This qualitative study examined the congruence between health beliefs and behavior as reported by thirty Cambodian (Khmer) refugee women in Southern California. Utilizing in-home interviewing in the Khmer language, data were gathered on 226 illness episodes occurring among 157 family members tracked over an eight-month span. Informants reported a strong maternal role in health care decision making with all ages of children. Adult decision making demonstrated an individualistic pattern. Causes of illness were attributed primarily to humoral imbalances and illness avoidance behavior reflected these beliefs. Treatment was a blend of scientific and traditional medicine. Health care was accessed in settings of linguistic and cultural comfort regardless of distance. Disease prevention was linked to adequate food quantity. Chronic degenerative disease, stress, and reproductive complications were reported frequently. The adolescents and women appeared to be at high risk for cultural stress.
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