Question

What is the common structure of the family in African American group? (patriarchal, matriarchal). What is the role of elders in this family structure?. If a member of African American group was hospitalized, how would the family handle it?  Give two ways to approach the family as a nurse needing to provide health related information.

Answer 1

The family may be matriarchal, although father or mother may take on the decision-making role. For African Americans, women more than men tend to remain unmarried, and more women have been educated at the college level.

role of elders-  the older generation is more conservative, may have a more traditional view of gender roles, and may shun interracial dating and marriage. Elders are respected and often provide care for their grandchildren. Institutionalization of elders has historically been avoided, with sons and daughters taking on the family caretaker role.

they may be a little reserved or suspicious until it is apparent that their health care provider is friendly, wants to listen, and is interested in them. There may be reluctance to share personal or family issues, so building a trusting relationship is absolutely crucial.

Understanding a patient’s practice of cultural norms can allow nurses to build rapport and ensure effective patient-nurse communication. Efforts to reduce health disparities among African Americans must be holistic, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual health of individuals and families. Also important is making connections with community members and recognizing conditions in the community. Again, get to know your patients on an individual level. Generalizations in this material may not apply to your patients. Not all patients from diverse populations conform to commonly known culture-specific behaviors, beliefs, and actions.