Illness Beliefs Among Turkish Immigrants in Australia
Author Information
Author(s): Minas Harry, Klimidis Steven, Tuncer Can
Primary Institution: Centre for International Mental Health, School of Population Health, The University of Melbourne
Hypothesis
What are the illness causal beliefs held by Turkish immigrants in Australia?
Conclusion
The study found that while natural causes of illness are more commonly believed, supernatural beliefs persist among Turkish immigrants despite modern influences.
Supporting Evidence
- Natural beliefs were more frequently endorsed than supernatural beliefs.
- Two broad factors of illness beliefs were identified: natural and supernatural.
- Beliefs in fate and magical causation were among the most common supernatural beliefs.
Takeaway
People from Turkey living in Australia believe that illnesses can be caused by both natural things like stress and supernatural things like fate.
Methodology
The study used questionnaires to assess causal beliefs about somatic and mental illness among Turkish immigrants.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from self-reported data and the cultural context of the participants.
Limitations
The study may not fully capture the diversity of beliefs within the Turkish community due to its focus on a specific geographic area.
Participant Demographics
The sample consisted of 213 males and 231 females, with a median age of 36.9 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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