Cultural Factors of Importance to Mrs. Phillips

At the moment, beliefs about family have been of great help to Mrs. Phillips. Family dynamics affect her in several important ways. First, she counts on her relatives in the area to provide both emotional and instrumental support. She also derives great satisfaction from having them visit so that she can cook meals for them. Finally, because it is reasonable to assume that over time Mrs. Jackson’s health and ability to function may deteriorate, it is important to know which family member(s) take the lead in making health care decisions for Mrs. Phillips. In addition, cultural values with regard to religion provide Mrs. Phillips with a source of great comfort and strength.

Perhaps the greatest challenge to Mrs. Phillips well-being is a socioeconomic fact, rather than a cultural one. Because she lives in a home and neighborhood that present significant barriers to getting around, she is confined to her home more than she might need to be. Although she does not complain about this, she has clearly had to give up activities that are important to her because of these limitations.

To learn more about family relationships in African-American families, you can find an extensive bibliography at: http://www.ssc.wisc.edu/nsfh/bib.htm

For a brief overview of African-American history and culture (including a short discussion of religion) visit: http://www.africawithin.com/asante/contours.htm

The encyclopedia of culture and religion also discusses religion in African-American communities. Get more information about this source at: http://hirr.hartsem.edu/ency/Racism.htm

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