and calls for justice. High-profile cases of police violence have shed light on issues of racial bias, excessive use of force, and the need for police reform to ensure the fair and equitable treatment of African Americans. It is important to recognize and address these social issues in order to work towards a more equitable and just society for all. (word count: 428) June Dulski Race & Justice | NAACP We change the way Americans think about crime and punishment (sentencingproject.org) Racial Justice | American Civil Liberties Union (aclu.org) Section 2: Perspectives of healthcare within your group: What are their traditional definitions of health and illness and the health and illness beliefs of their culture? ( minimum 100 words ) You are looking for how they define each and the beliefs they hold in regard to health and illness. This can, depending on your assigned culture can include physical and spiritual approaches Revised 2/22

The definition of traditional African American health and illness is based upon several factors. The culture believes that illness is brought on by bad luck, loss of a job or the person was fated to be ill. Good health is seen as the opposite - better luck, a successful career or it is in the cards they remain healthy. These beliefs tie into those of the supernatural originating from their ancient ancestors. Family is the center point of African American culture. The home offers comfort, love and far better care than any facility. Food and home cooked meals are prepared as a means to restore their loved ones back to health. Therefore, healthcare professionals will only be sought out when home remedies have been unsuccessful to treat an illness. Due to the strong faith in their church, the women in the African-American community attend church in order to cope with an ill family member. In addition, the Church offers comfort, emotional support and guidance through its community. (word count: 166) Laura Bennouna Religion, Health and Medicine in African Americans: Implications for Physicians African-American Families - African-american Families In The New Millennium Black American folk medicine health care beliefs: implication for nursing plans of care https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2594329/?page=1 What are some of the traditional methods of healing practiced in their culture? ( minimum 100 words ) This can include traditional, alternative and/or folk medicine. If the culture has special “healers” that are used, please include them in your description. African American medical folklore is a combination of several beliefs and traditions. It is a mixture of Christianity, African voodoo along with European and African religious components. The practices associated with these beliefs were viewed as having the ability to heal ailments. They were used to treat physical, emotional and spiritual illnesses and promote well-being. According to an article from Duke University Medical Center, there were several remedies used to cure a variety of ailments. Spanish Moss (old man’s beard and crape moss) was used to treat pain caused by rheumatism, assists with childbirth, increases the mother’s milk production and purges the afterbirth, lowers blood pressure, helps painful hemorrhoids when applied crushed and tied around the neck will alleviate neck muscle strain. Leeches were used to promote circulation for healing injuries of the legs and fingers. Rattlebone skin was also beneficial for Revised 2/22

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help

treating rheumatism. This was done by tying dried rattlesnake skin around the wrist or leg. It was also believed to lengthen the wearer's life when wrapped around the waist. (word count: 171) Karley MacDuff https://guides.mclibrary.duke.edu/blackhistorymonth/folkmed What are current healthcare problems experienced by people in this culture ? African Americans continue to face several healthcare problems that contribute to health disparities and unequal health outcomes. These issues are influenced by a combination of social, economic, and systemic factors. Here are some current healthcare problems experienced by African Americans: Health Insurance Coverage: African Americans are more likely to be uninsured or have limited access to affordable health insurance compared to their white counterparts. This lack of coverage can lead to delays in seeking care, limited preventive services, and difficulties in managing chronic conditions. Chronic Diseases: African Americans have higher rates of certain chronic diseases, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. These health conditions are influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and socio-economic factors. Limited access to healthcare, health education, and healthy food options contribute to the higher prevalence of these diseases. Maternal and Infant Mortality: African American women experience higher rates of maternal mortality and severe maternal morbidity compared to other racial and ethnic groups. Additionally, infant mortality rates are higher among African American babies. Factors contributing to these disparities include limited access to quality prenatal care, racial bias in healthcare settings, and socioeconomic challenges. Mental Health Disparities: African Americans face significant disparities in mental health outcomes. They are more likely to experience psychological distress, depression, and post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Barriers to mental healthcare, including stigma, lack of culturally competent providers, and limited access to affordable mental health services, contribute to these disparities. Access to Quality Care: African Americans may face barriers in accessing quality healthcare services. These barriers include geographic disparities, lack of healthcare providers in underserved areas, racial bias in healthcare delivery, and cultural insensitivity. Limited access to Revised 2/22

