Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #105369

Lisa M. Lewis, PhD, RN, School of Nursing, Division of Family and Community Health, University of Pennsylvania, 420 Guardian Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19014, 215-898-0828, lisaml@nursing.upenn.edu

Spirituality affects many aspects of African-American (AA) life including beliefs, health practices and outcomes. Despite this assertion, a conceptual exploration of AA spirituality is lacking. Most definitions of spirituality are based upon intellectual formations of researchers rather than the direct experiences and articulations of lay people, particularly for African-Americans. The purpose of this study was to elicit culturally appropriate concepts of AA spirituality as it relates to health promotion and disease prevention. Specifically, focus group participants' beliefs about the meaning of spirituality, its perceived roles in their lives, and roles in promoting healthy behaviors were explored. Twelve adult AA participants, age >18 years and fluent in English were recruited from community centers, spiritual/religious worship sites, and college campuses in a northeastern city to participate in one of two focus group sessions. Both sessions were audio-taped, transcribed and then analyzed utilizing grounded theory methodology. Key themes were identified for each of the study's three research questions: How do African-Americans define spirituality? How is spirituality differentiated from religion in the African-American community? and How does spirituality affect the health of African-Americans? Based upon these themes, an AA concept of spirituality was developed and contrasted with current definitions of spirituality. Moreover, specific spiritually based strategies were identified as potential health promoting interventions as well as interventions for managing chronic illnesses.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to

• Explain the significance of exploring the concept of spirituality in the African-American community.
• Identify at least three differences between the terms spirituality and religion.
• List two to three identifying factors of African-American spirituality.
• Discuss at least two examples of spiritual strategies utilized by African-Americans to promote health.

Keywords: African American, Health Disparities

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

Recorded presentation