Problematizing Impairment: Cultural Competence in the Carolines
Marshall, Mac (1996). "Problematizing Impairment: Cultural Competence in the Carolines". Ethnology. 35 (4): 249. doi:10.2307/3773869. ISSN 0014-1828.
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Abstract: Problematizing Impairment: Cultural Competence in the Carolines” examines the concept of impairment within the context of Micronesian cultures, specifically focusing on the Caroline Islands. It analyzes how local communities perceive and understand impairment and disability, contrasting these views with Western interpretations. The article suggests distinguishing between impaired parts and impaired persons to better understand cultural differences in perceptions of disability.
The study heavily draws on field data collected on Namoluk Atoll from 1969 to 1971, supplemented by later data from 1976 and 1985. The data include both congenital and acquired disabilities recorded using Western categories. The research does not aim to study people with disabilities directly but rather reflects on the community’s census data and genealogical records.
An important aspect highlighted is the gender disparities observed in substance use, psychological conditions, and the vulnerability to societal pressures, particularly among males in these communities. This gendered lens suggests differences in how disability and impairment might be experienced or expressed.
The findings from this research encourage further interdisciplinary studies, especially in transcultural psychiatry, medical anthropology, and gender studies, to develop culturally appropriate prevention and treatment programs for disabilities in these island societies. Additionally, the article emphasizes the need for such research to create a more nuanced understanding of impairment that resonates with cultural competencies specific to the Carolines.
Extra details:
MAG: 178796357 OpenAlex: W178796357 CorpusID: 140829783