preventive care, early detection of diseases, and timely treatment can negatively impact health outcomes. Trust and Racial Bias in Healthcare: Historical experiences of discrimination and racial bias in healthcare have eroded trust between African Americans and the medical system. This mistrust can impact healthcare-seeking behaviors, adherence to treatment plans, and engagement with preventive services. Addressing these healthcare problems requires comprehensive efforts to reduce systemic barriers, improve access to affordable healthcare, promote health equity, and ensure culturally sensitive and patient-centered care. It involves addressing social determinants of health, expanding health insurance coverage, increasing diversity in the healthcare workforce, and promoting community-based interventions to improve health outcomes for African Americans. (word count: 383) June Dulski Racism, Inequality, and Health Care for African Americans (tcf.org) . What are the traditional birthing rituals of their culture? ( minimum 100 words ) - make sure you address AT minimum each of the following: describe what you have learned about birthing and birth, how the pregnant women are treated, are their specific things done during pregnancy, during birth, after birth. There hasn't been much research on African American women birthing rituals. But there has been much research on midwives and doulas in the last 1930. 12 African American maternity health-care providers. Seven semi-structured questions were presented to the focus group participants. Connecting with nurturers, navigating an unresponsive system, the need to be strong, and childbirth classes not being a priority were the four themes that came to light. The following recommendations are made for nurses and childbirth educators: (a) self-awareness of attitudes toward African Americans, (b) empowering clients for birth, (c) acknowledging the importance of the mothers of pregnant women, (d) tailoring childbirth classes for African American women, and (e) research on how racism affects pregnant African American women's readiness for birth. (word count: 123) Karley Macduff Revised 2/22

What culture phenomena (biological variations, environmental control, social organization, communication, space, and time orientation) can impact the care provided in this culture? ( minimum 100 words ) – you must address AT LEAST TWO of these areas – definitions are found in your chapter for this lesson. Culture plays a significant role in shaping the care provided to African Americans. Various cultural phenomena can influence healthcare interactions and impact the delivery of care. Here are some cultural phenomena that can affect healthcare for African Americans: Biological Variations: Biological variations, such as genetic predispositions and physiological differences, can impact the care provided to African Americans. For example, certain diseases may present differently or have a higher prevalence in this population. Understanding these biological variations is essential for accurate diagnosis, treatment planning, and preventive care. Environmental Control: African American cultural values and beliefs regarding environmental control may influence healthcare decisions. Some individuals may prioritize community support and input in healthcare decisions, preferring a collective approach to decision-making. Recognizing and respecting these preferences can enhance patient-provider communication and collaborative care planning. Social Organization: African Americans often have strong family and community networks that influence healthcare decisions and support systems. Healthcare providers should consider the role of family and community in the patient's care, including involving them in discussions and decision-making processes when appropriate. Communication Styles: Effective communication is essential for quality healthcare. African American cultural norms may influence communication styles, including nonverbal cues, language patterns, and body language. Healthcare providers should be mindful of these cultural communication styles, actively listen, and foster open and trusting relationships with patients. Space: Cultural preferences regarding personal space and physical proximity may vary among African Americans. Some individuals may value closer physical proximity and engage in more direct communication. Respect for personal space boundaries and adapting communication styles accordingly can enhance patient comfort and satisfaction. Time Orientation: Time orientation can differ among individuals and cultural groups. African American patients may have varying perspectives on punctuality, appointment times, and the perception of waiting times. Healthcare providers should strive to be mindful of these cultural differences and work towards effective time management and communication to minimize potential misunderstandings. Understanding and respecting these cultural phenomena can contribute to culturally sensitive and patient-centered care for African Americans. It promotes better communication, trust, and Revised 2/22

