Faith Beyond Reasons - An Insight into Cultural Beliefs and Practices Influencing Health Seeking Behavior in a Tribal Population

Alokkumar Singh; Sophie Simon; R. R. Shinde

Volume : VII, Issue : VII, July - 2018

Faith Beyond Reasons - An Insight into Cultural Beliefs and Practices Influencing Health Seeking Behavior in a Tribal Population

Alokkumar Singh, Sophie Simon, R. R. Shinde

Abstract :

Background–Although literacy, industrialization and urbanization have led to an increased acceptance of modern concepts of disease causation, there still existsthe age old concept of supernatural theory which has proven to be a hurdle in the utilization of health care services. Therefore it is imperative to understand the prevalence and magnitude of such traditional beliefs. Objectives 1. To determine the socio economic demographic factors influencing health seeking behavior of tribal population.2.To understand the cultural beliefs and practices related to health and disease.3. To determine the preferred approach for treatment seeking on first contact and consequently for cure from disease.Methods– This is a cross – sectional study with qualitative design conducted at Khaire village of Palghar District, Maharashtra , a recognized tribal village on Government records. A focus group discussion was conducted with the villagers to obtain an insight of various traditional beliefs and practices related to health and diseases in the community. The information acquired by this process was utilized to design an interview schedule to further study the prevalence of unscientific faith&health–deteriorating cultural practices. All the personal interviews were conducted by house – to – house visits.Results– 46 out of 54 participants admitted visiting traditional healers for various illnesses including minor and chronic illnesses, gastrointestinal complaints, mental illnesses, sexual complaints.Conclusion– Cultural and traditional beliefs are asetback in our health care system which need to be addressed.