Global Public Health
Volume 6, Issue SUPPL. 2, 2011, Pages S210-S226

Civic/sanctuary orientation and HIV involvement among Chinese immigrant religious institutions in New York City (Article)

Chin J.J. , Li M.Y. , Kang E. , Behar E. , Chen P.C.
  • a Department of Urban Affairs and Planning, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, United States
  • b Department of Urban Affairs and Planning, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, United States
  • c Department of Psychology, Wheaton College, Wheaton, IL, United States
  • d Department of Urban Affairs and Planning, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, United States
  • e Department of Urban Affairs and Planning, Hunter College, City University of New York, New York, United States

Abstract

Using data from a study of Chinese immigrant religious institutions in New York City (primarily Christian and Buddhist), this paper explores why some religious institutions are more inclined than others to be involved in HIV-related work. Although numerous factors are likely to play a role, we focus on organisations' differing views on social engagement as an explanatory factor. We hypothesise that religious institutions that value social engagement ('civic') will be more inclined towards HIV/AIDS involvement than those that are more inward focused ('sanctuary'). Given that many religious institutions are fundamentally defined by their stance on the appropriateness of social engagement, better understanding of this key characteristic may help to inform community and government organisations aiming to increase religious institutions' involvement in HIV/AIDS-related work. Our analysis suggests that some organisations may be less interested in taking on the challenges of working in HIV/AIDS because of their general view that churches or temples should not be socially engaged. On the other hand, religious institutions that have concerns about social acceptability, fear of infection or lack of capacity - but generally embrace social engagement - may be more open to partnering on HIV/AIDS-related work because of their overriding community service orientation. © 2011 Taylor & Francis.

Author Keywords

immigrants Social engagement Asians HIV Religious institutions

Index Keywords

China immigrant Chinese HIV Infections Human immunodeficiency virus infection human Asian continental ancestry group social aspect priority journal Christianity organization religion qualitative research United States Buddhism Humans Interviews as Topic Emigrants and Immigrants male female Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice Article Organizational Culture New York City government Religion and Medicine acquired immune deficiency syndrome

Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-80052426390&doi=10.1080%2f17441692.2011.595728&partnerID=40&md5=0d8957226ec2dd3c46a521b4b048f837

DOI: 10.1080/17441692.2011.595728
ISSN: 17441692
Cited by: 10
Original Language: English