The cultural and spiritual factors influencing health-seeking behavior of Indian Hindu people in Laudium

Abstract

The following research was conducted in order to explore the cultural and spiritual factors influencing health seeking behaviours of the Indian Hindu people in Laudium. In order to achieve the broad objectives of the research, the cultural and spiritual factors influencing health seeking behaviour from a health belief perspective are conceptualised and contextualized. Furthermore, the research makes suggestions to improve social work services in healthcare, taking into consideration the factors influencing health-seeking behaviour of the Indian Hindu people in Laudium. The research made use of the qualitative approach, which allowed her to explore, and add information to, the cultural and spiritual factors influencing health-seeking behaviour of Indian Hindu people. In addition, the researcher utilised the case study to explore the cultural and spiritual factors influencing health-seeking behaviour of Indian Hindu people. Through the use of instrumental case study, the researcher was able to develop knowledge through the use of the perceptions of Indian Hindu people. The study population comprised Indian Hindu people from Laudium in Gauteng. Non-probability sampling technique was employed. The datagathering technique that was relevant for the study was that of semistructured interviews. One-to-one interviews were utilised in the study to explore the worlds of the participants in their own perceptions and frames of reference. The interviews were audio recorded and all 10 participants permitted the researcher to record the interviews. To analyse the data, the researcher utilised a thematic analysis following the six-step process as described by Braun, Clarke and Hayfield (2006:77-101) in their guidelines. Ethical considerations were observed throughout the research process. The research came up with three key findings, that is, most participants sought to make use of natural options rather than medical solutions in order to maintain good health, second, people try home remedies for sickness before approaching their healthcare provider. The researcher also established that social worker involvement is a bridge between religion and medical care, and participants were dissatisfied with the level of service delivery by healthcare workers. The conclusion of the study shows that spirituality is well understood in the Indian community, sick people are the ones who seek medical care, and dietary habits are important in reducing healthcare bills.