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Cultural Views on Health

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Cultural Views on Health

Every cultures view on health is varied by different variables. Such as religion, economy, superstition, tradition, science, and logic this list continues on. This type of variables is what forms a cultures conceptions and opinions on health. Although, some of these attributes may not make since to everyone these attributes can either make care giving easier, or harder. Like many other cultures the Hispanic culture has their views on health. Although many Hispanics live in the United States their views on health often reflect their traditions and their ancestry. Hispanic’s generally see health as being and looking well. This could include being able to rest, being happy, and being able to perform ones duties (Rhode Island Department of Health, 2009). The Hispanic culture believes that emotions have strong ties to health. They avoid extreme emotions such as sadness, rage, and depression. These types of emotions are believed to be strongly linked to health. This belief falls in line with the concept of health as harmony. Striving to have a positive outlook on life and develop harmony with oneself and the surroundings. This type of thinking supports a healthy mental status which encourages a healthy physical status. When observing a person which is sick with a negative attitude towards a sickness or life will typically take longer to recover. There is something about a positive outlook that encourages the body to restore health and promotes quick recovery. Hispanics may not seek medical help until they are very sick. Preventative medicine is not a norm for most Hispanics (Rhode Island Department of Health, 2009). This can make treatment difficult for health care providers. With preventative treatment illness could be avoided. With the lack of preventative treatment and waiting

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