An Exploration of the Understanding and Experiences of Health in Urban Dominican American Adolescents

Abstract

Introduction: This study explored the understanding and experiences related to health among Dominican American adolescents in an urban setting in the northeastern United States.

Method: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted, applying thematic analysis to focus group interview data from 23 students.

Results: Five themes emerged: (1) Health is All About Healthy Eating, (2) Sugarcoating, (3) Dynamics Affecting Adherence, (4) Dominican Cultural Influences on Health, and (5) Toll of the Immigrant Life.

Discussion: Cultural expectations, particularly deference to family members, substantially impact health care providers' interactions with Dominican American adolescents. Limited communication hinders discussion on topics like healthy eating and mental health. Parental reliance on home remedies over seeking professional care adds another layer of complexity. This study establishes a foundational understanding of Dominican American adolescents' health experiences, highlighting areas where pediatric nurse practitioners can target interventions to support Dominican American adolescents' health journeys.

Keywords: Dominican American; US Latin American; adolescent health; cultural characteristic; emigrant and immigrant.