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help

engagement between healthcare providers and patients, leading to improved health outcomes. It is crucial for healthcare professionals to be culturally competent and continuously educate themselves about the diverse needs and experiences of African American patients. (word count 370) June Dulski Biological variations Despite being an unscientific concept, race continues to be prominent in health research, clinical guidelines, and clinical practice. they have investigated how 58 primary care clinicians conceptualize and apply ideas of racial difference through interviews with them. There is strong consensus that race should be taken into account when providing clinical care. They did this by making generalizations about the biological, social, and cultural traits of racial minorities in order to explain how race affects health. They were inconsistent in the specifics of what they said should be done for minority patients and only identified specific race-based clinical strategies for a small number of conditions. The use of race in clinical medicine, we conclude, fosters and upholds the delusion that there are inherent racial differences and may lead to minority patients receiving care aimed at racial groups. (word count: 139) Karley Macduff Genes, Race, and Culture in Clinical Care - PMC Culture and social organization is shaped by historical events. One horrific event, causing skepticism among the African American community was the The Tuskegee Syphilis Study that lasted from 1932 to 1972. It created a distrust in conventional medicine that would be passed down through the years and influence health-related behaviors and outcomes. Another societal factor that impacts care given to African Americans is inequality in the American healthcare system. The lack of adequate medical insurance and access to health services have led to poor health outcomes. Lack of communication and understanding between African Americans and healthcare professionals is another culture phenomenon responsible for impacting care. The concept, Low health literacy (LHL), plays a huge role in the miscommunication. Healthcare literature and patient information are written using language that is above high-school level. This poses a problem for African Americans who are segregated to live in neighborhoods where quality education is less than satisfactory. (word count: 157) Revised 2/22

Laura Bennouna Health Literacy | HRSA . Low health literacy - PMC . Health Literacy in African-American Communities: Barriers and Strategies - PMC TUSKEGEE AND THE HEALTH OF BLACK MEN - PMC How poor communication exacerbates health inequities – and what to do about it | Brookings . Racism, Inequality, and Health Care for African Americans Section 3: Each team member is required to do the following: Identify at least one thing learned from your research above that you believe will impact giving care AND what you as a healthcare professional will need to do to work effectively with this patient. EACH item must focus on a DIFFERENT concept. ● EACH person in your group needs to contribute at least 1 item ( ALL points need to address different concepts ), AND ● EACH point needs to be a minimum of 75 words. The impact of trust and racial bias on care provision for African American patients is significant. Racial bias can result in disparities in treatment, leading to differences in the quality and type of care received. This can manifest as undertreatment, delays in care, or receiving less aggressive treatment. Mistrust can create communication barriers, hindering accurate diagnosis and care planning as patients may be less likely to openly discuss symptoms and concerns. Diagnostic biases influenced by unconscious biases can also contribute to missed or delayed diagnoses, exacerbating health disparities. To work effectively with African American patients, healthcare professionals should adopt a culturally sensitive approach, building trust through active listening, respect, and validation of experiences. Mitigating biases, enhancing cultural competence, empowering patients through shared decision-making, and collaborating with community organizations are key strategies to provide effective care and address healthcare disparities. By addressing the impact of trust and racial bias, healthcare professionals can work towards equitable and patient-centered care for African American patients. Building trust, fostering open communication, and promoting cultural competence are essential steps in delivering effective care and reducing health disparities. (word count 181) June Dulski Revised 2/22

The impact of traditional methods and rituals of African Americans is that it helped us evolve our treatments. The slaves didn't have great medical care. Therefore, they had to find other things that would work. African Americans finding out those things helped them to figure out more and more about how they could cure things like dry skin, headaches, stomach aches, and many other other things. It was also very impactful to learn how African Americans cared for their animals because of the income aspect. They couldn't have animals because they didn't have enough money to make sure the animals had food and treatments. (word count: 123) Karley Macduff I believe the structure of the African American family greatly impacts the care they are given. Having knowledge of what roles each family member plays also helps to discover who they are as an individual. The only way to provide the best care possible is to not only have an understanding of their family structure, but to accept and embrace it. With their consent I would be more effective by including family members. In addition, it would be important to ask about their family members and genuinely show interest in their world. Showing interest would be an opportunity for me to build trust to find out more about their health concerns. Being respectful and humble toward the elderly would also open the door for me to give them the best care. (word count: 131) Laura Bennouna Revised 2/22

Your preview ends here

Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version

Access to all documents
Unlimited textbook solutions
24/7 expert homework help

TEAM 2 African American Culture

Related Documents