Journal of Transcultural Nursing
Volume 29, Issue 6, 2018, Pages 548-554

Cultural Beliefs, Perceptions, and Practices of Young Adult Offspring of African Immigrants Regarding Healthy Eating and Activity (Article)

Jakub K.E.* , Turk M.T. , Fapohunda A. , Zoucha R.
  • a Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
  • b Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
  • c Public Health Services, FOB Group, LLC, Monroeville, PA, United States
  • d Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, United States

Abstract

Introduction: African immigrants and their offspring are increasing in the United States. Yet little is known about the beliefs, perceptions, and practices of second-generation African immigrants regarding healthy eating and physical activities within the context of culture and environment. Method: Five small group interviews using a focused ethnography qualitative method were conducted with 20 college-age students who were offspring of African immigrants. Data were analyzed using Leininger’s four phases of analysis. Results: Four themes emerged: (1) family, community, and religious ties to traditional African foods; (2) traditional African cuisine as healthy and american foods as nonhealthy; (3) eating patterns vary according to availability and resources; and (4) exercise patterns have familial, peer-driven, and generational influences. Discussion: African food was a connection to family and the African community. Food choices and activities were strongly influenced by accessibility, social structures, and the environment. Dietary and activity-based interventions should include both American and African influences. © The Author(s) 2018.

Author Keywords

African Offspring healthy diet second generation Young adult physical activity

Index Keywords

information processing physical activity cultural anthropology perception immigrant progeny adult child exercise college human controlled study Adult Children eating social structure ethnology procedures qualitative research interview United States Young Adult student Humans migrant psychology Black person Adolescent African Continental Ancestry Group male Emigrants and Immigrants female ethnography qualitative analysis clinical article cultural factor Healthy Diet Article adult human experiment Cultural Characteristics Anthropology, Cultural Focus Groups

Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85044479737&doi=10.1177%2f1043659618761532&partnerID=40&md5=45c48670cca5f97816ba4c3ddb24b694

DOI: 10.1177/1043659618761532
ISSN: 10436596
Cited by: 1
Original Language: English