The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #61665

Felicia S. Hodge, DrPH¹, Doris Hill, RN, PhD (ABD)¹, and Betty A. Geishirt Cantrell, MSSW, MBA². (1) Center for American Indian Research and Education, University of Minnesota, 6-125B Weaver-Densford Hall, 308 Harvard Street, Minneapolis, MN 55455, 612-624-6956, hodge029@umn.edu, (2) Center for American Indian Research & Education, University of Minnesota, 1918 University Avenue, Suite 3-A, Berkeley, CA 94704

This paper examines the relationship of sense of belonging (connectiveness), health outcomes, and health promoting behaviors within a cultural worldview. The American Indian worldview reasons, “a person is viewed as an extension to, and is integrated with a family, community, tribe, and the creation/universe.” Sense of belonging is a component of relatedness and connectedness. A Behavioral Risk Factor Survey was administered to a randomized sample of 324 adult American Indians in California rural communities. The survey included questions regarding sense of belonging, connectiveness to the community, network relationships, health outcomes and health-promoting behaviors. A correlational analysis examined the interactions between variables of interest. Findings indicate positive relationships between connectiveness and health outcomes. Further, a strong relationship was established with such health-promoting behaviors as wearing a seatbelt, not driving when drinking, cancer screening, and good nutrition and weight maintenance. There is a need to develop culturally appropriate health-promotion interventions and research of this nature provides an opportunity to gain a better understanding of culturally significant concepts such as sense of belonging.

Learning Objectives:

• At the end of the presentation, participants will understand the relationship of connectiveness/belonging, health outcomes, and health promoting behaviors within the American Indian cultural worldview.

Keywords: American Indians, Health Behavior

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: University of Minnesota
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employed by University of Minnesota