Welcome to Jamaican Culture

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Welcome to Jamaican Culture Arbidella Mckinney NU100 August 4, 2014 Jamaicans in the United States are not always thought of as a distinct group. They are often identified with African Americans, and it is sometimes assumed that they share similar values and perspectives. Jamaicans, however, have a distinct history and culture. Being aware of their history and culture could enhance the interaction between health care providers and clients. This paper will attempt to address their cultural beliefs in relation to communication, time orientation and personal space, social roles, religion, health beliefs, health practices, health risks, dietary preferences, practices and related issues or concerns, and interventions for health care providers and nurses. Communication: Jamaicans have a very interesting way of communicating. This became very evident as my interviewee received a phone call from her sister. While speaking with me she talked just as I would talk. However, when she received the call from her sister during the interview, her dialect became very evident. It was like someone had turned on a switch and the way in which she spoke immediately changed. The speech was very fast and the last word of each sentence was sort of drawn out. Although she was speaking English it was very hard for me to understand. She used a lot of facial expressions and it was not easy to determine if the conversation was pleasant or unpleasant. The way in which she spoke was almost rhythmic. The language she used when talking to her sister is known as a sort of Jamaican creole called patois (pronounced patwa). Time orientation and personal space: When it comes to personal space, arm’s length is considered appropriate. Jamaicans, according to my interviewee, are very laid back when it comes to being on time. They are notoriously late for events and appointments.
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