Health susceptibility perceptions among Iranian, Afghan and Tajik minorities in three Nordic countries
Peer reviewed, Journal article
Published version
Date
2024Metadata
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Original version
International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care. 2024, . 10.1108/IJMHSC-03-2023-0028Abstract
Purpose – This research paper aims to delve into the perceptions of health susceptibility among Iranian,
Afghan and Tajik individuals hailing from asylum-seeking or refused asylum-seeking backgrounds currently residing in Finland, Norway and Sweden.
Design/methodology/approach – Semi-structured interviews were conducted between May and October 2022 involving a sample size of 27 participants. An adapted framework based on the health belief model along with previous studies served as a guide for formulating interview questions.
Findings – Notably influenced by cultural background, religious beliefs, psychological states and past traumatic experiences during migration journeys – before arrival in these countries till settling down –
subjects’ perception of health concerns emerged significantly shaped. Additionally impacting perspectives were social standing, occupational status, personal/family medical history, lifestyle choices
and dietary preferences nurtured over time, leading to varying degrees of influence upon individuals’
interpretation about their own wellness or illness.
Practical implications – Insights garnered throughout the authors’ analysis hold paramount significance when it comes to developing targeted strategies catering culturally sensitive health-care provisions, alongside framing policies better aligned with primary care services tailored explicitly around singular demands posed by these specific communities dwelling within respective territories.
Originality/value – This investigation represents one among few pioneering initiatives assessing
perceptions regarding both physical and mental well-being within minority groups under examination
across Nordic nations, unveiling complexities arising through intersecting factors like individual attributes
mingling intricately with socio-cultural environments, thereby forming unique viewpoints towards health-
care belief systems prevalent among such population segments.