Identify two religious or spiritual practices in which members of the Evans family may engage in for treating hypertension, diabetes, and mental illness. (60-71)Some of the triggering factors for these diseases are poor relations that lead to elevated stress that leads to expression of the disease symptoms. Activities like singing in the church choir, community ministry and teaching bible study or Sunday school may lower the stress levels of the individuals and aid in relaxation, increasing their sense of worth hence wellbeing all essential in counteracting stress and reducing pangs of these conditions.These activities also allow for exercise and social support all necessary in management of these conditions (Huss-Ashmore R.
et. al, 1992, Purnell L., 2008).6. Identify and discuss cultural views that Dorothy and her parents may have about mental illness and medication. (pg 71)Low health literacy about mental health gives room for ignorance and perpetuation of myths.
From a religious view, the family may consider mental disorders to be “works” of evil spirits and thus an indicator of sin within the family or the affected individual that gives Satan an entry route to torment the individual (Howard, E. B., 2000).Medical care may in most cases not be sought as the condition is considered spiritual and can only be dealt with spiritually through prayer and laying of hands. In extremes exorcism may be practiced (Kallendorf H.
, 2003)7. To what extent are members of the Evans family at risk for illnesses associated with environmental hazards?The family can be considered as exposure prone due to their closeness to the chemical industries and the superfund site. With the expected “carefree” attitude of African Americans, the family may not consider the above risks as great and their attachment to family property may deter them from seeking a new home elsewhere.Some of the family members may also be employed in the factories and as such may act as sources of contamination to the rest of the family.ReferencesHoward, E.
B. (2000). Affirming the touch of God: A psychological and philosophical exploration of Christian discernment. Maryland, MD: University Press of America. pp282Huss-Ashmore R., Schall J.
and Hediger M. (1992). Health and Lifestyle Change, Vol. 9. Philadelphia, PA: University of Pennsylvania, Museum of ArchaeologyKallendorf H.
, (2003). Exorcism and its texts: Subjectivity in early modern literature of England and Spain. Toronto, TO: University of Toronto Press. pp285Purnell D. L., Paulanka J.
B. (2008). Transcultural health care: A culturally competent approach. Newark, DE: F.
A. Davis pp56-72
