Using a Decolonizing Research Method to Address Underrepresentation and Health Disparities of Filipinx/a/o Americans: The Importance of Kuwentuhan as a Research Method

Abstract

Kuwentuhan is an indigenous Filipino oral storytelling method used to preserve history and values and demonstrates how cultural values and knowledge are passed down through generations. Kuwentuhan incorporates collaborative experiences as individuals share their personal stories and perspectives. Indigenous Filipinos use the practice of kuwentuhan to build kapwa (shared identity) and spiritual connection with each other. Kuwentuhan is used by researchers in public health to examine health behaviors and health outcomes, including social determinants of health, within the social, political, and historical context of U.S. colonialism and continued imperialism in the Philippines for those living in diaspora as a minoritized group. Kuwentuhan builds connections in Filipinx/a/o American communities through shared stories of resilience and community care. This paper describes the use of kuwentuhan for public health that involves the elements of (1) embodying kapwa, (2) collective storying and memory, (3) co-producing knowledge, and (4) generational language. The following public health case studies will demonstrate the application of well-documented kuwentuhan in public health research in Filipinx/a/o American communities.