Sweet blood: Hmong decision making and experiences in living with diabetes
Author(s):
Vang, Lhee Noei
Format:
Thesis
Degree granted:
M.A.
Publisher:
Ann Arbor : California State University, Long Beach, 2005.
Pages:
175
Language:
English
Abstract:
This research explores the current beliefs Hmong diabetics have about diabetes and their health care decisions. Ideas about the cause, symptoms, and treatment of diabetes was analyzed and provided insight into their decision making. Health care specialists were also interviewed to ascertain the extent of their knowledge about Hmong health care beliefs and how their Hmong diabetic patients make health care decisions. Narratives were drawn from in-depth interviews and included in this study to give context to the findings. A decision model was created to understand how Hmong diabetics make health care choices. Diabetes was believed to be a result of natural causes, yet symptoms of diabetes were interpreted as caused by both natural and supernatural phenomena. Health care decisions depend upon cultural beliefs, social and economic status and social support.