Aim: This project aims to investigate and describe social cohesion and related constructs (social support, social network, spirituality, norms of child-rearing practices, racial/ethnic community identification, and hierarchical community structure) and their relation to health in Hispanic communities. Study population: Four Hispanic neighborhoods in Harris County, Texas, and two Hispanic communities on the Border in Cameron County, Texas. Data were collected from October 2000 to January 2001. Methods: Qualitative analysis was used. Three focus groups were carried out in each community: men, US born women, and foreign born women. In-depth interviews supplemented the information from the focus groups. The groups and interviews were carried out in Spanish, except when English was preferred by the participants. Groups were asked to discuss social cohesion in the community, social support, social network, spirituality, norms of child-rearing practices, racial/ethnic community identification, and hierarchical community structure in their communities. They were also asked their perceptions on the relationship between community social cohesion and related constructs and the health of their community. Results: Family networks provided the strongest support. Spirituality was very important in the life of most participants. The sense of social cohesion was particularly felt among extended family members and neighbors. Neighborhoods varied in their sense of social cohesion. Some participants, but not all, recognized the relationship between social cohesion and health. Differences were seen between the communities on the Border and those in Houston. Conclusions: The results will be used to frame community based interventions aimed at improving social cohesion and community health.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to: 1. articulate the qualitative procedures to investigate social cohesion in communities 2. describe the determinants of social cohesion in Hispanic communities 3. assess social cohesion in Hispanic communities
Keywords: Ethnic Minorities, Community Research
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.