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Australian Journal of Primary Health Australian Journal of Primary Health Society
The issues influencing community health services and primary health care
RESEARCH ARTICLE

Childhood Health and Illness: Cultural Beliefs and Practices among the Hmong in Victoria

Pranee Liamputtong Rice

Australian Journal of Primary Health 4(4) 44 - 59
Published: 1998

Abstract

This paper examines the cultural construction of childhood illness among Hmong refugees from Laos who are living in Australia. It focuses on traditional patterns of beliefs and practices related to health and illness of newborn infants and young children. The Hmong treat childhood health and illness seriously, and for them there are several causes of childhood illness, including nature, souls, supernatural beings and human aggression. The roles of traditional healers who play an important part in childhood health and illness are also discussed. Lastly, the paper attempts to make clear some implications for child health services for immigrants such as the Hmong in Australia and elsewhere. The paper intends to contribute an anthropological perspective on child health which is particularly important in a multicultural society. A clear understanding by health professionals of cultural beliefs and expectations is essential if misunderstanding is to be avoided, and culturally appropriate and sensitive health care for immigrant children, such as the Hmong to be available.

https://doi.org/10.1071/PY98060

© La Trobe University 1998

Committee on Publication Ethics


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